November, 2009 Devotions
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John 17:12-15
Sunday, November 1
The Keeping Power of Christ
KEY VERSE: “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled,” John 17:12.
The parental bond is so strong that parents will always love their children regardless of their actions. The Lord’s love can be compared to that of parents. The Lord knows those who are His. He knows their strengths and weaknesses. The Lord loves each of His children with the full measure of His love. He does not forsake those who rebel against Him. The Lord considers His children a precious possession. He will not turn his back on them. The Lord always manifests His love for His children.
Parents desire their children to experience joy in life. They will care for, provide, discipline and nourish their children so their lives will be filled with joy. The Lord also desires that His joy be fulfilled in His children. God will provide for His children according to His perfect will. He will love His children with a perfect love. The Lord will discipline His children to lead them toward the paths of righteousness. The Lord will also nourish His children toward spiritual growth.
As parents seek to protect their children, God seeks to protect His children from evil. God’s children are hated by the world because the world hates the Lord.
JUST A THOUGHT: While they must live in the world, the Lord will enable His children to live victoriously.
Marc Shultz
John 17:17
Monday, November 2
God’s Word Is Truth
KEY VERSE: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth,” John 17:17.
An old circuit rider preacher was defending the authenticity of the Bible. He stated he believed the Bible from cover to cover, and he even believed the cover because it said Holy Bible. If the Word of God is not truth, it cannot be the Holy Bible.
Biblical truth is literal and not subjective. The Bible is not to be interpreted in the light of human opinion but according to God’s intention at its writing. The Bible does not just contain truth; it is truth. The Bible states the truth about creation. God created the universe by design. The Bible states the truth about mankind. Adam was created innocent of sin but became a sinner by choice and thereby passed the sin nature upon all humanity. The Bible states the truth about salvation. Salvation does not come by works but by the grace of God.
Christians should follow biblical instruction because it is truth. They should hide the Word of God in their hearts so they will not sin against God (Psalm 119:11). It is truth that sets the sinner free (John 8:32). The gospel truth is the power of God unto salvation (Rom. 1:16). Christians should not just hear the Word of God proclaimed but also obey the Word of God (James 1:25). Jesus Christ is the embodiment of truth (John 14:6). Anyone who preaches anything other than biblical truth does not speak the Word of God.
JUST A THOUGHT: The Word of God is truth because it is from God who is truth.
Marc Shultz
1 Peter 4:8
Tuesday, November 3
Love’s Priority
KEY VERSE: “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins,” 1 Peter 4:8.
The bride and groom have been pronounced man and wife. Suddenly their priorities have changed. They no longer can look at their own interest alone but now the interest of their mate. They have promised to love one another through good times and bad until death alone parts them. If their spouse is not a priority, the marriage will not likely endure.
Christians know they are a priority to God because of His love for them. John 3:16 states that God so loved the world. The depth of this verse is found in the word so. The verse would be meaningful if it just said that God loved the world. When the word so is added it shows the depth of God’s love for the world. God’s priority of love is evident because He gave His only begotten Son to be our sin sacrifice. God’s love for the world is evident because He works all things for the good (Rom. 8:28). God cares for the needs of His children (1 Peter 5:7).
God should be the Christian’s first priority. We should love God because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). Christians should give evidence of their salvation by loving their brethren (1 John 3:14). The evidence of our love for God is seen in faithfulness to Him (Joshua 22:5). Christians make God a priority by putting His kingdom work first (Matt. 6:33).
JUST A THOUGHT: One cannot make God a priority without loving Him first.
Marc Shultz
Romans 13:8, 9
Wednesday, November 4
Love’s Obligation
KEY VERSE: “For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself,” Romans 13:9.
A young man will act with chivalry to win his true love’s heart. He will open the door to allow her to walk in first. He will offer her his coat if she has a chill. He will treat her with tenderness and respect at all times. He will do these things because he loves her. Unfortunately, often times once a young man has won his true love’s heart, chivalry goes out the window. Though he still professes love for her, he no longer treats her with the same respect.
The words I love you ring hollow if not backed up with action. The Ten Commandments can be divided into two groups of action. One group of action has to do with man’s actions toward God and the other with man’s actions toward man. The intent of the Ten Commandments can be stated in two commands—to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor as yourself. The proof of loving your neighbor as yourself can be seen in looking for the good of others before self. It is evident in forgiving others as God has forgiven us. Loving of others is seen in doing good for them and speaking good about them.
