“Walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.“ (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Walk (peripateo: go, walk about, be occupied with) in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave (paradidomi: delivered, give, give up, give over, commit) Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma (euodia: sweet savour, sweet smelling; agreeably to the ancient notion that God smells and is pleased with the odor of sacrifices; a thing well pleasing to God).“
SUMMARY
Be occupied with love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a sweet aroma that is pleasing to Him.
MEDITATION
Do you realize that your life gives off an aroma that makes its way up into the heavens? Every thought and deed creates an aroma that is the fragrance of your life. So I ask you, is your life a sweet smelling savor that pleases the LORD? Are you completely occupied with the same love that was shown to you via Christ? Today, be moved by love and allow your entire life to send up a sweet aroma that goes straight to the throne of God.
DRW will return Monday, December 1.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Philippians 4:4
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Rejoice (chairo: be glad, joy, hail, greeting, rejoice exceedingly, to be well, thrive) in the Lord always (pantote: ever, evermore, at all times); again I will say, rejoice!”
SUMMARY
Rejoice exceedingly in the LORD at all times, forevermore; again I will say rejoice exceedingly!
MEDITATION
Rejoice in the LORD when? When things go my way? No, always. Rejoice in the LORD when? When I’m feeling like it? No, always. Rejoice in the LORD when? When all in my life is how I want it to be? No, always! Today, tomorrow and forever – rejoice in the LORD always!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Rejoice (chairo: be glad, joy, hail, greeting, rejoice exceedingly, to be well, thrive) in the Lord always (pantote: ever, evermore, at all times); again I will say, rejoice!”
SUMMARY
Rejoice exceedingly in the LORD at all times, forevermore; again I will say rejoice exceedingly!
MEDITATION
Rejoice in the LORD when? When things go my way? No, always. Rejoice in the LORD when? When I’m feeling like it? No, always. Rejoice in the LORD when? When all in my life is how I want it to be? No, always! Today, tomorrow and forever – rejoice in the LORD always!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Proverbs 20:3
"Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man, But any fool will quarrel." (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Keeping away from strife (riyb: controversy, contention, dispute, quarreling) is an honor for a man, But any fool ('eviyl: foolish man, one who despises wisdom, one who is quarrelsome and licentious) will quarrel (gala`: meddle, intermeddle, to disclose oneself, outburst)."
SUMMARY
Keeping away from controversy and contention is an honor for a man, but one who despises wisdom will be quick to quarrel and disclose himself.
MEDITATION
Standing up for your beliefs and just loving a good argument are surely two different things. We must learn to walk according to the Spirit and know the difference. Are you one that needs to always make your opinion known with no thought or concern of the outcome? I don’t know about you but I want to be seen as wise in the eyes of God above all else. Today, may we, His Ambassadors, live lives of honor before God and man.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Keeping away from strife (riyb: controversy, contention, dispute, quarreling) is an honor for a man, But any fool ('eviyl: foolish man, one who despises wisdom, one who is quarrelsome and licentious) will quarrel (gala`: meddle, intermeddle, to disclose oneself, outburst)."
SUMMARY
Keeping away from controversy and contention is an honor for a man, but one who despises wisdom will be quick to quarrel and disclose himself.
MEDITATION
Standing up for your beliefs and just loving a good argument are surely two different things. We must learn to walk according to the Spirit and know the difference. Are you one that needs to always make your opinion known with no thought or concern of the outcome? I don’t know about you but I want to be seen as wise in the eyes of God above all else. Today, may we, His Ambassadors, live lives of honor before God and man.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
1 Kings 17:22
“The LORD heard the voice of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him and he revived.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“The LORD heard (shama`: hearken, obey, publish, understand, discern, perceived) the voice (qowl: from an unused root meaning to call aloud; proclamation) of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him and he revived.”
SUMMARY
The LORD heard and understood Elijah’s calling out to Him, and the life of the [dead] son returned to him.
MEDITATION
Do you understand that when a righteous man calls out to God, He truly hears? I want to stress that it is not some disconnected and cold conversation either. He is a loving Father – He hears and He responds. Do you call out to Him? I mean really, do you? I pray that your talking to Him is not limited to silent, head bowed and eyes closed rituals. Today, get to know your Creator! Know Him intimately – He is listening.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“The LORD heard (shama`: hearken, obey, publish, understand, discern, perceived) the voice (qowl: from an unused root meaning to call aloud; proclamation) of Elijah, and the life of the child returned to him and he revived.”
SUMMARY
The LORD heard and understood Elijah’s calling out to Him, and the life of the [dead] son returned to him.
MEDITATION
Do you understand that when a righteous man calls out to God, He truly hears? I want to stress that it is not some disconnected and cold conversation either. He is a loving Father – He hears and He responds. Do you call out to Him? I mean really, do you? I pray that your talking to Him is not limited to silent, head bowed and eyes closed rituals. Today, get to know your Creator! Know Him intimately – He is listening.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Psalm 73:25
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire on earth besides You.” (Amplified)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire (chaphets: pleasure, favor) on earth besides You.”
SUMMARY
Whom do I have in heaven but You? I don’t delight or find pleasure in anything on this earth above you.
MEDITATION
What brings you happiness? Do you live day to day, allowing your calendar to adjust your emotions? Are you one “mood” here and another there? What excites you more than anything else? Is it music… football… financial gain? I pray that we become a people that are elated and infatuated with the presence of the LORD above all else. He longs to be delighted in – He longs to be desired above all else. May the words of the psalmist be ours today!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Whom have I in heaven but You? And I have no delight or desire (chaphets: pleasure, favor) on earth besides You.”
