DEVOTIONS

As we read God's words, we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think and transforms the spirit of the mind. Then, when we face similar situations as Jesus did, we begin to respond in the same way.

Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us.

It's also a useful tool to use at a later time to reflect on and review some of the "gems" that you have received. Without writing these down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! While journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily devotions with your small group or mentors. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insights and even encourage others.

S for Scripture

Open your Bible to the reading found under today's date of your Bible bookmark. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.

O for Observation

What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this Scripture down in your own words in your journal.

A for Application

Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this Scripture can apply to you today.

P for Prayer

This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this Scripture, or it may be a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! Now, write it out.

To learn more, go to New Hope Oahu - Devotions

October 8, 2019

Scripture

1 As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” ~Luke 21:1-4

Observation

Is my heart right when giving? Do I only put in what I believe is all I can or what I should when honoring God and returning what is His to begin with? Do I only give from the abundance; what about in scarcity?

I feel that at times I am running scared, unsure if I can afford to tithe or provide an offering because I do not feel I can because of all my expenses, including the everyday stuff. When things were going very well for us, I at times gave selfishly, wanting to be seen by how much $$$ I was putting into the offering plate. Not pious, but proud. How shameful I felt when looking back at that. Then, when I didn’t have much I kept asking myself if I can afford to give anything.

Application

Why do I fear what God has said He is in control and will provide - a solution, a way out, deliverance, strength, provisions, etc. Will I, can I give freely, not expecting anything in return? Need to remember and work on and through this.

October 9, 2019
Scripture

Nehemiah 1:4-6, 11
4-6 Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments, let your ear be attentive and your eyes open to hear the prayer your servant is praying before you day and night for your servants, the people of Israel.

11 Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.

Nehemiah 2:2-5, 7-9, 12, 17-20
2-5 I was very much afraid, but I said to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should my face not look sad when the city where my ancestors are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” The king said to me, “What is it that you want?” Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, “if it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.”

7-9 I also said to him, “if it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah? And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the royal park, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and for the city wall and for the residence I will occupy?” And because the gracious hand of my God was on me, the king granted my requests. So I went to the governors of Trans-Euphrates and gave them the king’s letters. The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me.

12 I set out during the night with a few others. I had not told anyone what my God had put in my heart to do for Jerusalem.

17-20 Then I said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem is in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.” I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.

But when Sansbalitat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite offical and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and ridiculed us. “What is this you are doing?” they asked, “Are you rebelling against the king?”

I answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you had no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.”

Observations
Nehemiah prayed for God’s hand to be on his request (because it was one that pleased and honored God) and his intentions were to help his people & rebuild the city. Though he was afraid of the king, and likely the request he was about to make, he sought God’s help and trusted entirely on Him to see this situation through. And, God did and Nehemiah was granted safe passage and materials he needed to succeed. Even when made fun of or people hindering the process, he trusted, believed they would succeed and God showed him favor.

Application
1) Prayer, be specific, and make sure my intentions are right and for good; 2) even in fear, turn to God for help as only He can get me/us out of or through what I/we will be facing; 3) believe and trust that we will have success when He is leading the way

Prayer
Father God, may I always come to you in petition, distress, fear, excitement, joy, and know that you are in control. That when asking to do something good in the lives of others and to honor you that you will grant us peace, access, and favor. May my heart be open to your guidance and direction and to move at the pace that you set, then believing that you will allow our plans to succeed. In the mighty name of Jesus, amen!

October 10, 2019
Scripture - Luke 23:34, 42-43
34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”
42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” 43 Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

Observation
Even in the midst of the pain and suffering our Savior endured, Jesus only wanted what was best for the people. Seeking forgiveness from our Heavenly Father for those who were persecuting him. Also, he showed mercy to a sinner up until his death; tells me that everyone person is important and is worth saving.

Application
How can I learn to be more understanding, forgiving when Jesus did the same for me. Showing such grace and mercy in spite of the trials and punishment he went through for us. Need to learn to demonstrate this in my life more. I often lose patience with people who I probably could take a step back or moment in time and breathe a little before responding or reacting.

Prayer
Father God, help me with my callous, hard heart where I seem to not be able to let go and forgive others when I have been shown me such by your selflessly offering Jesus to die in place of my sins. Help me to love others as Jesus showed in the way he lived out his life. May my walk match my talk. In your holy and precious name Lord, amen.

October 11, 2019
Scripture - Nehemiah 5:9, 13-16
9 What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies?
13 I also shook out the folds of my robe and said, “In this way may God shake out of their house and possessions anyone who does not keep this promise. So may such a person be shaken out and emptied!” At this the whole assembly said, “Amen,” and praised the Lord. And the people did as they had promised. 15 But out of reverence for God I did not act like that. 16 Instead, I devoted myself to the work on this wall. All my men were assembled there for the work.

Observation
Cheating people, even your own, to profit and place a huge burden on them. Similar to the tax collectors, just because we are Christians does not mean we always act in good faith, we often are worse. We need to conduct ourselves and act according to what God teaches us through the Word and how Jesus lived. Prayer and going to God, asking for forgiveness, making the necessary changes that benefits everyone, being a blessing them, and not acting selfishly is always more fulfilling than not.

Application
Do not get weighed and measured and be found wanting. Be up and up with people you deal with. Help out instead of being a hindrance; be part of the solution and not the problem. Do the work that is before me, and not just sitting back telling people what to do and only benefiting from what others have done. Get in there, do the work that God has asked me and fulfill it according to his plans and to the best of my abilities.

Prayer
Father God, I don’t want to sit on the sidelines, truly want to be focus on the work ahead. Ask for your strength, wisdom, patience, and guidance to see me through whatever you have placed upon my heart. May I be available to those that need help and you are asking me to be a part of the solution. Teach me to always be fair and honest in all my dealings, correct me where I may not be. May the work that you allow me to do be pleasing in your eyes. In Jesus’ might name, amen.

October 16, 2019
Scripture - Malachi 3:6-10
6“I the Lord do not change. 7 Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty.
8 “Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you?’ “In tithes and offerings. 9 You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me. 10 Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.

Observation
While we do change, often just on a whim depending on the circumstance, the Lord our God doesn’t. His unending patience and unconditional love, his willingness to accept us as we are, whenever and wherever is His character.

When we give, do we give out of obligation and, when we do, are we returning back to God what we should or keeping back a part because we don’t trust Him to provide for us. I definitely have been worried and scared recently because I haven’t had the type of sales that helps pay down my monthly expenses to where I can get a better control of my finances. I don’t think I have been holding anything back, perhaps I really need to take a look at everything and see where I may be. We are being provided for, but as for the flood gates, I can’t say that has been happening.

Application
Make a serious effort to look at my spending - Do I need this or that or just want it? What am I spending my time and efforts on that may be reducing the opportunity to receive God’s blessings. Am I truly focused, listening to what he is speaking through the Holy Spirit, experiences, His Word, or even people he’s placed into my life? Need to examine my heart when tithing and providing offerings if I am not returning back what is rightfully his to begin with. Need to be a better steward of the resources he’s provided for my family and I.

Prayer
Lord, while my fear, anxiety, uncertainty has caused me to ask a lot of questions and requests for more; help me to focus entirely on you instead. While I say you are our provider, protector, my troubles, some of which are self-inflicted, has taken my eyes off of you. What I struggle with is that while I know you are constantly there for us, I don’t always turn to you. Feeling I must do this or it’ll never be done.

Most of the time I am forcing situations where I need to lean on and trust you with the outcome. I am sorry for my lack of faith. Please continue to renew me, fill us up with your Spirit, help me with my focus and to stay on the path you created for us. We love you and are grateful for all that you do. In the mighty name of Jesus we ask these things. Amen.

October 17, 2019
Scripture - Job 1:8-12; 20-22

8 Then the Lord said to Satan, “Have you considered my servant Job? There is no one on earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil.” 9 “Does Job fear God for nothing?” Satan replied. 10 “Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But now stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face.” 12 The Lord said to Satan, “Very well, then, everything he has is in your power, but on the man himself do not lay a finger.”

20 At this, Job got up and tore his robe and shaved his head. Then he fell to the ground in worship 21 and said: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.[I will return there] The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised.” 22 In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing.

Observation
There are times that God has us/me go through a series of trials that would seem so unthinkable, unbearable, believing we would not turn our backs on him, still trusting, believing, and honoring him with our words and actions. Job didn’t even flinch; he recognized that what he has was not his to being with - that the Lord is our provider and everything begins and ends through Him. Praising, worshiping, all the while not complaining or being upset when he lost everything is incredible.

Application
How can I, in the midst of what I am going through, do the same? Trusting, believing, placing my hope entirely on the Lord. Where can I make small or large changes, take the same steps to worship you in all my circumstances, regardless of how hard it may be or seem. Definitely need help in this area because my heart isn’t always right. Need to minimize my thoughts around the struggle and focus on what He’s allowing me to learn from the situation and to place my focus on Him.

Prayer
Lord, hear our prayer. I struggle way more to get back on track than I want to. While I know the areas that need improvement, I get caught up with the things in life and are distracted or become unfocused. Help me to find clarity, to be stronger when difficult situations arise and I feel overwhelmed, believing that you have a way, are The Way, and will see my family and I through it, if not out. We love you Lord. Humbly ask of these things in our Savior, Jesus’ name. Amen.

October 19, 2019
Scripture - Acts 8:30-39

30 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. 31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. 34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.

36 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” [37] [c] 38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing.

Observation
There have been many times that I didn’t understand what I was reading. Perhaps in the past, when much younger in my walk, I would have likely just let it go and keep reading, never really going back to figure out what was being said and applying it to my life. Wished there were times I did ask questions, look for someone to help me figure it out and help me grow quicker.

Application
Fortunately, with many pastors and online resources available, it’s much easier to get an explanation. Used many different bible resources, YouTube, or listening to podcasts have help tremendously. I’m also not afraid to ask if I really don’t get it.

Scripture
Father God, may I come as a little child looking to learn and never to be afraid asking for help understanding when I don’t. Thank you for your unconditional love and support. Ask this for all my family. In Jesus name, amen!

Scripture - Job 5:8-11; Psalm 108:4, 6, 12-13

8 “But if I were you, I would appeal to God; I would lay my cause before him. 9 He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed,
miracles that cannot be counted. 10 He provides rain for the earth; he sends water on the countryside. 11 The lowly he sets on high,
and those who mourn are lifted to safety.

4 For great is your love, higher than the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. 6 Save us and help us with your right hand,
that those you love may be delivered. 12 Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. 13 With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.

Observation
Reminders from a friend, lessons from a pastor/apologist that God is in control and we will never be able to fully fathom everything around us and the experiences we go through in life. Need to always turn to Him for help, laying our concerns, fears, questions, etc. as only He can get us through it and the battle is His to fight for us.

Application
No matter what I am going through, need to connect with our God through prayer, laying at his feet any and everything that is going on in my life, not being fearful that it is too much for him or that I don’t want to trouble him with such petty or great of a request.

Prayer
Father God, let me never feel that I can’t come to you with any of my requests. While I’m not asking you to provide me everything I ask for as a make believe genie in a bottle, I do ask for help in living a life that trusts, believes, and knows you are always there for me/us and not to be afraid of what is next. As you said, the battle is yours and we just need to have faith and be obedient. Help us to do just that. Thank you for all that you do and for who you are. In Christ’s name, amen!

October 19, 2019
Scripture - Job 6:8-9; 7:17-21

8 “Oh, that I might have my request, that God would grant what I hope for, 9 that God would be willing to crush me,
to let loose his hand and cut off my life!

17 “What is mankind that you make so much of them, that you give them so much attention, 18 that you examine them every morning
and test them every moment? 19 Will you never look away from me, or let me alone even for an instant? 20 If I have sinned, what have I done to you, you who see everything we do? Why have you made me your target? Have I become a burden to you? 21 Why do you not pardon my offenses and forgive my sins? For I will soon lie down in the dust; you will search for me, but I will be no more.”

Observation
There were times that I had wished I was dead, that my life would be taken away. Pretty sure I cried out “why me” on each of those occasions and asked “what did I do to deserve this” also while going through it. For the most part it was self-inflicted, not that God had taken anything away from me. Even the few times that I did lose everything (materialistically), He still showed my family and I unconditional love and support. God has always provided.

Application
In all situations, though I do ask at times why this is happening to me, to us, and what does God want me to learn from this situation, I can turn my focus on Jesus, to run to him and know I will be comforted.

Prayer
Lord God, help me/us to just trust in you regardless of the situation and circumstances. That while I may not fully understand why I/we have to go through them, you will provide a way and comfort is found in you. May I continue to being asking what can I learn from this instead of why you want me to go through it. In Jesus’ name, amen.

October 23, 2019
Scripture - Acts 17:23-31

23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you. 24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ 29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”

Observation
We see time and time again, in today’s society, how unbelievers - atheists, even agnostics - attack the very foundation of what we believe because we have come to know the truth. Whereas their foundation is based on ………. “the unknown god,” something made up by man, to fill a void to fit whatever they need to make them happy or better for the time being. The convenience of trusting in whatever is needed at the time.

This is the same as when I felt I could do whatever I felt like or when I didn’t feel God’s presence that I needed to take on whatever I was facing and without His help. In a way I became my own god. Fortunately for me God opened my eyes to see the weakness and brokenness in my the way of doing things and that, without Him, nothing is possible or was made.

Application
When we look around us, the world, the people, animals, nature, etc. reflect on the beauty of what our God, our creator has made. Soak it in, learn to pause and enjoy it, remarking in how amazing it all is, and that we serve the only true God who did make all this for us to enjoy. Praise Him for all that we have because he is so gracious, loving, and giving, and then share it with those around us, especially to those who are want to learn more, even those who challenge us with what we believe.

Prayer
Father God, I want to be prepared to give an answer for what I believe in. We ask for your Holy Spirit to be with and upon us, guiding our conversations. Provide us the words that will speak with authority and that will also be filled with grace. Open the hearts of those who you place in our lives to receive what you are speaking through us. May you always be glorified in all that we do for your kingdom’s purpose. In your holy and precious name Lord Jesus we ask these things. Amen.

October 23, 2019
Scripture - Acts 20:19-21, 24, 35

19 I served the Lord with great humility and with tears and in the midst of severe testing by the plots of my Jewish opponents. 20 You know that I have not hesitated to preach anything that would be helpful to you but have taught you publicly and from house to house. 21 I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in our Lord Jesus. 24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

Observation
Though Paul was not a believer in the beginning, even persecuting people, once he began to follow Jesus and proclaim his name, he never stopped showing how that encounter changed his life. Everywhere he went he shared the Gospel; filled with the Holy Spirit he was able to communicate in away that was relatable to those who were willing to hear what he had to say.

Every waking moment he only wanted to do the will of our Heavenly Father. He also worked (tent making) while trusting in God’s hands of provisions - felt it was important not to be a burden to anyone. Whatever God asked of him to do he did. Always thinking about others, helping others, sharing with others, with what people nowadays would say “waste of time” since all they think about is themselves and how to “get theirs” because he genuinely cared about their wellbeing.

