LHM Daily Devotion - June 16, 2017 "D-Day"

The anniversary went by without much in the way of hoopla or hoorays.

Daily Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries

By Pastor Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour

"D-Day"

June 16, 2017

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

~ 1 Corinthians 15:57 (ESV)

The anniversary went by without much in the way of hoopla or hoorays.

That's not the way it was 73 years ago on June 6. When the Allies landed in Normandy, it was a very big deal indeed. Although the term "D-Day" is a generic military term for the day any project is to be launched, the European invasion was so big, it has taken the name as its own.

Of course, there are those in my generation -- and younger -- who wonder just how big was this offensive? Well, I can tell you

a. it was the biggest sea-launched invasion in the history of the world;
b. it had 156,000 Allied military playing a part in the invasion;
c. it included solders from Australia, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, France, Greece, the Netherlands, New      Zealand, Norway, and Poland;
d. it ended up with 10,000 Allied soldiers being killed, captured, or missing;
e. it was also a great turning point in the war; it was the beginning of the end.

Sadly, about 850 veterans of World War II are dying every day. That has led some to guestimate that the last of those who participated in the War will probably pass away around 2038. Maybe that helps explain why the anniversary celebrating Europe's deliverance went by without much in the way of hoopla or hoorays.

Having said that, let me add that there is another D-Day the lost need to remember.

Understand this ancient D-Day was not marked by great movements of troops and planned coordination between various branches of the military. No, this D-day involved only one Individual.

But there's more.

Although the statisticians estimated there would be many casualties in the 20th-century D-Day, they also promised most men involved would survive. That was not the case 2,000 years ago when Jesus, God's Son, was born to take our place under the Law, and carry our sins to His cross.

The mortality rate for that ancient D-Day was 100 percent. It had always been 100 percent.

And there is one more difference between the two D-Days. If you go to the beaches of Normandy, you will see the graves of those who gave their lives. To a person, they are all there. But if you go to Jerusalem, look as long and as thoroughly as you wish, you will never find the place where Jesus Christ is entombed.

He is not there because He has risen. This is God's truth, which we dare never forget.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, may I always remember those who have given their lives so I might be delivered from earthly tyranny. May I always rejoice in the forgiveness and salvation the Christ has won for me in His life, death, and resurrection. In His Name I pray. Amen

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin!  Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).

CPTLN Devocional de 16 de Junio de 2017

Alimento diario... un mensaje de esperanza

Alimento Diario

Un grito de ayuda

16 de Junio 2017

Pero el cobrador de impuestos, desde lejos, no se atrevía siquiera a levantar los ojos al cielo, sino que se golpeaba el pecho y decía: "Dios mío, ten misericordia de mí, porque soy un pecador."

~ Lucas 18:13 (RVC)

Mientras perseguían a un venado, uno de los cazadores se cayó en el pozo de una mina abandonada. Dada la profundidad del pozo, sus compañeros no podían rescatarlo, y como estaba herido, él tampoco podía salir por sus propios medios. Lo que le salvó la vida fue que tenían un teléfono celular con el cual pudieron pedir ayuda a la patrulla de rescate.

Nosotros también necesitamos ser rescatados. A veces es nuestro cuerpo, pero siempre, y especialmente, es nuestra vida espiritual. La buena noticia es que hay ayuda, consuelo, y salvación para todo el que lo busque, sin importar su raza, su clase, o su condición. "Porque todo el que invoque el nombre del Señor será salvo" (Romanos 10:13). Cuán simples, pero a la vez cuán profundas son estas palabras.

La historia de Pedro que encontramos en el Evangelio de Mateo 14:25-33 es una clara ilustración del poder salvador de Dios. Cuando Pedro iba caminando sobre el agua hacia Jesús, se asustó por el viento y comenzó a hundirse. Entonces gritó: "¡Señor, sálvame!" Al oír estas palabras, Jesús inmediatamente extendió su mano y lo rescató.

La vida física de Pedro fue rescatada esa noche por Jesús. Su vida espiritual, en cambio, fue redimida a través de su fe en el sacrificio que Jesucristo hizo por nosotros para rescatarnos de nuestros pecados y muerte eterna.

Todos tenemos un problema que es mucho más grave que caernos en un pozo. Nuestro problema es el pecado. Un problema del cual nada ni nadie nos puede salvar... excepto nuestro salvador Jesucristo. Acudamos a él para recibir su perdón.

ORACIÓN: Querido Señor, todopoderoso Dios, gracias por darnos tu Palabra. Reconozco que soy pecador y que necesito tu salvación. Perdóname en el nombre de Jesucristo. Amén

Biografía del autor: Esta devoción fue escrita por Nguyen Huu Dung un voluntario en la oficina de Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones en Vietnam.

© Copyright 2017 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. ¡Utilice estas devociones en sus boletines! Usado con permiso. Todos los derechos reservados por la Int'l LLL.

