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

Jeremiah 26-28

Posted on April 19, 2011 by Mark Shields

Jeremiah 26

The last few weeks, I traveled through Matthew 1 -7 and studied the teachings of Jesus. When building a house, the foundation is very important and takes time, so too is building a life of faith which is developed on the underpinning of God’s principles. Christ came to teach so we can understand and believe; giving instruction on what to do in regards to our relationship with God and each other.

I’ve now started my journey through Jeremiah 26-52. Below are some links to other Christian Websites that are used as resources in my travel.

First United Methodist WacoPodcast

BibleStudy Space Top 100

Below are blocks of planned readings that have been studied this week:

PassageLookup

What is Jeremiah commissioned to say now (see 7:1-15)? How do the priests, cultic prophets and people react to Jeremiah’s speech?

In this passage, Jeremiah stands up and challenges people by giving a speech on the moral problems of their society. There are times we may have to stand up and do what’s right. I’m thankful for this lesson on courage that Jeremiah gives in this passage. After this reading, I prayed for courage in all I do and that God is always there by my side.

As I read this passage, here is a link to a video He Is – Mark Schultz that inspired me as I spent this day with God. List any videos you are reminded of as you read this passage. May God continue to validate within you the beliefs that lead to greater courage? Send any thoughts or ideas that may help apply today’s passage.

Jeremiah 27

What is the political situation now (See Kings 24:10-17)? Of what importance are the temple vessels (See 1 Kings 7:13-51)? What good news is stated at the end of this passage?

In this passage, Jeremiah offers insight to what needs to take place. Judah will need to surrender to Babylon. At times, we get in predicaments but it’s best to get over it and come back strong by trusting in God.

Every adversity provides a seed which when planted in the soul provides a life lesson that will grow and be made useful in facing future difficulties. Billy Graham was once quoted to say, “Believers look up – take courage. The angels are nearer than you think”. This passage has made me think about adversity I’ve faced in the past. My prayer after reading this passage is for strength in adversity and for life lessons that can provide a benefit for the future.

Jeremiah 28

What is Hananiah’s message? How does this message differ from Jeremiah’s? How do you judge what other people claim to have received from God?

God’s sure word guides in the right decisions. He encourages doing what’s best but gives each individual the freedom to choose if they will follow, believe, and obey. Here is a link to a video that I’m reminded of as I read today: Word of God Speak – Mercy Me. The video inspired me as I sought to spend this day with God and my hope is that it will inspire you.

There have been and always will be false prophets leading people astray. That’s why it’s so important to build a personal relationship with Christ. My prayer after this passage was for continued discipline in listening to God speak as I read the Bible, as the Holy Spirit speaks deep in my heart, and as lessons are learned in the experiences you and I go through in life.

Make notes of answers to the questions above or other thoughts or ideas these readings have inspired in you. I welcome any thoughts or ideas and you are free to enter a comment if you would like.

Posted in Jeremiah | 1 Comment

Matthew 1-7

Posted on March 12, 2011 by Mark Shields

For the last few weeks, my travel through the Bible has taken me to Matthew 1-7. Matthew writes for the Hebrew Christians in the early church. He presents Jesus Christ as the Messiah long promised by God. The Christian faith is built on records that prove and link the Old and New Testaments; God’s purposes throughout the centuries.

Below are some links to other Christian Websites that were used as resources in my travel.

First United Methodist Waco Podcast

Bible Study Space Top 100

The reading plan is laid out below. On the first day of each block of reading, I used the question(s) to help in my study and thought. Then I prayed for inspiration; a sermon point, a picture that would help me apply the passage to my daily life at home or work, a quote that inspired me to action, or a video. I also prayed for my day ahead; for my family, church, and job. I asked God for a plan of action after reading and studying each day’s reading.

On day two of each block of reading, the passage from the day before was reread and checked by studying my own heart. I wrote out thoughts, ideas, remarks, praises, or lessons learned that might help me or those I know. Then some thought was put into what to pray for and any plans of action I might take.

Passage Lookup

Matthew 1:1-17

What is the significance about Matthew’s record of Christ’s genealogy? What is your lineage? What is your place?