SUMMARY
Whom do I have in heaven but You? I don’t delight or find pleasure in anything on this earth above you.
MEDITATION
What brings you happiness? Do you live day to day, allowing your calendar to adjust your emotions? Are you one “mood” here and another there? What excites you more than anything else? Is it music… football… financial gain? I pray that we become a people that are elated and infatuated with the presence of the LORD above all else. He longs to be delighted in – He longs to be desired above all else. May the words of the psalmist be ours today!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Ezekiel 16:62
“Thus I will establish My covenant with you, and you shall know that I am the LORD.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Thus I will establish (quwm: raise, perform, confirm, set, to be proven, to be fulfilled) My covenant (beriyth: alliance, pledge, ordinance, agreement) with you, and you shall know (yada`: perceive, understand, acknowledge, consider, find out and discern, recognize, confess) that I am the LORD.”
SUMMARY
I will establish and fulfill My alliance and agreement with you, and when I do, you shall understand and confess that I am LORD.
MEDITATION
When we see the covenant that the LORD has made with us, we see our error. He is never failing, never changing – He is the perfect covenant keeper. Whenever we address Him, there is no doubt that He is the One that is true to His promises. My friend, it is not our place to doubt God’s intentions or actions. While I believe it is healthy, as in any relationship, to ask Him “why?”, I also believe that there must, in the same breath, be an absolute trust in Him. What He establishes, no man can move. What He establishes endures to the end. Today, talk to Him – perceive and confess that He is LORD.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Thus I will establish (quwm: raise, perform, confirm, set, to be proven, to be fulfilled) My covenant (beriyth: alliance, pledge, ordinance, agreement) with you, and you shall know (yada`: perceive, understand, acknowledge, consider, find out and discern, recognize, confess) that I am the LORD.”
SUMMARY
I will establish and fulfill My alliance and agreement with you, and when I do, you shall understand and confess that I am LORD.
MEDITATION
When we see the covenant that the LORD has made with us, we see our error. He is never failing, never changing – He is the perfect covenant keeper. Whenever we address Him, there is no doubt that He is the One that is true to His promises. My friend, it is not our place to doubt God’s intentions or actions. While I believe it is healthy, as in any relationship, to ask Him “why?”, I also believe that there must, in the same breath, be an absolute trust in Him. What He establishes, no man can move. What He establishes endures to the end. Today, talk to Him – perceive and confess that He is LORD.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Acts 6:10
“But they were unable to cope with the wisdom and the Spirit with which [Stephen] was speaking.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“But they were unable to cope (anthistemi: resist, withstand, to set one's self against, oppose) with the wisdom (Sophia: broad and full of intelligence; the varied knowledge of things human and divine; skill and discretion in imparting Christian truth) and the Spirit with which [Stephen] was speaking (laleo: say, tell, talk, preach, utter).”
SUMMARY
They were unable to resist or oppose the divine intelligence and the Spirit with which Stephen was speaking.
MEDITATION
I’ve always been amazed at the account of Stephen. Oh what it would be like to sit down today and talk to him about his walk with the LORD. I would assume that he would encourage us to also seek after the knowledge of the divine things of God. He would tell us how walking in the Spirit was so radically against all else in his day. He would likely ask us if we are so enveloped with the Spirit that we are willing to lose our life because it will be hated and despised. (Read the account of his life – even though briefly referenced – it is incredible.) Today, forsake all else and cling tightly to Spirit matters. Seek out the wisdom of eternal things.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“But they were unable to cope (anthistemi: resist, withstand, to set one's self against, oppose) with the wisdom (Sophia: broad and full of intelligence; the varied knowledge of things human and divine; skill and discretion in imparting Christian truth) and the Spirit with which [Stephen] was speaking (laleo: say, tell, talk, preach, utter).”
SUMMARY
They were unable to resist or oppose the divine intelligence and the Spirit with which Stephen was speaking.
MEDITATION
I’ve always been amazed at the account of Stephen. Oh what it would be like to sit down today and talk to him about his walk with the LORD. I would assume that he would encourage us to also seek after the knowledge of the divine things of God. He would tell us how walking in the Spirit was so radically against all else in his day. He would likely ask us if we are so enveloped with the Spirit that we are willing to lose our life because it will be hated and despised. (Read the account of his life – even though briefly referenced – it is incredible.) Today, forsake all else and cling tightly to Spirit matters. Seek out the wisdom of eternal things.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Psalm 91:7
“A thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach you.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“A thousand may fall (naphal: fail, cast down, fall away, lie down, inferior, fall prostrate) at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach (nagash: be near, nigh, come near) you.”
SUMMARY
A thousand may lie down prostrate at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not be near to you.
MEDITATION
Oh the power that resides within those who trust in the LORD! All that is sent to destroy you and wield its weapon that is formed against you must lay face down at your side in submission! Do you understand this my friend? You are not some weakling that needs to wish harder that darkness would leave you alone. When your trust and hope is in the LORD, victory is sure – it is guaranteed by the Word of God! Do not fear! Stand tall, stand strong – in Christ, you are the victor!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“A thousand may fall (naphal: fail, cast down, fall away, lie down, inferior, fall prostrate) at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach (nagash: be near, nigh, come near) you.”
SUMMARY
A thousand may lie down prostrate at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not be near to you.
