Standing Strong Through the Storm — THE WAY OF THE CROSS

 

THE WAY OF THE CROSS

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.

— Luke 14:27

Two days before the SSTS Seminar in a restricted Central Asia country, Pavel, a Christian leader, discovered the garage he was using to store restricted (illegal) Christian literature in the tribal language was broken into by youths and over 2000 pieces of literature stolen. Ironically, police discovered the literature being distributed at a nearby school by the mischievous youths and traced the ownership of the literature to Pavel.

He was “invited” to come to the police station. There he discovered that the authorities were open to receiving a bribe of one month’s salary in exchange for having the remaining literature returned, and the case closed. It was also suggested that he should pay the money before the police “found some drugs in his home” and be sent to jail for a longer period of time because he lacked the appropriate registration papers for being in this community.

Pavel now had two choices: pay the bribe and redeem most of the stolen literature which had come into the country at great personal and emotional risk past many police checkpoints, or wait and see how God intervened to bring glory to His name even if it meant a fine or imprisonment. Pavel knew that to pay the bribe would open the door to a pattern of further blackmail, as the police would now own him as “their man.”

During the 3-day SSTS seminar, the group met with Pavel and his wife and prayed with them each morning before going to the police station for further interrogation in the afternoons. Pavel had to decide by the third day. As he left for the police station, he told the group, “This SSTS seminar has changed my entire thinking on this matter. I am not paying the bribe. I am choosing ‘the way of the cross.’”

The latest reports are that Pavel’s case was resolved without a bribe, and he is still active in effective ministry in his country.

RESPONSE: Today, I again choose to walk “the way of the cross” as I make my decisions and choices.

PRAYER: Lord, help me never choose the easy way of the culture but to walk “the way of the cross!”

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.
Two days before the SSTS Seminar in a restricted Central Asia country, Pavel, a Christian leader, discovered the garage he was using to store restricted (illegal) Christian literature in the tribal language was broken into by youths and over 2000 pieces of literature stolen. Ironically, police discovered the literature being distributed at a nearby school by the mischievous youths and traced the ownership of the literature to Pavel.

John Piper Devotional — Radical Recompense

 

Radical Recompense

“Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.”

— Mark 10:29–30

What Jesus means here is that he himself makes up for every sacrifice.

• If you give up a mother’s nearby affection and concern, you get back one hundred times the affection and concern from the ever-present Christ.
• If you give up the warm comradeship of a brother, you get back one hundred times the warmth and comradeship of Christ.
• If you give up the sense of at-homeness you had in your house, you get back one hundred times the comfort and security of knowing that your Lord owns every house.

To prospective missionaries, Jesus says, “I promise to work for and be for you so much that you will not be able to speak of having sacrificed anything.”

What was Jesus’ attitude to Peter’s “sacrificial” spirit? Peter said, “We have left everything and followed you” (Mark 10:28). Is this the spirit of “self-denial” commended by Jesus? No, it is rebuked.

Jesus said, “No one ever sacrifices anything for me that I do not pay back a hundredfold—yes, in one sense even in this life, not to mention eternal life in the age to come.”
What Jesus means here is that he himself makes up for every sacrifice.

Un dia a la Vez — Jesús y los juramentos

 

Jesús y los juramentos

«Cuando ustedes digan “sí”, que sea realmente sí; y cuando digan “no”, que sea no. Cualquier cosa de más, proviene del maligno».

— Mateo 5:37

Desde siempre hemos escuchado que no debemos jurar, mucho menos usando el nombre de Dios en vano. Esto se debe a que Dios espera que digamos la verdad en todo momento.

En el Manual de Instrucciones también encontramos que el Señor espera que nuestra palabra sea sincera y que tengamos una sola respuesta. Cuando somos personas de una sola palabra, tenemos credibilidad y confiabilidad ante otros, mucho más al decir que somos cristianos. Si quedamos mal, también se afectará el nombre de Dios.

Cada vez que les prometamos algo a nuestros hijos, debemos cumplirlo. Les hacemos mucho daño si los ilusionamos con algo y no lo llevamos a cabo. Así que distingámonos y aprendamos a ser hombres y mujeres de carácter.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
Desde siempre hemos escuchado que no debemos jurar, mucho menos usando el nombre de Dios en vano.

Devocional CPTLN — Sospechosos para el mundo

 

Sospechosos para el mundo

Miren cuánto nos ama el Padre, que nos ha concedido ser llamados hijos de Dios. Y lo somos. El mundo no nos conoce, porque no lo conoció a él. Amados, ahora somos hijos de Dios, y aún no se ha manifestado lo que hemos de ser. Pero sabemos que, cuando él se manifieste, seremos semejantes a él porque lo veremos tal como él es. Y todo aquel que tiene esta esperanza en él, se purifica a sí mismo, así como él es puro.

— 1 Juan 3:1-3

¿Alguna vez te has sentido fuera de lugar en una fiesta? Es algo incómodo, sobre todo si el lugar es familiar y las caras son reconocibles.

A eso se refiere aquí Juan: a vivir en un lugar familiar sintiendo que no se encaja. Como seres humanos, nuestros impulsos y preferencias están conectados al mundo. Queremos ser aceptados, apreciados y amigables, y así será hasta que vean el "defecto" evidente en nuestro carácter: es decir, Cristo en nosotros (ver Gálatas 2:20). Entonces nos volvemos sospechosos: la "manzana podrida", una fuente de preocupación, y definitivamente un adversario.

No es de extrañar que sea así: el mundo no produce hijos de Dios. Solo Dios puede hacer eso (ver Juan 16:13-15). Y como no somos de este mundo, no nos sentimos en casa. Jesús conocía bien la alienación del mundo y su naturaleza hostil hacia Dios: »Si el mundo los aborrece, sepan que a mí me ha aborrecido antes que a ustedes. Si ustedes fueran del mundo, el mundo amaría lo suyo; pero el mundo los aborrece porque ustedes no son del mundo, aun cuando yo los elegí del mundo. »Acuérdense de la palabra que les he dicho: El siervo no es mayor que su señor. Si a mí me han perseguido, también a ustedes los perseguirán; si han obedecido mi palabra, también obedecerán la de ustedes. Pero todo esto les harán por causa de mi nombre, porque no conocen al que me ha enviado" (Juan 15:18-21).