Leaders have attributes that cause people to follow. Christians follow Christ who enlightens the mind and teaches the whole will of God which is documented in the instruction manual called the Bible. We study and follow the path laid out by Christ to get a slam dunk in life.

The Christian faith is built on records that prove and link the Old and New Testaments and God’s purposes throughout the centuries. It is built on a foundation that is solid as a rock. The goodness of the Lord runs from generation to generation. Pray today with confidence because God knows each of us and we are all written in the book of life!

Matthew 1:18-25

Consider the meaning of the name Emmanuel. To what extent is God with you?

Here is a link to a video based on “Emmanuel” by Amy Grant:

Emmanuel – Amy Grant

Emmanuel means God with us. God’s Spirit lives in the hearts of all Christians. Pray today for this intangible quality called faith to produce tangibles called good deeds. Pray that God’s indwelling Spirit will initiate actions that help those around you. It may be endeavors around the house with family members, at your work place, or in your community.

Matthew 2:1-12

How do these Gentile astrologers find out about the birth of a Jew? What do the wise men do when they reach the end of their quest? How do you know you have found the true God?

The wise men found Jesus by following the direction of the bright star in the east. Today, we can follow bright stars that lead us to God. Today’s stars may be a mentor you look up to, a Sunday school teacher, a friend, a Bible verse, or a point in a sermon. Pray today that you see a star and when you do, tell others.

You can’t judge a book by its cover. The singer in this video may have a weird haircut but he’s a star that helps many to focus on Christ and his band got its start in Waco.

Here Is Our King – David Crowder Band

David Crowder realized that almost half of the students at Baylor University were not attending church and started University Baptist Church in 1995 while he was still a student. He organized a band that led worship there and the church grew. So did the bands lineup as they toured the country. They recently announced the start to recording a new album. Crowder has made Waco his home.

Matthew 2:13-23

Characterize Joseph’s relationship with God. How serious does Herod regard the birth of a king of the Jews?

Herod regarded the birth of Jesus very seriously. In fact he would seek to find Jesus and kill him. But Joseph’s relationship with God was strong and the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream; telling him to escape to Egypt. There are times we have to make a decision and it is during these times that it is especially important that we seek direction from God.

Your dreams will help you know the way, go the way, and show the way. They will stamp in your mind a road map to where you need to go or a plan of what needs to be done. My Pastor, Steve Ramsdell at First United Methodist Church Waco once made a point in a sermon that God gives each of us dreams for a bright future. Every great cause first began as a dream; every house or skyscraper built, every business developed, and every championship won began with a dream.

In thinking about ways this passage can bring us to a deeper faith and help us apply today’s reading; the picture to the right was found. My prayer today is that the path to success is followed; the one laid out in the Bible.

Matthew 3

Who is John the Baptist and what was his purpose? How do the people signify their acceptance of his message?

John the Baptist laid the path and shined the light. In prayer, we can be thankful for this introduction of Jesus. We can ask that our acceptance of this message builds faith in us and those around us. We can pray that it gives momentum and carries us to a new dimension of power. A power from God that is invisible, bold, and indescribable.

List any videos you are reminded of as you read this passage. Here is a link to one that has inspired me. May it inspire you as you spend this day with God!

Healing Rain – Michael W. Smith

Matthew 4:1-11

What aspects of man does the devil attempt to exploit in his temptations? Why do you think the devil left Jesus?

In this passage, the devil tempted Jesus but He passed the test. By accepting God’s gift of abundant life through His son, we pass also; receiving rest and joy. With Christ, we have a chance for abundant life today that only gets better in the long term with daily transformation; growing in grace and a future beyond our wildest imagination.

Dr. Walt Larimore in the book Game Plan for Life wrote the following, “Though we’re not promised a perfectly healthy physical life, the Bible does promise abundant life to those who have a vital relationship with God. An abundant life is one that will be full and meaningful – infused with purpose, contentment, and joy”. Today my friend, talk to God in prayer about your desire to lay every burden down at the cross. Ask God how you can serve Him today.

Matthew 4:12-24

To what extent does God’s word come to you in your daily occupation? Click on the link below and think about the extent of Jesus’ influence. What are some ideas that may help integrate your faith into your daily work?