JUST A THOUGHT: Love is a verb which requires action.
Marc Shultz
Galatians 1:6-9
Thursday, November 5
There Is No Other Gospel
KEY VERSE: “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed,” Galatians 1:8.
The gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ according to the Scriptures. There is but one Lord. He came from Heaven’s glory to earth’s gloom and took upon Himself the form of wretched flesh but without sin. The one Lord died one death. His sacrifice on the cross was the only sacrifice needed for repentant sinners to be granted eternal life. Since the Lord died but once there is but one resurrection. He arose from the grave the third day triumphant over death. There is but one true body of Scriptures. Its writing was superintended by God and guarded by the Holy Spirit against error. Since there is but one Lord, who died but one death, and who rose once from the dead, and proclaimed by the one authentic body of Scriptures there is but one gospel.
Anyone who preaches any other gospel than the one proclaimed in the Scriptures is not proclaiming the truth. Jesus is the only Savior. No one else was worthy to fulfill the Father’s redemptive plan for humanity. The Bible records His death on the cross and resurrection from the grave. Any doctrine that does not conform to the biblical record is not of God. False gospels do not give the true plan of salvation. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation.
JUST A THOUGHT: False gospels are not gospels at all.
Marc Shultz
Romans 16:17
Friday, November 6
Avoid the Divisive
KEY VERSE: “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them,” Romans 16:17.
Richard Nixon resigned as president of the United States in disgrace because of the Watergate scandal. When his resignation took effect, workers in all federal buildings across the nation took down his portrait and replaced it with a portrait of Gerald Ford, the new president. Former President Nixon was an outcast in national politics. He was never asked to speak at future Republican conventions. His advice was not sought in political matters. The mention of his name invoked thoughts of corruption. Richard Nixon spent the rest of his life as a divisive figure in the political world.
Heretics are divisive figures in religious matters. They proclaim a false gospel which contradicts the Word of God. They fool hearers into believing they are speaking the Word of God. Their false gospels do not reveal the true plan of salvation. Their false gospels do no promote spiritual growth. Their false gospels hinder hearers from believing the true gospel.
The gospel truth is the best weapon against false gospels. Christians are not to believe any religious tenant that contradicts the Word of God. They are not to ask God’s blessings upon those who proclaim a false gospel. Christians and New Testament churches are not to proclaim false gospels or cooperate with those who do. The gospel of Jesus Christ is too precious to compromise.
JUST A THOUGHT: God’s Word is truth. Anything else is a lie.
Marc Shultz
2 Timothy 4:3, 4
Saturday, November 7
Beware of Itching Ears
KEY VERSE: “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears,” 2 Timothy 4:3.
I vividly remember when as a child, I was infected with the chicken pox virus. Just the thought of it makes me itch again. It was difficult not to scratch the spots. It is human nature to want to scratch an itch to bring relief.
The same analogy is used for those who reject the truth to embrace heretical doctrine. Why would a person reject the truth and believe in false doctrine? Because false doctrine is more appealing. The truth condemns sin while false gospels take a less condemning attitude toward sin. This is more appealing to the flesh. The truth declares that salvation comes by grace and through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. False gospels proclaim salvation is by works, which is more appealing to the flesh. The true gospel tells a person what they need to hear. A false gospel tells a person what they want to hear.
The truth is difficult to hear when it violates our preconceived ideas. I remember when a seminary teacher told our freshman class that we needed to forget some things before we could learn what we needed to know. Erroneous beliefs do not foster spiritual growth. Erroneous beliefs do not reveal the will of God. Erroneous beliefs do not lead lost people to accept Jesus as Savior. Erroneous beliefs do not bring peace with God.
JUST A THOUGHT: The truth satisfies the searching mind.
Marc Shultz
John 14:15
Sunday, November 8
If You Love Me
KEY VERSE: “If ye love me, keep my commandments,” John 14:15.
A popular bumper sticker states, “Honk if you love Jesus.” The Bible states that if we love Jesus keep His commandments. Love is not seen in words but actions.
Jesus is the epitome of obedience to the Father. As a young man the Lord said that He must be about His father’s business. His earthly ministry was dedicated to the Father’s will. Jesus knew the Father’s will was to die on the cross and rise from the dead the third day, yet, He pledged to the Father He would do His will. When Philip asked the Lord to show the Father, Jesus said, since they had seen Him, they had seen the Father (verses 9, 10). Christians show their love for the Lord in faithful obedience to Him. Those who love the Lord are loved of the Father (verse 21). The love of the Father is made known in them because of their faithful obedience to the will of God.