Y este es nuestro objetivo, ¿no es así: contarles a otros sobre el Padre que envió a Jesús a morir por sus pecados? Así que, mientras vivimos en este mundo, aunque a veces esté tenso, oramos, trabajamos y testificamos a quienes necesitan escuchar acerca de Jesús, para que ellos también "puedan conocerlo a Él y el poder de su resurrección" (Filipenses 3:10b) y recibir una ciudadanía que no es de este mundo, sino del venidero (ver Filipenses 3:20).

ORACIÓN: Padre celestial, fortalece nuestra fe y aumenta nuestro testimonio. En el nombre de Jesús. Amén.

Paul Schreiber

Para reflexionar:

* ¿Alguna vez se ha sentido aislado o rechazado por otros debido a su fe?

* ¿Qué haces para que alguien "de afuera" sienta que también pertenece?

© Copyright 2020 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. Que a través de estos devocionales, la Palabra de Dios te refresque en tu diario caminar.
¿Alguna vez te has sentido fuera de lugar en una fiesta?

Ministérios Pão Diário — Do jeito dele, não do meu

 

Do jeito dele, não do meu

Escritura de hoje: Lucas 22:39-46

Bíblia em um ano: Jeremias 15–17; 2 Timóteo 2

Confie no Senhor de todo o coração; não dependa do seu próprio entendimento.

— Provérbios 3:5

Kamil e Joelle ficaram arrasados quando a filha de 8 anos foi diagnosticada com uma forma rara de leucemia. A doença gerou complicações como a meningite e um acidente vascular, e a garota entrou em coma. Os médicos aconselharam os pais a preparar o funeral de Rima, dando a ela menos de 1% de chance de sobreviver.

Os pais jejuaram e oraram por um milagre e Kamil sugeriu: —Precisamos orar e confiar em Deus sem restrições. E orar como Jesus: “…não o que eu quero, mas o que tu queres, Pai”. Joelle respondeu com sinceridade: —Quero tanto que Deus a cure! E o pai da garota, replicou: —Sim!, nós honramos a Deus quando nos entregamos a Ele, porque Jesus agiu assim!

Jesus orou antes de ir à cruz: “Pai, se queres, afasta de mim este cálice. Contudo, seja feita a tua vontade, e não a minha” (Lucas 22:42). Jesus não queria ir à cruz, mas submeteu-se ao Pai de amor. Ao orar “afasta de mim este cálice” Ele não pediu para se livrar da cruz; mas submeteu-se ao Pai por amor.

Não é fácil entregar nossos desejos a Deus, e pode ser difícil entender Sua sabedoria em momentos cruciantes. As orações deles foram respondidas de maneira incrível. Hoje, Rima é uma saudável adolescente de 15 anos.

Jesus compreende todas as lutas. Quando por amor a nós, Seu pedido não foi atendido, Ele nos mostrou como confiar em Deus em cada necessidade.

Por:  James Banks

Refletir & Orar

Pai, confio em Teu amor 
e me rendo a ti como Teu servo hoje.
Deus sempre merece o nosso louvor e compromisso.


© 2020 Ministérios Pão Diário
Kamil e Joelle ficaram arrasados quando a filha de 8 anos foi diagnosticada com uma forma rara de leucemia. A doença gerou complicações como a meningite e um acidente vascular, e a garota entrou em coma.

The Daily Bible Readings for TUESDAY, October 27, 2020

 

The Daily Readings
TUESDAY, October 27, 2020
Psalm 119:41-48; Exodus 34:29-35; James 2:14-26
The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Today’s Verse-of-the-Day:

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

The Bible lives, both because the Lord brought it into existence and because His Spirit brings its message to life in our hearts. It has His power to transform our lives and to keep us steadfastly anchored to Him when the storms of life strike. No other book in history has the inspiration, truth, and power of the Word of God.

Today’s Readings:

Psalm 119:41-48
I will keep God’s law

41 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord, even thy salvation, according to thy word.

42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments.

44 So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.

45 And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.

46 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.

47 And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

48 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

Commentary
Lord, I have by faith thy mercies in view; let me by prayer prevail to obtain them. And when the salvation of the saints is completed, it will plainly appear that it was not in vain to trust in God's word. We need to pray that we may never be afraid or ashamed to own God's truths and ways before men. And the psalmist resolves to keep God's law, in a constant course of obedience, without backsliding. The service of sin is slavery; the service of God is liberty. There is no full happiness or perfect liberty, but in keeping God's law. We must never be ashamed or afraid to own our religion. The more delight we take in the service of God, the nearer we come to perfection. Not only consent to his law as good but take pleasure in it as good for us. Let me put forth all the strength I have to do it. Something of this mind of Christ is in every true disciple.

Exodus 34:29-35
Moses’ shining face

34:29 And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses' hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with him.

30 And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.

31 And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him: and Moses talked with them.

32 And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh: and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him in mount Sinai.

33 And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a vail on his face.

34 But when Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he took the vail off, until he came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel that which he was commanded.

35 And the children of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face shone: and Moses put the vail upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.

Commentary
Close and spiritual communion with God improves the graces of a renewed and holy character. Serious godliness puts a luster upon a man's countenance, such as commands esteem and affection. The vail that Moses put on marked the obscurity of that dispensation, compared with the New Testament's gospel dispensation. It was also an emblem of the natural vail on the hearts of men respecting spiritual things. Also, the vail that was, and is, upon the nation of Israel, which can only be taken away by the Spirit of the Lord showing to them Christ, as the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. Fear and unbelief would put the vail before us; they would hinder our free approach to the mercy-seat above. We should spread our wants, temporal and spiritual, fully before our heavenly Father; we should tell him our hindrances, struggles, trails, and temptations; we should acknowledge our offenses.

James 2:14-26
Faith without works is dead

2:14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?

17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?

23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?