Jesus was able to get His message out in a short time frame with tremendous influence in the region. Take a look at the link below:

Map of where Jesus Preached

While on earth, Jesus was very efficient in his work because He applied biblical principles. We can also learn Biblical principles through study and try to develop habits like Jesus to build our own character. Day by day we can build new attitudes and take actions with this new character.

One idea may be to integrate faith with your daily work by taking sermon points and Bible passages that will help in various tasks. Another idea is to pray before the start of each day for God’s presence, for discernment in doing the right tasks, and for the power to get them completed.

Matthew 4:23-5:16

What qualities characterize the blessed? What places and situations around you need God’s light?

We can be happy in all circumstances and that happiness should becontagious so that it spreads to people around us. Think about placesthat need God’s light. Pray how you can be a light that shines so others will praise God.

God can take you higher than you’ve ever been before. Like a balloon that is lifted higher and higher, use the blessings that God provides to lift yourself and others with a warmhearted Spirit.

Matthew 5:17-37

What is Jesus’ relation to the Law of Moses? What part does a right attitude toward Christian brothers play in your service and worship?

Jesus points out in the scripture today that what He is teaching is a way to fulfill the Law of Moses. His teachings go beyond the Law of the Prophets. Pray for the ability to understand how Christ lived. Pray for a daily method whereby growth occurs as time is spent in Bible study, prayer, and as you go through the experiences of life.

One day at a time we can understand God’s plan and the fullness He provides in our life. We can press on and give it all we have even if we get dispirited or burned out. To help keep us going, we should continue to be mindful of the permanent victory that has already been won because of Christ Jesus.

Receive inspiration from this video: One Day at a Time – Jeremy Camp.

Matthew 5:38-48

How should you treat someone that has wronged you? To what extent does your attitude show that you are a son or daughter of our Father when someone does you wrong?

This passage made me think of the movie “Rudy”. After two years of being on the practice squad, it came down to the last home game but his name was not on the dress list. The ground crew chief talked Rudy into not quitting. Here is the scene: Rudy and the Ground Crew Manager. With some encouragement from other friends who had seen his determination over the years, he was finally rewarded by the head coach to be able to suit up.

Think about times when life has hit you in the face; discouragement, being let down by a friend or having to deal with some hardship. Now, go to God in prayer. Ask for wisdom in how best to handle those situations. If you know someone being mistreated, ask God to help their situation. If there are encouraging words you can offer, take action to offer them at the appropriate time.

People can do you wrong but God can make it right. He is faithful to rescue us if we are patient. The best plan is to keep doing our best and leave it up to God to make it fair.

Matthew 6:1-15

Contrast the rewards of showiness and secrecy. What are the limits of each?

Take a look at the example within this passage of the prayer that Jesus gives in the Lord’s Prayer. In your prayer time, use this prayer as a model. Keep in your thoughts how blessed we all are because of God’s gift of His Son.

There is no need for others to know when you give or pray. God knows and His reward is internal peace. No matter how you are blessed, God’s gift and our “Yes” in Christ is enough.

Matthew 6:16-34

What things have made you anxious this past week? What are the ultimate goals in your life? How do your daily activities relate to them?

List any videos you are reminded of as you read this passage. Here is a link to one for this reading. My hope is that you will be moved by this video and that it brings happiness as you spend this day with God.

Bein Happy -Mark Lowry and The Vocal Band

What people see on the outside does not always represent the true measure of success. The ultimate goal is to store up treasure in Heaven. Think about ways to find and store up these treasures. Pray about them and ask that God reveals some treasure today. Share with others the peace, happiness and joy these treasures bring.

Find ways to brighten up your day by seekingthe truth of God’s Word,experiencing the joy Christ gives, and recognizing the wonder that God has created around you. These are the true treasures.

Matthew 7:1-12

How would swine react to pearls when expecting food? Identify your pearls. How do you regard them? What two conditions are given for receiving good gifts?

My Pastor, Steve Ramsdell made a point in a sermon that over the course of life, most good things don’t happen magically or suddenly. They are the result of a predetermined desire, an ongoing commitment to build momentum for life.