Application
I have done anything worthy as those who I read or have read through the bible. What I can do is help those around me to learn more of Jesus through my story. Others have given up everything, some more than I, a lot more for many, all for the cause of Christ. What sacrifices have I truly made, what can I do today to change, to focus my attention on the Lord and the work he has for me. Am I willing to do the work, endure possible hardships along the way, all to help win people around me know who Jesus is. Can I finish the race strong and really give it all that I have. I know I want to and recognize that I have struggled in this area.

Prayer
Father God, thank you for helping me recognize that you are not done with me. That you have placed in my heart that there is still work to be done and that you are allowing me to grow for the situations I am in to keep moving forward and finishing the race. I ask for your Holy Spirit to be with me, providing me the right words to speak at the necessary time, to open the hearts of those you want me to speak to, and the courage to have that conversation with them. I ask for the opportunity to help others, to give of my time, resources, and abilities and that I will never be selfish to do so. May those that are placed in my life be blessed through me by you and you alone. In Jesus’ tireless and matchless name. Amen.

October 25, 2019
Scripture - Job 16:4-5

4 I also could speak like you, if you were in my place; I could make fine speeches against you and shake my head at you.
5 But my mouth would encourage you; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.

Observation
Unlike Job, I did not spare people who have said stupid things or had some choice words to me that I felt were attacking. My mouth, more than not, opened up faster than my brain would tell me to hold up, take a breath, analyze what they are actually trying to say to me, then take another breath and respond accordingly.

Unfortunately my mouth has gotten me into more trouble than not. Wish I had as much patience and understanding as Job did. He chose not to attack, instead spoke words of comfort and encouragement, even during this dark time in his life - the loss of everything he held dearly outside of his relationship with the Lord.

Application
I can learn to pause before I speak. Take it all in, breathe, process, reflect, then decide if a response is really necessary. Perhaps best to hold my tongue rather than cause an argument or hurting someone’s feelings.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to hold my tongue, even if I may be right or have cause to open my mouth. Let the peace of Christ rest upon me and those that I have conflicts with so that we can learn to be agreeable even when we disagree. May my anger and impatience be released so that I won’t let it get the better of me . In Jesus’ name, amen.

October 26, 2019
Scripture - Job 17:11-12; Acts 24:16; 26:6, 22

11 My days have passed, my plans are shattered. Yet the desires of my heart 12 turn night into day; in the face of the darkness light is near.

16 So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.

6 And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our ancestors that I am on trial today.
22 But God has helped me to this very day; so I stand here and testify to small and great alike.

Observation
Would like to say I handle situations like Job, that even when things don’t always go the way we had hoped for, or believed it should, he clung on to what he believed in, the promises and words of God that allowed him to see light in the face of darkness.

As Paul was being persecuted, that his accusers were lying and saying all kinds of things about him in order to have him killed, he stood on the truth and spoke only that. Not once did he let fear sway him to say change his story in order to save his life.

Regardless of the situation, God is there and Paul didn’t waver. He knew the truth, the customs and beliefs of his ancestors and, once his eyes were opened to who Jesus really was, he did everything to share with those who were open to hearing him share the gospel. Fear did not get a hold on him as he continued in the hop that was promised to those who believed.

Application
Can I, in the face of persecution, accusations, & challenges, stand firm in the promises and words of God and not be fearful. Definitely need work on turning to the word, praying, and trusting that God will see me through it all.

Prayer
Father God, unlike Paul, I have not been strong and steadfast. Please help me to live a life that trusts, implicitly, all that you have taught through your Word, our Lord Jesus, and guidance by your Holy Spirit, that I will not fear what lies ahead. Love you Lord. In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.

October 28, 2019
Scripture - Job 19:25-27; Mark 2: 15-17

25 I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. 26 And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; 27 I myself will see him with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

15 While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Observation
Regardless of how bad the situation was for Job, even until death (which he talked about), he looked on to the promises of God - that he would see the Lord Jesus, our Savior, and that is what he placed his hope on.

Even with all the mistakes I have made along the way, Jesus continues to come and save me, protect me, heal me, & always love on me. He doesn’t see me as a loser, a sinner, but one that he cares about and offers forgiveness if I come to Him and ask for it.

Application
Regardless of how difficult my circumstances are, the situations I’m dealing with, is it so dire that I can’t turn to the very source of peace, comfort, and love to see me through it. Need to hold onto the promises that even got Job through it all. I have not even remotely come close to what he went through.

I will live my life knowing I am saved by grace through faith. I am no longer the old Warren, but am a new creation in Christ Jesus. Don’t need to hold onto the label because I am not that person.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, may my eyes be focused on the hope we find in your son, Jesus, our Lord, and our Savior. Even in the darkest and most troubling times I want to keep my eyes fixed on Him. Show me how, give me the strength and courage to make the necessary changes in my life, and the faith to see me through it all. Help me to live a life in Christ, not defined by what others say or feel about me. I am no longer a sinner, but one who has been saved. In Jesus’ matchless and powerful name, amen.

October 29, 2019
Scripture - Mark 5:22-29, 32-36, 39-42

 22 Then one of the synagogue leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 He pleaded earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.” 24 So Jesus went with him. A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed.” 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.

32 But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.” 35 While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher anymore?” 36 Overhearing[c] what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”

39 He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at him. 41 He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old).

Observation
2 different situations - 1st person cries out to Jesus after seeing Him, pleads for His help, so He goes with; 2nd person, likely too afraid, embarrassed to look at Jesus and believes that simply touching Him she would be healed. In both cases He did.

Even while there is a crowd where you may feel lost in, Jesus knows you’re there and is willing to help if you ask. Even when those around you don’t believe or mock you because you do, trust in His goodness and power to do things a mere human can’t.

Application
Regardless of what I am dealing with, going through, I need to stand firm and believe wholeheartedly that God does hear, the Lord is near to me, has not left and is willing to come in my time of need. Healing takes place when my faith and focus on Jesus intersects. He is my healer and I need to begin first in prayer.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you that I’m not lost in the crowd. That you, Father God, do hear me, are always close to me if I would draw near to you. Help my family and I to always fixed our eyes upon you and, even when it seems you are far away, gracefully remind us that you are just a breath away. We love you Lord. Keep us in the safety of your loving arms. Amen.

October 31, 2019
Scripture - Mark 7:6-7, 14-15, 20-23; Mark 8:5-8, 17-20
6 He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. 7 They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules.’

14 Again Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. 15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.”

20 He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. 21 For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. 23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”

5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.

17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.”

Observation
In the beginning of my walk it was just the talk, no substance. I still partied, did what I did to make myself happy, not living the way that I should. Pretty fake, plastic as I used to call people only to be the same hypocrite. My actions did not reflect what I professed to believe.

The part of being dirty from the inside hits home. I hid so much of my past, the evil within, as from the outside everything looked good because I was great at faking, lying, deceiving people around me who thought nothing was wrong. This is definitely a heart issue. Instead of living right, I became self-righteous, telling myself I deserve this or that and that I was in control - in reality I had lost control a long-time ago and let it take me down.

Jesus is the bread of life - He is gives thanks to the Father and provides exceeding abundantly. No one lacked food to eat and did not go away unsatisfied; there was always leftovers.

Application
Need to work on my actions and not just what I say - walk the talk as they say. Definitely can do more to self-exam, reflect on the areas that are not healthy, not Christ-centered, and keeping me away from being everything that God has intended for my life and what I am to do with it. What I do know is that I have never lacked for food, clothing, shelter, & love; moreover it was my selfishness and not seeing what I have versus why others had more or better that kept me from the blessings God had in store for me. Realizing now all that I have to be grateful for really puts things in perspective when it is far more than I deserved.

Prayer
Father God, may my heart be softened and not callous, hardened by greed, jealousy, anger, hate, and all the various poor mindset and evil that drives me far from you. Keep me from sliding back to the old me as I am a new creation through your son, Jesus, my Lord, and my Savior. Thank you for changing me. Help me in those times where I forget what you have done and tried to replace it with what I am doing. Thank you for the provisions, and more importantly that you are our provider. We lack nothing, just please help me to be grateful for all that you have done and continue to do in my life and of my family. We love you Lord, it is your might name Jesus that I ask these things. Amen.

November 1, 2019
Scripture - Mark 9:19, 23-24, 28-29; Mark 10:27, 51-52

19 “You unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.” 23 “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” 28 After Jesus had gone indoors, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” 29 He replied, “This kind can come out only by prayer.”

27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” 51 “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” 52 “Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road.

Observation
I can absolutely say that my faith, my obedience, and actually truly believing was not always there. Definitely needed help in this area in my early days of my walk because I really didn’t take it seriously, more than anything else I did take it for granted. That I could come to the Lord and ask for help, with most of the time when I was in trouble instead of with gratitude.

Then as my faith grew in my walk, I also was unsure if Jesus could do what he said he could when things did not go the way I had hoped for or was looking to see happen. This was more of a selfish thing but also a lack of believing wholeheartedly.

It’s one thing to say you believe and another to live it out. Similar to Bartimaeus, when Jesus is asking you what it is that you want, I need to be specific in my request, be direct, not some generalized request just to bless me.

Application
When asking in prayer, I need to be focused on my request - healing for this or that, for myself or others; a job for this person; reconciliation for this and that person, etc. And when I do, I must believe 100% that God has not got it in his hands, that in his time whatever the time frame, it will come to pass. The outcome is His alone, and it may not be exactly how I want it. Just know He hears us and wants the very best for us, and He will come through.

During my prayer requests, I do find myself lacking in simplicity, directness, and specificity, whether for myself or others, and start rambling on. I know I have felt that at times that my believing was tied up only in actually seeing it manifested. Also with the urgency that I am asking for, it is more of a selfish thing because I do want it on my time and when it doesn’t happen I’ve asked where are you God in this situation.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, may I learn to communicate with you in prayer by being direct in my request, then trusting you for whatever you know is best for that situation, person, opportunity, and more. Help me as that dad asked, “help me with my unbelief,” because I know there have been times I questioned your presence when things didn’t happen when I was hoping for it to. Lord Jesus, please help me stay focused on you, believing through you that all is possible if I simply believe. Thank you for all that you do for us. In your Holy and Precious name, amen.

November 3, 2019
Scripture - Mark 13:29-37; 14:38

29 Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. 30 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. 32 “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.  34 It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. 35 “Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. 36 If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. 37 What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”

38 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

Observation
I previously took for granted, and even now, from time to time, what God has provided has promised us in His words. When taking things for granted I don’t always pay attention to what I am doing and/or saying, not being vigilant - standing guard to know what is true and potentially falling away or being lead away.

Application
Need to stand firm, especially in times where I am tired, exhausted (self-inflicted) where I am susceptible to falling into temptation and weakness. Jesus prayed, asks us to do so, and I need to be focused when I am. Need also to stay alert, seeing where I am falling and get back up and start on the path again.

Prayer
Father God, help me to be more like Jesus. Always asking in prayer and being focused on not falling away. Give us the strength and the courage to see things through after the changes you are making in us. In your might and beautiful name Jesus we pray. Amen.

November 5, 2019
Scripture - Job 28:20-21, 23-24, 27-28; Job 29:2-6

20 Where then does wisdom come from? Where does understanding dwell? 21 It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing,
concealed even from the birds in the sky. 23 God understands the way to it and he alone knows where it dwells, 24 for he views the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens. 27 then he looked at wisdom and appraised it; he confirmed it and tested it. 28 And he said to the human race, “The fear of the Lord—that is wisdom, and to shun evil is understanding.”

2 “How I long for the months gone by, for the days when God watched over me, 3 when his lamp shone on my head and by his light I walked through darkness! 4 Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God’s intimate friendship blessed my house, 5 when the Almighty was still with me and my children were around me, 6 when my path was drenched with cream and the rock poured out for me streams of olive oil.

Observation
There are definitely things that I still do not know even at my age; things that I sought out answers for, possibly out of selfish motives, and God has not revealed them to me. It is hard to comprehend why we do not get to fully understand what we are kept in the dark for, but that is just a timing thing. Just because I may not know now, God does and he will reveal them to us in due time. The first thing I have to do is trust that His ways and wisdom is far greater than I am able to understand.

I have reflected on the times when life was real good. It was not mine to begin with. God had blessed Sachi and Yujin, only for me to take what they have and piss it away. Perhaps it is not the longing for those days, but that I would like to change how I behaved. Seems I looked forward more to the stuff than to recognize what God had given to them and, as an extension to that, me.

Application
Need to trust in God’s wisdom, believe His plans are infinitely greater and better than I can imagine and he will reveal them to us in due time. While we may not see what he has in store for us, need to stay keep holding on that he knows best, always.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that I do not have to be stuck on what I perceive to be losses in my past. They are simply material goods that can be replaced. Our relationship with you is far more important as you are the source from which it comes from to begin with. I thank you that I no longer am fixed on that desire, to have more stuff, and that a deeper relationship with you alone is what my family and I want. If we start drifting from that, please pull us back and set us on the path that you have created for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

November 6, 2019
Scripture - Galatians 3: 23-29

23 Before the coming of this faith,[j] we were held in custody under the law, locked up until the faith that was to come would be revealed. 24 So the law was our guardian until Christ came that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that this faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. 26 So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, 27 for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Observation
In the younger part of my life when I thought all I had to be is “good,” that before I knew Jesus, if I followed the 10 commandments and behaved properly that was sufficient for God to bless me. Then as I got older I kept looking to do more “good” things to earn my way into Heaven. Not sure if that was really taught to me or learned it from others, just that was the way I thought it should be.

Application
Knowing better now that we have grace through faith in our Lord and Savior Jesus, I can live a life not having to conform to what others tell me, we have God’s Word that provides us the lessons and instructions to still walk properly, and trusting in the promise that Jesus alone is who saves and we just need to accept Him as our Lord and Savior; that is the first step we must take.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that we do not have to try and earn our salvation; that all the “things” we keep trying to do does not get us any closer to Heaven. You gave your one and only son, Jesus, to take the pain and penalty of sin away. Thank you that you forever changed our lives and help us to share that same message of grace with those you place in our lives. In your tireless and matchless name Jesus we ask these things, amen.

November 7, 2019
Scripture - Galatians 5:6, 13-14, 16-17; 6:2, 9-10

6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. 13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.

2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Observation
Definitely indulging in the flesh I can see myself not always focused on getting better at that. The following are still issues I have to deal with: hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, & selfish ambition - not all of which I have controlled completely.

I do try to help others in an much as I can. There are times that I find myself not so “loving” my neighbor where it feels that I am going through the motions. Perhaps at times I am faking it until I make it.

Application
Need to learn to walk in the Spirit. Being plugged in and actually doing things that exemplify who Christ is and to honor God. Definitely know I can be of service to others and make the effort and time to do so.

Prayer
Father God, work on my heart that I would get better on correcting the areas of my flesh that needs weeding out - the anger, selfishness, jealousy; all which takes me away from you, your will, your purpose and the part that I play in your kingdom. Provide correction where and when needed. Help me to be available to others and serve them with my whole heart. My we be more like our Lord and Savior Jesus each and every day. In His powerful & matchless name, amen.