26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Commentary
Those are wrong who put a mere notional belief of the gospel for the whole of evangelical religion, as many now do. No doubt, true faith alone, whereby men have a part in Christ's righteousness, atonement, and grace, saves their souls; but it produces holy fruits, and is shown to be real by its effect on their works; while mere assent to any form of doctrine, or mere historical belief of any facts, wholly differs from this saving faith. A bare profession may gain the good opinion of pious people, and it may procure, in some cases, worldly good things; but what profit will it be, for any to gain the whole world, and to lose their souls? Can this faith save him? All things should be accounted profitable or unprofitable to us, as they tend to forward or hinder the salvation of our souls. This place of Scripture plainly shows that an opinion, or assent to the gospel, is not faith without works. There is no way to show we really believe in Christ, but by being diligent in good works, from gospel motives, and for gospel purposes. Men may boast to others and be conceited of that which they really have not. There is not only to be assent in faith but consent, not only an assent to the truth of the word but a consent to take Christ. True believing is not an act of the understanding only, but a work of the whole heart. That a justifying faith cannot be without works is shown from two examples, Abraham and Rahab. Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned unto him for righteousness.

Faith, producing such works, advanced him to peculiar favors. We see then, James 2:24, how that by works a man is justified, not by a bare opinion or profession, or believing without obeying, but by having such faith produce good works. And to have to deny his own reason, affections, and interests, is an action fit to try a believer. Observe here the wonderful power of faith in changing sinners. Rahab's conduct proved her faith to be living, or having power; it showed that she believed with her heart, not merely by an assent of the understanding. Let us then take heed, for the best works, without faith, are dead; they want root and principle. By faith, anything we do is really good, as done in obedience to God, and aiming at his acceptance: the root is as though it were dead when there is no fruit. Faith is the root; good works are the fruits, and we must see to it that we have both. This is the grace of God wherein we stand, and we should stand to it. There is no middle state. Every one must either live God's friend or God's enemy. Living to God, as it is the consequence of faith, which justifies and will save, obliges us to do nothing against him, but everything for him and to him. 

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV).

The Daily Bible Readings are selected from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, a three-year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2020, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2019 was Year C. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Readings for TUESDAY, October 27, 2020
Psalm 119:41-48; Exodus 34:29-35; James 2:14-26 (KJV)

Prayer of the Day for TUESDAY, October 27, 2020

 

Prayer of the Day
TUESDAY, October 27, 2020

We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.

— 2 Corinthians 4:8–10 (NIV)

Lord God, we thank you for your voice even when it is stern and we must go through hardship and suffering. Your voice speaks to us, and in your voice we can be glad and victorious in our life on earth. Come into our lives. May each of us realize that all we have gone through has been for the good. Be God and Lord over the nations. Be a refuge for all people. Grant that the sin and distress of this terrible time may soon pass and that we may hear your words, "Be comforted. I will come soon. All these terrors must pass by. My will is being done. My name must be honored. My kingdom and my rule are coming. So take heart and at all times look to your God and Father in heaven." Amen.

Verse of the Day for TUESDAY, October 27, 2020

 

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Read all of Hebrews 4

Listen to Hebrews 4

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Ichthus Ministries Daily Devotions — Not Ours to Keep

 

Not Ours to Keep

Then I saw another angel ascending from the rising of the sun, with the seal of the living God, and he called with a loud voice to the four angels who had been given power to harm earth and sea, saying, "Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads." ... After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!"

— Revelation 7:2-3, 9-10

Have you ever seen a seal? Most of us have the imprint of a seal on an official document somewhere—a birth or baptismal certificate, a marriage license, the deed to a house. The seal is the mark that makes the document official. It indicates that the proper authority has seen the paperwork and that it is all true, right, and correct.

In Jesus' day, a seal could be used as a sign of ownership. It was rather like we use signatures today—if you wanted to mark something as your own, you could put some clay or wax down, and push your seal into it. Or you could use ink and stamp the seal on to a document. "This is mine" was the message of the seal.

Sometimes it had a further message. The rock covering the entrance to Jesus' tomb was sealed by the authorities. The message here was very specific: "This is our affair. Don't mess with it."

In this passage from Revelation, we have an angel shouting a warning to the other angels who are about to do serious damage to the earth. He says, "Do not harm the earth or the sea or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads." What is the message here? God is saying, "These people are Mine. Don't mess with them!"

And that's the seal God has set on you at your Baptism, isn't it? When you were baptized, it was just as if God signed His Name on you: "This is Mine." It was like being sealed on the forehead: "This person is My affair. Let no one try to harm My child!"

God has marked you, sealed you, signed you as His own. And why? Because Jesus bought you back from death at the cost of His own life. He delivered you from the power of the devil, now and forever. And because He has risen from the dead, He always lives to keep you safe. You will never be destroyed. You are His. And in the end, you will see Him face to face.

Dear Lord, thank You for marking me as Yours. Amen.

Dr. Kari Vo

Reflection Questions:

1. What kinds of things do you mark as yours, and why?

2. When were you baptized, and under what circumstances?

3. When do you remember your Baptism? How does that help you?

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
Have you ever seen a seal? Most of us have the imprint of a seal on an official document somewhere—a birth or baptismal certificate, a marriage license, the deed to a house. The seal is the mark that makes the document official. It indicates that the proper authority has seen the paperwork and that it is all true, right, and correct.

Standing Strong Through the Storm — GOD FIRST

 

GOD FIRST

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

— Romans 1:16

Eighteen-year-old Nina lives in an Asian country where Buddhism is the faith of the majority. Since her mother is a devout Christian, she is constantly exposed to stories and lessons from God’s Word. At school, her faith in Jesus Christ is often tested. Because Nina showed a great aptitude at school, she was selected to be part of a team that would compete in a high school annual science competition. On the day of the competition, however, the Vice Principal, a very strict disciplinarian, decided to take the team to the Buddhist temple first. Nina fidgeted anxiously in her seat while aboard the school bus with her teammates.