Think about what your pearls are. Go to God in prayer and ask for the opportunities and the desire to give them out to others. Be thankful that God is all-wise and knows what we need and what those around us need.

To receive good gifts, root for good to happen to those around you and they will return the favor by hoping good things happen to you. Encourage those around you and they will give encouraging words to you.

Matthew 7:12-28

What is especially deceiving about false prophets? What are the attributes and actions of a wise man?

When building a house, the foundation is very important and takes time; so too is building a life of faith which is developed on the underpinning of God’s principles.

Christ came to teach so we can understand and believe; giving instruction on what to do in regards to our relationship with God and each other. Spend time in prayer today. Pray that your faith is built on a wise foundation with these eternal principles; acceptance of Christ as Savior, asking for forgiveness of sin, being transformed daily to live a Godly life, and loving one another.

Posted in Matthew | 6 Comments

About this Site

Posted on February 6, 2011 by Mark Shields

I continued to journey through the book of Jeremiah this past week; now reading at chapter 24. If you or anyone you know would like to journey with me as I go through the book of Jeremiah, join with me at the pace that fits your schedule.

Below are links to other Christian Websites that are used as resources in my travel.

First United Methodist Waco Podcast

BibleStudySpace.com _{Click either Sign Up or Sign In on right side}

Bible Study Space Top 100 _{Scroll down and click on the “Click Here to Enter” button}

Posted in Top Christian Websites | Leave a comment

Jeremiah 1-25

Posted on January 12, 2011 by Mark Shields

Jeremiah 1:1-10 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

Do you know what task God has in mind for you? How has he made it known? What are you doing about it today?

Photo:

Application:

Think about what God wants from you. Ask in prayer for God to affirm the role you should play and the discipline to carry this role out with boldness.

Jeremiah 1:11-19 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

How is God going to change Jeremiah’s personality? What changes have you seen in yourself recently that have enabled you to better fulfill God’s desire for his kingdom?

May you be blessed by this video:

Voice of Truth – Casting Crowns

Application:

Think about the tasks God has in mind for you. Think about what you will need in order to accomplish these tasks. Bring these thoughts before God as you pray today and ask for God to help as you go out and get busy.

Jeremiah 2 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What characteristics do you find in Israel that are common to human nature? Which are you determined to change? Why? How?

Food For Thought:

We must confront our wrong choices and choose God’s invitation, leadership, help, and forgiveness. – Points made in sermon from Pastor Steve Ramsdell

Application:

Even though God had helped them in the past, Israel forgot what God had done and turned to useless idols. It is human nature to forget God when things are going good and want His help when things are going bad. Pray that as you go throughout your day that you will serve the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Allow God to be with you always.

Jeremiah 3:1 – 4:4 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

How has Judah’s sin affected her daily life? How do you know you will be faithful to God?

Food For Thought:

Things are really not as complicated as we make it out to be. Transformed living is about following, believing, and then obeying in that order. – Point made in sermon of Pastor Steve Ramsdell

Application:

In this passage, Israel and her sister Judah are unfaithful to God. The people love idols instead of God. Without God, they suffered and the future looked bleak. They needed a change of heart, to admit their mistakes, and ask for forgiveness. It’s the same for us as individuals in today’s world. Without God, we struggle and things just don’t work out. The good news for us is that Christ has made it easier to be faithful. Pray for your day. Be thankful for Christ our Savior who gives us a model to follow and the Holy Spirit to counsel.

Jeremiah 4:5-31 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What will be the enemy’s effect on Jerusalem? Imagine you are one of the people in Jeremiah’s day. What are your concerns? What are your feelings as you listen or hear about his message?

Video:

Your Grace Is Enough – Matt Maher

Application:

No one should want to face a future without God. As stated in this passage, the enemy’s effect is devastating and it is best to inquire of the Lord for direction. God is there to help us make the changes needed and to take the proper steps. Because of Christ, we are with God. As you pray, be thankful for God’s Grace and that it is enough and it can overpower an entire army and lead us to victory.

Jeremiah 5 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What is the theme that runs through this passage? How can you distinguish between true and false prophets today?