Our Daily Bread - Made Alive

Read: Ephesians 2:1–10

Bible in a Year: Nehemiah 4–6; Acts 2:22–47

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You were dead in your transgressions and sins. Ephesians 2:1

As a young man, my dad was traveling with a group of friends to an out-of-town sporting event when the tires of their car slipped on the rain-soaked roads. They had an accident—a bad accident. One of his friends was paralyzed and another was killed. My dad was declared dead and taken to the morgue. His shocked and grief-stricken parents came to identify him. But my dad revived from what turned out to be a deep coma. Their mourning turned to joy.

In Ephesians 2, the apostle Paul reminds us that apart from Christ we are “dead in [our] transgressions and sins” (v. 1). But because of His great love for us, “God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions” (vv. 4–5). Through Christ we have been brought from death to life.

So in every sense, we all owe our life to the Father in heaven. Through His great love, He has made it possible for those of us who were dead in sin to have life and purpose through His Son.

Thank You, Father, for love that conquers sin, life that conquers death, and grace that has conquered my heart. May my life be a sweet aroma of praise to You.

We owed a debt we could not pay, but Jesus paid the debt He did not owe.

By Bill Crowder

© 2017 Our Daily Bread Ministries

Ministérios Pão Diário - Primeiro o óbvio

Leia: Colossenses 3:12-17

A Bíblia em um ano: Neemias 4–6, Atos 2:22-47

…Assim como o Senhor vos perdoou, assim também perdoai vós. v.13

Quando Bill Husted compareceu a sua quadragésima reunião com colegas de escola, havia duas reuniões de ex-alunos no mesmo prédio naquele dia, e ele estava na sala errada.

Husted escrevia sobre tecnologia para um jornal, e usava essa experiência para ilustrar uma de suas afirmações sobre a resolução de problemas de informática: Observe primeiro o óbvio. Antes de trocar a placa de som, assegure-se de que o controle de volume não esteja baixo. Se o modem não estiver funcionando, verifique se está conectado.

“Observar primeiro o óbvio” pode ser um bom princípio para acabar também com os problemas espirituais. A carta aos Colossenses 3:12-17 enumera uma dúzia de qualidades espirituais que são evidências de uma alma saudável. Dentre elas se destacam: a compaixão, bondade, humildade, mansidão, paciência, perdão, amor e gratidão.

Antes de criticar nossa igreja ou outros grupos cristãos, devemos pedir que o Senhor nos revele os nossos próprios defeitos. Antes de desligar os fios dos relacionamentos, devemos observar se a paciência e o perdão estão conectados em nosso coração.

É bom olhar para o nosso interior — verificar primeiro o óbvio — mesmo quando acharmos que todos os nossos problemas são causados pelos outros.

O amor cristão é paciente com as falhas dos outros.

por David C. McCasland

© 2017 Ministérios Pão Diário

Lời Sống Hằng Ngày - Làm Cho Sống

Đọc: Ê-phê-sô 2:1-10

Đọc Kinh Thánh suốt năm: Nê-hê-mi 4-6; Công vụ 2:22-47

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Anh em đã chết vì những vi phạm và tội lỗi của mình. Ê-phê-sô 2:1

Lúc trẻ, khi bố tôi cùng một nhóm bạn đi dự một sự kiện thể thao ngoài thị trấn thì xe họ bị trượt bánh trên đường mưa. Họ đã gặp tai nạn — một tai nạn nghiêm trọng. Một người bạn của bố bị liệt và một người khác tử vong. Bố tôi được tuyên bố là đã chết và được đưa đến nhà xác. Bố mẹ của bố vô cùng sốc và đau buồn, họ đến đó để nhận dạng con mình. Nhưng bố tôi đã tỉnh lại và hóa ra đó chỉ là một cơn hôn mê sâu. Sự than khóc của họ đổi thành vui mừng.

Trong Ê-phê-sô chương 2, sứ đồ Phao-lô nhắc nhở chúng ta rằng nếu không có Đấng Christ thì chúng ta đang “chết vì những vi phạm và tội lỗi của mình” (c. 1). Nhưng bởi tình yêu vĩ đại của Ngài dành cho chúng ta, “Đức Chúa Trời, là Đấng giàu lòng thương xót,… nên ngay khi chúng ta đã chết vì những vi phạm thì Ngài khiến chúng ta cùng sống với Đấng Christ” (c. 4-5). Nhờ Đấng Christ, chúng ta được đem từ sự chết đến sự sống.

Vì vậy, theo ý nghĩa nào đó, tất cả chúng ta đều nợ Cha Thiên Thượng sự sống của mình. Nhờ tình yêu vĩ đại của Ngài, Ngài đã khiến chúng ta, những người đã chết trong tội lỗi, có thể sống và sống có mục đích qua Con Ngài.

Cảm ơn Cha vì tình yêu của Ngài đã chiến thắng tội lỗi, sự sống của Ngài đã chiến thắng sự chết và ân điển của Ngài đã chinh phục tấm lòng con. Nguyện đời sống con là hương thơm ngọt ngào tôn vinh Ngài.