As she tried to figure out what to do upon arriving at the monastery, the first of the Lord’s Ten Commandments resonated in her mind—no other gods, except Him. I can’t disobey my God after knowing who He is, she thought. Nina felt trapped and confused. Obeying God meant disobeying the Vice Principal. Nina uttered a silent prayer. “God, you changed the hearts of many kings before; surely, you can do it again! Please, Lord, speak to his heart!”

When the team reached the temple, everyone entered except Nina, who stood at the gate. As Nina’s teammates came out of the temple, the Vice Principal approached Nina with a stern look on his face. “Why did you not come to the temple with us?”

“Sir, I was born a Christian. When my mother gave birth to me, I was weak and at the point of death. Christians prayed for me, and God heard their prayers,” shared Nina.

“You could have just entered with us and not participate in the ceremonies,” explained the Vice Principal, whose face and tone softened. Nina knew then that God had just answered her prayers.

“I did not have peace in my heart. I felt that I would be disobeying God if I entered the temple, sir,” Nina responded. The Vice Principal did not pursue the matter any further; neither did he chide Nina for it. The team placed third during the science competition.

Nina testified during a youth training program that Open Doors organized. “I was surprised to see how God suddenly changed his heart; he rarely speaks that way to students. He is often firm and strong…His wife has had many miscarriages. I’m praying for his wife to have a baby soon. I’m also praying for him to know Jesus Christ. I’m sure it will happen someday!”

RESPONSE: Today, I will put God first in every situation I face.

PRAYER: Pray for all young Christians who face the cultural challenges against putting God first.

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.
Eighteen-year-old Nina lives in an Asian country where Buddhism is the faith of the majority. Since her mother is a devout Christian, she is continuously exposed to stories and lessons from God’s Word.

John Piper Devotional — Possible with God

 

Possible with God

“I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.”

— John 10:16

God has a people in every people group. He will call them with Creator power. And they will believe! What power is in these words for overcoming discouragement in the hard places of the frontiers!

The story of Peter Cameron Scott is a good illustration. Born in Glasgow in 1867, Scott became the founder of the Africa Inland Mission. But his beginnings in Africa were anything but promising.

His first trip to Africa ended in a severe attack of malaria that sent him home. He resolved to return after he recuperated. This return was especially gratifying to him because this time, his brother John joined him. But before long, John was struck down by fever.

All alone, Peter buried his brother and, in the agony of those days, recommitted himself to preach the gospel in Africa. Yet his health gave way again, and he had to return to England.

How would he ever pull out of the desolation and depression of those days? He had pledged himself to God. But where could he find the strength to go back to Africa? With man, it was impossible!

He found strength in Westminster Abbey. David Livingstone’s tomb is still there. Scott entered quietly, found the tomb, and knelt in front of it to pray. The inscription reads:

OTHER SHEEP I HAVE WHICH ARE NOT OF THIS FOLD; THEM ALSO I MUST BRING.

He rose from his knees with a new hope. He returned to Africa. And today, the mission he founded is a vibrant, growing force for the gospel in Africa.

If your greatest joy is to experience the infilling grace of God overflowing from you for the good of others, then the best news in all the world is that God will do the impossible through you for the salvation of the hidden peoples.
God has a people in every people group. He will call them with Creator power. And they will believe!

Un dia a la Vez — Jesús y el divorcio

 

Jesús y el divorcio

Por tanto, lo que Dios ha unido, que no lo separe el hombre.

— Marcos 10:9

El divorcio es un tema que me causa mucho dolor. En mi caso, me resulta muy triste debido a que he pasado por dos divorcios que me dolieron por varios años. En realidad, esto es traumático en gran medida y lo lamentable es que los más afectados son los niños.

En el primero, no conocía de Dios y no había principios, ni respeto. Incluso, llegué a vivir los primeros pasos de la violencia doméstica. En el segundo, fue más triste aun porque se trataba de una boda cristiana donde el amor no fue suficiente para lidiar con los problemas y nos dejamos llevar por el orgullo.

De estas dos experiencias aprendí que casarse no era cuestión de emoción, sino que es una decisión muy seria. Por lo tanto, Dios debe ser el que nos escoja esa pareja. En la Biblia, Él nos dice que la única ocasión en la que aprueba el divorcio es cuando ha habido adulterio.

Mi consejo es que si no estás en esta situación y solo te empeñas en divorciarte porque crees que todo está perdido, dale una oportunidad a Dios para restaurar tu hogar.

Recuerda, Él tiene la última palabra.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
El divorcio es un tema que me causa mucho dolor. En mi caso, me resulta muy triste debido a que he pasado por dos divorcios que me dolieron por varios años.

Devocional CPTLN — Apartado, sellado y salvador

 

Apartado, sellado y salvador

También vi que otro ángel venía por donde sale el sol. Tenía el sello del Dios vivo, y con grandes voces llamaba a los cuatro ángeles, los cuales habían recibido el poder de dañar a la tierra y al mar. Les dijo: «No dañen a la tierra, ni al mar ni a los árboles, hasta que a los siervos de nuestro Dios les hayamos puesto un sello en la frente.»... Después de esto vi aparecer una gran multitud compuesta de todas las naciones, tribus, pueblos y lenguas. Era imposible saber su número. Estaban de pie ante el trono, en presencia del Cordero, y vestían ropas blancas; en sus manos llevaban ramas de palma, y a grandes voces gritaban: «La salvación proviene de nuestro Dios, que está sentado en el trono, y del Cordero.»

— Apocalipsis 7:2-3, 9-10

¿Has visto alguna vez un sello? La mayoría de nosotros tenemos un sello impreso en algún documento oficial: el certificado de nacimiento o de bautismo, la licencia de matrimonio, la escritura de la casa, etc. Ese sello es la marca que oficializa el documento. Es lo que indica que la autoridad apropiada ha visto el papeleo y que todo es verdadero y correcto.

En los días de Jesús, un sello podía usarse como signo de propiedad: quien quería marcar algo como propio, ponía un poco de arcilla o cera y grababa allí su sello. Era el equivalente a nuestra firma hoy en día.

