When a person does embroidery they follow a pattern. If you look from the bottom, it looks like a mess but from the top, you can follow the pattern and it makes sense. God has laid out the pattern for us. I found a video about doing everything to follow God’s pattern: Do Everything – Steven Curtis Chapman.
Tell the story of grace in everything you do and what seems like a jumbled mess will someday look like something beautiful.
From Google Images
In Daniel 9, a prayer is offered by Daniel who had been studying and learning that the desolation of Jerusalem would last for seventy years which was soon approaching. This prayer was to plead with the Lord after admitting the wrong the people of Judah had done. They had been unfaithful; refusing to obey God’s laws which resulted in judgment upon them. Their homeland had been destroyed and they had been exiled to Babylon for all these years.
While Daniel is praying, Gabriel appeared to give insight and understanding about Israel’s future in which foretold was six things that would occur over the next 490 years.
Many like to complain and go around obstacles instead of removing them for others who are coming right behind them. Daniel saw the obstacle and shows initiative by seeking God’s help through prayer to remove it.
Like Daniel, we should initiate our prayers to God with a mind-set of openness and honesty; asking for His wisdom, understanding, and guidance. This day with God, let us get ready for the challenge of this day by going to the ONE who removes obstacles and passionately stirring each other up to boldly step ahead.
This past week, I wrote of my study in Daniel 5-8 and there are also two poems this study has inspired. Please check them out at these links below:
Fulfilling Your Destiny
Rock Solid Thinking
The plan now is to post some thoughts as I spend some time in Daniel 9-12. Over the next two weeks, I will use the questions below to help focus on each passage.
Photo from Google Images
Daniel 9
What is Daniel doing that seems to initiate his prayers? What brings God’s judgment and wrath? As a Christian, how do you seek God’s wisdom, understanding and guidance?
Daniel 10
What is Daniel doing when he has this vision? Why are Daniel’s words heard? How does the prophet receive peace and strength?
Daniel 11
What is revealed to Daniel? Who is revealing these things (See 10:15-17)? Who will be able to stand under such chaos and pressure? Why do God’s people have to suffer? What is their responsibility during such times?
Daniel 12
Describe the time mentioned. Can you comprehend all of God’s ways? How should you respond to what God has told or shown you?
The above reading plan will be used as I share over the next few posts. It’s important to have a plan. I’m thankful that Jesus is God’s plan for us and by accepting Him as Savior; we have taken the steps necessary to make this day with Him amazing! At this link: God’s Plan for Us, is a post about accepting God’s plan or reaffirming our “YES” for Christ.
Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments or to a Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God.
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Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts
Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God. Downer Grove Illinois: InterVarsity Press, 1978
First United Methodist Waco Podcast
Christ Notes
Family Times
The message last Sunday at the church I attend is that God wants each of us to use our individual strengths and to blend these strengths together into one unit. The message was titled “With All of Me”.
Photo from Google Images
What was established as the church by early Christians has impacted the world in so many ways. Consider all the schools and hospitals that churches have established. Think of how churches are involved when there is a disaster. Pastor Steve brought the message with some great points in bold print below. In blue print below each point are some notes and thoughts written after listening or reflecting on the message.
Commit Wholeheartedly
It is important to determine what your passion is and go all in when serving in a ministry.
Rehearse What You Believe
The Bible says in Hebrews 10:32 to remember the early days when you first learned about Christ. We need to remember those days along our path when we have felt God’s presence.
Remember What God has Done
Some things in life we know would not have happened if God was not present. David tells us in 1 Chronicles 16:12 to remember the miracles of God, His wonders, and His decisions. When we see amazing things happen, mark that moment in your mind so you will be able to share with others.
Live with Grace
Paul tells us in Colossians 3:13 that we must make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive the person who offends us. Remember, the Lord has forgiven each of us so we should forgive others.
Live in Relationship
Our church started giving out wrist bracelets several years ago with “God is Big Enough” inscribed on them. Here’s a link: God is Big Enough. As we go throughout our day, seeing this on our wrist reminds us that God is with us to take on difficulty or keep our frustrations in check.
When we know God is with us, we gain courage to take on challenges that make a difference in the world.
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. When you cross rivers, you will not drown. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned, nor will the flames hurt you. This is because I, the Lord, am your God.” – Isaiah 43:2-3
Most of us would not even attempt some challenges if we didn’t think God was with us.
Be Sure of God
Paul wrote in Philippians 1:6, “And I am sure that God, Who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.”
Moses did God’s good work and led people to the Promised Land. Although King David had some faults, he did God’s good work in his life as a great warrior, musician, poet, and writer of many of psalms.
Jesus fulfilled His purpose on the cross and because of Him, those who believe In Him are never the same. All of us can find our passion and do good works for His glory if we work together and accept God’s help.
This was the last message in the sermon series “With God”. The Lenten sermon series, “The Way” begins On March 9th. If you are not able to attend your local church service (traveling, health condition, weather, etc), I invite you to this link of the podcast where you can listen or watch each sermon message.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Mark
Yesterday, I wrote about the second vision of Daniel and its meaning. Trying to understand the meaning of things gives us humility because we don’t have all the answers. The best we can do is ask questions, seek answers, and be teachable. Here is a video about the ONE with the answers: I Will Follow – Maranatha Singers.
Your Word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path. – Psalm 119:105
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