Video:

Rocky IV Hearts On Fire

Sometimes the desire to win pushes some to cheat to get ahead but what it all comes down to is working hard and doing things the right way. Dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Vince Lombardi once said “Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you’re willing to pay the price”.

Application:

Reading about society during Jeremiah’s time makes one realize that our society has the same struggles today. Negative tendencies seem to infiltrate and lead in the wrong direction. In your prayer, ask that individuals see Christianity as the neutralizing force that helps individuals and a society as a whole to eliminate triggers to negative tendencies.

Jeremiah 6 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What is Jeremiah’s role in this drama? How would you evaluate the situation in Judah during Jeremiah’s time? What parallels do you find with your own nation? What role do you have in your nation’s ultimate destruction or salvation?

Food For Thought:

Believe God has a purpose for your life. With a definite purpose, frustration is reduced, enthusiasm, concentration, and cooperation increases. – From sermon of Steve Ramsdell

Application:

In Jeremiah’s time, the situation in Judah was dire. The People had not listened to God and apart from Him, life was one big mess. Jeremiah’s role was to point out the need for God. Amazingly, societies struggle in this same area today. Think of what role you can play at school, work, or within your family to point out the importance of God; pray for open minds and hearts. Remember, you are a child of God with a purpose.

Jeremiah 7 – 8:4 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What is Jeremiah’s warning? What in your practices and life style must be changed if you are to truly execute God’s plan for your life?

May you be blessed by the following video:

Lead Me To The Cross – Hillsong

Application:

Think of what it takes to be a better spouse, employee, or friend; live healthier. Pray for a few people you know. That they are reading God’s Word the Bible and go to church. Pray that they practice this over and over until it becomes a routine. Pray that any harmful life style will not have a chance because of their self discipline.

Jeremiah 8:4 – 9:1 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

How have the scribes deceived the people? Describe Jeremiah’s emotional reaction. What causes his conflict? Try to imagine how you would respond in Jeremiah’s position.

Food For Thought:

Never cut a tree down in the wintertime. Never make a negative decision in the low time. Never make your most important decisions when you are in your worst moods. Wait. Be patient. The storm will pass. The spring will come. – Robert H. Schuller

Application:

Animals and birds know what to do when the seasons change yet many times God’s people do not know what is required of them. Many do not understand that the principles found in the Bible will not let them down. Pray today that more of God’s people will use three tools that God has given for life; lessons from the Bible, the Holy Spirit speaking to them deep in their hearts, and experiences from their own life and the life of others.

Jeremiah 9 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

How does Jeremiah describe his countrymen? Compare this with the way God describes his people? What characteristics does God ascribe to himself?

Food For Thought:

Life may not always be the picture perfect one you had dreamed about but if you keep your attention on being used by God, reality may become beyond your wildest dreams. – Point from Steve Ramsdell sermon

Application:

God’s people had gone astray and they faced hard times. One lesson from this passage is that our focus should not be on what we can do but what God can do. Think about what to pray for today. Be thankful that in Christ alone, we are in right standing with God; the source of power and strength. That’s some good news we can always count on.

Jeremiah 10 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

Contrast the nature of idols with the revealed nature of the Lord. In view of the worthlessness of idols, how do you account for Judah’s preference for them? To what extent are you responsible for God’s present feelings toward you?

Video:

Healing Rain – Michael W. Smith

Application:

The idols people worshiped in Jeremiah’s time were useless but God has the power to heal what’s wrong in life. By faith and prayer, take God with you wherever you go today. Ask God to direct your steps.

Jeremiah 11 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What are the terms of God’s covenant with Judah? How has Judah kept this covenant? How do you know you are one of God’s people?

Food For Thought:

Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion – it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ. – Billy Graham

Application:

God’s people broke the covenant delivered by Moses. They didn’t obey God and do their part. After reading and studying this passage, go to God in prayer. Ask God to help with your priorities today and with the discipline to do the right things in the right way.

Jeremiah 12 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

With what paradox does Jeremiah confront God? How would you answer why does the way of the wicked prosper? Does God’s answer satisfy you?