Many Christians show little evidence of their love for Jesus. They spend their time indulging their own personal desires rather than serving the Lord. Few people know about their profession of faith. They are content being anonymous Christians. A person’s profession of faith should be more than a statement that they have accepted Jesus as Savior. It should also be a statement of commitment to faithful service to the Lord. Words of love not backed up with action do nothing to prove love for the Lord.
JUST A THOUGHT: It requires more than a bumper sticker to prove love for Jesus.
Marc Shultz
Philemon 5-7
Monday, November 9
Refreshing the Saints
KEY VERSE: “For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother,” Philemon 7.
General Dwight Eisenhower was known as the G.I.’s general. He cared greatly about the private fighting on the battlefront. On several occasions when morale among the soldiers was low, General Eisenhower would visit the troops. His visits had a positive effect of boosting morale among the soldiers.
Christian fellowship has a positive effect upon believers. Christian fellowship aids in fostering an attitude of love among brethren. Christian fellowship encourages brethren to continue their faithful service to the Lord. Christian fellowship aids in spiritual growth.
Think about a person who played a positive role in your spiritual growth. It might be a parent, grandparent, Sunday School teacher, or other faithful servant of God. Pausing for a moment to think about them no doubt brings a smile to your face. This person is influential to you because he or she took the time to help you in your spiritual walk. He or she was there to encourage you in your spiritual growth and faithful service to the Lord. He or she was there to encourage you when times were tough and to rejoice with you in the good times. He or she was there to point you in the right direction when your life got off track. His or her influence had a positive impact in your life. Give thanks to God that he or she was a part of your life.
JUST A THOUGHT: Be a positive spiritual influence toward others as your mentor was toward you.
Marc Shultz
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
Tuesday, November 10
Colaborers in Truth
KEY VERSE: “So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase,” 1 Corinthians 3:7.
The next time you sit down to eat a meal consider the number of people involved in bringing that food to your table. There is the farmer who planted the seed and grew the crop to harvest. There are the harvesters who reap the crop at harvest time. There is the truck driver who transports the crop to the company who prepares the crop for consumption. There is the stockman who prepares the crop for sale in the grocery store. There is the cashier who processes the food purchase at the check out counter. These people likely do not know one another, but they are colaborers in providing food for your meal.
There are also many laborers involved in the spiritual harvest. There is the pastor who proclaims the Word of God from the pulpit and aids in the spiritual growth of church members. There are the teachers in Sunday School and other Bible classes who teach the blessed truths of God’s Word. Consider others who are not so well-known. There is the person who drives the church van bringing people to church services. There is the literature writer who faithfully prepares lesson material for teachers. There is the church janitorial staff who assures the church facilities have been made ready for church services. Each of these people has an important role in the local church’s ministry of obeying the Great Commission.
JUST A THOUGHT: Give thanks for those who serve the Lord.
Marc Shultz
Hebrews 13:1-3
Wednesday, November 11
Share Bonds and Blessings
KEY VERSE: “Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body,” Hebrews 13:3.
During the Vietnam War, Americans were asked to remember our prisoners of war. These men were being tortured by a ruthless enemy to get information about the American war plans. One slogan stated they were chained that we might be free. Americans rejoiced once the war was over, and the P. O. W.’s were freed.
Many biblical characters were persecuted for their faith. John the Baptist was beheaded. The apostle Paul spent much of his ministry imprisoned. The faith of the biblical martyrs paved the way for the gospel to be preached and souls to be saved. Their sacrifice was not in vain. Christians should be thankful these men were willing to pay a great personal price to be faithful to God’s call.
Many modern day Christians have also paid a great personal price to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. One woman in a communist country had boiling water poured down her throat because she handed out Christian literature. A missionary returned home from an extended evangelization trip to find his family had been brutally murdered. Another missionary’s wife was kidnapped and murdered because he would not quit preaching the gospel. We grieve for those who paid the ultimate price to carry the gospel into the entire world. A part of us suffers with those who have experienced suffering for their faith.
JUST A THOUGHT: Christian suffering for the faith’s sake is not in vain.
Marc Shultz
Luke 22:24-27
Thursday, November 12
Chiefs Are Servants
KEY VERSE: “For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth,” Luke 22:27.