MEDITATION
Oh the power that resides within those who trust in the LORD! All that is sent to destroy you and wield its weapon that is formed against you must lay face down at your side in submission! Do you understand this my friend? You are not some weakling that needs to wish harder that darkness would leave you alone. When your trust and hope is in the LORD, victory is sure – it is guaranteed by the Word of God! Do not fear! Stand tall, stand strong – in Christ, you are the victor!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Luke 22:46
"Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation." (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Why are you sleeping (katheudo: to fall asleep; drop off to sleep; euphemistically, to be dead; to yield to sloth and sin)? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation (peirasmos: an experiment, attempt, trial, proving; the trial of man's fidelity, integrity, virtue, constancy; an enticement to sin)."
SUMMARY
Why are you yielding yourself in sleep? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation and be enticed to sin.
MEDITATION
I believe that just as Jesus posed this question to the disciples, He asks us as well. It is time for us to come awake and be alert. Sometimes we look around and find ourselves neck deep in sin and error – as if it seemingly snuck up on us. This is why we must stay awake and aware of what is going on around us, being careful not to enter into temptation. Today, as you go about your day, have your eyes wide open, spiritually speaking. There are things that you must see coming and avoid. Awaken!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Why are you sleeping (katheudo: to fall asleep; drop off to sleep; euphemistically, to be dead; to yield to sloth and sin)? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation (peirasmos: an experiment, attempt, trial, proving; the trial of man's fidelity, integrity, virtue, constancy; an enticement to sin)."
SUMMARY
Why are you yielding yourself in sleep? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation and be enticed to sin.
MEDITATION
I believe that just as Jesus posed this question to the disciples, He asks us as well. It is time for us to come awake and be alert. Sometimes we look around and find ourselves neck deep in sin and error – as if it seemingly snuck up on us. This is why we must stay awake and aware of what is going on around us, being careful not to enter into temptation. Today, as you go about your day, have your eyes wide open, spiritually speaking. There are things that you must see coming and avoid. Awaken!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
2 Corinthians 10:17
“But he that boasts, let him boast in the Lord.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“But he that boasts (kauchaomai: glory, joy, rejoice), let him boast in the Lord.”
SUMMARY
But he that boasts and rejoices, let him do so of the LORD.
MEDITATION
Today, I give a simple charge - boast in the LORD and His goodness. When you want to complain, rejoice in the LORD. When you feel like making your achievements known, boast in the LORD. When you open your mouth, let it be filled with words of the great glory of your God.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“But he that boasts (kauchaomai: glory, joy, rejoice), let him boast in the Lord.”
SUMMARY
But he that boasts and rejoices, let him do so of the LORD.
MEDITATION
Today, I give a simple charge - boast in the LORD and His goodness. When you want to complain, rejoice in the LORD. When you feel like making your achievements known, boast in the LORD. When you open your mouth, let it be filled with words of the great glory of your God.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Blessed are those who hunger (peinao: to suffer want, to be needy, crave, to seek with eager desire) and thirst (dipsao: eagerly long for) for righteousness (dikaiosune: concerning the way in which man may attain a state approved of God; integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting) for they shall be satisfied (chortazo: filled, full, fattened; to fulfill or satisfy the desires).”
SUMMARY
Blessed are those who crave and eagerly long for integrity and rightness before God, for they shall be filled and satisfied.
MEDITATION
Are you longing for righteousness above all else in your life? Holiness and purity are seemingly foreign words today, but we must return to righteous living. The Body of Believers can never fulfill Its purpose until It longs for rightness before their God. It is imperative that we lay aside all hindrances and unrighteousness in our lives. We have been given charge after charge in the Word to seek to be holy as He is holy. Today, will you heed that call?
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Blessed are those who hunger (peinao: to suffer want, to be needy, crave, to seek with eager desire) and thirst (dipsao: eagerly long for) for righteousness (dikaiosune: concerning the way in which man may attain a state approved of God; integrity, virtue, purity of life, rightness, correctness of thinking feeling, and acting) for they shall be satisfied (chortazo: filled, full, fattened; to fulfill or satisfy the desires).”
SUMMARY
Blessed are those who crave and eagerly long for integrity and rightness before God, for they shall be filled and satisfied.
MEDITATION
Are you longing for righteousness above all else in your life? Holiness and purity are seemingly foreign words today, but we must return to righteous living. The Body of Believers can never fulfill Its purpose until It longs for rightness before their God. It is imperative that we lay aside all hindrances and unrighteousness in our lives. We have been given charge after charge in the Word to seek to be holy as He is holy. Today, will you heed that call?
Monday, November 17, 2008
2 Corinthians 3:17
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Now the Lord is the Spirit (pneuma: a simple essence, devoid of all grosser matter and possessed of the power of knowing, desiring, deciding, and acting; a life giving spirit; the efficient source of any power, affection, emotion, desire, etc.), and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (eleutheria: licence to live as one should, not as one pleases).”
SUMMARY
Now the LORD is the Spirit that gives life and where His Spirit is, there is liberty and freedom to live as He intends.
MEDITATION
Now I know that this sounds kind of tricky, but we must be sure to look at it carefully. This verse has been abused for far too long – misunderstood to mean that one can act however they choose because they are free. Now this is half-true. One is free in Christ, but the liberty, the freedom is to be all that God created you to be. It is license to walk as a child of God, no longer bound by your flesh and this world. The LORD has enabled you to freely walk out what you were created for. This is why we must walk according to the Spirit – here alone can we be whole. Today, be mindful that you are free in Him.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Now the Lord is the Spirit (pneuma: a simple essence, devoid of all grosser matter and possessed of the power of knowing, desiring, deciding, and acting; a life giving spirit; the efficient source of any power, affection, emotion, desire, etc.), and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty (eleutheria: licence to live as one should, not as one pleases).”