November 8, 2019
Scripture - 1 Corinthians 3:6-9

6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.

Observation
No matter what God allows me to do, even the work for the service of His Kingdom, nothing flourishes or succeeds without His hands on it. I do have a role to play as He does allow me to be used for His purposes.

Application
Never getting ahead of myself, thinking the successes I have, things I have accomplished, and more, I need to always understand that it is God working in my life through our Lord and Savior Jesus, guided by His Holy Spirit that brings about the growth and success.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful for allowing me to experience the successes I have had, and in it, you are always there to help me grow. Without your hands on anything my family and I do, it will not flourish. We asked for your guidance and wisdom in all that we do. Love you Lord. It is your son’s Jesus matchless name we ask this. Amen.

November 10, 2019
Scripture - 1 Corinthians 6:18-20; 7:7; 8:9-13

18 Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body. 19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.

7 I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.

9 Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. 10 For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols? 11 So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. 12 When you sin against them in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.

Observation
A) I did struggle with an sexual immoral life - strip clubs, hostess bars, & pornography; even the wandering eye while walking around had been an issue. To reflect what Paul says, “we were bought at a price” and “not our own”, so honor God with our bodies - for so long I didn’t think it was a big deal. I could and would sin and then ask for forgiveness. This played out for so many years, believing I could do what I was and know I was forgiven or would be. Pretty sick-in-the-head thought process. It took some time to work through, praying, trusting and actively changing patterns and behaviors that eventually got me moving in the right direction.

B) Still finding my way through what my gifts are; struggle at times to know if what I am doing is what God wants to bless others through the work He allows me to do.

C) Does my actions reflect what I believe, who God is, who our Lord and Savior Jesus really is? If not, do others see what the bad things I may be doing or have done and then causes them to fall backwards. In my drug days I can say I did cause a bunch of people to fall down and apart. Didn’t live the life I now do and can only hope that they too.

Application
I may be the only Bible people read, the reflection of who Christ is in my life, and is God real by the actions and words I use. Need to act in a manner that reflects my beliefs and that others will not feel or think that of God differently from the poor actions and behaviors of my past. Have to be aware of my attitude and how I do things so as to not cause other people to stumble.

Prayer
Thank you Father God that I no longer want to do the things that separated me from you, breaking down any of the good that you allowed me to do, and to change the hearts of others through what you are working in utilizing me for. May I continue to seek you for wisdom, guiding me to make corrections when and where needed, and helping others back to you. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

November 11, 2019
Scripture - 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 10:11-13; 11:27-32

24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

11 These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. 12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

27 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29 For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves. 30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. 32 Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.

Observation
If I’m going to do anything that is good, especially when serving the Lord, I have to be focused, determined to do my very best to reach for the goal line, wanting to win the prize. Can’t say that I always do as I get in my comfort zone and just kind of cruise by until I really need to get going. I suppose that is part of why I had not seen as much success as I could have. God wanted to prosper me and moved at a snail’s pace.

There were many situations that I got myself in trouble for that, if not for God’s intervention, I would be in some serious deep kim chee. Now I know that in any difficulty, challenges I face, He has a way out if I trust and count on Him to see me through it.

In the past I did take communion, fully aware of my sinful nature. In my head I told myself that if I did this or that, I can still come to him and ask for forgiveness. Wish I could say I only did it once or twice, it happened for what I believe is several year.

Application
No matter what I am going through, I need to press on as it is only temporary what I am dealing with. Focused on the prize, I will work on improving myself to continue the race and stay on track. Will trust that God has a way for me and my family and will stay on course. Not stuck in the past and have moved forward; will not take communion knowingly when I have evil or sin in my heart.

Prayer
Father God, continue to allow me to run the race you have set for me; may the prize - being in Heaven with you, to bring as many people with me; help me to be focused on the work ahead. In times of trouble and difficulty, my trust is in You and that your promises are what we can hold onto - that you would be here for us and see us through these times. We love you, and may our lives honor you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

November 12, 2019
Scripture - 1 Corinthians 12:18-20, 22-27

18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body. 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, 24 while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

Observation
I never thought that I could be used because of what skills or knowledge I possessed. Like the “ring toe,” how could I ever imagine to be used when it doesn’t seem like it does anything or plays a part in the greater scheme of things. What I am grateful for is that even with little I possess, God has been able to help me grow and, in return, help others too.

Application
Regardless of how I’m feeling, I can know that I am able to play a part of God’s bigger plan through using little ‘ol me. Need to move past my fears and know that I can be used by God for His Kingdom’s purposes. Just need to believe that whatever I have is enough as He will supply everything else to make it happen and to its success.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that I can play a roll for your kingdom’s purposes. May I trust that with what little I have you are able to do immeasurably more than I could ever imagine. In Jesus name, amen.

November 13, 2019
Scripture - 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

1 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Observation
I imagine as I had done in the past was to do work for others, to be kind or generous, even when I didn’t want to and, at times, things were not done to the best of my ability or the outcome of what was needed. When you don’t have love, whatever it is that you are doing seems meaningless, and it does come across as such and people do know it. Even if you are the greatest liar and try to fool people, you are fooling yourself as most can see through your disingenuousness.

Application
Regardless of how I am feeling, I must do the same work as if I love it, them and do it to the best of my ability. In some regards is to fake it until I make it or believe it. In doing so, I will be able to work through whatever I am going through and still learn to love even greater. Christ died for me, our Heavenly Father has shown me unconditional love, how am I not to do the same for those around me.

Prayer
Father God, I want to learn how to love as you do. May I live a life that demonstrates this and others will come to know our Lord and Savior Jesus. Please help me through the times that I don’t feel so love or want to return the same to others. May the life I live be one that gives more than I have received. Teach me how to be more like you Lord. In Jesus’ matchless name. Amen.

November 14, 2019
Scripture - 15:10, 33; 16:13-14

10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

33 Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character.” 34 Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame.

13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.

Observation
The life I used to live is a far departure to where I am today. When I tried to do things my way, it didn’t all turn out badly, but I can say that more times than not, I failed miserably. No matter how smart I thought I was, how hard I worked, how amazing this deal or opportunity is, when selfishly all I wanted it was for myself and to benefit me, God didn’t allow it or me to succeed. How grateful I am that He didn’t.

Glad He got a hold of me and changed the course of my life, more so getting me back on the path He designed for me. As for bad company, I did have to make changes in my life as I definitely was going nowhere with some while also bringing other people down with me. The one constant is His ever-presence in my life and of my family’s. He also allowed my family to stay together even though Sachi and Yujin could have simply walked away and left for a better life.

Application
Don’t trust in ourselves, yes we do have work to do, and to really tune in, focus on what God has and continues to do in our lives. If it weren’t for Him, none of this would be possible nor would the successes I have be so satisfying and lasting. Need to willfully and committedly work on the relationships I have - believers and non. Determine how to build or if I need to walk away from them.

Prayer
Father God, by your grace I have been saved and not of my own. Teach me, Lord, to continually look to you for strength, wisdom, understanding and clarity in my life - for without you it would be impossible. May I deepen my relationship with you so that you can use me to develop relationships and others may come to know you Jesus. I ask this in your powerful name, amen.

November 15, 2019
Scripture - Job 41:11; 42:2-6, 10, 12

11 Who has a claim against me that I must pay? Everything under heaven belongs to me.

2 “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 3 You asked, ‘Who is this that obscures my plans without knowledge?’ Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know. 4 “You said, ‘Listen now, and I will speak; I will question you, and you shall answer me.’ 5 My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. 6 Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.”

10 After Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before. 12 The Lord blessed the latter part of Job’s life more than the former part.

Observation
There are often times that we speak of things that is just too hard for us to ever comprehend, when we question is there a God who created Heaven and earth, that we begin to be arrogant, believing we have more understanding than He does. How can I ever imagine how waves really work - gravitational pull from the sun that causes the tide to go up and down, storms that glide the winds across the ocean, deep ocean currents push through, under water, that eventually hit reef that eventually I am able to ride.

Seems pretty crazy that we could ever answer God, the creator of all Heaven and earth, with the things that He asks us about the world we live in - the stars, the sky, the ocean, the mountains, and everything else contained in it. How does all of it work? Who can even begin to think they could respond with an intelligent, complete answer.

Application
Do need to work on the questions that I ask of God, the way I come to approach Him in prayer, my thoughts, the words that I speak. While He doesn’t force me to say what He wants to hear, need to keep in mind that I am allowed to come to him and ask whatever I am dealing with, have questions on, and struggling with. In any given situation I must recognize that only you Father God have the answers.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you that even while question, seeking answers, you are loving, kind, and patient with me, with us. Please help me with the words I speak and my thoughts. You, alone, know the answers and may we always turn to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus, for everything. What we don’t have, provide for us; who you want us to be, make us; what we don’t know, teach us. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

November 16, 2019
Scripture - 2 Corinthians 3:4-5, 15-17; 4:2, 16-18; 5:17

4 Such confidence we have through Christ before God. 5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.

15 Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. 16 But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. 17 Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

2 Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

Observation
In my arrogance I thought I was the “sheet” and that any and all of my successes were due to my big brain and how smart I was. Instead of acknowledging God for blessing me with what I have or that which I accomplished, my big head got in the way of seeing His goodness in my life.

Fortunately He opened my eyes and let me see who I really was and the amazing plan He had for me. No longer did I have to identify myself as the addict, the user, loser, cheater, terrible son, brother, husband and father. For Christ came to save me and, when He did, I became a completely new creature - no longer defined by what others say and, especially, what I was telling myself for years.

Application
Is the love of Christ in me? Has the changes within me evident in the life I live? Is there anything good and worthy in my life that others would love to know about and change theirs too? Will the struggles and challenges I’m facing now define and change me - my beliefs, my hope, my trust - I can say for certain that I do not want to go back to that weak-minded thinking. I choose to fix my eyes on Jesus, trusting in my Lord to see me through anything. No one is allowed to define me of my past as I am not that person.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that the old self has died. All that was done in my previous life is in the past and I desire to live a life that others will be able to see and know you through it. May you always be glorified. In Jesus name, amen!

November 17, 2019
Scripture - 2 Corinthians 7:10; 8:2-3, 7-9, 14-15; 9:6-8, 13

10 Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people.

7 But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving. 8 I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 14 At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. The goal is equality, 15 as it is written: “The one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little.”

6 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. 7 Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 13 Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.

Observation
In the beginning of my walk, especially during my recovery, I don’t believe I was ever truly sorry. More that I was sad that I got caught and can’t continue doing the same crap that I was getting use to or away with. Even as much love and grace Sachi showed me, I wasn’t prepared to give up the life and lifestyle I was enjoying. It all came to a head when I was really spiraling out of control. Even then, Sachi still give me chances after chances and continued to love on me.

Only when it was beyond what she was trying to do for me, and also what I couldn’t do for myself, it was leaving it in the hands of the Lord to save me that changed everything. No longer did I have to try to do things for myself as I was powerless, not in any condition (mentally, spiritually, & physically), to change who I became.

Fortunately I had my “met the Lord on the road to Damascus” moment and knew that He loved me more than I loved the drugs and destructive life I was living. Now, as much as possible, I am helping whoever I can to share my story, of who Jesus is, and how through Him they have what it needed to begin the road to recovery. Giving back of my time, talent, & treasure (money, resources, etc.) has been so therapeutic in my walk and being sober and doing so without regards to getting anything back. In my old thinking, if I gave you something I am expecting something in return. Don’t need to be selfish as it feels so much better being selfless.

Application
When Pastor Carl or Pastor Jay asks if I can help with this or that, even when Justin needs me for the Levites, I am going to do whatever I can to participate. This will help me stay focused, no goofing around and wasting time, as the bigger picture of things is far more important and needed than my wanting to do nothing. Looking to see what God is going to do with Celebrate Recovery and Marketplace Leadership; and what role(s) I will be blessed to play.

Prayer
Father God, thank you for true forgiveness, where we can run to you regardless of how bad we mess up or the amount of times that we do. May I always look to give back what was generously provided to me when I didn’t deserve it. Open the hearts of others and my heart to serve others who are struggling and allow your Holy Spirit to speak the proper message through me. Thank you for being our provider, not just the provisions. May our family be as generous to others as you have been to us. In your tireless and powerful name, Jesus, amen.

November 19, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 2:8, 12; 4:4, 7, 10

8 He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.” 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” 11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him.

Observation
Not every situation where someone tells you what to do - a boss/superior, leader in your community, government official, etc. is always to be followed. While we are told to respect those who have been placed in leadership, if what they tell us is contrary to what God is, who are you going to follow? In this situation, they Magi left and did what was right, being warned not to return to Herod who ended up killing kids under 2 years old because of fear who the real king is - Jesus.

In all situations where Jesus, unlike us (humans), was tempted over and over again, our Lord did not sin and fall into the traps that the devil puts out, hoping we would stumble. Jesus quoted the word of God to shut down the devil, causing him to flee.

Application
While I may be asked to do something from someone in a higher position than I am, it doesn’t mean I am to fall in line, without thought, knowing the consequences of the action isn’t in alignment of what I know to be true and is taught in the Bible. I have a brain, a heart, a soul, all of which, if in alignment with what the Word teaches, am able to make sound decisions that goes contrary to what the world is telling me to and trying to change my walk.

In any given situation where I am being tempted, or even entertaining thoughts that are not good/right, I can turn to the Word of God and find answer, comfort, strength, wisdom, freeing my mind of the negative and turn it positive. What needs to be done is actually reading, praying, and putting the work in - applying what I learn.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, may my family and I not act without seeking advice and wisdom from you. Unlike robots, we can think on our own and you have given us the ability and opportunity to trust you to get us through whatever we are dealing with. May we always turn to your word, to you when we are dealing with things that are beyond our control and comprehension, taking us back on the path that you laid out for us and not going the opposite direction. May you always be who we turn to for help. In Jesus’s matchless name. Amen.

November 20, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 6:2, 7, 16

2 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 7 And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.

Observation
I can painfully reflect on the number of times that I, in my sinful, warped, thinking sought to be seen by others why I put money in the tithe/offering bucket as it passed me - taking out wads of cash (even though it didn’t amount to much), only for show. Same would apply to when I did fast once in a while; there was no great sacrifice on my part - majority of the time it was only for less than a day. How can I focus on what God is speaking into my life when only I was hoping to be seen for my piety. Even during prayer all I could think of was to keep talking, rambling on, believing that I needed to say so much, with big words, promises that I, eventually, could not keep because I wasn’t really committed to them in the first place. Just wanted to say these things, thinking that is what God wanted to hear from me and believing that I would do them.

Application
When I give it is with a much purer heart. Tithes and offerings are done electronically so as not to let my right know what the left is doing. My motivation to help others is much more aligned with what Jesus taught, how he lived, and knowing that God has blessed my life immeasurably - now I can do the same for others.

Prayers are more specific requests. Short, simple and to the point. Just still need to empty my heart and mind so that I can hear from God, feel the prompting of the Holy Spirit, and to be closer to Jesus.

Prayer
Father God, may my time with you be about drawing near, knowing your will, wanting that your ways will be mine too. May I never give with a heart that is impure and with a selfish motivation. You are our provider, let me never ask for anything more than you know I can bear. We love you Lord, in Jesus’ name, amen.