Chúng ta mắc một món nợ không thể trả, còn Chúa Jêsus đã trả món nợ không phải của Ngài.

bởi Bill Crowder

© 2017 Lời Sống Hằng Ngày

Nuestro Pan Diario - De muerte a vida

Leer: Efesios 2:1-10

La Biblia en un año: Nehemías 4–6; Hechos 2:22-47

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… estabais muertos en vuestros delitos y pecados (v. 1).

Cuando era joven, mi papá estaba viajando con un grupo de amigos a un evento deportivo en otra ciudad, cuando los neumáticos del auto se deslizaron en la ruta empapada por la lluvia. Tuvieron un accidente grave; uno de sus amigos quedó paralizado y otro murió. A mi papá lo declararon muerto y lo llevaron a la morgue. Sus padres, conmocionados y afligidos, fueron a identificarlo. Sin embargo, mi papá revivió de lo que resultó ser un coma profundo. Su lamento se transformó en alegría.

En Efesios 2, el apóstol Pablo nos recuerda que, lejos de Cristo, estamos «muertos en [nuestros] delitos y pecados» (v. 1). Pero, debido a su gran amor por nosotros, «Dios, que es rico en misericordia, […] aun estando nosotros muertos en pecados, nos dio vida juntamente con Cristo» (vv. 4-5). A través de Cristo, pasamos de muerte a vida.

Así que, en cierto sentido, le debemos nuestra vida al Padre en el cielo. Su gran amor hizo posible que todos los que estábamos muertos en pecado tuviéramos vida y un propósito a través de su Hijo.

Gracias, Padre, por el amor que vence el pecado, por la vida que derrota la muerte y por la gracia que ha conquistado mi corazón. Que mi vida pueda desprender un perfume agradable de alabanza para ti.

Teníamos una deuda que no podíamos saldar; Jesús pagó la deuda que Él no debía.

Por Bill Crowder

© 2017 Ministerios Nuestro Pan Diario

Unser Täglich Brot - Lebendig gemacht

Lesen: Epheser 2,1-10

Die Bibel In Einem Jahr: Nehemia 4–6; Apostelgeschichte 2,22-47

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Auch ihr wart tot durch eure Übertretungen und Sünden. Epheser 2,1

Als junger Mann war mein Vater einmal mit ein paar Freunden unterwegs zu einer Sportveranstaltung, als sie mit dem Auto auf regennasser Straße ins Schleudern kamen. Sie hatten einen Unfall—einen schweren Unfall. Einer seiner Freunde kam ums Leben, der andere war danach querschnittsgelähmt. Mein Vater wurde für tot erklärt und ins Leichenschauhaus gebracht. Seine erschütterten Eltern wurden herbeigerufen, um ihn zu identifizieren. Aber mein Vater erwachte aus dem tiefen Koma und aus Trauer wurde Freude.

In Epheser 2 erinnert der Apostel Paulus uns daran, dass wir ohne Christus „tot durch [unsre] Übertretungen und Sünden“ sind (V.1). Aber wegen seiner großen Liebe hat Gott, „der reich ist an Barmherzigkeit . . . auch uns, die wir tot waren in den Sünden, mit Christus lebendig gemacht“ (V.4-5). Durch Jesus sind wir vom Tod ins Leben gebracht worden.

Wir alle verdanken unser Leben in gewissem Sinne unserem Vater im Himmel. In seiner großen Liebe hat er es möglich gemacht, dass wir, die wir aufgrund unserer Sünde tot waren, durch seinen Sohn nun Leben und ein Ziel haben.

Danke, Vater, für die Liebe, die die Sünde besiegt, für das Leben, das den Tod überwindet, und die Barmherzigkeit, mit der du mein Herz gewonnen hast. Ich will dich mit meinem ganzen Leben preisen.

Wir häufen Schulden an, die wir nicht zahlen können. Jesus zahlte die Schulden, die er nicht angehäuft hatte.

Von Bill Crowder

© 2017 Unser Täglich Brot

Notre Pain Quotidien - Rempli de joie

Lisez : Jean 15.9‑16

survol de la Bible: JEAN 1.19‑34

Je vous ai dit ces choses, afin que ma joie soit en vous, et que votre joie soit parfaite (V. 11).

Dans son livre classique Orthodoxie, G. K. Chesterton a écrit : « [Les enfants] veulent que les choses se répètent et ne changent pas. Ils disent toujours : “Fais-le encore !” ; et l’adulte le fait encore, jusqu’à ce qu’il soit presque mort. Car les adultes ne sont pas assez vigoureux pour exulter dans la monotonie. Dieu, lui, est peut-être assez vigoureux pour exulter dans la monotonie. Il est possible que Dieu chaque matin dise au soleil : “Fais-le encore !”, et chaque soir à la lune : “Fais-le encore !” Ce n’est peut-être pas une nécessité automatique qui fait semblables toutes les marguerites ; c’est peut-être que Dieu fait chaque marguerite séparément, sans être jamais fatigué de les faire. »

Chesteron saisit bien cette vérité : Notre Dieu est rempli de joie ; il est enjoué même. Il doit l’être, avec toutes les choses fascinantes, amusantes et égayantes qu’il a créées ! Il ne fait aucun doute que notre Dieu semble chérir les choses ordinaires quoique belles. Toutefois, dans sa créativité, l’ordinaire est extraordinaire. Dieu continue de nous enchanter avec le panorama de sa création. De plus, Dieu le Père, le Fils et le Saint-Esprit prennent part à cet amour et à cette joie ensemble.