SUMMARY
Now the LORD is the Spirit that gives life and where His Spirit is, there is liberty and freedom to live as He intends.
MEDITATION
Now I know that this sounds kind of tricky, but we must be sure to look at it carefully. This verse has been abused for far too long – misunderstood to mean that one can act however they choose because they are free. Now this is half-true. One is free in Christ, but the liberty, the freedom is to be all that God created you to be. It is license to walk as a child of God, no longer bound by your flesh and this world. The LORD has enabled you to freely walk out what you were created for. This is why we must walk according to the Spirit – here alone can we be whole. Today, be mindful that you are free in Him.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Proverbs 19:27
“Cease listening, my son, to discipline, And you will stray from the words of knowledge.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Cease listening (shama`: hearing, hearkening, obeying, understanding), my son, to discipline (muwcar: instruction, correction, chastisement), And you will stray (shagah: err, wander, be deceived, sin through ignorance, go astray) from the words ('emer: sayings, utterance, promise, commands) of knowledge (da`ath: perception, skill, discernment, understanding, wisdom).”
SUMMARY
Stop hearing and obeying instruction and correction, and you will wander and be led astray from knowledge, perception, understanding, discernment and wisdom.
MEDITATION
I believe why so many have such a distorted view of God is because they’ve never seen Him as Father. I remember how everything began to change regarding my view of God when I began to see how He loved me as a proud Father. His disciplines are now viewed as actions of His love, not ones rooted in His anger. I personally think that most Believers have little, if any, understanding of God, the loving Father. He chastens, He corrects, He disciplines - all for a greater purpose. We must forsake the old mindset of God angry on a throne emitting bolts of lightning whilst angrily looking upon mankind. We were created out of His perfect agape love. He is love. He is Father. Listen to His voice and welcome His disciplines today.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Cease listening (shama`: hearing, hearkening, obeying, understanding), my son, to discipline (muwcar: instruction, correction, chastisement), And you will stray (shagah: err, wander, be deceived, sin through ignorance, go astray) from the words ('emer: sayings, utterance, promise, commands) of knowledge (da`ath: perception, skill, discernment, understanding, wisdom).”
SUMMARY
Stop hearing and obeying instruction and correction, and you will wander and be led astray from knowledge, perception, understanding, discernment and wisdom.
MEDITATION
I believe why so many have such a distorted view of God is because they’ve never seen Him as Father. I remember how everything began to change regarding my view of God when I began to see how He loved me as a proud Father. His disciplines are now viewed as actions of His love, not ones rooted in His anger. I personally think that most Believers have little, if any, understanding of God, the loving Father. He chastens, He corrects, He disciplines - all for a greater purpose. We must forsake the old mindset of God angry on a throne emitting bolts of lightning whilst angrily looking upon mankind. We were created out of His perfect agape love. He is love. He is Father. Listen to His voice and welcome His disciplines today.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Hebrews 4:13
“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.” (NKJV)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked (gumnos: bare, unclad, stripped of the body) and open to the eyes (ophthalmos: the faculty of knowing; sight) of Him to whom we must give account.”
SUMMARY
And there is nothing and no one that is hidden from His sight, but all things are bare and exposed, open to the sight of Him whom we must give account.
MEDITATION
Here in the foothills of the Northeast Georgia Mountains, most of our leaves have turned and fallen. For the last few days however, some have been hanging on for dear life. After I awoke this morning, per usual I walked over to the windows overlooking our back yard. We had obviously had a heavy rain overnight and nearly every last leaf now resides on the ground. I could see right through our trees and as the light of the sky was visible through them, I took notice. There was no longer anything to cover up the trees or to hide my view of the sky – all was laid bare before me. You see, the reality of God’s vision is that He doesn’t get hung up on what we do. I’m not even sure that He even sees my physical body. He sees so much deeper – into the real me, the real you. Today, unveil your life to Him completely - He already sees. Willingly approach Him with arms wide open – laid bare before your Maker.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked (gumnos: bare, unclad, stripped of the body) and open to the eyes (ophthalmos: the faculty of knowing; sight) of Him to whom we must give account.”
SUMMARY
And there is nothing and no one that is hidden from His sight, but all things are bare and exposed, open to the sight of Him whom we must give account.
MEDITATION
Here in the foothills of the Northeast Georgia Mountains, most of our leaves have turned and fallen. For the last few days however, some have been hanging on for dear life. After I awoke this morning, per usual I walked over to the windows overlooking our back yard. We had obviously had a heavy rain overnight and nearly every last leaf now resides on the ground. I could see right through our trees and as the light of the sky was visible through them, I took notice. There was no longer anything to cover up the trees or to hide my view of the sky – all was laid bare before me. You see, the reality of God’s vision is that He doesn’t get hung up on what we do. I’m not even sure that He even sees my physical body. He sees so much deeper – into the real me, the real you. Today, unveil your life to Him completely - He already sees. Willingly approach Him with arms wide open – laid bare before your Maker.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Proverbs 21:2
"Every man's way is right in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs the hearts." (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Every man's way is right (yashar: upright, righteous, straight, convenient, just, well) in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs (takan: regulates, measures, estimates, ponders, proves) the hearts."