Video:

Light Up the Sky – The Afters

Application:

Jeremiah was frustrated because people that were not on God’s team sometimes prospered and those on God’s team didn’t. He felt it was unfair that the good people had to suffer because of the bad. I can see where Jeremiah is coming from but we can be thankful that God has the fuel of hope for all of us; given to us through Jesus who teaches how to break old habits and create ones that are good. After reading this passage today, pray for yourself, for your family, your boss, and co-workers. Pray that we can all learn what Jesus teaches us. Pray that we can all light up the sky for those around us.

Jeremiah 13 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What does the waistcloth symbolize? What seemed to be small transgressions would become bad habits that added up over time and would cause defeat for God’s people. What bad habits can you start to reverse to help lead you to becoming all that God wants you to be?

Food For Thought:

Spiritual growth requires some effort. It’s like training for anything physical like for the iron man or marathon. You can’t just sit around and do nothing and think you will be successful. – Point from sermon of Pastor Wayne Williams

Application:

The people during Jeremiah’s time wanted an easy fix to their problems but it takes some effort to break bad habits and create good ones. A good start to reversing bad habits is to pray that God will provide you with someone that has already gone through what you are going through to help in the transformation.

Jeremiah 14 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

Imagine Jeremiah’s feelings as he intercedes for his people. Whom does Jeremiah blame for the people’s waywardness? What is God’s reply? To what extent do you intercede for your nation?

May you be blessed with the following video:

Hold My Heart – Tenth Avenue North

Application:

Think of someone that needs prayer today. It may be a family member, someone you know at work, a friend or even a difficult problem you and your family are going through. Go to God in prayer and believe He can give what is needed.

Jeremiah 15 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What is God’s response to Jeremiah’s plea? How does Jeremiah view his place in society? Why? What promise does God give Jeremiah (Verse 12)

Application:

One message that can be taken from today’s passage is to be faithful to God even in troubled times. Pray for the initiative to act when called. Invite people into God’s family. Be faithful and trust God to provide what is needed as you make the climb to a higher calling.

Jeremiah 16 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What does God tell Jeremiah to say to the people of Judah who demand a reason for their trouble? How do you know God’s power and might?

Please be blessed by the video below:

There Will Be a Day – Jeremy Camp

Application:

The people of Judah will demand a reason for their hardship. God told Jeremiah to say they are paying for the sins of past generations. The lesson for us is to forget about the past and set our hearts on things above. In your prayer, be thankful that Christ is seated at the right hand of God and a dark past can be made increasingly brighter.

Jeremiah 17 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

What is it like to trust in man? What it is like to trust in the Lord?

Please be blessed by the following message from a sermon:

The sunrise, sunset, flowers, lightning storm, rainbow, mountains, meadows, and seas. These things of God reward our lives and we reward God by praising him. We were created to worship Him. – Pastor Wayne Williams, First United Methodist Church Waco TX

Application:

The book of Jeremiah is about the dark days in the kingdom of Judah. The people put their trust in idols rather than God. Some late night, go out and look at the stars. Take a look up there and realize that many are light years away. God designed them. Reward Him by praising Him. Be thankful that the one who designed the universe is designing your life plan to reward you for today and for tomorrow.

Jeremiah 18 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

Compare the relationship between a potter and his clay with God and his people. What is Jeremiah’s reaction to his enemies’ attempt to secure treasonable evidence against him?

Food For Thought:

God’s angels often protect his servants from potential enemies. – Billy Graham

Application:

God can mold us like a potter molds clay if we take time to pray and seek His plan. Continue to be strong in the Lord, pray for His direction today, and believe His hand will help. The result will be good for today and tomorrow.

Jeremiah 19 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

Contrast the acting out of this parable with the actions of 18:1-11. What is the significant difference for the people this time? To what extent do you deliver God’s message in religious circles which have forsaken God? Why?

Video:

The Skit Guys – Heart Department

Application:

The clay jar is broken to pieces in this passage. Jeremiah explains that desolation and famine will occur because the people worshiped Idols. Be thankful that we don’t worship dead objects like idols but a living God that constantly feeds our soul with food needed for life. Pray and be thankful for every breath He gives. Be thankful that the one who created everything will be with us to the end.