Dans Romains 14.17, Paul a écrit : « Car le royaume de Dieu, ce n’est pas le manger et le boire, mais la justice, la paix et la joie, par le Saint-Esprit. » Et dans 15.13 il a déclaré : « Que le Dieu de l’espérance vous remplisse de toute joie et de toute paix dans la foi, pour que vous abondiez en espérance. » La joie est une caractéristique de la vie dans le royaume rendue possible grâce à l’Esprit quand nous croyons en Dieu.

Jésus a dit : « Si vous gardez mes commandements, vous demeurerez dans mon amour […] Je vous ai dit ces choses, afin que ma joie soit en vous, et que votre joie soit parfaite » (JN 15.10,11). Même dans ce qui est ordinaire et monotone nous pouvons trouver la joie que Dieu dégage.

Lisez 1 Pierre 1.6‑8 et examinez ce que l’apôtre Paul dit au sujet de la joie qui découle des épreuves de la vie.

Qu’est-ce qui devrait changer dans votre vie de sorte que vous puissiez connaître la joie du royaume ? Comment pouvez-vous puiser davantage dans la joie de Dieu ?

par Marlena Graves

© 2017 Ministères NPQ

Хліб Наш Насущній - Повернення до життя

Читати: Ефесян 2:1-10

Біблія за рік: Неемії 4–6 ; Дії 2:22-47

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І вас, що мертві були через ваші провини й гріхи… оживив. — Ефесян 2:1, 5

Коли мій татко був ще юнаком, сталося, що коли він з компанією друзів їхав за місто на якийсь спортивний захід, їхню машину занесло через мокре дорожнє покриття. Сталася аварія… жахлива аварія. Один із друзів татка загинув миттєво, а інший залишився паралізованим. Самого ж мого татка лікар визнав мертвим і його відправили до моргу. Але коли шоковані, вбиті горем батьки мого татка прийшли у морг для ідентифікації тіла, він раптом прийшов до тями. Як з’ясувалося, він лише перебував у глибокій комі. Того ранку смуток обернувся у радість.

У Посланні до ефесян апостол Павло нагадує нам, що без Христа ми були “мертві через свої провини й гріхи” (Еф. 2:1). Але Бог, Який багатий на милосердя, через Свою превелику любов, що нею Він нас полюбив, “нас, що мертві були через прогріхи, оживив разом із Христом” (Еф. 2:5). В Христі ми перейшли із смерті в життя.

Отже, всі ми зобов’язані своїм життям Небесному Отцю. Завдяки Його любові стало можливим, щоб ті з нас, хто колись були мертвими у своїх гріхах, тепер мали через Божого Сина сенс життя і жили вічно з Ним.

Дякую Тобі, Отче, за Твою любов, що перемогла гріх; за життя, що перемогло смерть; і за благодать, що підкорила моє серце. Нехай моє життя буде приємними пахощами для Тебе!

Ми мали борг, який неспроможні були сплатити, а Христос сплатив його.

Автор Білл (Уїльям) Краудер

© 2017 Хліб Наш Насущній

Хлеб наш насущный - Возвращение к жизни

Читать сейчас: Ефесянам 2:1-10

Библия за год: Неемия 4-6; Деяния 2:22-47

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Вас, мертвых по преступлениям и грехам вашим... оживотворил... — Ефесянам 2:1, 5

В молодости мой отец отправился с друзьями на загородное спортивное мероприятие. Перед этим прошел дождь, и водитель автомобиля не справился с управлением. Они попали в аварию… страшную аварию. Один из его друзей остался парализованным, другой погиб. Отца сочли мертвым и отправили в морг. Потрясенные родители приехали опознать тело. Но папа очнулся от глубокой комы и выжил. Скорбь превратилась в радость.

В Послании к ефесянам Павел напоминает, что без Христа мы мертвы и потеряны (Еф. 2:1). Но «Бог, богатый милостью, по Своей великой любви… нас, мертвых по преступлениям, оживотворил со Христом» (Еф. 2:4-5). Благодаря Спасителю умершие вернулись к жизни.

Поэтому мы все обязаны жизнью Небесному Отцу. По Своей великой любви Он сделал возможным то, чтобы мертвые во грехах обрели жизнь и смысл в Его Сыне.

Благодарю Тебя, Отче, за любовь, которая побеждает грех, и благодать, которая покорила мое сердце. Пусть моя жизнь станет приятным благоуханием хвалы Твоему имени.