November 21, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 8:13, 25-26; 9:20-22, 28-30

13 Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” And his servant was healed at that moment. 25 The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” 26 He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

20 Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. 21 She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.” 22 Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. 28 When he had gone indoors, the blind men came to him, and he asked them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” “Yes, Lord,” they replied. 29 Then he touched their eyes and said, “According to your faith let it be done to you”; 30 and their sight was restored.

Observation
Faith - something I used to say to people they must have, only to have so little when tough, difficult situations arose. All that the Lord asked was to believe - sounds so simple yet it is one of the most challenging aspects of my walk. Often I feel or have felt nervous, fearful, partially with some anxiety thrown in there. When I tried to do things or make decisions on my own without trusting God with what I prayed about, the majority of the times they all fell part, failed miserably, only for me to encounter hardship and disappointment.

Examples are pulling $$$ out of my retirement to join startups that were not part of the plan or that I really didn’t seek Him for confirmation and approval. eTour International, SelectTeeTimes, TheGolfer, Mele Kalima, and others. Not that they were bad ideas, they just weren’t what God had intended for me and I just pushed through hoping for this amazing payoff. None had and I started all over again, working on my faith and being patient.

Then there are the times that I implicitly trusted, walked in obedience, being patient when needed, and seeing how good our God is. Not that the outcome was for me to decide or when, just knowing that He is in control and His promises and word has never come back void.

Application
When the Lord asks, specifically, what is it that I want, I need to be prepared to ask directly - I want to see, I want this internal bleeding to stop, I want a job that will allow me to take care of my family (not one of selfishness - pays billions of dollars so I can by fancy stuff). And when I ask, I will walk knowing He heard me and, whether it is instantaneous or later, I accept His decision and timing.

Prayer
Father God, may I not just ramble with words, hoping you hear me with no thought of what I am asking nor specificity. When I do ask, please provide me the strength and courage to be patient to when you will reveal if that is what you want from or for my life and of my family, or that you have something else in store for me even though I don’t understand it at the time. Help me where my faith lacks so that I will not try to do things that I feel I need to because I’m impatient and not trusting you. You are our God, our Provider, our Protector, the Creator of all Heaven and earth - our hope is in you and your son, Jesus, our Lord and Savior. In His Holy and precious name we ask these things, amen.

November 22, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 11:28-30; 12:33-37; 13:18-23, 58

28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36 But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” 58 And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.

Observation
There have been many days where I just didn’t even feel like getting out of bed. So stuck in my struggles and challenges that I often take my eyes off the Lord because it seems too much to bear. Though He sas to give it up to him, I wallow in self-pity while trying to figure out myself how to get out of the situation.

My words had been empty at times. What seemed to be meaningful, often times were not. I would tell people what they feel they needed to hear, even if I didn’t care about what I was saying or who I was speaking to. Other times I would be nasty and go off without thinking about the consequences of my actions, words used and the message it projected.

Just as the parable of the sower, I was every bit of each of the seeds. Each stage allowed and prepared me for the next. I do wish I had the type of faith that the good soil produced from the beginning. Fortunately I now can recognize how God helped me to grow in each development of my walk.

Application
Lord, my words and actions often were at odds with what your plans were and your teachings instructed. So glad and grateful that you do allow us to grow, to find rest, to live a life that, when properly lived, can and does bear good fruit. May I choose the right words to edify and build and not to tear down. Work on my heart that what I am thinking, feeling and doing will be in alignment with you.

Prayer
Father God, may the seed that you planted on my heart years ago be continued to be watered, nurtured, grow, harvested and shared. May the cycle continue that through our Lord and Savior, Jesus, our lives will bear good fruit and multiply all around us. We ask this so you would be glorified and magnified. In Jesus’s matchless name, amen.

November 24, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 15:10-11, 17-20; 16:24-27; 17:20; 18:19-20; 19:26

10 Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen and understand. 11 What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.” 17 “Don’t you see that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and then out of the body? 18 But the things that come out of a person’s mouth come from the heart, and these defile them. 19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts—murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. 20 These are what defile a person; but eating with unwashed hands does not defile them.”

24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 25 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.26 What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? 27 For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.

20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

19 “Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”

26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Observation
I know in my lifetime I have received way more that was positive than negative. While receiving these things, I have not always shared what was right due to my selfish, sinful nature. Instead of edifying, providing what is good to people, my old self would come out and say what I should have kept to myself. Often I had hurt people and, while I may have believe it was unintentional, I can’t say with absolute certainty that it wasn’t.

Application
Need to make sure my mouth and my minds are in direct alignment with my heart. Once I get away from what God has taught me, continues to allow me to grow, to be directed by His Holy Spirit, I am prone to let my “defiled” ways kick in and take over. When I actively take the time to consider what I am going to say beforehand, I can think it logically through and save relationships, once that I want to nurture and grow.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, please guide me in my conversation. May my heart be right, let my mind be focused on what you are sharing and teaching me, and let the words that come out of my mouth be uplifting, encouraged, strengthening our brothers & sisters. As this in the mighty name of Jesus, amen!

November 25, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 20:26-28, 30, 32-34; 21:21-22

26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 30 Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” 32 Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. 33 “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” 34 Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.

21 Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”

Observation
In the past, when I was much younger adult, I took for granted the person God gave me as a life partner, Sachi. She took so good care of me even when all I did was break her heart. Instead of giving back I kept selfishly taking. I suppose this was for many, possibly all, of my relationships, in and outside of my family. While it did take years, I am no longer that person. Just like my mother did, she gave even though/when we didn’t have much.

When God is asking me what I want and need, I tend to be vague and drag on my request instead of being specific with my request(s). Like the blind men, when Jesus asked they said, “we want our sight.” Pretty straight forward and the Lord healed them.

Application
Need to have a servant’s heart, wanting to give of myself - time, talent, and resources. I need to place my hope and trust that God, who began a good work in me, will see me through until completion.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I know that I often lack asking specifically what I need or would like. From there it seems I keep asking as if you didn’t hear me or that I don’t believe you were going to do anything about it. May I learn, relearn to trust in you implicitly. That my family and I can trust in your promises, now and forever more. Please move in and through my family’s lives. In Jesus’ name, amen!

November 26, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 23:3-4, 25-28

3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. 4 They tie up heavy, cumbersome loads and put them on other people’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. 25 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. 26 Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. 27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. 28 In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.

Observation
For one, I wasn’t living a life that others would want to follow, certainly not to admire either. While I did say one thing, I often didn’t live it out as an example. Choosing to say what was “right” while living life on the wrong side. So easy to tell people what they should or even want to hear, far more challenging when it should be the truth and you living by it too.

Being clean in the inside has taken me awhile, and I still need to work on this area. I can still be quite selfish, wanting what I want and not thinking about the consequences to those actions. On the inside if all I can think about is me, how can I be of any help or value to others. Should my heart not be right, all my actions will not reflect positively, even if I can fool a few people here and there, in the end the truth will be manifested and I will be found out.

Application
Working on my heart, mind, & soul. In order to walk with the Lord and our Heavenly Father being glorified, I definitely need to cleanse myself of old thinking, attitudes, habits, and actions. As washing a pan of burnt pasta sauce (when I was a dishwasher), I definitely need to keep scrubbing away, a layer at a time, chipping away all the pieces that are stuck, until eventually it loosens, allowing the pan to become clean once again. It is a process, won’t be easy, but well worth it in the end.

Prayer
Father God, I know through our Lord and Savior, Jesus, that we are new, renewed, and can come to Him anytime for help. I humbly ask for a cleansing in my heart, mind, body, & soul. I want your light to shine in and through me. Wherever there is room to improve, I ask for the strength and fortitude to see my family and I through it so that in our walk others will only see you and they will glorify our Father in Heaven. In Jesus name, amen!

November 27, 2019
Scripture - Matthew 27:3-4

3 When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.”

Observation
Even though Judas did betray Jesus, and in some ways I know what that is like, he did eventually come to his senses and realized what a mistake he made and recognized the magnitude of his poor decision and action. Like Judas, I cannot say that the bad things I did was unknowing, that it was an “accident,” or that I didn’t think it was a big deal. Often I would act impulsively, definitely selfishly, and reckless to say the least. Only after the heartache and pains that comes with those poor choices did I realize the depths of my depravity, hurtful ways, twisted thinking, and destructive ways.

Application
While majority of those terrible days and ways are behind me, I cannot lax on good, sound judgment and pursuing things that are in alignment with what God has in store for me. No longer do I only seek to please me, to benefit me, to have more for myself. I can and will take the time to find ways to bless others as I have been. Need to count the cost of the words that come out of my mouth and the actions that I take, each and every time.

Prayer
Father God, I thank you that we can come to you before any decision we make and ask for wisdom and guidance. I can say that I am grateful for not impulsively doing what Judas did just for money. I know you saved me/us for a different purpose and I ask that your will be done and to use me as you choose. May the past selfishness and greed never surface. Replace any of those thoughts to how you can use me to benefit the lives of others to your glory. In Jesus name, amen.

November 28, 2019
Scripture - 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2:8-9, 12

3 We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

8 so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. 9 Surely you remember, brothers and sisters, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you. 12 encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

Observation
I often sat back in my earlier walk, thinking I could just go to church then live life however I wanted, basically serving myself. At no time in the beginning did I really want to serve others (perhaps in my head), to do any work. nor did I have the patience to see things through.

Over time, I realized I have been blessed and should give back what was not mine to keep in the first place. Took some time to see that God saved me and how do I not serve others when I have been rescued from “death” and provided for. No longer did I have to be a burden on everyone else, especially Sachi and my family who went through heartache and pain for so long.

Application
This part of my life I am able to give back, through Big Brothers Big Sisters, Levittes, and whatever God places on my heart to provide support and assistance with. He has given me the strength, abilities, wisdom, etc. and how can I waste these on myself only. Currently it is working through Celebrate Recovery with pastor Jay. Hoping that we can be used to start a group in NHHK and that the would pull the right people to lead and serve. Right now is for Jay and I to get through the training and grow in recovery too.

Prayer
Lord, Father God, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve others where once I was only being selfish - what is in it for me. Where I can be used for your Kingdom, to glorify You, please place me in those positions that I can utilize all that you have provided me in my SHAPE. May your love flow through me to those it is intended for and that my heart would be in alignment with yours when serving others. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

November 29, 2019
Scripture - 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; 5:13-18

11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.

13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Observation
I recognize that I often stuck my nose into places that were not looking for me to. Instead of keeping to myself, I just had to see if I can “help” when no one was asking or was I even a part of the conversation. Also, instead of being a part of the solution, I often as a part of the problem; not doing work that I should have, contributing far less and being a burden to others. Not really living Christ-like, nor was I being loving when whoever picked up my slack must’ve felt undervalued, underappreciated, disrespected, and probably saw me as a terrible person.

Application
Trying to block that persona, I have tried to overcome that stigma, even to the point of overcommitting which, in of itself, is a very bad thing. Want to be a peacemaker so, whenever and wherever possible, I try to be a mediator. Even in situations that I’m involved I want to first ask for forgiveness, even if I may be right. No since being right and gloating, hurting the other side’s feelings. Best to set things right in order to preserve the other and show kindness, gentleness, self-control, the fruits of the Spirit.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that I no longer have to be held captive for me being right, angry that someone does not see things my way. Help me to honor you always by showing kindness to others, being a peacemaker, working diligently instead of being a burden to people. May our hearts always be filled with gratitude for all that you have done in our lives. May you be glorified. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

November 30, 2019
Scripture - Romans 4:19-21

19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah’s womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.

Observation
In our current endeavor, Cheston, Ross, Barry, & I have had and are continuing to trust in God’s promise and goodness. It hasn’t always been easy; over the past 3-4 months we’ve had some challenges, some misunderstanding between partners, issues that we are dealing with, areas where we need help growing, that would’ve likely derailed others who have no hope in a all-knowing, all-present, all-powerful, & loving God. We’ve overcome a bunch and continue to develop our relationship with each other and learning how to run a business while having full-time jobs and busy lives.

Application
We need to continue believe, trusting, praying, and walking in the promises of God. Through our Lord Jesus, we have been pulled out of difficult situations and need to stand firm in our belief that we are and will be blessed by continuing to move forward with Roof Restoration Hawaii. Need to stay in tuned through prayer and guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, help Cheston, Ross, Barry, & I to stay vigilant. Not letting the devil infiltrate our thoughts, minds, attitude, & hearts that would separate us from you. We hold on to your promises and believe you are always with us. We ask for your presence Lord Jesus and that we would keep our eyes fixed on you. We trust in you and love you. In your holy & majestic name, amen!

December 1, 2019
Scripture - Romans 7:

14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15 I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16 And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17 As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18 For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19 For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20 Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. 21 So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; 23 but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me.

Observation
How easy it is for me to feel the same way when Paul says, “it is sin living in me,” which causes me to do what I do not want. While I would like to take the easy route and blame everything else, including “sin,” I consciously know that I am doing something wrong at this point in my life. It is the decisions that I feel I don’t have a choice that always causes me question whether or not I’m actually sinning if I proceed or that I didn’t want to make the hard selection to do what is right despite the blowback or pain it would cause me, my family, or the people I care most about.

Application
Currently I’m able to recognize that I do have choices, especially when I put myself in a challenging situation that, inevitably, forced me in a tight spot. While I was a sinner, Christ came and died for me. So He now rules, in, over, and through me and I no longer define myself as such, similar to my walk in recovery that I’m no longer an addict. Now I’m doing my best to live a life that honors our Lord & Savior Jesus, the sacrifice that our Heavenly Father made, and the promises He’s given us through his son. There will be times where it will seem like a tug-o-war for my heart, body, mind, & my soul, I can stand firm that He is doing a great work in me.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, while I know that I still do sin, I no longer associate myself as a sinner because our Lord & Savior Jesus has rescued me, us from the penalty and death of sin. My life has been immeasurably changed and I want to do what is right, what is good, what brings you pleasure and honors you. Have your way in me, in us; guide us through your Holy Spirit and teach us through your Word. In Jesus’ matchless and powerful name. Amen.

December 2, 2019
Scripture - Romans 9: 16-17, 20-21

16 It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy. 17 For Scripture says to Pharaoh: “I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” 20 But who are you, a human being, to talk back to God? “Shall what is formed say to the one who formed it, ‘Why did you make me like this?’” 21 Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?

Observation
There have been times in my life that I questioned God, “why not me or why was I not like so and so or have what they have,” and it became more grumbling and disappointment then simply asking a question. When things are not going my way or how I would like it, instead of appreciation, I get frustrated and often forget what God has given me and my family.

Application
Now I can reflect on making changes to how I would react, taking a breath, pausing before I speak out. Not that I am 100% where I want to be, as I do slip here and there. What I can accept is that I am not God and he can do whatever he wants in my life, in others, and in the end, his purpose for me and the SHAPE he’s provided will be sufficient in my journey.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that you can use me, that as clay you will mold me for your Kingdom’s purposes. That although I may not feel like a beautiful work of art, I am that through our Lord & Savior Jesus. May my family and I always trusts in your care. Amen.