Pero algunas veces, el sello tenía un mensaje adicional, como cuando las autoridades sellaron la roca que cubría la entrada a la tumba de Jesús. El mensaje aquí fue muy específico: "Este es nuestro asunto. No te metas con esto".

En este pasaje de Apocalipsis, tenemos a un ángel gritando una advertencia a los otros ángeles que están a punto de causar un daño grave a la tierra. Él dice: "No dañen a la tierra, ni al mar ni a los árboles, hasta que a los siervos de nuestro Dios les hayamos puesto un sello en la frente". ¿Cuál es el mensaje aquí? Dios está diciendo: "Estas personas son mías. ¡No te metas con ellos!"

Y ese es el sello que Dios te ha puesto en tu Bautismo, ¿no es así? Cuando fuiste bautizado, fue como si Dios firmara su nombre en ti: "Eres mío". Es como estar sellado en la frente: "Esta persona es asunto Mío. ¡Que nadie intente dañar a este hijo Mío!"

Dios te ha marcado, sellado, firmado como suyo. ¿Por qué? Porque Jesús te rescató de la muerte a costa de su propia vida. Él te libró del poder del diablo ahora y para siempre. Y porque ha resucitado de entre los muertos, vive para mantenerte a salvo. Nunca serás destruido. Eres Suyo. Y al final, lo verás cara a cara.

ORACIÓN: Querido Señor, gracias por marcarme como tuyo. Amén.

Dra. Kari Vo

Para reflexionar:

* ¿Cuánto sabes de tu bautismo?

* ¿Qué significa para ti tu bautismo?

© Copyright 2020 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. Que a través de estos devocionales, la Palabra de Dios te refresque en tu diario caminar.
¿Has visto alguna vez un sello? La mayoría de nosotros tenemos un sello impreso en algún documento oficial: el certificado de nacimiento o de bautismo, la licencia de matrimonio, la escritura de la casa, etc.

The Daily Bible Readings for MONDAY, October 26, 2020

 

The Daily Readings
MONDAY, October 26, 2020
Psalm 119:41-48; Numbers 33:38-39; James 2:8-13
The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Today’s Verse-of-the-Day:

2 Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

The word inspired means that Scripture was God-breathed. Throughout history, the Lord chose faithful individuals to communicate His message to the world. Through them, He gave us His Word as an instruction book to guide our lives and as an immoveable anchor to hold us steady in times of storm. The Bible is the final authority for our faith and what we believe, which God reveals to us through His Holy Spirit.

God gave us His Word for an important reason: our spiritual growth. The Holy Spirit works through Scripture to rebuke and correct us when we sin, to train us in righteousness, to equip us to do His will, and to grow us into His image so that we can become His effective ambassadors for the gospel.

Today’s Readings:

Psalm 119:41-48
I will keep God’s law

41 Let thy mercies come also unto me, O Lord, even thy salvation, according to thy word.

42 So shall I have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.

43 And take not the word of truth utterly out of my mouth; for I have hoped in thy judgments.

44 So shall I keep thy law continually for ever and ever.

45 And I will walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.

46 I will speak of thy testimonies also before kings, and will not be ashamed.

47 And I will delight myself in thy commandments, which I have loved.

48 My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

Commentary
Lord, I have by faith thy mercies in view; let me by prayer prevail to obtain them. And when the salvation of the saints is completed, it will plainly appear that it was not in vain to trust in God's word. We need to pray that we may never be afraid or ashamed to own God's truths and ways before men. And the psalmist resolves to keep God's law, in a constant course of obedience, without backsliding. The service of sin is slavery; the service of God is liberty. There is no full happiness or perfect liberty, but in keeping God's law. We must never be ashamed or afraid to own our religion. The more delight we take in the service of God, the nearer we come to perfection. Not only consent to his law as good but take pleasure in it as good for us. Let me put forth all the strength I have to do it. Something of this mind of Christ is in every true disciple.

Numbers 33:38-39
Death of Aaron

33:38 And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the Lord, and died there, in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the first day of the fifth month.

39 And Aaron was an hundred and twenty and three years old when he died in mount Hor.

Commentary
Unexpectedly, the staging area of Mount Hor is singled out for special mention. It becomes the setting for a memorial notice to Aaron, the high priest, brother of Moses, who died here at the age of 123. Not only is his age given, but so is the date: the first day of the fifth month of the fortieth year. This is the second date in the list (the first being the date of their leaving Rameses on the fifteenth day of the first month of the first year). This means that the journeying from Tanis/Rameses to Mount Hor completes the forty years of desert wanderings.

The death of Aaron marks a pivotal date in the history of Israel. His death is regarded as having an atoning effect. Aaron was three years older than Moses. His great age was a mark of God's blessing in his life. By the mercy of the Lord, his time was extended to the very last year of Israel's desert experience, though his own sin kept him from living into the time of the conquest of the land.

The second notice given with respect to Israel's time at the staging area of Mount Hor is word concerning the king of Arad. Even the king who dwelled in the Negev of the land of Canaan knew of the coming of the people of Israel; the reference is to the story of 21:1-3, the first of Israel's victories on the military field—a promise for a new generation being different from their fathers.

James 2:8-13
Fulfilling the royal law

2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.

13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

Commentary
James warned Jewish believers that if they renounced Christ, they would once again be enslaved by the law, which had no true power in their lives. Even if they kept every command, they could not rid themselves of the sins they had already committed. This is true for us. We can never be “good enough” to earn salvation or the grace that God gives so freely. We are either completely obedient to God by accepting Christ—who fulfills the law completely—or we are disobedient. We cannot have it both ways.

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV).

The Daily Bible Readings are selected from the Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, a three-year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2020, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2019 was Year C. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Daily Readings for MONDAY, October 26, 2020
Psalm 119:41-48; Numbers 33:38-39; James 2:8-13 (KJV)

Prayer of the Day for MONDAY, October 26, 2020

 

Prayer of the Day
MONDAY, October 26, 2020

I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one..