SUMMARY
Every man’s way is upright and straight in his own eyes, but the LORD measures and proves the hearts.
MEDITATION
It is simply not enough to be personally convinced that the path you are on is the one to remain on. It is easy to convince ourselves sometimes and many decisions are made because certain paths bring about what we desire. Thankfully, the LORD examines and proves our intentions, motives and true desires. All secrets and intentions are laid bare before Him and He chooses to guide us. Today, surrender your ways – even the ones that seem right and just in your own eyes. Be assured that your every step is in agreement with His ways for your life. Here is where His perfect will for you resides.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"Every man's way is right (yashar: upright, righteous, straight, convenient, just, well) in his own eyes, But the LORD weighs (takan: regulates, measures, estimates, ponders, proves) the hearts."
SUMMARY
Every man’s way is upright and straight in his own eyes, but the LORD measures and proves the hearts.
MEDITATION
It is simply not enough to be personally convinced that the path you are on is the one to remain on. It is easy to convince ourselves sometimes and many decisions are made because certain paths bring about what we desire. Thankfully, the LORD examines and proves our intentions, motives and true desires. All secrets and intentions are laid bare before Him and He chooses to guide us. Today, surrender your ways – even the ones that seem right and just in your own eyes. Be assured that your every step is in agreement with His ways for your life. Here is where His perfect will for you resides.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Psalm 50:12
"If I were hungry I would not tell you, For the world is Mine, and all it contains." (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"If I were hungry I would not tell ('amar: speak, answer, utter, call) you, For the world is Mine, and all it contains (melo': full, fullness, all that is therein, entire contents)."
SUMMARY
The LORD says, "If I were in need of anything, I would not need to ask, for the entire world and all of its contents therein are mine."
MEDITATION
I believe that the Body of Christ needs to hear this reminder. This earth and all that is upon it is His and His alone - He is in need of nothing. He is all-powerful, all-knowing and all things to all those who would ever need anything – ever! Today, attempt to grasp the awe of God. Sit quietly and allow His great glory to amaze and baffle what you can comprehend. God is still in control.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
"If I were hungry I would not tell ('amar: speak, answer, utter, call) you, For the world is Mine, and all it contains (melo': full, fullness, all that is therein, entire contents)."
SUMMARY
The LORD says, "If I were in need of anything, I would not need to ask, for the entire world and all of its contents therein are mine."
MEDITATION
I believe that the Body of Christ needs to hear this reminder. This earth and all that is upon it is His and His alone - He is in need of nothing. He is all-powerful, all-knowing and all things to all those who would ever need anything – ever! Today, attempt to grasp the awe of God. Sit quietly and allow His great glory to amaze and baffle what you can comprehend. God is still in control.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
1 John 4:11
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Beloved (agapetos: dearly beloved, well beloved, esteemed, dear, favorite, worthy of love), if God so loved (agapao: beloved, to love dearly) us, we also ought (opheilo: owe, be bound, one's duty, be a debtor, be indebted) to love one another.”
SUMMARY
I say to you, one who is worthy of my love, as God so loved us so dearly, we also are indebted to love one another dearly.
MEDITATION
To get right to the point – there is not one who is not worthy of your love, if you walk in the love of the Father who first loved you. When I don’t have unshakeable love for others, it is always rooted in my poor understanding of how great the LORD’s love is for me. I have been shown patience, kindness, forgiveness, compassion and love – all without measure. When I understand this as reality, I can’t help but love all of those around me. Today, ponder on the great love that God has poured out upon you. He sees you with the eyes of a Father – overlooking your shortcomings, mistakes and character flaws. He sees His beautiful Creation – you. Today, let’s love as we’ve been loved.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Beloved (agapetos: dearly beloved, well beloved, esteemed, dear, favorite, worthy of love), if God so loved (agapao: beloved, to love dearly) us, we also ought (opheilo: owe, be bound, one's duty, be a debtor, be indebted) to love one another.”
SUMMARY
I say to you, one who is worthy of my love, as God so loved us so dearly, we also are indebted to love one another dearly.
MEDITATION
To get right to the point – there is not one who is not worthy of your love, if you walk in the love of the Father who first loved you. When I don’t have unshakeable love for others, it is always rooted in my poor understanding of how great the LORD’s love is for me. I have been shown patience, kindness, forgiveness, compassion and love – all without measure. When I understand this as reality, I can’t help but love all of those around me. Today, ponder on the great love that God has poured out upon you. He sees you with the eyes of a Father – overlooking your shortcomings, mistakes and character flaws. He sees His beautiful Creation – you. Today, let’s love as we’ve been loved.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
1 Corinthians 3:11
“For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For no man can lay a foundation (themelios: of a building, wall, city; beginnings, first principals) other than the one which is laid (keimai: set, appointed, of things put or set in any place), which is Jesus Christ.”
SUMMARY
For no man can lay a foundation or beginning principal other than the one which is laid and appointed already, which is Jesus Christ.