Мы были в неоплатном долгу, но за нас заплатил Христос.

автор: Билл Краудер

© 2017 Хлеб Наш Насущный

The Daily Readings for THURSDAY, June 15, 2017

Opening Sentence

The Lord is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before him. Habakkuk 2:20

Confession of Sin

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen

Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in eternal life. Amen

Morning Prayer

AND since it is of thy mercy, O gracious Father, that another day is added to my life; I here dedicate both my soul and my body to thee and thy service, in a sober, righteous, and godly life: in which resolution, do thou, O merciful God, confirm and strengthen me; that, as I grow in age, I may grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen

The Old Testament Lesson

The Old Testament Lesson for today is taken from Ecclesiasticus 44:19-45:5

Abraham was the great father of a multitude of nations, and no one has been found like him in glory. He kept the law of the Most High, and entered into a covenant with him; he certified the covenant in his flesh, and when he was tested he proved faithful. Therefore the Lord assured him with an oath that the nations would be blessed through his offspring; that he would make him as numerous as the dust of the earth, and exalt his offspring like the stars, and give them an inheritance from sea to sea and from the Euphrates to the ends of the earth. To Isaac also he gave the same assurance for the sake of his father Abraham. The blessing of all people and the covenant he made to rest on the head of Jacob; he acknowledged him with his blessings, and gave him his inheritance; he divided his portions, and distributed them among twelve tribes. From his descendants the Lord brought forth a godly man, who found favor in the sight of all and was beloved by God and people, Moses, whose memory is blessed. He made him equal in glory to the holy ones, and made him great, to the terror of his enemies. By his words he performed swift miracles; the Lord glorified him in the presence of kings. He gave him commandments for his people, and revealed to him his glory. For his faithfulness and meekness he consecrated him, choosing him out of all humankind. He allowed him to hear his voice, and led him into the dark cloud, and gave him the commandments face to face, the law of life and knowledge, so that he might teach Jacob the covenant, and Israel his decrees.

The Epistle Lesson

The Epistle Lesson for today is taken from 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

It is necessary to boast; nothing is to be gained by it, but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a person in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven-- whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows. And I know that such a person-- whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows-- was caught up into Paradise and heard things that are not to be told, that no mortal is permitted to repeat. On behalf of such a one I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me, even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.

The Holy Gospel Lesson

The Holy Gospel is written in Luke 19:28-40

After he had said this, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."

Morning Psalms

Psalm 70 Deus, in adjutorium
1   Be pleased, O God, to deliver me; O LORD, make haste to help me.
2   Let those who seek my life be ashamed and altogether dismayed; let those who take pleasure in my misfortune draw back and be disgraced.
3   Let those who say to me "Aha!" and gloat over me turn back, because they are ashamed.
4   Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you; let those who love your salvation say for ever, "Great is the LORD!"
5   But as for me, I am poor and needy; come to me speedily, O God.
6   You are my helper and my deliverer; O LORD, do not tarry.

Psalm 71 In te, Domine, speravi
1   In you, O LORD, have I taken refuge; let me never be ashamed.
2   In your righteousness, deliver me and set me free; incline your ear to me and save me.
3   Be my strong rock, a castle to keep me safe; you are my crag and my stronghold.
4   Deliver me, my God, from the hand of the wicked, from the clutches of the evildoer and the oppressor.
5   For you are my hope, O LORD God, my confidence since I was young.
6   I have been sustained by you ever since I was born; from my mother's womb you have been my strength; my praise shall be always of you.
7   I have become a portent to many; but you are my refuge and my strength.
8   Let my mouth be full of your praise and your glory all the day long.
9   Do not cast me off in my old age; forsake me not when my strength fails.
10   For my enemies are talking against me, and those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together.
11   They say, "God has forsaken him; go after him and seize him; because there is none who will save."
12   O God, be not far from me; come quickly to help me, O my God.
13   Let those who set themselves against me be put to shame and be disgraced; let those who seek to do me evil be covered with scorn and reproach.
14   But I shall always wait in patience, and shall praise you more and more.
15   My mouth shall recount your mighty acts and saving deeds all day long; though I cannot know the number of them.
16   I will begin with the mighty works of the Lord GOD; I will recall your righteousness, yours alone.
17   O God, you have taught me since I was young, and to this day I tell of your wonderful works.
18   And now that I am old and gray-headed, O God, do not forsake me, till I make known your strength to this generation and your power to all who are to come.
19   Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens; you have done great things; who is like you, O God?
20   You have showed me great troubles and adversities, but you will restore my life and bring me up again from the deep places of the earth.
21   You strengthen me more and more; you enfold and comfort me,
22   Therefore I will praise you upon the lyre for your faithfulness, O my God; I will sing to you with the harp, O Holy One of Israel.
23   My lips will sing with joy when I play to you, and so will my soul, which you have redeemed.
24   My tongue will proclaim your righteousness all day long, for they are ashamed and disgraced who sought to do me harm.