Jeremiah 20 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

In what areas and ways does Jeremiah feel and express his tension? To what extent can you identify with Jeremiah’s position? What have you done?

Food for Thought:

The secret of living a life of excellence is merely a matter of thinking thoughts of excellence. Really, it’s a matter of programming our minds with the kind of information that will set us free. – Charles Swindoll

Application:

Jeremiah told the truth even when it caused harm to himself. At times, we have to be honest and report bad news in a tactful way. Be thankful in your prayer that the good news of God is always about a victory we can share with enthusiasm.

Jeremiah 21 Passage Lookup

Question(s):

To what extent are the religious leaders responsible for the social injustice as well as the moral degradation in the land? What is your understanding of the justice God requires? What is the main thought expressed in today’s scripture reading?

Receive inspiration from this 5 minute video:

My Savior My God – Aaron Shust

Here are some thoughts and ideas on how to apply today’s passage:

The king of Judah sent for Jeremiah to inquire of the Lord. Many times, it is only when people have run out of options that they turn to God. Make God your number one option. Go to Him in prayer to find out the game plan for today. In your own words, write out the main message you received from today’s reading.

Jeremiah 22 Passage Lookup

Read and use the question(s) below to help contemplate today’s message:

What are the consequences of obedience? Of disobedience? What about your life reveals that you know God?

Receive inspiration from the idea below brought out in a sermon:

Michael Angelo’s David statue was made out of a piece of flawed marble. Like the flawed marble, we may have some flaws but with the fellowship of believers, God can make us into a polished masterpiece. – Wayne Williams, Pastor at First United Methodist Waco Texas

Here are some thoughts and ideas on how to apply today’s passage:

One lesson from this passage is that the consequences of obedience are progress and joy but disobedience leads to failure. We may fall at times but there is power to change through Christ. Be led to the cross and follow the plan God has laid out through Christ. Listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and grow to be more and more like Christ; progressing and gaining joy through obedience. Pray for patience and discipline as you follow God’s clear path.

Jeremiah 23 Passage Lookup

Read and make use of the question(s) below as you study today’s reading:

Who are the shepherds that have led the flock astray? Compare and contrast the association of religion and politics in Jeremiah’s time and today.

Food for Thought:

If you don’t know where you are going, you might wind up someplace else. – Yogi Berra

Here are some thoughts and ideas that may help you apply today’s passage:

In this reading, we find that the shepherds have been leading the people astray. When we read Gods word, we can discern what we need to do. Pray for the information you need today to make wise decisions. Be thankful that because of Jesus, we know where we are going and this brings rest and peace.

Jeremiah 24 Passage Lookup

Make use of the question(s) below as you study today’s reading:

What vision does Jeremiah have? How do you know God is the Lord? What is your response to him?

Receive inspiration from this picture:

Make notes of answers to the questions above or other thoughts you can apply in life. Here is an example of a few of my thoughts and ideas:

God gave Jeremiah a vision of two baskets of figs. One basket was good and the other was bad. The good basket represented God’s people. Each day, we should pray to be a part of the good by asking to have a heart that knows God. We should read God’s instruction manual and integrate our faith with our lifestyle. We should pray for a relationship with Jesus which is very adventurous. We should lighten our load with prayer so we can soar high like an eagle.

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Philemon 1

Posted on January 10, 2011 by Mark Shields

Passage Lookup Question(s):

To what extent are you willing to forgive and receive someone that has wronged you? Do you ask other people to refresh you in Christ? Why?

Food For Thought:

It’s not always easy. Some days are tough and it is a blessing to have other Christians to refresh us in Christ. A way to help us never give up and stay focused on the true reward. My hope is that this video will refresh your soul as it did mine.

Application:

Paul writes this letter in 61 A.D. while imprisoned in Rome. He sends this letter to his friend Philemon. Paul intercedes for Onesimus who was the slave of Philemon but ran away. Paul wants Philemon to accept Onesimus back not as a slave but a dutiful servant and fellow Christian. In a prayer today, pray for the people around you. If those around you are blessed, you will be blessed. You want to build up and encourage others because they are a part of your team. Pray for people you work with, family members, those you buy products from, those that work on your vehicle or repair household appliances.