John 17:11 (NIV)

Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior, stand at our side and protect us in all our days on earth. Grant us an understanding of the honor that belongs to God. Help us see that you are sent so that heaven and earth shall one day bow down before God's almighty will. Stand by us so that we may hear, understand, and accept your Word. Stand by us all our lives. Be with us in suffering and in our last hour when death comes to us. May your grace be with us. Help us at all times to be firmly rooted in the will of our God and Father in heaven. Amen.

Verse of the Day for MONDAY, October 26, 2020

 

2 Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

Read all of 2 Timothy 3

Listen to 2 Timothy 3

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Ichthus Ministries Daily Devotions — Armed with the Word

 

Armed with the Word

For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He adorns the humble with salvation. Let the godly exult in glory; let them sing for joy on their beds. Let the high praises of God be in their throats and two-edged swords in their hands.

— Psalm 149:4-6

Since we know we are sinful people, we may wonder at the statement, "The LORD takes pleasure in His people." Repentant honesty compels us to admit that we do not deserve God's pleasure. We sin daily in our thoughts, words, and actions, doing what we should not do and leaving undone a thousand good works that should be done. Why would the LORD be pleased with us?

God takes pleasure in us for the sake of His Son. At Jesus' Baptism, the Father spoke from heaven: "This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17b). Jesus fulfilled the purpose for which He had come. He was obedient to His Father, even to the point of death on the cross. The Savior was raised to life, and in Baptism we are buried and raised with Him. We are clothed in His righteousness and placed into a right relationship with God as His sons and daughters. God is pleased with us because He is pleased with His Son, in whom we have "become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21b).

Clothed in Christ, we are dressed for praise—and for battle. We live with "the high praises of God" in our throats and "two-edged swords" in our hands. We wield, by God's grace, "the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God" (Ephesians 6:17b). In the psalm, this double-edged weapon is used "to execute vengeance on the nations ... to execute on them the judgment written!" (see Psalm 149:7a, 9a) When Christ returns, those who have rejected Him as Savior and Lord will suffer God's just judgment. The mighty Lord will return with the armies of heaven and from His mouth will come "a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations" (Revelation 19:15b).

As we employ the powerful sword of the Word, we find that the two-edged weapon cuts both ways. The sharp edge of God's Law strikes home and "executes God's just judgments," revealing and condemning sin. The sweetly sharp edge of the Gospel delivers the good news of God's grace and forgiveness in Christ Jesus. Adorned now with salvation, we have Jesus' promise: "Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life" (John 5:24).

The risen Lord said that repentance and forgiveness of sins was to be preached in His Name to all nations. Wherever that message is proclaimed, the Spirit is at work through the two-edged sword of the Word, bringing sinners to repentance and creating faith in the Savior who redeemed them. We know that "there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents" (Luke 15:10b). If the angels are rejoicing, then we too can exult in glory and sing for joy—even on our beds!

Lord God, You are pleased with us for the sake of Your Son. We rejoice in Your gift of salvation and in the power of Your Word. Fill our voices with praise and with the good news of salvation in Jesus. Amen.

Dr. Carol Geisler

Reflection Questions:

1. Can you think of a time when you felt like God took pleasure in you?

2. What do you think it means for us to "exult in glory"? What might that look like?

3. Do you feel competent handling God's Word? What can you do to become better with it?

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
Since we know we are sinful people, we may wonder at the statement, "The LORD takes pleasure in His people."

Standing Strong Through the Storm — SACRIFICIAL GIVING

 

SACRIFICIAL GIVING

In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

— Luke 14:33

Johnny Li, a former colleague and current missionary trainer in China, shares about his meeting with two young pastors there:

As I entered the house, I was surprised to observe the humble existence of these two mighty men of God. They were the leaders of house churches in their provinces, which had grown the past nine years to more than 200,000 Christians. They were both in their late twenties, and even though they have been in the ministry since they were nineteen, their enthusiasm reflected beautifully.

Everybody knew about the work of the Lord through these faithful servants. I also knew that they both spent several years in prison in extremely harsh conditions, but nothing prepared me for this humble home and modest lifestyle.

There were no furniture items, no ornaments, and no beds in the small house. Their clothes were hanging on the wall due to a lack of cupboards. The only furniture was a table and a chair to sit on. There was a blanket on the ground that was obviously used as the bed. Together we sat down, and I started questioning them about their activities and work that was bearing much fruit.

“How often do you travel to neighboring villages?” I asked. “As often as possible,” they replied.

“Where do you obtain your finances to do so?” “We sell what we have,” they replied and supplied me with an explanation to the question about the empty house, which I dared not ask. “We sold the chairs, and we sold the cupboard,” they continued. “And that supplied much-needed funds for our outreach.”

“What happens when you have nothing more to sell?” One pastor looked sadly down to the ground and answered softly, “We find something else to sell.”

“But what?” I kept on pressuring them. “You have already sold everything and have nothing left to sell. How will you raise money now?” Then came the startling answer. “We sell our blood on the black market. We get about five dollars, but the need is so great that we have to do something to tell the people around us about Jesus.”

“How can you do this,” I asked. “How can you justify selling your blood to send out missionaries?” Without hesitation, they answered, “We have no choice! The need is so great!”

RESPONSE: Today, I will not complain about what I lack but think of what I can sacrifice for Jesus.

PRAYER: Lord, I reaffirm today my decision to follow You. I give You everything I am and have.

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.
Johnny Li, a former colleague and current missionary trainer in China, shares about his meeting with two young pastors there:

Women of the Bible — The Syrophoenician Woman

 

The Syrophoenician Woman

Her character: Though a Gentile, she addressed Jesus as "Lord, Son of David." Her great faith resulted in her daughter's deliverance.
Her sorrow: That an evil spirit possessed her child.
Her joy: That Jesus freed her daughter from spiritual bondage.
Key Scriptures: Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30

Her Story

Her body jerked and twisted, arms thrashing the air. Wide-eyed, the little girl spoke to ghosts her mother could not see, her face changing as rapidly as clouds in a sudden storm. Fear, surprise, and then a crazy kind of laughter, as though someone had stolen her soul. Dark hair stuck in gummy strands against her cheeks.