Evening Psalms

Psalm 74 Ut quid, Deus?
1   O God, why have you utterly cast us off? why is your wrath so hot against the sheep of your pasture?
2   Remember your congregation that you purchased long ago, the tribe you redeemed to be your inheritance, and Mount Zion where you dwell.
3   Turn your steps toward the endless ruins; the enemy has laid waste everything in your sanctuary.
4   Your adversaries roared in your holy place; they set up their banners as tokens of victory.
5   They were like men coming up with axes to a grove of trees; they broke down all your carved work with hatchets and hammers.
6   They set fire to your holy place; they defiled the dwelling-place of your Name and razed it to the ground.
7   They said to themselves, "Let us destroy them altogether." They burned down all the meeting-places of God in the land.
8   There are no signs for us to see; there is no prophet left; there is not one among us who knows how long.
9   How long, O God, will the adversary scoff? will the enemy blaspheme your Name for ever?
10   Why do you draw back your hand? why is your right hand hidden in your bosom?
11   Yet God is my King from ancient times, victorious in the midst of the earth.
12   You divided the sea by your might and shattered the heads of the dragons upon the waters;
13   You crushed the heads of Leviathan and gave him to the people of the desert for food.
14   You split open spring and torrent; you dried up ever-flowing rivers.
15   Yours is the day, yours also the night; you established the moon and the sun.
16   You fixed all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.
17   Remember, O LORD, how the enemy scoffed, how a foolish people despised your Name.
18   Do not hand over the life of your dove to wild beasts; never forget the lives of your poor.
19   Look upon your covenant; the dark places of the earth are haunts of violence.
20   Let not the oppressed turn away ashamed; let the poor and needy praise your Name.
21   Arise, O God, maintain your cause; remember how fools revile you all day long.
22   Forget not the clamor of your adversaries, the unending tumult of those who rise up against you.

The Nicene Creed

We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.

We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen

Prayer of the Day

Almighty God, who pours out the spirit of grace and of supplication to all who ask for it; Deliver me, when I draw near to you, from coldness of heart and wanderings of mind, so that with steadfast thoughts and kindled affections, I may worship You in spirit and in truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

A Prayer for Guidance

Oh my God, you know my weakness and failings, and that without your help I can accomplish nothing for the good of souls, my own and others'. Grant me, therefore, the help of your grace, according to my particular needs this day. Enable me to see the tasks you will set before me in the daily routine of my life, and let me set my hand to these tasks with the vigor and joy of one with whom you abide. And if I should face trials, suffering or failure, I pray that your hand will lift me up, and I may be refreshed. In the name of Christ, I pray, Amen

A Prayer for Mission

O God, you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth, and sent your blessed Son to preach peace to those who are far off and to those who are near: Grant that people everywhere may seek after you and find you; bring the nations into your fold; pour out your Spirit upon all flesh; and hasten the coming of your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Aled Jones "Be Still"

Lyrics

Be still, for the presence of the Lord,
the holy One, is here;
come bow before him now
with reverence and fear
in him no sin is found
we stand on holy ground.
Be still, for the presence of the Lord,
the holy One, is here.

Be still, for the glory of the Lord
is shining all around;
he burns with holy fire,
with splendour he is crowned:
how awesome is the sight
our radiant king of light!
Be still, for the glory of the Lord
is shining all around.

Be still, for the power of the Lord
is moving in this place:
he comes to cleanse and heal,
to minister his grace -
no work too hard for him.
In faith receive from him.
Be still, for the power of the Lord
is moving in this place.

Music and Lyrics by Aled Jones

Alleluia! Christ has risen.
Christ has risen indeed. Alleluia!

Let the word of Christ richly dwell within me all this day; and whatever I do in word or deed, may I do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Amen

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The New Revised Standard Version Bible may be quoted and/or reprinted up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided the verses quoted do not amount to a complete book of the Bible or account for fifty percent (50%) of the total work in which they are quoted.

Prayer of the Day for THURSDAY, June 15, 2017

Almighty God, who pours out the spirit of grace and of supplication to all who ask for it; Deliver me, when I draw near to you, from coldness of heart and wanderings of mind, so that with steadfast thoughts and kindled affections, I may worship You in spirit and in truth; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Verse of the Day for THURSDAY, June 15, 2017

2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV) But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

Read all of 2 Corinthians 12

Listen to 2 Corinthians 12

Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Morning Devotions with Cap'n Kenny - Why Are You Here?

Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will thank you forever and ever, praising your greatness from generation to generation.

~ Psalm 79:13 (NLT)

I was speaking with a Christian man who had recently had a surgery done. He could have died in the process of it, and the experience had made an impact on his life. He told me that he worked in sales, but he was beginning to reevaluate his life. He said, “You know, I’m beginning to wonder if I should be doing this anymore. I’m wondering what I should do with my life.”

I think sometimes when people have experiences like this, they may think, “I need to quit what I’m doing and go on the mission field or be in full-time ministry.” Maybe the Lord would lead you to do that. Then again, maybe He would have you stay exactly right where you are and glorify Him there.