Legendary basketball coach John Wooden won ten national championships as coach of the U. C. L. A. Bruins. Coach Wooden stressed teamwork as the key to winning championships. The team was not only the players but also the coaches and trainers. He did not tolerate anyone on the team treating another team member with anything but respect. The team photo included not only the players but coaches and trainers.
Jesus set the example of humble service by washing His disciple’s feet (John 13:5). Those who are unwilling to do the menial things are not worthy to do the great things. Jesus washed the disciple’s feet to prove He had the heart of a servant. Jesus left the glory of Heaven to take upon Himself the form of man. He came to earth not for Himself but to serve mankind. The man who committed no sin died the death of a criminal so those who believed in Him would have eternal life.
God requires faithfulness from His servants (1 Cor. 4:2). He only requires reasonable service (Rom. 12:1). God does not value any of His faithful servants more than another. There are no unimportant workers or unimportant tasks in the Lord’s service. Christians are to serve for the glory of God and not self-gratification.
JUST A THOUGHT: It will be better to hear the well done of God than the applause of men.
Marc Shultz
Matthew 23:4-8
Friday, November 13
No Self-Promotion
KEY VERSE: “But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren,” Matthew 23:8.
The 1948 presidential election pitted incumbent Harry S. Truman against Thomas Dewey. President Truman was not a popular president and considered a long shot to win the election. Dewey was so confident in his election that he began interviewing candidates for his cabinet. The early returns seemed to indicate a Dewey win. A Chicago newspaper’s headline even proclaimed “Dewey Wins.” The tide turned with later returns and President Truman won the election. One man thought he would become president. The other man actually won the election.
The slogan on a bumper sticker read, There is but one God and you’re not Him! God does not need an assistant. He is able to do His work. Christians are simply instruments God uses to complete His will. Christians should not think more of themselves than God does. God values the labor of each of His faithful servants, but none is so important that God could not complete His work without him. No one doubts the importance of John the Baptist’s ministry, but the gospel continued to be preached after he was beheaded. The individual servant of God is not greater than the work of God.
The glory belongs to God and not mankind. Christians should serve God for His good and not their own praise. Attention placed upon the individual servant of God is misplaced. Let God be God and do His will.
JUST A THOUGHT: Humility is one of the most important qualifications for God’s servants.
Marc Shultz
Philippians 2:3-8
Saturday, November 14
No Vain Glory
KEY VERSE: “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves,” Philippians 2:3.
Carol was popular among her classmates at school. In junior high school she was elected best citizen by her classmates. Part of this recognition was the honor of having her picture so designated in the yearbook. When the yearbook was published, the printer had made a horrible mistake. Carol was designated as being the runner-up for the best citizen award. Carol was frustrated by the mistake and let it be known she was unhappy. She even vented her anger at the runner-up whose picture appeared above hers in the yearbook. Carol’s vain attitude kept her from acting like a good citizen.
Christians should not serve God for their own personal benefit but for the glory of God. The apostle Paul knew whatever he had achieved in the ministry was because of the grace of God (1 Cor. 15:10). Since Christians achieve their best when God works through them they should praise God for their success. John the Baptist knew that, for Jesus to increase through him, he must decrease. John did not wish to be noticed but that God be noticed through him. It should not matter whether or not others notice or appreciate our service for God but whether God approves. It is better to be blessed of God than approved by mankind.
JUST A THOUGHT: God knows the faithful service of His children and will reward them accordingly.
Marc Shultz
1 Peter 4:10, 11
Sunday, November 15
Sharing Our Resources
KEY VERSE: “As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God,” 1 Peter 4:10.
A certain church was erecting a new church building. They could not afford to hire a contractor so the members were doing the work themselves. One man had experience as a plumber so he donated labor to plumb the new building. Another man was an electrician so he wired the church building. No one was asked to do something he or she was unable to do. He or she simply used the talents God had given. When the efforts were completed, a beautiful new church building was erected.
No one is without an ability to use in the service of God. It would be selfish to use those abilities only for personal benefit. It is best used for the work of God. God enables those whom He uses in His service. God will grant the grace of speech to those He calls to preach the Word of God or teach a Bible class. Christians should wisely use the abilities God has granted them.
Christians should serve God for His glory and not personal benefit. They should take pride that their efforts are used to benefit the work of the Lord. Do not be satisfied to sit on the sidelines and do nothing. Be an active participant in the Lord’s service. Do what you can for the Lord because He has done so much for you.
JUST A THOUGHT: You are a vital part of the Lord’s work.