Her mother wondered what had become of the sweet child who had followed her like a puppy wherever she went, how she missed those soft kisses, and the button nose that had nuzzled her cheek. She had hardly slept these last few nights for fear of what her daughter might do to herself. Neither of them, she thought, could stand much more.

Just that morning, she had caught wind of a Jewish healer who, friends said, had come to Tyre hoping for relief from the crowds that mobbed him in Galilee. It didn't matter that Jews seldom mingled with Gentiles. She would go to him, beg his help, throw a fit herself if necessary. She would do whatever it took to get him to listen. It didn't take long to find him.

She approached Jesus, pleading, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is suffering terribly from demon-possession."

But Jesus ignored the woman, making no reply.

Finally, his disciples said to Jesus, "Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us."

But Jesus knew it would not be that easy to get rid of her. The only way, in fact, would be to answer her prayer. He told them, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel."

Hearing him, the woman fell at his feet again, imploring, "Lord, help me!"

Then Jesus turned and said, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs."

But the woman would not give up. "Yes, Lord," she said, "but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."

"Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted," Jesus said.

So the Syrophoenician woman returned to her daughter, who was delivered from the evil spirit the very same hour that Jesus had spoken.

Scripture doesn't describe the little girl of this story in any detail; it says only that a demon possessed her. But judging from similar incidents, such as that of the Gerasene demoniac, whose story is told in Luke 8, or the little boy in Matthew 17, who kept throwing himself in the fire, the signs of demonic possession were probably both obvious and frightening.

But why did Jesus seem so rude to the poor woman, ignoring her request and then referring to her and her child as dogs?

His response may sound a little less harsh when you realize that the word he used for "dogs" was not the derisive one Jews ordinarily reserved for Gentiles. Instead, it was the term used for little dogs kept as pets. Jesus was also making it clear that his primary mission was to the Israelites. Had Jesus performed many healings and miracles in Tyre and Sidon, he would have risked the same kind of mob scenes he had just left behind in Galilee, thus inaugurating a ministry to the Gentiles in advance of his Father's timing.

However, the woman couldn't have known the reason for his silence, and it must have tested her faith. But rather than give up or take offense, she exercised her quick wit, revealing both a deep humility and a tenacious faith. It was a combination Jesus seemed unable to resist—fertile soil in which to grow a miracle. The Syrophoenician woman must have rejoiced that day to see the daughter she loved safe and sane, grateful for the life-giving bread that had fallen from the Master's table.

Her Promise

What possible promise can be found in a pagan woman whose little girl was possessed by an evil spirit? The Syrophoenician woman wouldn't have known what to do about her daughter had she not heard about Jesus. Somehow, she was given the faith to believe that he was capable of saving her child.

Evil spirits, unfortunately, are not creatures of a former age. We, too, must fight the evil powers in our own lives. The difference now is that Jesus has won the ultimate victory on the cross. As believers, we share in his victory. He has given us authority over the evil forces that threaten us. We may still be fighting the battle, but, strange as it might sound, the victory is already won!

This devotional is drawn from Women of the Bible: A One-Year Devotional Study of Women in Scripture by Ann Spangler and Jean Syswerda. Used with permission.
Her body jerked and twisted, arms thrashing the air. Wide-eyed, the little girl spoke to ghosts her mother could not see, her face changing as rapidly as clouds in a sudden storm. Fear, surprise, and then a crazy kind of laughter, as though someone had stolen her soul. Dark hair stuck in gummy strands against her cheeks.

John Piper Devotional — Medicine for the Missionary

 

Medicine for the Missionary

“All things are possible with God.”

— Mark 10:27

Sovereign grace is the spring of life for the Christian Hedonist. For what the Christian Hedonist loves best is the experience of God’s sovereign grace filling him and overflowing for the good of others.

Christian Hedonist missionaries love the experience of “not I, but the grace of God that is with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10). They bask in the truth that the fruit of their missionary labor is entirely of God (1 Corinthians 3:7; Romans 11:36).

They feel only gladness when the Master says, “Apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). They leap like lambs over the truth that God has taken the impossible weight of new creation off their shoulders and put it on his own. Without begrudging, they say, “Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5).

When they come home on furlough, nothing gives them more joy than to say to churches, “I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to bring the Gentiles to obedience” (Romans 15:18).

“All things are possible with God!”—in front, the words give hope, and behind they give humility. They are the antidote to despair and pride—the perfect missionary medicine.
Sovereign grace is the spring of life for the Christian Hedonist.

Un dia a la Vez — Jesús y el adulterio

 

Jesús y el adulterio

Oísteis que fue dicho: No cometerás adulterio. Pero yo os digo que cualquiera que mira a una mujer para codiciarla, ya adulteró con ella en su corazón.

— Mateo 5:27-28, RV-60

Dios es bien radical con el problema del «adulterio». Desea y ordena que seamos hombres y mujeres de una sola pareja. No acepta bajo ninguna razón tener otras relaciones aparte del cónyuge. Sabemos que este es un veneno que mata los matrimonios y que cada vez más se filtra en las iglesias.

Por lo tanto, nosotros tenemos el llamado a cuidar los hogares, a huir de la tentación, pasar tiempo de calidad con nuestra pareja y tener muchísima comunicación. La clave de todo esto es tener a Jesús en el hogar como base. Además, la oración individual y en pareja es una bendición y es la manera de cubrir nuestro hogar.

Recuerda que no vale la pena que por un momento de placer o por una aventura se arroje por la ventana el matrimonio y los hijos. Sobre todo, que tengamos que vivir las consecuencias por nuestros actos donde el juez supremo es Dios.

Aunque tanto el hombre como la mujer tienen la responsabilidad del matrimonio, Dios le va a pedir cuentas al hombre que es la cabeza del hogar. Si tiene la autoridad, tiene mayor responsabilidad ante Él.

Busca a tu pareja, reconcíliate con ella y arregla tus cuentas con Dios.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
Dios es bien radical con el problema del «adulterio».