This man had become more aware of the fact that God spared his life and put him on this earth for a reason. I told him, “God put you here to glorify Him. That is why you’re here. And there will come a point in your life when you will realize that life is more about significance than it is about success.”

This idea may come as a revelation to some people, because they think they are here to find personal happiness. Actually, that is not why they exist. And if they chase after personal happiness, they never will find it. We are here to glorify God.

That is why every one of us has been placed on this earth: to bring glory to the God who made us. Jesus said, “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit” (John 15:8 NKJV).

Wherever you are, whatever you are doing, make sure that you can glorify God while you are doing it. That is the reason you are here.

In Jesus,
Cap'n Kenny


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Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV® Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation®, NLT® copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Devotion by Greg Laurie © 2017 Harvest Christian Fellowship; all rights reserved.

Un Dia a la Vez - Oración por sabiduría de Dios

Porque el Señor da la sabiduría; conocimiento y ciencia brotan de sus labios.

~ Proverbios 2:6 (NVI)

Padre, en estos días estaba escuchando una enseñanza del pastor Charles Stanley donde hablaba de lo poderoso que es orar e interceder por otras personas, y que cuando uno ora por las necesidades de los demás, tú respondes de una manera especial.

Yo lo he experimentado con la oración diaria en el programa de la radio.

Por eso quiero, mi Dios, interceder durante este devocional por las necesidades de tus hijos y que desde el cielo hagas tu santa voluntad.

Dios mío, te suplico que le des a cada uno de mis amigos y hermanos mucha sabiduría. Tú dices que a cada uno se nos ha dado una porción y que te la pidamos si necesitamos más.

Padre, necesitamos ser sabios para que las decisiones que tomemos sean adecuadas. Para que las palabras que digamos, y aun nuestros pensamientos, estén llenos de ti y de tu santa voluntad.

Sabemos que tendremos situaciones que enfrentar, pero no queremos seguir equivocándonos y arrastrando a nuestros seres queridos.

Todo esto te lo pedimos en el nombre de Jesús.

Amén y amén.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón

Standing Strong Through the Storm - PERSISTENT PRAYER

As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you.

~ 1 Samuel 12:23a (NIV)

An important aspect of prayer is to pray patiently. God meets our needs “at the proper time” (Galatians 6:9). Too often Christians weary of praying, and give up. This is often justified on the basis that God's failure to answer means the request is not according to His will. Remember, God can:

Deliver - whatever we ask in His name;

Delay - to fit His perfect timing (only He sees the end from the beginning);

Deny - and say ‘No’ because we ask amiss or give a

Different and better answer.

Jesus urges us to be persistent in prayer (Luke 11:5-8). This does not mean that God does not want to meet our needs and that we need to try to persuade Him. It simply means that only God, who completely understands the whole situation, can know when and how to answer. Only when we have assurance in our hearts from the Lord, should we remove a matter from our prayer list.

Many times Christians lose heart in prayer because they do not recognize when the Lord does answer their prayers. Sometimes this is due to the fact that they did not pray specifically enough and sometimes because they have decided in advance how God must answer. Perhaps they think that only a great miracle can meet their need.

But the Lord may change the circumstances so that the need seems to be supplied “naturally.” Mature believers will recognize that the events of everyday life also come from the Lord. Our daily bread and safety are miracles of God in this troubled world Let us not presume to tell God how to answer, and let us praise Him for His daily care.

RESPONSE: Today I will acknowledge God gives His best to those who leave the choices to Him.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to be patient and persistent…and leave the answers to my prayers in Your hands.

NIV Devotions for Men - Shadow of a Doubt

Genesis 3:1–15

Recommended Reading: John 1:14–18; 2 Timothy 3:16—4:8; 2 Peter 1:12–21

What happens when people act in direct opposition to what they know is right? This activity happens on a number of levels. When a person who’s trying hard to lose weight consistently binges on pizza and ice cream, disappointment ensues. When an individual commits a crime, victims suffer and the perpetrator risks jail time. When a husband or wife chooses to engage in an extramarital affair, the marriage is damaged—sometimes beyond repair—and children suffer the consequences. When a CEO decides to overlook or sometimes even encourage accounting inconsistencies, giant corporations fail, high-level indictments follow and investors lose their savings.

What do all of the scenarios outlined above have in common? Every one of these accounts, as well as countless other failure-filled stories, can trace its origin to the book of Genesis. Today’s reading gives us a glimpse of the first failure to follow a direct command from God and the devastating results of that failure. We see the repercussions of this disobedience reflected in the daily news—and, if we’re honest, reflected in our own darkened hearts.

At first, Adam and Eve were sure of God’s instructions. There was no doubt. They knew exactly what God wanted because they received their marching orders straight from the Creator himself. Still, a simple challenge (“Did God really say …?”) from the serpent shook Eve’s confidence to the core. Once she questioned what she knew to be true, she became vulnerable to Satan’s temptation. When she and Adam then acted in violation of God’s direct command, sin invaded what had been an unimaginably perfect paradise.