December 3, 2019
Scripture - Romans 12: 4-6

4 For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, 5 so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. 6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith;

Observation
There have been occasions where I wondered why am I doing what I’m doing and why can’t I do what this or that person is. Wishing I had this ability, skillset, knowledge, etc. Lot of it is from selfishness and greed - power, wealth, material things - all the trappings of this world. Why couldn’t I be a doctor, an inventor, a this or that. All because I see what they have and what I feel is lacking in my life.

Even when things were really good and God was blessing me beyond anything I deserved, all I could focus on is what I didn’t have. All the while I had a great loving family, home, job, cars, and all that was needed for our everyday lives. My focus was not on what we are so fortunate to learn in the Bible, it was all the trappings of “success” and why I’m not getting my fair share.

Application
Realized that I am not this or that person and I’m good with that. What God does with them and the SHAPE He provides for their lives is to benefit others and for his Kingdom purposes. What I have others may not, so why not use it for their benefit. Growing into the person that God needs me to be to add value where and when needed. No longer needing to feed the “sin” nature in me, I can be happy for others in their successes as I have my own to be appreciated for.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gifts you have given me. May I be a good steward and use them to bless others and that you would be glorified, magnified in the work that I do with them. Please correct me when I start fixating on not having this ability or other. Help my family and I to be gracious to what you do endow us with, using it properly and never taking them for granted. In Jesus’ name, amen.

December 4, 2019
Scripture - Ephesians 4:-24

17 So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking. 18 They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts. 19 Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed. 20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

Observation
I was everything that this passage speaks about - indulging in sexual immorality: strip clubs, pornography, hostess bars, massage parlors; just a selfish hypocrite. Knowing what I was doing was wrong even when I was telling others what they ought to be doing themselves. Hardening of the heart is so true. You turn away from what you know is the truth, what is right, to only indulge in your fantasies and desires that are so short-lived.

Application
No longer am I active in pursuing this old way of thinking or desires. It is not that they don’t come up in my life, even time-to-time when I pass by a place I used to go to that memories still are brought up. Now I can focus on the positive experiences, what God has done in my life with the changes he’s allowed me to go through; the good that I’m able to do for others in spite of the pain I caused to myself and my family; that at this point and time of my life that I can truly give back knowing full well the price that Christ paid for me to live again, to be reborn and able to be used for Kingdom purposes.

Prayer
Father God, though I still struggle at times with my thoughts and attitudes, I turn the negative and what is not useful over to you to correct my mindset, my heart, and for good to come of it. Allow me to be used to help others who are struggling in this area that they, too, may be set free. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

December 5, 2019
Scripture - Ephesians 5:15-17

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Observation
Living unwise - still a struggle at times for me. Though I know I should be doing things this or that way, I do at times do things in a shortcut manner that, though it gets done, it doesn’t always end in the positive results that it would have been if I had done it the way it should have been the first time.

Making the most of the day and opportunity - I can see, at least for me, that the evil it references is that I can find myself drifting, not focusing on what is at hand and then start doing useless things that have no real added value to what I was supposed to take care of or could have and then nothing really important gets done.

Application
There are many distractions that get in the way of me fulfilling my potential and completing work/tasks that would propel myself, my family, the business, service work, etc. and I fall into this rut of complacency that I take forever to get out of. What I need to do is better organize my day & time to do what is Important, Urgent, and especially Urgent & Important. Not all have to be work related; just have to be dialed in and put the first things first - God, family, service to others, friends, work - and really stop wasting time on stuff that really don’t matter in the scheme of things.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I know that I still struggle in the time given every day where I am not utilizing it well. Help me to maximize my efficiencies and effectiveness that I may be of service and value to those whom you place in my life and to honor my commitments that I made. From Levittes, to Celebrate Recovery, the Men’s Ministry, family, friends, and work, help me to find that balance by not managing my day, hour, & minutes properly. Guide me through your Holy Spirit in this process of growth and development. May you always be glorified and honored in the work you are using me for. In Jesus’ name, amen.

December 6, 2019
Scripture - Philippians 2:3-4

3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

Observation
For so many years all I ever wanted was what benefitted me. Even as far as saying it was for my family or others, it really wasn’t. What I reflect on is how I could be that way, and even at times now some of my past selfish tendencies come out. Always had to be seen as the person who came through in the clutch; #1 this or that; know more than you; we are on top because of me. Me, me, me, pretty much sums it up.

My mother was such a great example of how loving & giving one can be. Although we didn’t have much by material standards, she still found the time to give back through donations - Salvation Army, Goodwill, etc. She alway helped those around her and in the community. Years later I found out one of the places that I happen to shop at in chinatown, the owners (2 sisters) were helped by my mom and is a reason why they have a storefront.

Application
I no longer need to be seen, taking credit for everything, be the center of attention, or we are where we are because of me. What I now despise that I didn’t before - being Self: ish, centered, righteous, and can look ahead wanting success for others and am genuinely happy for them even when I’m not doing so well.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that my desire to do what makes you happy, to see the joy in others faces, to put their needs ahead of mine, has been far more rewarding than the selfish, egotistical person I had been for so many years. I took the joy you provided and replaced it with bitterness, envy, & jealousy - all due to blind ambition and greed. Thank you for showing me a better way, your way through our Lord & Savior Jesus. Help me to continually work in these areas that can draw me closer to you, or cause me to be so far away. May you be glorified in the work that you do in and through me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

December 7, 2019
Scripture - Colossians 3:5-10

5 Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. 6 Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. 7 You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. 8 But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. 9 Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.

Observation
For years I had struggled with my desires - immorality, lust, greed - and thoughts: anger, jealousy, bitterness. It isn’t that I couldn’t control myself, it was more that I wanted things that were not mine to have, and definitely not in God’s plans. What is worse is that my actions and words spoken affected not only myself, but those around me.

As now I realize I am a new creation, and that those around me who do not know Christ may only see the Lord in my actions and the words I speak, I no longer act as I once was. That old person is dead and I no longer want to live as I did.

Application
The choices I make, the words I choose, the actions after I thought things through all reflect who I am in Christ Jesus. How can I life a duplicit life where once I was dead and would be damned eternally, whereas now I am alive in and through Him with the promise of Heaven given that we can look forward to. For those who he’s placed in my life now and in the future, my actions and words is a direct reflection of what I have come to believe is true and no longer want to ever be referred to as my old self.

Prayer
Father God, thank you for giving me/us new life through you son, our Lord & Savior Jesus. May I never live the old life that separated me from you and that my words and actions would reflect properly. Please allow me to live the life that honors you and that others would desire to come to know you and your son. As I continue to improve in my walk, use me as you see fit for your Kingdom’s purposes. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus, amen.

December 8, 2019
Scripture -
Observation -
Application -
Prayer -

December 9, 2019
Scripture - 1 Timothy 6:6-10

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Observation -
For the most part in my 20s and 30s, all I was obsessed over was money, fancy cars, girls, and partying. While I did know what was right and wrong, I never tried to live a life that was honorable to God, let alone my family or myself. My almost singular focus was on what I could get with what I had and how much more with little to no effort on my part. Crazy as it sounds, I kept dreaming, hoping for God to drop it all in my lap because, I guess, I was deserving of it.

All this led me to live a twisted life with a warped view of reality. That in my drug days that if I kept working longer, harder, staying up and making money that it would all end well. What happened is that everything came crashing, on my head and hard. Almost lost my family - my amazing, loving wife; terrific, hard-working son, and myself in the process. Forgiveness is not appreciated when you have nothing to lose and think solely of yourself.

Application -
Life changes, immeasurably, when you focus on the things, areas of your life that God has placed in your heart and through The Word. While I can’t say 100% that I don’t think about the things I lost or wish a better life for my family. No longer am I a slave to wanting this or that, above and beyond what God has provided for me. Do I think He doesn’t want to bless me with more; I believe I have to earn it - parable of the servants who were good and faithful vs. the 1 who did nothing with his/her ability.

I’m not obsessed or deeply rooted in making money only. While I want success, I feel if I am able to do more with what I have I can be a blessing to others - through giving, not only of $$$ but of time too. I can share with younger people the trappings of going only after materials things and forgetting what is important in life. If my pain and experiences can be a catalyst for change then I’m all for using me as an example. There is no shame in my loss and failures; only opportunity to grow and learn from the past.

Prayer -
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your help in changing my desires for the world, materials things, and seeing that we find peace, joy, comfort, love and all that is important through your son, Jesus, our Lord & Savior. May my heart look to you in all situations and circumstances to do what is right, what is good, that I may be used to be a blessing to those in and around me, to share of my faults & failures and how others can learn from my past. Thank you for not letting go of me. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

December 10, 2019
Scripture - Titus 3:1-8

1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.3 At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. 4 But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, 6 whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. 8 This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

Observation
When I was in my 20s & 30s, I was quite foolish; believing what other people would say, chasing after things that were unimportant, living wildly thinking that’s the lifestyle I want. Was so focused on these areas that I could not see past the BS and I definitely wasn’t helping anyone out. I basically dragged a lot of people down with me, not that misery loves company, but because I thought this is how living really is. How ‘happy' I was, that I had it all together, able to balance both the dark, bad side with the good in me. If it weren’t for God’s grace, what hope do I have when everything was falling apart in and outside of my life.

Application
Glad that I can share my experiences with others. Still have to work on the words that I choose and actually say. Not perfect by no stretch of the imagination. What I can do is focus on the good, the life that I have through Christ, giving other people hope through Jesus.

Prayer
Father God, thank you for grace, without it I would be dead in my sins, separated eternally from you. My former foolish life is behind me though I do need help in making better choices and decisions and how I share your message, the Gospel, with others. May I live out my life as a testimony to what you have done in my life and for my family. In Jesus name, amen.

December 11, 2019
Scripture - Hebrews 2:1, 14-15, 17-18

1 We must pay the most careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away. 14 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. 17 For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Observation
There were, and sometimes are, parts of my life that when I was taught something, that I would accept and then forget about it. What sucks is that instead of putting it into practice or memory, I fall back into my old ways - seemingly drifting away.

What is great about seeing men/women who you look up to model how to live the ‘biblical’ life, is knowing that our Lord & Savior Jesus walked among us and went through the temptations and ranges of emotions as we do. He understood what it was to feel pain and sorrow; looking upon us with love, compassion, and empathy, always wanting to take care of us. How can you not admire leaders who live that life, day in and day out.

Application
Learning from teachers - pastors, evangelists, & apologists; what the Holy Spirit prompts me, what the Word provides us, I want to keep that same learning wherever I go. Want to minimize the opportunity and chance I would slip away when things are not going exactly as I am hoping or would like to. Put into practice what has been shared with me.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank you that you understand what we go through. When others suffered, you felt the same and knew how to care for us through your experience. May I never waste a moment of my life to help others in need. Place me in a position, Father God, to be of value and usefulness for your Kingdom’s purposes. We love you and help us to be more like you everyday. In your Holy and matchless name we pray, amen.

December 12, 2019
Scripture - Hebrews 6:9-15

9 Even though we speak like this, dear friends, we are convinced of better things in your case—the things that have to do with salvation. 10 God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. 11 We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, so that what you hope for may be fully realized. 12 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. 13 When God made his promise to Abraham, since there was no one greater for him to swear by, he swore by himself, 14 saying, “I will surely bless you and give you many descendants.” 15 And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised.

Observation
In my walk, there have been times where I wondered if what I am doing worth it? Am I even making any impact for those around me and who we are serving? Though I feel good in participating with helping others, what has come of it - the fruit that it bears? I know God loves me and sees what is in my heart, so why am I so concerned if anything that I/we do is benefitting anyone?

No matter how bad a situation is, God has always been there for my family and I. He does come through for me, for my family and friends. It is only in my impatience that I keep asking why this or that, or when will this happen, instead of where do you need me to be, what can I do next to help or what are you trying to teach me at this moment, and how can I be used to honor you Father.

Application
Keep pressing forward, moving on, taking one step at a time and not looking back at what could be. Need to work on this as I say it to others, but find myself stuck in this area where I am struggling to go. What I can do today is trust that His plans are infinitely greater than what I can imagine and improve in 1 area at a time. If it is helping others then I am to spend that time reaching out, figuring out what they need support with and be there for them. Don’t worry about the outcome or our my reservations if anything that I am doing is actually benefiting them. Just do it and trust God for the results.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you that you are in control of the outcome, causing the growth, and helping to see us through times and events that often don’t make sense. Teach me to be patient, trusting in the end that your plans are greater and will work out for my/its good. Help me Lord Jesus to be more like you each and every day. Open my heart to serve and continue doing so with a cheerful heart. May you always be honored and glorified in the work you allow me to do for your Kingdom’s purposes. In Jesus’ name, amen.

December 18, 2019
Scripture - John 3:10-15

10 “You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? 11 Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. 12 I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? 13 No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven—the Son of Man. 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”

Observation
Just when you think you know it all, or believe you do, and even when you are the teacher that people go to, you may, in fact, know very little. I often thought that I was smart, knew more than others, didn’t really need to ask for help. What I realize is that I missed out on a lot, took longer to learn things than needed, lost out on opportunities because I was too stubborn to ask for help.

Application
Even when you know a lot, and perhaps more than others, there are times when you are not going to always understand and need to ask for help. In this instance, instead of Nichodemus asking when he had a chance, he went to Jesus “undercover” so no one would recognize him - perhaps ashamed, possibly curious, yet definitely seeking truth. Willing to change and take the steps to find out answer when and where needed without fear of being found out.

Prayer
Father God, thank you that we can run to you. I’m tired of faking my way through things. Want to learn and grow in my relationship with you, with your son, Jesus, and developing in all the areas of my life. I would like your will, your way, to be what and how I live for. Please help me to never be afraid to come to you with anything. My trust is in you Lord. Amen.

December 25, 2019
Scripture - 1 John 3:7-10

7 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. 8 The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work. 9 No one who is born of God will continue to sin, because God’s seed remains in them; they cannot go on sinning, because they have been born of God. 10 This is how we know who the children of God are and who the children of the devil are: Anyone who does not do what is right is not God’s child, nor is anyone who does not love their brother and sister.

Observation
So many people claim to know the truth, or the newest speaker tells people this and that about life, our future, how to live, etc. These so-called gurus try to entice us to believe their “wisdom” only to be fooled in the long run.

If we are truly changed, we only need the Word of God and not needing to turn to other sources for insight and learning. Also, no longer are we a slave to our past and the actions/thinking/attitudes as we are a new creature striving to do what is good and right, learning to love as God has shown us in the new life we live. If God is in us, how can we do anything that is contrary to what is taught and how our Lord and Savior Jesus lived.

Application
Changes to my life, in my life, is in direct correlation to what Jesus has done for me. What I can do to show my gratitude and appreciation is to embody his teachings, how he lived, and may it bring glory and honor to our Heavenly Father. No longer am I stuck in the place where the past and my future collides.

Prayer
Father God, may I not backslide, forgetting who I am through our Lord & Savior Jesus; the sacrifice he made that we may be a new creature and no longer slave to the past, how I identify with what had happened, and now as I move forward. My my actions and speech be one that brings you honor and happiness. In your holy and precious name I ask these things, amen.