Marc Shultz
Acts 6:7-15
Monday, November 16
Stephen Contended for the Faith
KEY VERSE: “And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people,” Acts 6:8.
In Christopher Columbus’ day almost everyone believed the world was flat. Anyone who believed otherwise was considered a lunatic. Columbus believed the world was round. He publicly debated the flat world theory. Columbus set sail to prove his belief. Today hardly anyone believes the world is flat. The tide began to turn because Christopher Columbus refused to back down from his belief that the world was round.
Stephen was a faithful Christian and one of the first deacons. He was distinguished as a man full of faith. As a child of God his passion was to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the lost. His efforts to share the gospel did not endear him to those who embraced false gospels. They were not satisfied just to debate Stephen’s beliefs; they sought to silence the messenger. Stephen was warned to stop proclaiming his beliefs or face dire consequences. Those threats caused him to be even bolder to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. Even as Stephen was being stoned to death, he continued to preach the gospel.
The world seems sensitive to every religious tenet except the truth. Those who proclaim the truth are often persecuted for their faith. If persecution causes Christians to remain silent in proclaiming the gospel, Satan has gained the victory. Christians must contend for the faith whatever the cost.
JUST A THOUGHT: If Christians do not contend for the faith, who will?
Marc Shultz
Acts 9:22-29
Tuesday, November 17
Saul Contended for the Faith
KEY VERSE: “But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ,” Acts 9:22.
Saul had been both a persecutor of Christians and defender of the faith. Before his conversion, Christians despised his efforts to hinder the preaching of the gospel. After his conversion, they wondered about his sincerity. How could a man who had done so much to hinder the proclamation of the gospel become a preacher of that same gospel? Saul proved his sincerity by faithfully proclaiming the gospel in spite of intense persecution.
Much about Saul changed after his conversion. His name as well as his outlook was changed. He put the same effort in proclaiming the gospel as he did in persecuting Christians. As the apostle Paul, he faced the same persecution as a preacher of the gospel that he meted out as an unbeliever in the gospel. The more persecution he faced, the more determined he was to proclaim the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Saul of Tarsus silenced the voices of many Christians in proclaiming the gospel. The apostle Paul refused to be silenced.
Christians face many obstacles in proclaiming the gospel. Some localities have passed laws restricting where and when they may publicly share their faith. Such obstacles should not silence the voices of Christians. Too much is at stake not to proclaim the gospel. Christians should not be timid to share the gospel.
JUST A THOUGHT: Someone is depending on you to tell him or her what he or she must do to be saved.
Marc Shultz
Philippians 1:27
Wednesday, November 18
Strive Together for the Faith
KEY VERSE: “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel,” Philippians 1:27.
The Marine Corp Silent Drill Team is a marvel to watch. Team members perform close order drills without vocal cadence. They perform as a team and not as individual team members. They perform in such close proximity that one team member out of step would cause the whole team to falter.
Christians are to be unified in their demeanor. They are to be unified in their belief and adherence to the Word of God. The Bible is God’s standard of faith and practice for His children. Christians who adhere to the standard of God’s Word become a positive influence on others. Timothy’s mother and grandmother both had a positive influence on his spiritual life. The Christian lifestyle is living proof of the power of God and benefits of His Word.
Christians are members of God’s team. While they do not perform the same tasks, they work for a common goal. They do not serve for their own interests but for God’s will. They do not seek adulation for themselves but the glory of God. They do not seek credit for what they have done but to please God by their faithful service.
JUST A THOUGHT: The world may not appreciate what Christians do for the Lord, but it is for the benefit of the world.
Marc Shultz
1 Thessalonians 2:2
Thursday, November 19
Be Bold with the Gospel
KEY VERSE: “But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention,” 1 Thessalonians 2:2.
Nathan Hale was an American patriot of the early colonial days. He was captured by the enemy and hanged for his efforts to win the Revolutionary War. In his final moments of life, he did not express regret that his life was coming to an end in a violent way. Nation Hale expressed pride in the cause by saying, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.”
The same ones who could have benefited from the proclamation of the gospel persecuted the message bearers. The message brought conviction. Rather than obeying the message, they sought to silence the messenger. Men like John the Baptist, Stephen and the apostle Paul were martyred because they dared to preach the gospel. While their tongues fell silent, others were encouraged by their boldness and began to proclaim the gospel. The messengers of the gospel may die in defense of the gospel, but the message will survive.