MEDITATION
Now I’m no contractor but I do know that if I attempted to build a house without any foundation, that house would not last long. This verse is telling us that Jesus Christ is the foundation and if your "house" is built upon any other thing, it is in fact foundation-less. There is much revelation within this verse that will keep you from being shaken when trials and tribulations come. It is no wonder that so many fall when the winds begin to blow – it’s not that their foundation is bad, it’s the simple fact that it is nonexistent. So I ask you, do you have a foundation? Be assured – go back and remove all floors and roofs and take a good hard look at your cornerstone. If it's built upon your job, it will fall. If it is built upon your church, it will be tossed about. If it's built upon your reputation, it will tumble down. What is your entire life built upon? It must be upon the LORD Jesus Christ alone.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For no man can lay a foundation (themelios: of a building, wall, city; beginnings, first principals) other than the one which is laid (keimai: set, appointed, of things put or set in any place), which is Jesus Christ.”
SUMMARY
For no man can lay a foundation or beginning principal other than the one which is laid and appointed already, which is Jesus Christ.
MEDITATION
Now I’m no contractor but I do know that if I attempted to build a house without any foundation, that house would not last long. This verse is telling us that Jesus Christ is the foundation and if your "house" is built upon any other thing, it is in fact foundation-less. There is much revelation within this verse that will keep you from being shaken when trials and tribulations come. It is no wonder that so many fall when the winds begin to blow – it’s not that their foundation is bad, it’s the simple fact that it is nonexistent. So I ask you, do you have a foundation? Be assured – go back and remove all floors and roofs and take a good hard look at your cornerstone. If it's built upon your job, it will fall. If it is built upon your church, it will be tossed about. If it's built upon your reputation, it will tumble down. What is your entire life built upon? It must be upon the LORD Jesus Christ alone.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
James 2:10
“For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For whoever keeps the whole (holos: all, every whit, altogether, complete) law and yet stumbles (patio: offend, fall, to err, make a mistake, to sin, fall into misery, become wretched) in one point, he has become guilty (enochos: subject to, bound, under obligation; in a forensic sense, denoting the connection of a person either with his crime, or with the penalty or trial, or with that against whom or which he has offended; worthy of punishment) of all.”
SUMMARY
For whoever keeps the law completely and yet stumbles and makes an error in even one point of it, he has become guilty and worthy of punishment for them all.
MEDITATION
We all start this life on the same plane – whether rich or poor, alcoholic or pathological truth stretcher – mass murderer or slanderer and gossip, we all fall short and are in need of a Saviour. Have you ever been guilty of the “at least I don’t-s”? I have. I believe that we often view some sins as “worse” than others when, in fact, they are all the same in the eyes of the LORD. Today, level the playing field. See all men equally in need of the One who came to save mankind from their guilt and lawlessness. There is One Saviour for all of mankind – Jesus Christ.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For whoever keeps the whole (holos: all, every whit, altogether, complete) law and yet stumbles (patio: offend, fall, to err, make a mistake, to sin, fall into misery, become wretched) in one point, he has become guilty (enochos: subject to, bound, under obligation; in a forensic sense, denoting the connection of a person either with his crime, or with the penalty or trial, or with that against whom or which he has offended; worthy of punishment) of all.”
SUMMARY
For whoever keeps the law completely and yet stumbles and makes an error in even one point of it, he has become guilty and worthy of punishment for them all.
MEDITATION
We all start this life on the same plane – whether rich or poor, alcoholic or pathological truth stretcher – mass murderer or slanderer and gossip, we all fall short and are in need of a Saviour. Have you ever been guilty of the “at least I don’t-s”? I have. I believe that we often view some sins as “worse” than others when, in fact, they are all the same in the eyes of the LORD. Today, level the playing field. See all men equally in need of the One who came to save mankind from their guilt and lawlessness. There is One Saviour for all of mankind – Jesus Christ.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Luke 9:2
“And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to perform healing.“ (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And He sent them out to proclaim (kerusso: preach, publish, proclaim, herald) the kingdom (basileia: royal power, kingship, dominion, rule) of God and to perform healing (iaomai: make whole, to cure, free from errors and sins).“
SUMMARY
And Jesus sent them out to proclaim the royal rule and dominion of God and to bring healing to those in need of being cured and made whole.
MEDITATION
I did this verse a while back, but purposely decided to look at it again today. In a season of so-called change, the Kingdom of God has not changed whatsoever (nor is it in need of to). Jesus sent out the disciples in order to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal - today He sends you and I out to accomplish the exact same task. It is time His Children arise and put their hands to Kingdom proclamation! Today, will you be found with the mysteries of the Kingdom of God upon your lips? Will you walk confidently that, in Him, you have the power and authority to heal the sick?
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And He sent them out to proclaim (kerusso: preach, publish, proclaim, herald) the kingdom (basileia: royal power, kingship, dominion, rule) of God and to perform healing (iaomai: make whole, to cure, free from errors and sins).“
SUMMARY
And Jesus sent them out to proclaim the royal rule and dominion of God and to bring healing to those in need of being cured and made whole.
MEDITATION
I did this verse a while back, but purposely decided to look at it again today. In a season of so-called change, the Kingdom of God has not changed whatsoever (nor is it in need of to). Jesus sent out the disciples in order to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal - today He sends you and I out to accomplish the exact same task. It is time His Children arise and put their hands to Kingdom proclamation! Today, will you be found with the mysteries of the Kingdom of God upon your lips? Will you walk confidently that, in Him, you have the power and authority to heal the sick?
Friday, November 7, 2008
1 Corinthians 2:1
“And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony of God.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority (huperoche: elevation, pre-eminence, superiority, excellence) of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony (marturion: witness) of God.”
SUMMARY
And when I came to you brothers, I didn’t come with a superior and elevated speech or wisdom, as I proclaimed my witness and testimony of God to you.