December 26, 2019
Scripture - Psalm 119:111

111 Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. 112 My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end. 124 Deal with your servant according to your love and teach me your decrees. 125 I am your servant; give me discernment that I may understand your statutes.

Observation
Reading the word, learning who you are Lord, what your plans are for me/us, providing instructions for our lives, helping us grow - mentally & spiritually, David really poured his heart out and reinforced how he felt many times over. What I can say is that I never have expressed how I feel as deep as he had and that he lived to please the Lord because he loved what he learned.

Application
Need to be able to just tell the Lord how I feel, like David, no matter how the words may come out. Just be honest in how I feel or what I am going through to either praise, share my frustration, disappointments, anger, and to let Him know how much we love Him and what He teaches us through the Word, in our Savior, Jesus, and guidance through the Holy Spirit.

May I always be able to reflect on the truths we find in the Bible, using it to help us grow in a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God, with each other, and understanding myself.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful for your word that helps me understand situations I’m in, dealing with struggles, guidance through challenges, learning more of you, myself, and how I can be of service to others. Show me how to live a life that believes in, trusts in, walks in the Word besides speaking of it. Humbly asks for your Holy Spirit to be with us to illuminate what is not clear and to build on the truths that you teach us. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

December 27, 2019
Scripture - Revelation 3:17-22

17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me. 21 To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat down with my Father on his throne. 22 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.”

Observation
While I did not acquire wealth, there was a time that I had access to money through Sachi that was not mine to begin with and I took advantage of our relationship and, in one sense, was very arrogant and prideful. Don’t recall saying that I don’t need a thing, likely more than not that I wanted bigger, better, faster, this or that and plenty of it. I did forget what God had done while I was at my highpoint in my career with Verizon - crazy thing it was just my first year.

I was blessed with tremendous success and became complacent, self-righteous, and plain lazy. While I could have used my success to bless others I took it for granted and didn’t do anything but buy stuff for myself. Fortunately I did crash and burn a bit, allowing me to put things in perspective and to realize where it all came from - not of my own but from our Father in Heaven. Should have paid more attention and sooner.

Application
I’m glad I learned a valuable lesson during those times. Fell on tough times and struggled where God once had blessed me tremendously just a short time beforehand. Now I live to where I am able to reflect, appreciated, and glorify our Heavenly Father for what He has done in my life and of my families. Look for His guiding hand through the Holy Spirit to lead me, reveal truths that I need to learn, and to illuminate the words of the Bible so I have a clearer, deeper understanding of what I’m reading - ultimately how does it apply to my life.

Prayer
Father God, please help my family and I never to be arrogant and prideful, forgetting who you are and what you have done in our lives. May we continue to look forward to what you have in store for us when we return to you one day. May glory and honor be on our lips, minds, & hearts. We love you. In Jesus name, amen.

December 29, 2019
Scripture - Revelation 12:17; 13:9-10; 14:9-13

17 Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.

9 Whoever has ears, let them hear. 10 “If anyone is to go into captivity, into captivity they will go. If anyone is to be killed with the sword, with the sword they will be killed.” This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people.

9 A third angel followed them and said in a loud voice: “If anyone worships the beast and its image and receives its mark on their forehead or on their hand, 10 they, too, will drink the wine of God’s fury, which has been poured full strength into the cup of his wrath. They will be tormented with burning sulfur in the presence of the holy angels and of the Lamb. 11 And the smoke of their torment will rise for ever and ever. There will be no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and its image, or for anyone who receives the mark of its name.” 12 This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep his commands and remain faithful to Jesus. 13 Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”

Observation
Those who refuse to come to know the Lord, follow the devil, and blatantly dishonors Jesus through their words and actions, may temporarily enjoy their time on earth when they may believe nothing’s going to happen. Unfortunately, as it is written, they will be marked by the beast and it will be their undoing in the end where they will damned for eternity.

What is being asked of us, those who believe, is to stay faithful, be steadfast, even if we have to die for what we believe in, is to not turn away and forgot who our Lord and Savior is - Jesus.

Application
No matter what the world throws at me/us- power, riches, glory, fame, etc. - we are to keep to our beliefs and not waver. Will it be easy, no in the sense of what the world expects, but “yes” in the trust of the promises and truths that we hold true. Stay in the Word, focus on doing the work that I am called to do, be patient in seeing His plans through, trusting that all will work out for good to those who love God. May He be glorified in all that we do and praise no matter what we have to endure.

Prayer
Father God, may all who call upon your son, Jesus, as their Lord and Savior, stand strong, unmoving to what the world wants us to believe or tells us what we’re missing. May the mark on our foreheads be of the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. May we not fall prey to what the beast and devil will try to trick us into believing. We ask for your Holy Spirit to be with us to provide and reveal what is true until you return to rule forever more. In your Holy and Majestic Name, amen.

December 31, 2019
Scripture - Revelation 21:3-4

3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Observation
We, believers, can hold onto the promise that one day, our Lord, our God, will reign where we are. He has called us His people and He is our God. No more pain, fear, sadness and death. What is past is passed and we don’t have to hold on to it. Looking forward to being renewed in body that will not deteriorate and where we can be free from the world’s trappings and be in the presence of God.

Application
Focus my attention on doing what God has called me to and planned for my life. Stay in the Word, and stand firm on His promises. Knowing that no matter what I’m going through, in the end the journey will be worth it when Jesus comes to reign over us and that we will be with God, in person.

Prayer
Help me Father God to share the goodness and promises that we find in your Word, and through our Lord and Savior Jesus. That one day those we are called by you will no longer be in pain, feel sad, nor fear the sting of death. Please rule in, over and through us Lord. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

January 2, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 1:9; 2:15-17; 3:17

31 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.

15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”

17 To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’ “Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat food from it all the days of your life.

Observation -
How can we look around and not see all the beauty of what was created and to not believe there is a creator behind it. How everything works together and, if it were off just a bit, would not be possible - the sun and how far the earth is; too close, too hot; too far, too cold; either scenario we cease to exist.

Though you would expect people, even me, would know what is good from evil, right from wrong, we forget when it is convenient, easy too, or when it doesn’t fit to what we want the outcome to be. Also excepting your part of the wrong, what you did instead of not doing, and having to live with the consequences for not listening and doing right.

Application -
When I see something I may not have previously, need to learn to appreciate it because God made and provided it for us to use.

Need to actively pay attention to the areas where I know what I should be doing and seemingly slip up and forget. While I can’t always say I do this on purpose, I have the ability to be make better choices and proper course corrections when I make mistakes.

Prayer -
Heavenly Father, may we always reflect on your creation and learn to appreciate every bit of it. As you said, it is good. Everything you created is good because you are good. Let it never be lost on us. Thank you for making everything around us for our use and enjoyment. In Jesus name, amen.

January 3, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 6:5-9

5 The Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time. 6 The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. 7 So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created—and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground—for I regret that I have made them.” 8 But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord. 9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God.

Observation -
Some people feel God is so cruel and how can He be all loving when speaking of destruction and wiping out everything and everyone. What they don’t get is that He sees the heart of man when given then opportunity to make their own decisions, of which they choose what goes against His Word. Fortunately Noah was faithful and righteous, causing God not to wipe us out entirely. Eventually having his anger subside and kindled.

Application -
My heart doesn’t always think about and do what is right. Every now and then I slip, sometimes pretty hard at that. Need to work on my life, being an example to my family and those God has placed in my life.

Prayer -
Father God, help my family and I to be blameless, living righteously and honoring you in everything that we do. In Jesus name, amen.

January 4, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 9:12-16

12 And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: 13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. 14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.”

Observation -
While I have read this passage before, I don’t recall remembering it. We can appreciate that God’s promise to not wipe us all out can be seen in the beauty of a rainbow.

Application -
Whenever I now see a rainbow I will appreciate it more than to hope that there is a pot of gold at the end of it. I suppose that pot of gold is that we have an everlasting promise that God remembers and loves us.

Prayer -
Father God, let me always have appreciation and gratitude for giving us life and not taking it. That in a symbol of a rainbow we have one of your promises that we can hold on to. In Jesus name, amen.

January 5, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 12:14-15, 17

14 When Abram came to Egypt, the Egyptians saw that Sarai was a very beautiful woman. 15 And when Pharaoh’s officials saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh, and she was taken into his palace. 17 But the Lord inflicted serious diseases on Pharaoh and his household because of Abram’s wife Sarai.

Observation -
While I can’t say I’ve never looked upon another woman, what I choose not to do anymore is take any action. My wife is mine and not to be shared with any other man. Same as I am my wife, not to be shared with another woman. When you break that vow, you destroy the commitment and special bond with your life partner. Not only your partner, but with God/Christ himself.

Application -
While looking may seem harmless, I have to be aware of what it leads to - my thoughts, desires, and actions; the sin and evil that can easily take hold and cause me to do something stupid, again. Have to push past and keep my focus on how meaningful and important my wife means to me, and hurting her also damages my relationship with the Lord.

Prayer -
Dear Heavenly Father, may my eyes be fixed on our Lord and Savior Jesus so that it has no time to gaze, look around, and be focused on anything, anyone else that pulls me away from you. I thank you that I can get my mind and heart back to you with your help. Humbly ask for your Spirit to be in me to guide me along the path that you created for me to walk along. May I never do anything to damage what you have built up in my marriage and family. In Jesus’ mighty and holy name, amen!

January 6, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 15:6; 16:7-10; 17:1-2

6 Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.

7 The angel of the Lord found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur. 8 And he said, “Hagar, slave of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?” “I’m running away from my mistress Sarai,” she answered.9 Then the angel of the Lord told her, “Go back to your mistress and submit to her.” 10 The angel added, “I will increase your descendants so much that they will be too numerous to count.”

1 When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me faithfully and be blameless. 2 Then I will make my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers.”

Observation -
When you choose to rush into something or a situation that God has not blessed or opened the door for you to walk through, you are bound to fail and cause serious disruptions and heartache to those around you and love.

While it may seem ok or right, in this case when Sirai told Abram to sleep with her servant, ultimately she despised and treated her servant very badly and likely resented Abram for doing so. If he had not listened to his wife, only waited for when God was to reveal to him what He was going to bless him with, He not only would’ve had a more loving marriage, but also one that was much more peaceful.

Application -
If there is anything that I know to be true, that God has told us not to do, or that I have a very strong feeling that it isn’t something I should be getting myself into, then I need to trust God and stand firm by not doing it.

Prayer -
Father, whatever is right, and whatever is pleasing, help me to stay on track, in alignment where I will not fail and break your heart and/or my family’s. Don’t let my selfish nature come out and destroy anything good that you have built up through me and any work you allowed me to do. In Jesus’ matchless name, amen!

January 7, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 19:

12 The two men said to Lot, “Do you have anyone else here—sons-in-law, sons or daughters, or anyone else in the city who belongs to you? Get them out of here, 13 because we are going to destroy this place. The outcry to the Lord against its people is so great that he has sent us to destroy it.” 14 So Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were pledged to marry his daughters. He said, “Hurry and get out of this place, because the Lord is about to destroy the city!” But his sons-in-law thought he was joking. 15 With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished.” 16 When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. 17 As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!”

Observation -
Even as much as God’s wrath should fall on us because of our wicked deeds, thoughts and actions, He does love us and doesn’t want anything to happen to us, for those who love Him. He also keeps His promises, every time.

Application -
Though I fall short and sin, I can stand on His promises and goodness. He loves me/us enough to give 2nd, 3rd, and 4th chances. I just don’t want to take for granted and advantage of His goodness and mercy for my selfish desires.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you that you do show restraint when we fail. Without that we would be doomed. May we have a heart of gratitude and awareness of who you are, always. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 8, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 21:17-20

17 God heard the boy crying, and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, “What is the matter, Hagar? Do not be afraid; God has heard the boy crying as he lies there. 18 Lift the boy up and take him by the hand, for I will make him into a great nation.” 19 Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water. So she went and filled the skin with water and gave the boy a drink. 20 God was with the boy as he grew up. He lived in the desert and became an archer.

Observation -
No matter how bad a situation may seem, how bleak the potential outcome, how weak our minds can be when we give up, feel left out and lonely, God is always present. Though Ishmael was not given the promise that was made for Isaac, God still cares, is loving, and faithful to provide, and took care of him throughout his life.

In the same breath, I was given many chances, should have been left for dead, in jail, on the streets, but God had other plans for me. He hasn’t stopped showing me kindness and goodness.

Application -
Though I may feel unwanted, not respected, not welcomed, God continues to show and tells me to trust Him as He takes care of His children. We are protected, cared for, and loved. Need to do the same for others - without judgment.

Prayer -
Father God, help me to love and care for others, those you’ve placed into my life, and soon to be a part of. May I resemble our Lord and Savior Jesus in all areas of my life. In Jesus’ name, amen!

January 9, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 24:12, 27, 48

12 Then he prayed, “Lord, God of my master Abraham, make me successful today, and show kindness to my master Abraham. 27 saying, “Praise be to the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not abandoned his kindness and faithfulness to my master. As for me, the Lord has led me on the journey to the house of my master’s relatives.” 48 and I bowed down and worshiped the Lord. I praised the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who had led me on the right road to get the granddaughter of my master’s brother for his son.

Observation -
The servant prayed for a specific outcome - “succesful today, and show kindness” and praised God for his kindness and faithfulness. He was also grateful for guiding and leading him on the road that led to success. Sometimes I’m not asking with clarity, direction, and focus. Words come out uncomprehensible or I space when I’m tired. Jesus always took the time to pray and focus on what God was directing Him, why can’t I do it for the little time that I do?

Application -
Want to be mindful of the time I do pray as it is with God, not just some person I want to say hi and goodbye to. Need to be that child who feels comforted and secure in the presence of his loving Father, a parent who doesn’t judge, who wants to hear how may day is going and how He can help.

Prayer -
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me in my prayer life with you. May I learn to take the time as our Lord and Savior Jesus did, each and every day. Never thinking it is a waste of time or that you don’t want to hear that thing we think is so small and that we don’t want to bother you with. May I/we never be afraid to come to you with anything that is going on in our lives. Let me specific in my requests, then giving me the strength and patience to wait on it to come to pass. In your mighty and matchless name Jesus I ask these things, amen!

January 10, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 26:2-6

2 The Lord appeared to Isaac and said, “Do not go down to Egypt; live in the land where I tell you to live. 3 Stay in this land for a while, and I will be with you and will bless you. For to you and your descendants I will give all these lands and will confirm the oath I swore to your father Abraham. 4 I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and will give them all these lands, and through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, 5 because Abraham obeyed me and did everything I required of him, keeping my commands, my decrees and my instructions.” 6 So Isaac stayed in Gerar.

Observation -
The Lord appeared - how awesome this would be, also frightening, if this would happen in our lives. Besides that, the Lord instructed Isaac not to go. Wish I had listened more often and carefully during my adult years, even when I was younger when I could feel/hear God speaking to me.

Application -
When God speaks, listen, and as Abraham did - OBEY and do what He requires of me, 100% of the time and ask forgiveness when I don’t or fail to.