Christians should not regret whatever sacrifice they make to proclaim the Word of God. Everyone who lives for God and serves Him will suffer persecution (2 Tim. 3:12). Rather than regretting what they must suffer for the Lord, they should remember what the Lord suffered for them. Boldness for the Lord will bring a great reward.
JUST A THOUGHT: The Lord worth loving is the Lord worth serving.
Marc Shultz
2 Timothy 1: 13
Friday, November 20
Hold Fast the Faith
KEY VERSE: “Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus,” 2 Timothy 1:13.
A certain pastor was helping entertain the children playing outside the church building during Vacation Bible School. They were sitting on the steps of the building as he told them a Bible story when suddenly his pet Labrador retriever came running around the corner. The kids began to run toward the dog, so the pastor yelled out to them to sit down. The Labrador also obeyed the command and sat down. The black Labrador remembered its training.
The Bible is the Christian’s guide to faith and practice. Christians who obey the commands of the Bible will live a joyful and peaceful life. Obedience to the Word of God is a daily duty. To fail to obey the Word of God will be subject to divine judgment. Christians who have the Word of God in their hearts will remember its instructions during times of trouble. Having witnessed the benefits of obedience to the Word of God, they will continue to obey its instructions.
Christians should never consider not abiding by the instructions of God’s Word. Biblical instructions have never failed and will never fail. Only those who fail to obey the instructions of God’s Word do not receive its benefits. Be steadfast in obedience. Read the Word, obey its precepts and discover its benefits. A Bible not read cannot pass on its benefits.
JUST A THOUGHT: Read God’s Word; remember God’s Word; apply God’s Word.
Marc Shultz
Hebrews 4:14-16
Saturday, November 21
Keep the Profession of Your Faith
KEY VERSE: “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession,” Hebrews 4:14.
When American soldiers become prisoners of war, they are often used for propaganda purposes. Extreme torture is often used against them to get them to make slanderous statements against the American military and government. Soldiers who make such propaganda statements often feel guilty for failing their code of honor and giving in to the torture.
Part of the Christian’s code of honor should be to live the testimony he professes. When a person professes Christ as Savior, he is to live according to higher standard than nonbelievers. He is to obey the instructions of God’s Word and to follow the will of God. To fail that high standard is to sin against God. To fail to live a consistently godly life will hinder the Christian’s service to the Lord.
Jesus set the example of living a consistently righteous life. The Lord knew His duty was to accomplish the will of the Father. He refused to be distracted from that focus. He refused to give in to temptation. Christians will be tempted to live contrary to God’s will and their profession of faith. To fail to do so not only brings dishonor on themselves but also upon God.
JUST A THOUGHT: It is much easier for a person to be steadfast in his or her profession of faith when times are good. It is as necessary when times are difficult.
Marc Shultz
2 Timothy 4:7, 8
Sunday, November 22
Reward for Keeping the Faith
KEY VERSE: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing,” 2 Timothy 4:8.
It is a summer Saturday and lawn mowing day. Part of your childhood chores are to mow the yard. Your parents will be gone for the day, but they expect the lawn to be mowed by the time they return home. You keep putting off mowing the lawn so you can watch cartoons on television. You soon realize that your parents will return home at any moment, and the lawn is not mowed. Will you look forward to seeing them walk in the front door?
The apostle Paul took seriously his duty as a child of God. God had called him to preach the gospel. He endured great persecution to fulfill God’s calling. He preached the gospel to both kings and paupers. He preached in prison cells and in palaces. He preached the gospel in spite of his thorn in the flesh. He refused to allow his persecutors to silence his voice in proclaiming the good news. When Paul was nearing the end of his life, he knew he had given his best for the Lord. He looked forward to the rewards he would receive as a faithful child of God and preacher of the gospel.
JUST A THOUGHT: If this were the day you come face-to-face with God, would you have any regrets?
Marc Shultz
2 Timothy 3:1-5
Monday, November 23
Perilous Times
KEY VERSE: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come,” 2 Timothy 3:1.
At the time of this writing, the United States is facing a financial crisis. The collapse of the housing market has left many mortgage and investment companies insolvent. Congress passed a bill to help rescue these failing companies. The stock market averages have dropped over twenty percent from their highs. There is much uncertainty about what will be the ultimate result of the financial crisis. Americans are worried.
Conditions in the world are getting worse by the day. Immorality is the rule of the day. Sins that a generation ago would have been scandalous are the norm for the day. The institution of marriage is under attack, and the divorce rate is at a all-time high. Spiritual apathy is rampant. Churches are closing their doors, and those who preach the gospel are being persecuted. It seems the world has been turned upside down.