MEDITATION
You know why Paul’s words were so powerful? Because they were about his own personal encounter with the LORD! It is so encouraging to me to know that my role as a Believer doesn’t require me to memorize 12 steps to evangelism or always have the perfect responses ready in case I’m asked about the LORD. My job, if you will, is to daily walk more intimately with my Father. Here, all wisdom, all knowledge, all preparedness flows from! Yes, we are to study, yes we are to grow in wisdom, but we can never allow it to be our main source or confidence. My hope is in my relationship with the Creator! In Him I am confident and sure! Is your relationship with Him so close today that you can rely on personal experience alone to speak of Him?
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And when I came to you, brethren, I did not come with superiority (huperoche: elevation, pre-eminence, superiority, excellence) of speech or of wisdom, proclaiming to you the testimony (marturion: witness) of God.”
SUMMARY
And when I came to you brothers, I didn’t come with a superior and elevated speech or wisdom, as I proclaimed my witness and testimony of God to you.
MEDITATION
You know why Paul’s words were so powerful? Because they were about his own personal encounter with the LORD! It is so encouraging to me to know that my role as a Believer doesn’t require me to memorize 12 steps to evangelism or always have the perfect responses ready in case I’m asked about the LORD. My job, if you will, is to daily walk more intimately with my Father. Here, all wisdom, all knowledge, all preparedness flows from! Yes, we are to study, yes we are to grow in wisdom, but we can never allow it to be our main source or confidence. My hope is in my relationship with the Creator! In Him I am confident and sure! Is your relationship with Him so close today that you can rely on personal experience alone to speak of Him?
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Ephesians 5:1
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Therefore be imitators (mimetes: follower) of God, as beloved (agapetos: esteemed, dear, favorite, worthy of love) children.”
SUMMARY
Therefore be imitators and followers of God, as esteemed children that He deems worthy of His love.
MEDITATION
I love the last part of this summary. God Himself, the Creator of Heaven and earth has looked upon you and I and called us worthy of His love. You are His prize Creation, made in His image, created to know Him. Today, take the necessary steps to be an imitator of Your Father. He is madly in love with you!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Therefore be imitators (mimetes: follower) of God, as beloved (agapetos: esteemed, dear, favorite, worthy of love) children.”
SUMMARY
Therefore be imitators and followers of God, as esteemed children that He deems worthy of His love.
MEDITATION
I love the last part of this summary. God Himself, the Creator of Heaven and earth has looked upon you and I and called us worthy of His love. You are His prize Creation, made in His image, created to know Him. Today, take the necessary steps to be an imitator of Your Father. He is madly in love with you!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Psalm 119:89
“Forever, O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Forever (`owlam: everlasting, perpetual, evermore, always, continuous existence, everlasting, indefinite or unending future), O LORD, Your word is settled (natsab: stand, set up, upright, appointed, established) in heaven.”
SUMMARY
Forevermore O Lord, Your word is set up and established in heaven.
MEDITATION
On the morning after “historical change” here upon our piece of this earth, nothing has changed in Heaven. God is still in control and always will be. There is no power shift, no change of office and no party differences. There is one kingdom and the LORD alone sits on the throne – established for all of eternity. So today, in a world full of changes and uncertainties, place your hope, your future, your everything in the One who holds all things in His mighty hand.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Forever (`owlam: everlasting, perpetual, evermore, always, continuous existence, everlasting, indefinite or unending future), O LORD, Your word is settled (natsab: stand, set up, upright, appointed, established) in heaven.”
SUMMARY
Forevermore O Lord, Your word is set up and established in heaven.
MEDITATION
On the morning after “historical change” here upon our piece of this earth, nothing has changed in Heaven. God is still in control and always will be. There is no power shift, no change of office and no party differences. There is one kingdom and the LORD alone sits on the throne – established for all of eternity. So today, in a world full of changes and uncertainties, place your hope, your future, your everything in the One who holds all things in His mighty hand.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
2 Corinthians 2:15
“For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved (sozo: made whole, healed, kept safe and sound, rescued from danger or destruction) and among those who are perishing (apollumi: destroy, lose, be lost, abolished, ruined).”
SUMMARY
For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being made whole and rescued from danger and also among those who are lost and perishing.
MEDITATION
Last night, as my wife and I were driving home from one of our weekly gatherings, a Jeep that was in front of us hit a large deer. Just as the deer was jettisoned across the highway and into the opposite shoulder, my wife looked up and watched it fly across the other lane. Being an avid animal lover, she was pretty upset. As silly as some may think it is, it bothered her, and me too, to an extent (I’m a softee, I can admit it OK!). As she wiped a few tears, I instantly thought about how little we’re moved over those around us that are facing the same demise – a blindsided from out of nowhere death. It is reality - all those who are not hidden with Christ upon death are without hope, facing separation from God for eternity. So today I encourage you to do what I’m doing myself – see who is around me that is living in darkness and bound for spiritual death. Time is short, no matter how you look at it. Overlook no opportunity and shine your Light for all to see - someone’s eternity may depend on it. It is time we seek to possess the heart of our Father.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved (sozo: made whole, healed, kept safe and sound, rescued from danger or destruction) and among those who are perishing (apollumi: destroy, lose, be lost, abolished, ruined).”
SUMMARY
For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being made whole and rescued from danger and also among those who are lost and perishing.