Prayer -
Father God, help me to listen carefully and fulfill what you are calling me to do. I want my family and I to be blessed by honoring my commitment to you. May my obedience and faith be in alignment. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 11, 2020
Scripture -Genesis 28:15

15 I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go, and I will bring you back to this land. I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.”

Observation -
Whenever I felt alone, in trouble, sad, in distress, and other roller coaster emotions, the one constant is knowing that God is next to me. Through our Lord and Savior Jesus we can find comfort in His presence: protecting, covering, embracing, reassuring me that everything is going to be alright. Many times I wasn’t sure how my family and I were going to make it financially and He is always there to take care of our daily needs. He has never let me, us down so why would I need to start worrying now if He’ll be there.

Application -
When I’m paralyzed by fear, unsure of what tomorrow brings, the outcome of the situation I’m in, we will trust in the Lord who is our deliverer, our strong tower whom we run to, our God and provider. The very things I am afraid of becomes so small with His protection.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you that you are everywhere, all knowing, and all powerful to take any situation and whatever we are dealing with off of us and you take care of it for us, sometimes with us, other times to allow us to go through it as what comes out of it in the end will be far better than I can imagine and will glorify you. In Jesus’ mighty and matchless name, amen!

January 12, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 30:22

22 Then God remembered Rachel; he listened to her and enabled her to conceive.

Observation -
What a God we serve - one that “Remembers” and “Listens” to our cries, our petitions, never to busy to hear the voices of His children. One who is always concerned with what is going on in our lives and how you can take care of us.

Application -
Help us to focus on the areas where we can improve and also to be grateful for who you are: my family, our health, our home,

Prayer -
Merciful and loving Father, thank you that you do listen when we pray, that you remember us in all situations - good, bad, & indifferent and you keep on loving us regardless of our faults and failures. May we ask and petition that we would be a body that loves on others, cares for others, supports others, and that you Father God would be glorified. In Jesus we pray, amen.

January 13, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 32:28

28 Then the man said, “Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.”

Observation -
God has called us His own, that means He knows us, and given us a name that reflects who we are. Sometimes we forget who we are and get lost along the way - removing our identity in Him. What He is asking of us is who am I - if Christ is in me? Definitely have lost myself during my struggles with addiction, pornography, lying, stealing, etc.

Now with Christ in me, how can I destroy the very life that He has given through His sacrifice. That just shows how ungrateful I am. Instead, I choose to walk in a manner that, I am hoping, pleases Him

Application -
Definitely don’t want to lose my identity through Christ. Without you Lord I am dead man walking.

Prayer -
Heavenly Father, in the midst of my trials and struggles, may I not lose my way, forgetting who I am through our Lord and Savior Jesus. May I take that always seriously so that I will always honor you in my walk. In Jesus’ matchless name, amen.

January 14, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 35:3

3 Then come, let us go up to Bethel, where I will build an altar to God, who answered me in the day of my distress and who has been with me wherever I have gone.

Observation -
Regardless of how far I ran away from God, doing things that separated me from my first love, in the times of despair and distress, He has not left my side. Even close friends will disappoint and forget you. So glad that no matter what I can run to our Heavenly Father, to ask for help and He is always near.

Application -
Even when I don’t hear you, struggling to understand where you are when I’m in a time of need, I will trust in you Lord as I do know you have always carried, walked alongside, me and my family. Not that I/we deserve it, it is that you just love us unconditionally. While I don’t have an alter to build, I will honor and glorify you wherever and whenever possible.

Prayer -
Thank you for always answering me, even when I didn’t think you are. Don’t let me be confused with not liking your response to what you are helping me to do that is right even when I don’t understand why it has to be done that way. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 15, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 39:9-12

9 No one is greater in this house than I am. My master has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” 10 And though she spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be with her. 11 One day he went into the house to attend to his duties, and none of the household servants was inside. 12 She caught him by his cloak and said, “Come to bed with me!” But he left his cloak in her hand and ran out of the house.

Observation -
Joseph was able to do what was right in situations that I failed to. Temptation, lustful desires, that I acted on. While blinded to what I was doing or were facing, God had a way out, only that I refused to because of my selfishness and sinful nature.

Application -
Where I am today allows me to slow down, think about what is in front of me and how those desires, situations, challenges can be handled and how best to deal with them. Starting with assessment, prayer, petition, and then taking the necessary steps to resolve or answer what I am going through, trusting that God’s plans and ways are infinitely better and to go take care of it

Prayer -
In diffficult and trying situations, I know you have a way out. May I open my ears, eyes, & heart and take that road, that path that leads me back to you and out of harm. Like Joseph, may I reflect on who you are Father God; that how can I do such a wicked thing that would separate me from you, your love, and hurt you. Want the love that you share with my family and I to be always present and growing and that my desires are in alignment with yours. In our savior, Jesus’s powerful name, amen!

January 16, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 40:8; 41:15-16, 39-40

8 “We both had dreams,” they answered, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.”

15 Pharaoh said to Joseph, “I had a dream, and no one can interpret it. But I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.” 16 “I cannot do it,” Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires.” 39 Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one so discerning and wise as you. 40 You shall be in charge of my palace, and all my people are to submit to your orders.

Observation -
There are times where we often wonder where we will get our answers from. How does this work? How can this be? So many questions and we are left dumbfounded or awestruck, lacking a real response from those around us, even the most scholarly of people.

Application -
As Joseph did in each situation he was in, he trusted in God’s guidance, revealing what only He has answers for. We just need to be patient to receive the insights and answers that only He can provide.

Prayer -
May I never get stuck in trying to figure things out for myself that are far greater than I could comprehend. Nor do I want to waste time sitting around hoping an answer comes to me when I can go directly to the source - you Lord!

January 17, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 42:9, 29-30

9 Then he remembered his dreams about them and said to them. 29 As he looked about and saw his brother Benjamin, his own mother’s son, he asked, “Is this your youngest brother, the one you told me about?” And he said, “God be gracious to you, my son.” 30 Deeply moved at the sight of his brother, Joseph hurried out and looked for a place to weep. He went into his private room and wept there.

Observation -
Even though we hate certain situations we are put in, or even crazy mad at people who have done wrong to you, if you find it in your heart to forgive as God has done for us, you will be much better off in your life. You can become better or bitter; both are choices each person has to make on their own.

Application -
Even when you feel that you want to get even for what someone has done to you, perhaps the best thing you can do is forgive, forget, and move on so that the healing can begin.

Prayer -
Father God, please help mend my heart; learning to love instead of hate. Even to the point of letting things go, let the tears flow if it helps in the healing. In Jesus name, amen.

January 18, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 45:3-9, 25-28

3 Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still living?” But his brothers were not able to answer him, because they were terrified at his presence. 4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Come close to me.” When they had done so, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! 5 And now, do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you. 6 For two years now there has been famine in the land, and for the next five years there will be no plowing and reaping. 7 But God sent me ahead of you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance. 8 “So then, it was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt. 9 Now hurry back to my father and say to him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me; don’t delay. 25 So they went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan. 26 They told him, “Joseph is still alive! In fact, he is ruler of all Egypt.” Jacob was stunned; he did not believe them. 27 But when they told him everything Joseph had said to them, and when he saw the carts Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob revived. 28 And Israel said, “I’m convinced! My son Joseph is still alive. I will go and see him before I die.”

Observation -
Having a heart of gratitude changes everything. In this situation, Joseph could have killed his brothers, but chose not to as he reflected on where he is today because of what happened. If it didn’t, most likely he wouldn’t have been in the position to care for his family during the difficult time that lay ahead with the famine.

Application -
Even when I don’t understand why something bad happens, it isn’t always God wanting to punish me/us. It may very well be to break something that is causing a separation with Him. If I would only wait patiently to see what good comes out of it and what lesson can I take from it instead of only asking why - me, did this happen, them, now, etc.

Prayer -
Father God, though I don’t always understand why things are the way they are, I do trust in your providence, your majesty, and defer to you on all things going on in my and my family’s lives. Help us where we fall short of our understanding, faith, and hope. You are God alone and your plans are higher, greater, and more amazing than we can ever fathom and imagine. We place our trust in you Lord. In Jesus’ mighty and matchless name, amen!

January 19, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 46:2-4

2 And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, “Jacob! Jacob!” “Here I am,” he replied. 3 “I am God, the God of your father,” he said. “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. 4 I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes.”

Observation -
Regardless of what I am going through, God said he’ll be with me/us and I don’t have to be afraid. Even though I may have to go away for a bit, He said he’ll bring me back again and will prosper.

In one example I left Vivial, went to Hawaii News Now, then a Chinese startup, and although I didn’t have the successes I was hoping for, He always provided. Even when my journey came to an end with eTour International, He brought me back to the company that I started roughly 17 years ago and allowed me to have success.

Application -
When God is speaking to me directly, do I hear him and what He is saying. If not, I want to make that a real focus in my life so that in any given situation, even when asked to leave somewhere I am comfortable or know well, He does bring you back to where you should be and will take care of us.

Prayer -
Heavenly Father, please help me with my unbelief, my fears, that no matter where you call me and my family to go, we will because your promises and words we can hold on to. May we also be able to hear you when speaking our names or prompting us. In Jesus’ name, amen.

January 20, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 48:11

11 Israel said to Joseph, “I never expected to see your face again, and now God has allowed me to see your children too.”

Observation -
Even as dark and dim a situation may seem, God has a way to take you out of it and bring sunshine back into your life. In this situation, it would have been easy for Israel to only know bad and feel it as he lost his son (or thought so) while another was taken away as a test. How could he have known what was going to happen when facing a tough crisis and needed to make a difficult decision in letting his other son, Benjamin, go when he grieved the loss of the first (Joseph). In the end, because of Joseph’s faithfulness, he did fulfill the dream that God implanted into his heart and mind and eventually took care of his family as shared in that dream

Application -
May we always keep our faith and hope in you Lord. That regardless of the situation, you can turn beauty from ashes, life from death, joy from sadness. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on you Jesus that we may see the promised lands and children in the next generation.

Prayer -
Father God, help us to move past our fears and know that you are good, your promises can be trusted, your word to be followed. May you be glorified in all that we do and say. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen.

January 21, 2020
Scripture - Genesis 50:19-21

19 But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.” And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them.

Observation -
Often there are times when I don’t understand why I am facing a situation that seems so challenging and insurmountable, that without God’s direction and help I would be helpless to do anything about it. Time and time again He has shown me His unconditional love and support. While going through the difficulties He has allowed me to grow. All He is asking of me is to not be afraid and believe. This is because He has a plan for me, one that I can’t fully comprehend but will eventually if I don’t give up.

Application -
While I can’t see into the future, God knows exactly what is going on and that is the hope and trust I have to place my life, my families’ lives on. Though I don’t understand why what I am going through is happening, in the end His purposes and plans are greater than I can imagine and understand.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you that you are always with me, with my family, and if I would only commit to seeing things through I will understand at a later time. Help me to be patient, learning as I go, and in the end to appreciate why I had to go through what I did. May your will be mine. Our outcome is yours to do with. In Jesus’ mighty and matchless name, amen!

January 22, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 2:23-25; 3:7-14

23 During that long period, the king of Egypt died. The Israelites groaned in their slavery and cried out, and their cry for help because of their slavery went up to God. 24 God heard their groaning and he remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac and with Jacob. 25 So God looked on the Israelites and was concerned about them.

7 The Lord said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey—the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 9 And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them. 10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.” 11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” 12 And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain.” 13 Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what shall I tell them?” 14 God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you.’”

Observation -
Even though we complain, often times too much, God still hears us. Also because His promises are something we can hold on to, He won’t go back on His word and trust it’ll come to pass. God continues to reinforce that He will be with us, never leave us, never forsake us, and goes before us.

Application -
We can count on God in all situations because He loves us regardless of our faults & failures.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you that you are always here with us no matter the situation we are in and how we feel. Thank you for your goodnesss, kindness, & mercy.

January 23, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 6:2-8

2 God also said to Moses, “I am the Lord. 3 I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob as God Almighty, but by my name the Lord I did not make myself fully known to them. 4 I also established my covenant with them to give them the land of Canaan, where they resided as foreigners. 5 Moreover, I have heard the groaning of the Israelites, whom the Egyptians are enslaving, and I have remembered my covenant. 6 “Therefore, say to the Israelites: ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. I will free you from being slaves to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with mighty acts of judgment. 7 I will take you as my own people, and I will be your God. Then you will know that I am the Lord your God, who brought you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. 8 And I will bring you to the land I swore with uplifted hand to give to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob. I will give it to you as a possession. I am the Lord.’”

Observation -
As we learn to trust in God’s words, His promises, this passage speaks to His goodness, that He remembers even though the people, us, sinned. God still shows His unconditional love in the midst of trials and tribulation, even when we don’t deserve it. He takes us out of the trouble, the challenges, the pain because He is good and doesn’t go back on what He says.

Application -
No matter how frustrated and dejected I get, what I do recognize is God’s presence in my life where the fear that once paralyzed me no longer has a grip, a firm hold, of me. It does grab at me, but no longer does it keeps me down. I can turn to the Lord, cry out, and He remembers His promises and covers, protects me and my family. Even taking me out of a bad situation that I may have placed myself in and still doesn’t condemn be for my mistake.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you for taking me out of difficult and bad situations. That you would love on my family and I, rescuing use when all hope seems lost. You never abandoned us, leaving us to fend for ourselves. Let us always place our hope and trust in you. Jesus, please take hold of the parts of my life where we are not in alignment and teach us to not be fearful, but to place our lives in your hands. In your mighty, matchless, and loving name, Jesus, amen!

January 24, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 9:4;11:7

4 But the Lord will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and that of Egypt, so that no animal belonging to the Israelites will die.’

 7 But among the Israelites not a dog will bark at any person or animal.’ Then you will know that the Lord makes a distinction between Egypt and Israel.

Observation -
It’s great to know that the Lord, our God, does distinguish us, those whom are His people from those who are not. To be set apart isn’t something that I am saying to boast about, it is that He knows who loves Him, believe in His Son, Jesus, our Savior. While he doesn’t love others more, He recognizes that there’s a difference between His followers and those against Him.

Application -
May my life be a resemblance of who you are Lord, that we choose to follow and do what you tell us in your Word. Want to be set apart to live my life and my family as you told us and demonstrated.

Prayer -
Dear Heavenly Father, help us to always live a life that’s pleasing and honoring to you. May we, your people, continue to grow spiritually, and in greater numbers that you can and will be glorified. In Jesus’ mighty and holy name, amen!

January 25, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 14:13-16

13 Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. 14 The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” 15 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. 16 Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.

26 He said, “If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you.”

Observation -
Isn’t it crazy that when we’re given simple instructions to follow that we complicate things to the point where we don’t even follow them. In this example, the Lord says to be still and He will fight our battle. If it were me I would still be trying to figure out what I could do in the fight - what is my part? Also to listen, pay attention, do what is right; how often have I said that is what I’m going to do only to make things worse for myself.

Application -
Stop being frustrated by doing things my way. God is helping me do things His way, a simpler, and more effective way.