The perilous times should not come as a surprise. The times are an indication that the Lord could return soon. Christians should be praying for the Lord to return. Until the Lord does return, Christians should be faithfully serving Him. Many people have yet to accept Christ as Savior. It is the duty of Christians to tell them the good news of God’s love. There must be a sense of urgency about the Christian’s service to the Lord. The Lord should not return to have His people idle.
JUST A THOUGHT: Difficult times should not preclude our faithfulness to God.
Marc Shultz
2 Peter 3:2-4
Tuesday, November 24
Last Day Scoffers
KEY VERSE: “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts,” 2 Peter 3:3.
Little Johnny was told he must eat everything on his plate or he would not be served desert. He had eaten everything except the green beans which he hates. Desert is apple pie ala mode, his favorite. He finally held his nose and ate the green beans.
A scoffer is one who holds his nose in disgust toward biblical doctrine. Some people do not like biblical doctrine because it convicts them of sin. Rather than changing their sinful ways, they ridicule the message. Some scoffers ridicule biblical doctrine on an intellectual level. For example, they ridicule the miracle of the parting of the Red Sea. They say such a feat is impossible; therefore, it did not occur. They exhibit no faith in God or the biblical message.
One of the most scorned biblical doctrines is that of the second coming of Jesus. Scoffers claim biblical prophesies concerning the Lord’s return were not meant to be taken literally. Part of their skepticism stems from the fact the doctrine of the second coming has been proclaimed since biblical times and has not yet occurred. The Lord will return in a time known only by the Heavenly Father. Certain events suggest His return is soon, but no one knows exactly when it shall occur. Children of God should live every day as though that were the day Jesus returns for His children.
JUST A THOUGHT: Scoffers ridicule biblical doctrine because of their lack of faith.
Marc Shultz
Acts 20:32
Wednesday, November 25
The Word Builds You Up
KEY VERSE: “And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified,” Acts 20:32.
A man sat on his bed wondering why his life was such a mess. He had been convinced to enter a rehabilitation center to conquer his alcoholism. He was only there because of pressure from his family. He could not wait until he could leave the facility. On the stand beside his bed was a Bible. There was nothing else to do, so he began reading the Bible. In fact, he read the Bible from cover to cover. With tears in his eyes the man asked Jesus to be his Savior. With a different attitude, he embraced the help that was offered him and conquered his alcoholism. His change began when he read the Bible.
Millions of dollars are spent each year on self-help books. These books give instructions on things such as financial management, health improvement and emotional well-being. These books are not perfect in their content. There is one self-help book that is perfect in content, the Bible. It gives instructions on how a person can accept Jesus as Savior. It instructs believers in the personal attributes and habits that will endear them to God and strengthen their emotional outlook. No one ever failed following biblical instructions. The Bible is God’s instruction book for all humanity. Read it and obey it!
JUST A THOUGHT: Biblical instructions lead to a well-balanced life.
Marc Shultz
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Thursday, November 26
In Everything Give Thanks
KEY VERSE: “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you,” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
A Jewish woman was imprisoned in a German concentration camp during World War II. The conditions were harsh, and the treatment was brutal from the German guards. At times the woman prayed to die rather than suffer the cruel treatment. The barracks she bunked in became infected with lice. This made her even more miserable. She then realized the guards were leaving the prisoners alone because they did not want to deal with the lice. Suddenly, what she thought was a burden became a blessing.
It is easy to give thanks for the good things in life.
Even then, we neglect to remember to give thanks to God for providing those blessings. It is much more difficult to give thanks for the things we perceive as negative. Just moments before dying from cancer, a man said throughout his illness he learned how strong he was and how many friends he had. A woman whose child died soon after birth realized how blessed she was to have other healthy children. A man who lost his job realized how much stress the job was causing him. He found a new job that he enjoyed much more than the one he lost. God has promised to work all things for good (Rom. 8:28). Even the things we perceive as negative, God can work for the positive.
JUST A THOUGHT: For a person to count his or her blessings, he or she must recognize he or she is blessed.
Marc Shultz
2 Timothy 2:15
Friday, November 27
Grounded in the Truth
KEY VERSE: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth,” 2 Timothy 2:15.