Devocional CPTLN — Armados con la Palabra

 

Armados con la Palabra

El Señor se complace en su pueblo, y bendice a los humildes con su salvación. ¡Que se alegren sus fieles por su triunfo! ¡Que salten de alegría allí, en su lecho! ¡Que exalten a Dios a voz en cuello mientras agitan en sus manos las espadas!

— Salmo 149:4-6

Sabiendo que somos pecadores, podemos maravillarnos de la declaración: "El SEÑOR se complace en su pueblo". El arrepentimiento honesto nos hace admitir que no merecemos el agrado de Dios. Pecamos diariamente en nuestros pensamientos, palabras y acciones, haciendo lo que no deberíamos hacer y dejando sin hacer mil obras buenas que deberíamos hacer. ¿Por qué habría de complacerse el SEÑOR con nosotros?

Dios se complace en nosotros por amor a su Hijo. En el bautismo de Jesús, el Padre dijo desde el cielo: "Este es mi Hijo amado, en quien me complazco" (Mateo 3:17b). Jesús cumplió el propósito para el cual había venido. Él fue obediente a su Padre hasta el punto de morir en la cruz. Luego resucitó, y en el bautismo somos sepultados y resucitados con Él. Ahora estamos revestidos de su justicia y colocados en una relación correcta con Dios como hijos suyos. Dios está complacido con nosotros porque Él está complacido con su Hijo, en quien hemos sido "hechos justicia de Dios" (2 Corintios 5:21b).

Revestidos de Cristo, estamos prontos para la alabanza y para la batalla. Vivimos con "las grandes alabanzas de Dios" en nuestra voz y "espadas de dos filos" en nuestras manos. Manejamos, por la gracia de Dios, "la espada del Espíritu, que es la Palabra de Dios" (Efesios 6:17b). En el salmo, esta arma de doble filo se usa para "¡Que se venguen todas las naciones! ... ¡Que ejecuten en ellos la sentencia escrita!" (ver Salmo 149:7a, 9a). Cuando Cristo regrese, quienes lo hayan rechazado como Salvador y Señor sufrirán el justo juicio de Dios. El Señor poderoso regresará con los ejércitos del cielo, y de su boca saldrá "una espada afilada, para herir con ella a las naciones" (Apocalipsis 19:15b).

El arma de dos filos corta en ambos sentidos. El filo de la Ley de Dios da en el blanco y "ejecuta los justos juicios de Dios", revelando y condenando el pecado, mientras que el lado dulcemente afilado del Evangelio transmite las buenas nuevas de la gracia y el perdón de Dios en Cristo Jesús. Adornados con la salvación, tenemos la promesa de Jesús: "De cierto, de cierto les digo: El que oye mi palabra, y cree al que me envió, tiene vida eterna; y no será condenado, sino que ha pasado de muerte a vida"(Juan 5:24).

El Señor resucitado dijo que el arrepentimiento y el perdón de pecados se predicarían en su Nombre a todas las naciones. Dondequiera que se proclame ese mensaje, el Espíritu obra a través de la espada de dos filos de la Palabra, llevando a los pecadores al arrepentimiento y creando fe en el Salvador que los redimió. Sabemos que "hay gozo ante los ángeles de Dios por un pecador que se arrepiente" (Lucas 15: 10b). Si los ángeles se regocijan, también nosotros podemos regocijarnos en la gloria y cantar de alegría.

ORACIÓN: Señor Dios, nos regocijamos en tu regalo de salvación y en el poder de tu Palabra. Llena nuestras voces de alabanza y de la buena noticia de salvación en Jesús. Amén.

Dra. Carol Geisler

Para reflexionar:

* ¿Crees que Dios se complace en ti? ¿De qué manera?

* ¿Qué significa para ti "regocijarte en gloria"? ¿A que podría parecerse?

© Copyright 2020 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. Que a través de estos devocionales, la Palabra de Dios te refresque en tu diario caminar.
Sabiendo que somos pecadores, podemos maravillarnos de la declaración: "El SEÑOR se complace en su pueblo".

Notre Pain Quotidien — Prières sur La Playa

 

Prières sur La Playa

Lisez : Psaume 148
La Bible en un an : Jérémie 12 – 14 ; 2 Timothée 1

Qu’ils louent le nom de l’Éternel ! Car son nom seul est élevé.

—  Psaume 148:13

Lors d’un voyage pour célébrer notre vingt-cinquième anniversaire de mariage, mon mari et moi avons lu nos bibles sur la plage. Tandis que les vendeurs passaient par là et criaient les prix de leurs articles, nous remerciions chacun d’eux, sans rien leur acheter. Un vendeur, Fernando, m’a servi un large sourire quand j’ai refusé son offre et m’a pressée d’acheter des cadeaux pour des amis. Après que j’ai eu décliné son invitation, Fernando a remballé ses trucs et est reparti… toujours en souriant. « Je prie que Dieu bénisse votre journée », lui ai-je dit.

Fernando s’est alors retourné et m’a dit : « Il le fait ! Jésus a transformé ma vie. » Fernando s’est agenouillé entre nos chaises et nous a annoncé : « Je sens sa présence ici. » Puis il nous a raconté comment Dieu l’avait délivré de la toxicomanie et de l’alcoolisme plus de quatorze ans plus tôt.

Je me suis mise à pleurer abondamment en l’écoutant réciter des poèmes entiers tirés du livre des Proverbes et prier pour nous. Ensemble, nous avons loué Dieu et nous nous sommes réjouis en sa présence… sur la playa.

Le Psaume 148 constitue une prière de louange. Le psalmiste encourage toute la création à « [louer] le nom de l’Éternel ! Car il a commandé, et [elle a] été [créée] » (V. 5), car « son nom seul est élevé ; sa majesté est au-dessus de la terre et des cieux » (V. 13).

Mon Dieu, aide-moi à te louer par chacun des souffles que tu m’as donnés.

Nous pouvons manifester notre foi en Christ en venant sans cesse à lui dans la prière.

par Xochitl Dixon

© 2020 Ministères NPQ
Lors d’un voyage pour célébrer notre vingt-cinquième anniversaire de mariage, mon mari et moi avons lu nos bibles sur la plage.