Spiritually speaking, what are you sure of beyond the shadow of a doubt? What do you know to be true? Where does your certainty come from? These are important questions to answer because you face tests every day that can undermine your Biblical marching orders. People may question your mental capacity: “How can an educated person believe in intelligent design when there’s so much evidence to support evolution?” Others may accuse you of being narrow-minded: “How can you say Jesus is the only way to God?” Some may appeal to your sense of freedom: “Doesn’t God want you to have any fun?” Still others might attack the source of your trust: “The Bible is full of inconsistencies, and you’re choosing to base your life on this book?”

How prepared are you for the assaults that will come your way? Do you have a tight grip on God’s truth? Think about this today: How will God’s truth impact your actions—from the time you set foot on the floor in the morning to the minute you go to bed tonight?

To Take Away

• What are your core faith beliefs—the spiritual truths you are sure of? Take a minute and write down three or four statements that sum up these truths.
• When was the last time someone challenged your faith? How did it affect you?
• How did you respond to the challenge? What would you do differently next time?

Girlfriends in God - June 15, 2017

At the Corner of Stalling and Sin

Mary Southerland

Today’s Truth

To one who knows the right thing to do, and does not do it, to him, it is sin (James 4:17, NASB).

Friend to Friend

Procrastination is one of the greatest sources of stress in life. I once heard a preacher tell the old story of three demons who were arguing over the best way to destroy the Christian movement. The first demon had it all figured out. “Let’s tell all the Christians that there is no heaven. If we take away the reward incentive, their movement will collapse,” he said. The second demon responded with, “No, I have a better idea. Let’s tell all the Christians that there really is no hell. If we take away their fear of punishment, their movement will collapse.” The third demon offered, “Both of those are great ideas, but there is a better way. Let’s tell all the Christians that there is no hurry.” The other demons applauded in delight! “That’s it!” they said. “Our best weapon of all is procrastination.”

Procrastination is understandable and normal – humanly speaking – but procrastination does not please God. We rarely view procrastination as sin, but it is.

Sin is not merely doing wrong. It is failing to do what you know you should do – when you know you should do it. Knowledge equals responsibility. Procrastination and disobedience are just opposite sides of the same coin.

Sin brings pleasure for only a moment. Procrastination is different in that it helps us avoid doing the things we don’t want to do – the tasks that require personal discipline and a commitment to godly goals. Wasting time often creates a restless feeling that produces a sense of failure. When the deadline we were supposed to meet has come and gone, or the dreaded task we keep putting off spirals out of control – guilt sets in. We try to rationalize it away when the simple truth is that we have sinned.

The key to dealing with procrastination begins with a commitment to obey God and exercise His wisdom.

We can choose to be led by wisdom rather than our momentary feelings.

We can choose to make right choices.

We can learn to be good stewards of the time God has given us.

I once attended a leadership conference that changed my life in many ways. The speakers did not talk about money or success. They focused on the fact that God created each one of us in response to His unique plan for our lives. One of the simplest but most powerful mottos I came away from that conference with was: “Do it now!”

Do you realize that it takes as much energy to avoid a task as it does to just do it? Procrastination drains energy while action produces energy. God empowers us to do what He calls us to do.

Matthew 6:33 (NCV) “The thing you should want most is God’s kingdom and doing what God wants. Then all these other things you need will be given to you.”

Truth is for today. God is not impressed with good intentions. Obedience today is the greatest preparation for every tomorrow. So do what you know to do today! The Proverbs 31 woman did. In fact, Scripture tells us she could “laugh at the days to come” (Proverbs 31:25). In other words, this woman fully lived in the present but carefully planned and prepared for the future. Proverbs 31:19 indicates that she made thread with her hands and weaved her own cloth: “In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.” Notice she only made thread and cloth – not the finished product of clothes. That was a task for the future. She was simply getting ready today to meet the needs of tomorrow. The result was a life filled with hope and lived out in purpose.

Let’s Pray

Father, please forgive me for putting off what I know You want me to do. Help me learn to be more disciplined with my time. Teach me how to find and live by Your priorities for my life. I want to do what You created me to do, Lord. Show me how to live a life of power and purpose.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen

Now It’s Your Turn

Procrastination is really about loving self and pleasing self above others. Romans 12:10 tells us that we should love each other deeply and honor others more than ourselves. The moments God give us really do matter now and eternally. We are responsible for how we spend them. Each moment in time represents an eternal opportunity. Evaluate your life in light of these truths:

How well do I invest my time?

What one change can I make this week to overcome procrastination?

Ask a friend or family member to hold you accountable to make that change.

More from the Girlfriends

Looking for a Bible Study that is both practical and powerful? Check out Mary’s E-Book Bible Studies. Each one includes a study guide that you can download for your personal use or for a small group study. Time: Friend or Foe will help you learn how to manage time and set goals.

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