Sam Rayburn was Speaker of the United States House of Representatives longer than any other person. He astutely knew how the House of Representatives worked. He knew all the rules and by-laws and how to apply them. As a young congressman, he studied the rules of The House so he could be able to get bills passed. The knowledge served him well as the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Timothy had one of the best spiritual mentors possible in the apostle Paul. He accompanied Paul as he preached the gospel and learned biblical doctrine from him. Timothy’s journey to spiritual enlightenment was just beginning. Paul urged Timothy to take charge of his own spiritual training. Timothy was urged to study the Word of God. Not only was he to study the Word of God, he was to rightly divide the Scriptures. He was not to put his own spin on what he studied but seek God’s intention in the Scriptures. By studying and applying the Scriptures to his life, Timothy would find favor from God. What Timothy learned served him well in his ministry.
Christians should be so grounded in gospel truth that they will not be deceived by false gospels. Being grounded in the truth does not come just by attending Sunday School and worship services. It comes through an intense study of God’s Word.
JUST A THOUGHT: It is an individual’s responsibility to study and apply God’s Word.
Marc Shultz
Ephesians 6:18
Saturday, November 28
Praying Always
KEY VERSE: “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints,” Ephesians 6:18.
A man being interviewed for a job was offered the position. It was the job of his dreams. The salary was more than he expected. He had prayed for guidance from God when he first applied for the job. He prayed for God’s will to be done while waiting for the interview. The job was now his for the taking. The employer needed an immediate answer. His immediate impulse was to accept the job. The man asked for a moment to think it over and found a private place to pray one more time. In prayer he found the inner peace he felt he needed and accepted the job.
Prayer is always appropriate. There is not a circumstance that is not worth taking time to pray about. No situation is too insignificant to pray about. The object of prayer is to seek God’s will. It is proper to make requests to God during prayer, but it is improper to put selfish desires over God’s will. Prayers should also be offered on behalf of others. It is selfish to ask for the prayers of others and not be willing to lift them up in prayer. Patience should be exercised in waiting for God to answer prayer. Sometimes our requests are granted. Sometimes God denies our requests. Sometimes God will have us wait for His answer. In all cases His will is accomplished.
JUST A THOUGHT: Pray for God’s will then accept His answer.
Marc Shultz
Acts 20:28-31
Sunday, November 29
Watch for Wolves
KEY VERSE: “For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock,” Acts 20:29.
The shepherd is the only line of defense between the sheep and the wolves. The wolves are predators who attack their prey without warning. The sheep have no sense of self-defense; therefore, it is up to the shepherd to protect the sheep. The shepherd knows where the wolves lie in wait and lead the sheep away from those places. If not for the shepherd the sheep would be defenseless against the wolves.
Paul was zealous in guarding the truth against heresy. He did not hesitate to identify heretics proclaiming false gospels. Paul was careful to teach only what he knew as the true gospel. Those under his ministry flourished in their spiritual growth because of his biblical exhortation. Paul proclaimed the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
Paul knew the danger of the grievous wolves which would attack the flock of God. The wolves would attack young Christians who lacked spiritual maturity. Paul’s desire was not to leave the flock defenseless against the wolves. Heretics with their ability to deceive with fancy ways of speaking would draw away immature Christians from the truth. Paul spent his time warning against false gospels and false teachers.
Satan’s desire is to destroy the Lord’s churches from within. Biblical doctrine is clear. Any doctrine that does not conform to the Word of God is dangerous and should be avoided.
JUST A THOUGHT: The Word of God is the best defense against heretical predators.
Marc Shultz
Ezekiel 34:1-10
Monday, November 30
The Duty of the Shepherd
KEY VERSE: "Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?" Ezekiel 34:2.
The urban life-style with which most of us are familiar does not give much of an understanding of what a shepherd is. This is a Bible term and we must become familiar with it if we are to understand many Scriptures. Shepherding was one of the earliest occupations. A family's wealth was measured by how many sheep, goats, cows, horses and camels a man owned. Abel, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and David were all shepherds.
It was the shepherd's responsibility to lead his flock to green pastures during the daytime, and at night he would sleep with his body lying across the gate to the enclosure he used to keep the sheep safe. Sheep especially were dependent on the protection of their shepherd.
God used the term shepherd to describe those who were the leaders and teachers of His people. When these men shirked their duty, God called them false shepherds and His judgment on them was swift and harsh.
It is significant that Jesus was called the Good Shepherd because we need the Shepherd to keep us safe, to guide us along the right path and to lead us through the valley of the shadow of death.
LIVING IT: Place yourself in the hands of the Good Shepherd and allow Him to lead you through life.
Mary McCalister