Prayer -
Father God, help me to defer what I want to do things your way. Give me the strength and courage to move in your direction now. In Jesus name we pray, amen!

January 27, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 19:3-6

3 Then Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him from the mountain and said, “This is what you are to say to the descendants of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 4 ‘You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’

Observation -
When we look around the world we live in, what do we really own? Our house, the land, the vehicles we drive? If we really think about it, nothing we have was ours to begin with. I bought what my family has from other people. What is so awesome about our God is that He chose us, gave us all that we have, claimed us as His treasure, because He loves and cares for us.

Application -
Learning to appreciate all that God has done, is doing, and continues to do for my family and I is what I need to work on. Also to realize we are a treasure in His eyes and how I must care for myself, my family, and others - those I know and don’t. What I must remember is He is asking us to simply obey His commands, honor Him with our actions and words.

Prayer -
Father God, as your treasure, let us always remember that, honoring you by obeying what you tell us and living out our lives as a testimony to who you are. None of what we have is ours to begin with; you have shown us mercy, grace, and cover us in times of need. May we always look to & trust in you in all areas of our lives. In Jesus’ mighty name, amen!

February 3, 2020
Scripture - Exodus 35:30-35

30 Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 31 and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— 32 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 33 to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic crafts. 34 And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamak, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. 35 He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers.

Observation -
There have been times in my life that I had asked God if I could have this or that skill, or why this or that person is able to do such and such so well and I can’t. Even to the point of complaining then trying to tell (really manipulate) Him that if you do this for me, give me the ability I would do this or that with it. With the way I lived my life when younger, it was very unlikely that I would do anything more than to be self-serving; my old self and nature would have seen to it.

Fortunately God knew what I could handle at that time and can today and didn’t let me have everything I asked for, not because it wouldn’t be right or that I may have actually done some good from and out of it. The Lord knew what was in my heart and it was for my good that He didn’t as I may have squandered those abilities for selfish, sinful gain.

It’s just so amazing when seeing what others can do that our God is control. He provides us with the right people with the proper skill set in whatever situation we are dealing with and will see us through it all. Everything will come together and work itself out because He is the one who put that ability in each of us, to do our part, not someone else’s.

Application -
When I am tempted to believe I can do this or that when the Lord had not blessed me with the proper skill or tools, I need to take a step back and really see if this is what God wants me to tackle or even get myself involved in. To also look at what abilities I have and if it is in alignment to what needs to be done. When it isn’t I need to find those who are better equipped to take care of it, ensuring that it has the best possible chance for success because I recognize that God is in control and others are betters suited to take care of it this time around.

Prayer -
Father God, let not my selfishness and desires to do things you have not opened the doors for, given me the skill set to tackle, the resources to succeed, and the people who can support me, be a stumbling block, a distraction to seeing you glorified in the work that you allow us to do. I humbly ask for your Holy Spirit to provide guidance and when and where needed the wisdom to know what is best in any given situation. Thank you Lord for the skills and abilities you have blessed me with. May I use it to the best of my ability. We love you. In Jesus’ matchless and powerful name, amen!

February 5, 2020
Scripture - Acts 11:15-17

15 “As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with (in) water, but you will be baptized with (in) the Holy Spirit.’ 17 So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?”

Observation -
The Holy Spirit indwells

Application -
Yes

Prayer -
Yes

February 12, 2020
Scripture - Leviticus 18:1-5

1 The Lord said to Moses, 2 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘I am the Lord your God. 3 You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. 4 You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. 5 Keep my decrees and laws, for the person who obeys them will live by them. I am the Lord.

Observation -
How often I went out to do my own thing, choosing to believe what I want even though I know it wasn’t right all because I was so focused in getting whatever I wanted at whatever the cost. Even choosing to listen to other people, the lies and doing what’s wrong, rather than doing what I know to be true.

Example 1) getting high while driving and being on the road because I felt it was alright, plus other people are doing it; 2) getting high at work, while there were people all around me in the office and telling myself no one cares or other people are high as well; 3) lying, stealing, cheating, not only to support my habit but because I believe I needed to have what other people did because they didn’t deserve it. Pretty twisted thinking.

Application -
All God is asking here is for us to trust in His promises, His word, and know that if we do, and we obey them, we will abide in Him. Not that our life will be without trials and tribulations, but that we can have Him fight our battles, take our burdens, shame, guilt, struggles, disappointments, etc. and give us peace, joy, fullness of life, and unconditional love. Pretty amazing exchange policy He offers us.

Prayer -
Lord, may we as the church, the body, listen only to your voice, your teaching, believing in all that you instruct us and live out our lives as a testimony to your kindness, goodness, and unconditional love. May we honor you not only with our lips, but by our actions, deeds, & attitudes. We love you for who you are and are so grateful for your mercy and grace. Humbly ask this in your matchless and powerful name we pray, amen!

February 19, 2020
Scripture - Psalms 22:4,5,24; Acts 26:22

4 In you our ancestors put their trust; they trusted and you delivered them. 5 To you they cried out and were saved; in you they trusted and were not put to shame. 24 For he has not despised or scorned the suffering of the afflicted one; he has not hidden his face from him but has listened to his cry for help.

22 But God has helped me to this very day

Observation -
Trust, one of the easiest words to use and say you will; also one of the hardest to actually do and live by. In this passage our ancestors did and they were delivered from trouble or whatever circumstances they faced. How often was I in trouble, physically, mentally, spiritually, financially, and you walked me through it, helping me not only to get out, but to thrive, to grow, to mature.

What I love in 24 is that the Lord “sees” and that He “hears” us and does not turn away in our times of trouble and struggle. While I have questioned in the past where were you in those times, you helped me, eventually, understand that you were there every step of the way. If I would have only opened my eyes, ears, mind & heart, reaching out to you Lord before, during, & after my trials I would have handled things much better.

Even today as I am in transition professionally, struggling at times to know what are my next steps, the path that you, Father God, have me walking on, you have always seen me through similar times; those that in the past would have made me crumble and give up - or worst, going back to the drugs and alcohol.

Application -
No matter what situation or difficulties I or my family are facing, I will pause, pray, reflect, pray some more, then I will work on letting it go. Don’t want to hold onto things that are not pointless or causes me sleepless nights. If it has no kingdom, eternal value, I truly need to free myself of it and let Jesus deal with it.

Prayer -
Father God, I will place my hope and trust in our Lord and Savior, your Word, your Promises. For you, Mighty God, are so faithful. I want my eyes always be fixed upon you Lord, whom all things are possible through. Even when I don’t know what the outcome will be, strengthen me, guide me, surround me with your arms of comfort, fill me with your Holy Spirit, and teach me to walk faithfully. May you always be glorified during times of trial and abundance. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen!

February 27, 2020
Scripture - Mark 7:14-22

14 Again Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen to me, everyone, and understand this. 15 Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them.” [16] 17 After he had left the crowd and entered the house, his disciples asked him about this parable. 18 “Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? 19 For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.) 20 He went on: “What comes out of a person is what defiles them. 21 For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. 23 All these evils come from inside and defile a person.”

Observation -
So much can be taken from this chapter and verses. It is so easy to say “I wasn’t thinking,” my mouth got way ahead of my brain, especially since I’ve said that before. What is troubling is that this issue is an internal one - from the heart - where it has been, potentially, for awhile and it appears and reappears when left unchecked and uncorrected.

Who would have imagined that the real problem originates from my heart; with the mental, real struggles being immorality, envy, arrogance, and greed. Wish I could say that I’m 100% fine and I have no challenges with these, but that would be a great big lie. I do know that I’ve gotten a better grip and control on these strongholds due to the Lord’s help.

Application -
Still working on areas of my thought life that is not in alignment with what we learn from the Word, what God is speaking into my life through His Holy Spirit, and how our Lord & Savior lived and modeled for us.

Need to really dig deep, seeing what is in my heart, why I say the things I do, why I act the way I have, and do what really is unChristian-like. When I start moving further and farther away from God, where my thoughts and attitudes are not in “right”, I will first pause, take a breath, reflect, and seek God and His response so that I can learn and grow.

Prayer -
Father God, please help my family and I to have a heart that resembles yours. Help us to make better decisions, choosing the right words to say, and really know the underlying reasons for why we are saying what we do. It is my hope that we will be in alignment with what your plans and will for our lives. Help us to correct areas in our thoughts, attitudes, and speech that need work so that we can be more like you, Lord Jesus, each and every day. In you and you alone we ask these things, amen!

March 3, 2020
Scripture - James 1:2-4,12; 2 Timothy 4:7

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.

 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Observation -
Lately I have been feeling tested, mentally and physically, and it has been challenging. Where it has been hard is letting go some of the past bad habits that I have either not acknowledged, previously confronted and, especially true, worked through. With difficulties in my current job, building the new business, and managing my current company, my time has been stretched because I put myself in situations that I definitely had control of but let slip out of my grasp in my rush to get things taken care of. Most of which were not handled as well as I know I could and have done so in the past.

Even when it comes to spending time with God - devotions, meditation, church, & prayer, each have taken a hit here and there and, at times, quite a bit. Not that I’m not reflective, read, watch, or pray daily; I do, but not with the vigor and focus that I want to. It is the culmination of all those that becomes frustrating as I want to engage without feeling as if I’m required to do so (very legalistic).

It isn’t that I lost a taste for it. My problem is the commitment that I said I would make and, if it were really a passion, why can’t I complete what I set out to do. Need to dig deeper and recognize why am I dealing with the trials and tribulations that I am right now.

Application -
I have seen God work amazingly in my life, time and time again, pulling me out and through very difficult situations. Rescuing me when it seemed hopeless or that I was ready to give up. Want to be more focused and take a step closer each and every day on the path that the Lord has laid out for me. Want the passion that drives me to closer to realizing God’s will and purpose for my life.

Prayer -
Father God, please help stoke the fire that you set upon my heart. May my desire to do what you are asking me be greater than the challenges and difficulties that arise and lay ahead on my journey. Please provide the strength for when it is difficult, wisdom to make better decisions, and rest for the endurance I’ll need to see me through it all. In you Lord Jesus I ask of these things, amen!

March 7, 2020
Scripture - Deuteronomy 5:29, 32-33; 6:24-25

29 Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever! 32 So be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you; do not turn aside to the right or to the left. 33 Walk in obedience to all that the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess.

24 The Lord commanded us to obey all these decrees and to fear the Lord our God, so that we might always prosper and be kept alive, as is the case today. 25 And if we are careful to obey all this law before the Lord our God, as he has commanded us, that will be our righteousness.”

Observation -
With all my wanting to do this and that for the Lord, being a “busybody,” because that was how I identified for myself that I needed to do these things in order to feel accepted, approved (perhaps not the best word), and justified by God. For all that He had done in my life and wanted Him to do for me I felt that you had to do things - earlier part of my walk and thinking - to be blessed; what these passages show is that He really wants us to listen carefully, obey, and do what He’s asking of us/me.

While seemingly simple in words, why do I find it so difficult to put into practice. Part of my challenge is feeling guilty as if I haven’t been doing “things,” legalistic thinking, and wasn’t truly plugged in or serving. I get into a rut and sometimes go back to my old way of thinking. Some of it is my mindset, being distracted, trying to do too much, not pausing in the day to reflect and pray, and which I’m continually working on.

Application -
1) fear of the Lord - need to always remember this and keep it to heart; 2) if I want things to go well with me and for my family, I need to work on keeping with God’s commands; 3) listen carefully to what God is speaking into my life and what His Word tells us and, ultimately, obey and not turn aside from these commands.

Prayer -
Father God, help me to be in tuned with your teachings, your Word, and help me trust that your will, your way is greater than my understanding and if I only follow and obey what you’re teaching me that it will go well for myself and my family. Teach me not to fear the unknown and to feel I need to do things in order to feel loved and gain your approval. In our Lord and Savior Jesus we have it all. Thank you that you care for us despite of what we’ve done. Let me be reminded that you are merciful and gracious. In Jesus’ matchless and mighty name, amen!

March 25, 2020
Scripture - James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-4, 8:18; 1 Timothy 6:12; Matthew 26:39

2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope.

18 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.”

Observation -
We are not alone in our struggles, even the apostles went through them even when they were so close to Jesus. Who then are we to think that there wouldn’t be challenges nor to face difficulties. What they did do well was to refocus their thoughts on the Lord, what He taught and asked us to do - trust in the Lord our God, with all our hearts, soul, strength, and mind.

Knowing that our ultimate destination is Heaven, what we have to deal with now knowing that we will have a new perfected, body & mind, so what we are struggling with - pain, depression, anxiety, fear, anger, etc. is a small price to pay. Not that it is fun or easy to go through, just that we will grow and mature from it - perseverance—>character—->hope.

Application -
Though I walked away from my full-time job, working on a new business with some friends, and managing my old business, all during this health dilemma, what I can see God doing in my life is allowing me to grow professionally and personally. Having to let things go to really rely on Him and not myself. He’s shown me a bunch recently - where I need to grow, things I need to let go, where He wants me to be, how I can help others. So much that I have or had on my plate, only to realize it wasn’t meaningful, fulfilling, and/or Kingdom building that I decided to let them go. Need to do this introspective review more often.

Prayer -
Father God, thank you that during times of trials, when I feel in the valley with no way of climbing up, you are with me and are helping to get me through it all. May I place my trust, 100%, in you and help me to let go of what is holding me back from receiving all that you have for my family and I. Teach me to walk in faith instead of fear. In you Lord Jesus I ask these things. Amen.

His Promises -

1 Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.91:1 Hebrew Shaddai 2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3 Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. 5 You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6 nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.

April 22, 2020
Scripture - Joshua 1:8-9 (NIV), Isaiah 43:1-3 (NIV), 1 John 4:4 (NIV), Romans 8:37 (NIV)

8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

1 But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. 2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. 3 For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior

4 You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

Observation -
In my times of struggles and difficulties, it becomes apparent when I don’t feel connected to God is when I’m not in the Word, not focusing my attention on what He’s trying to tell and teach me. When I’m back on it I get a glimpse of where I am going off the road and what I missed along the way.

He clearly tells us that we will get through whatever we’re dealing with because He’s right alongside us. Often repeated, DO NOT: be afraid, be discouraged, and fear; if we just take courage, stand firm: waters won’t drown us, fires can’t burn us; why, because Jesus, our Lord & Savior is with us.

We are conquerors through Him; He who is greater is in us - how awesome is that.

Application -
In times of difficulties, challenges, fear, anxiety, even boredom; constantly turn to God, read the Bible, listen to a podcast, play worship music and pray, often and consistently. Take my eyes of of the problem and focus my attention on the who provides the solution

Prayer -
Father God, even when I feel far away you are near. How awesome it is to feel so loved and all you ask of us is to be obedient to your words, trust in your promises, believe in your son, Jesus, and all that He taught and embodied. Guide me through your Holy Spirit, speak to me, correct me, help me to always come back to you and put you first in my life. May the distractions of life be removed, if not minimized so that I will keep my focus on you. I love you Lord. In your mighty name Jesus, amen!

January 23, 2020
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January 23, 2020
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January 23, 2020
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January 23, 2020
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