MEDITATION
Last night, as my wife and I were driving home from one of our weekly gatherings, a Jeep that was in front of us hit a large deer. Just as the deer was jettisoned across the highway and into the opposite shoulder, my wife looked up and watched it fly across the other lane. Being an avid animal lover, she was pretty upset. As silly as some may think it is, it bothered her, and me too, to an extent (I’m a softee, I can admit it OK!). As she wiped a few tears, I instantly thought about how little we’re moved over those around us that are facing the same demise – a blindsided from out of nowhere death. It is reality - all those who are not hidden with Christ upon death are without hope, facing separation from God for eternity. So today I encourage you to do what I’m doing myself – see who is around me that is living in darkness and bound for spiritual death. Time is short, no matter how you look at it. Overlook no opportunity and shine your Light for all to see - someone’s eternity may depend on it. It is time we seek to possess the heart of our Father.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Matthew 28:18
“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth’.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority (exousia: power, right, liberty, jurisdiction, strength; power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases) has been given (didomi: granted, put, shown, delivered) to Me in heaven and on earth’.”
SUMMARY
And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying: “All power, jurisdiction and authority has been granted to Me in Heaven and on earth.”
MEDITATION
Although few people seem to ever discuss this, in Christ you now have been given authority and power in the here and now. In Genesis, man was created to rule over the entire earth. When Jesus came to earth, He restored the authority that Adam chose to give up in exchange for sin. Likewise, when you choose the LORD over your sinful and rebellious ways, you will be exercising your dominion and authority that you have in Him. Today, remove every obstacle and be found walking in great power and authority!
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority (exousia: power, right, liberty, jurisdiction, strength; power of choice, liberty of doing as one pleases) has been given (didomi: granted, put, shown, delivered) to Me in heaven and on earth’.”
SUMMARY
And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying: “All power, jurisdiction and authority has been granted to Me in Heaven and on earth.”
MEDITATION
Although few people seem to ever discuss this, in Christ you now have been given authority and power in the here and now. In Genesis, man was created to rule over the entire earth. When Jesus came to earth, He restored the authority that Adam chose to give up in exchange for sin. Likewise, when you choose the LORD over your sinful and rebellious ways, you will be exercising your dominion and authority that you have in Him. Today, remove every obstacle and be found walking in great power and authority!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Psalm 91:11
“For He will give His angels charge concerning you, To guard you in all your ways.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For He will give His angels (mal'ak: messengers, ambassadors, representatives) charge (tsavah: command, commandment, appoint, give orders) concerning you, To guard (shamar: observe, heed, keeper, preserve, watchman, regard, save) you in all your ways.”
SUMMARY
For He will give His messengers orders concerning you, To guard and keep you in all your ways.
MEDITATION
In my line of work, I’m inside a lot of different personal vehicles. I often see the little “guardian angel” charms attached to the dashboards or sun visors. Some even jokingly state, “don’t drive fast than your guardian angel can fly”. You know what though, the presence of angels is no myth or fairy tale. The LORD has messengers assigned to you – to keep you and watch over you. Today, be more aware that there is another realm that is all around you - unseen with human eyes. Thank the LORD for His desire to keep you – you have no idea what He has spared you from without you even knowing it.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“For He will give His angels (mal'ak: messengers, ambassadors, representatives) charge (tsavah: command, commandment, appoint, give orders) concerning you, To guard (shamar: observe, heed, keeper, preserve, watchman, regard, save) you in all your ways.”
SUMMARY
For He will give His messengers orders concerning you, To guard and keep you in all your ways.
MEDITATION
In my line of work, I’m inside a lot of different personal vehicles. I often see the little “guardian angel” charms attached to the dashboards or sun visors. Some even jokingly state, “don’t drive fast than your guardian angel can fly”. You know what though, the presence of angels is no myth or fairy tale. The LORD has messengers assigned to you – to keep you and watch over you. Today, be more aware that there is another realm that is all around you - unseen with human eyes. Thank the LORD for His desire to keep you – you have no idea what He has spared you from without you even knowing it.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Hebrews 12:12
“Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble.” (NASB)
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Therefore, strengthen (anorthoo: make straight, set up, lift up, make erect, to rear again, build anew) the hands that are weak (pariemi: hang down, relaxed, weakened, exhausted) and the knees that are feeble (paraluo: loosened, weakened, enfeebled, weak of limb).”
SUMMARY
Strengthen and lift up the hands that are weak and exhausted and make straight the knees that are feeble.
MEDITATION
I think most all of us are prone to walk in what we do well. But what about the areas that we’re weak in? Today, if there is any area of your spiritual life that is weak or feeble, ask the LORD for wisdom in that area. We must be a "well-rounded” people that are willing to address our weaknesses and turn them into strengths. Remember, in Christ you can do all things - He is your enabler.
STRONGS HEBREW/GREEK ORIGINS
“Therefore, strengthen (anorthoo: make straight, set up, lift up, make erect, to rear again, build anew) the hands that are weak (pariemi: hang down, relaxed, weakened, exhausted) and the knees that are feeble (paraluo: loosened, weakened, enfeebled, weak of limb).”
SUMMARY
Strengthen and lift up the hands that are weak and exhausted and make straight the knees that are feeble.
MEDITATION
I think most all of us are prone to walk in what we do well. But what about the areas that we’re weak in? Today, if there is any area of your spiritual life that is weak or feeble, ask the LORD for wisdom in that area. We must be a "well-rounded” people that are willing to address our weaknesses and turn them into strengths. Remember, in Christ you can do all things - He is your enabler.
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