The Daily Bible Readings for SATURDAY, October 3, 2020

The Daily Readings

SATURDAY, October 3, 2020

Psalm 19; Exodus 23:10-13; John 7:40-52

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Today’s Verse-of-the-Day:

1 Peter 1:3

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

By His abundant mercy, God has given believers a new birth. He has done so out of His fatherly compassion. Therefore, despite adversity, the experience of His having begotten us again signifies His love and honor that He bestows. Lively hope. In the Bible, hope is not wishful thinking but a firm conviction, much like faith that is directed toward the future. The fact of Christ’s risen existence makes the hope of His followers “lively” (or “living,” NIV)—certain and strong, not baseless or empty. The original hearers of this letter, disdained by their contemporaries, would have understood hope in the sense of divine rescue and vindication from dishonorable treatment. The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead secures for His people their new birth and the hope that they will be resurrected just as He was (Zondervan KJV Commentary).

Today’s Readings:

Psalm 19

The law rejoices the heart

1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.

3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.

4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,

5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.

6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.

13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

The wonder and glory of creation, and the perfection and power of God’s Word. The God of nature is made known to humanity through His written Word. These thoughts about God’s Word are greatly expanded in Psalm 119. The closing prayer (Psalm 19:13–14) is one of the best prayers in the whole Bible. God’s Word is perfect, sure, true; it gives joy and is sweeter than honey (Halley's Bible Handbook Notes).

Exodus 23:10-13

Sabbatical year and the Sabbath

23:10 And six years thou shalt sow thy land, and shalt gather in the fruits thereof:

11 But the seventh year thou shalt let it rest and lie still; that the poor of thy people may eat: and what they leave the beasts of the field shall eat. In like manner thou shalt deal with thy vineyard, and with thy oliveyard.

12 Six days thou shalt do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest: that thine ox and thine ass may rest, and the son of thy handmaid, and the stranger, may be refreshed.

13 And in all things that I have said unto you be circumspect: and make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth.

Every seventh year the land was to rest. They must not plow or sow it; what the earth produced of itself, should be eaten, and not laid up. This law seems to have been intended to teach dependence on Providence, and God's faithfulness in sending the larger increase while they kept his appointments. It was also typical of the heavenly rest, when all earthly labors, cares, and interests shall cease forever. All respect to the gods of the heathen is strictly forbidden. Since idolatry was a sin to which the Israelites leaned, they must blot out the remembrance of the gods of the heathen.

John 7:40-52

Some accept others reject Jesus Christ

7:40 Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

41 Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee?

42 Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was?

43 So there was a division among the people because of him.

44 And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him.

45 Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?

46 The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.

47 Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?

48 Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?

49 But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.

50 Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,)

51 Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth?

52 They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.

The malice of Christ's enemies is always against reason, and sometimes the staying of it cannot be accounted for. Never any man spake with that wisdom, and power, and grace, that convincing clearness, and that sweetness, wherewith Christ spake. Alas, that many, who are for a time restrained, and who speak highly of the word of Jesus, speedily lose their convictions, and go on in their sins! People are foolishly swayed by outward motives in matters of eternal moment, are willing even to be damned for fashion's sake. As the wisdom of God often chooses things which men despise, so the folly of men commonly despises those whom God has chosen. The Lord brings forward his weak and timid disciples and sometimes uses them to defeat the designs of his enemies.

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

Commentaries from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible.

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 SATURDAY, October 3, 2020
Psalm 19; Exodus 23:10-13; John 7:40-52 (KJV)

Prayer of the Day for SATURDAY, October 3, 2020

Prayer of the Day

SATURDAY, October 3, 2020

All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.

— 2 Corinthians 5:18–19 (NIV)

Lord our God, our Father in heaven, we come to you as your children. Bless us, we pray. Bless us especially in days when fear tries to take hold of us. Let your help come down to us as you have promised, the great help in Jesus Christ, who shall come to redeem the whole world. Bless us through your Word. Renew us again and again to stand firm and true to you, for you are our help for redemption and reconciliation through Jesus Christ. Amen.

Verse of the Day for SATURDAY, October 3, 2020

1 Peter 1:3

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Read all of 1 Peter 1

Listen to 1 Peter 1

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Ichthus Ministries Daily Devotions — Grappling with Temptation

Grappling with Temptation

(The Lord said) "If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it."

— Genesis 4:7

Here God speaks powerfully to Adam and Eve's oldest son, Cain. These words are especially relevant for those who seek to live free of sin and the fear of death. And today—just like Cain, the devil is crouching at our door, using whatever snare possible to destroy us eternally!

In Scripture God gives additional warnings concerning sin and the devil's intent. In Proverbs we read, "My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent" (Proverbs 1:10), and "Do not enter the path of the wicked and do not proceed in the way of evil" (Proverbs 4:14). The apostle Paul tells us to "give no opportunity to the devil" (Ephesians 4:27). He also writes, "Put on the full armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11).

One man who had a clear awareness of the devil was the reformer Martin Luther. He also knew the only truly effective weapon against the power of evil is God's living and life-giving Word. In the preface to his Large Catechism, Martin Luther writes, "Nothing is so effectual against the devil, the world, and the flesh, and all evil thoughts than when one occupies one's self with the Word of God."

"For this reason alone," Luther writes, "you should eagerly read, recite, ponder, and practice the Catechism, even if the only blessings and benefit you obtain from it is to drive away the devil and evil thoughts. For the devil cannot bear to hear God's Word." Long before Luther, Paul spoke of the might of God's Word for all people: "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek," (Romans 1:16).

As you abide in God's living Word, there is power to combat the devil and your sinful appetites. While you will experience temptations in life, you can overcome these impulses. With Jesus Christ living in you, by God's gift of faith, the devil can no longer control you. In every generation, God has always protected His children, and He does the same today.

O friends, let God be the gatekeeper of your heart. Let His Word greet you in the morning and close out your day. God is your Stronghold in the battle against sin, and the sure Cornerstone on which you stand. In your struggle against the devil and the world, He is always there for you. Paul writes, "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation, He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it" (1 Corinthians 1:13).

Jesus' resurrection victory over Satan is power sufficient for anything we face, including our worst sins and temptations. Go to Him for strength in the fight.

Heavenly Father, keep us in Your Word, always. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Taken from "The Devil's Latest Snare," a sermon by Dr. Wallace Schulz

Reflection Questions:

1. How do you steer clear of problem areas in your life? Any strategies to share?

2. Does the phrase of sin "crouching at the door" seem real to you? If not, how else might you describe such a thing?

3. Do you use Luther's Large Catechism or some other Bible aid to help with your spiritual life?

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
In Scripture God gives additional warnings concerning sin and the devil's intent.

Standing Strong Through the Storm — PEACEMAKING IS VERY PRACTICAL

PEACEMAKING IS VERY PRACTICAL

Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

— James 3:18

Jesus’ instruction to His followers to be peacemakers is not as easily practiced in some areas of the world as we in the west might think. Tribal differences can cause deep divides.

In April 2011, Open Doors sponsored a Christian youth camp in the southern Philippines bringing together 115 youths, mostly believers from Muslim background (MBB’s) from four different Muslim tribal groups. The goal of this camp was to show the youths that Jesus is the ultimate source of peace. When we have Him in our hearts, then, we can have peace within ourselves, with others and with our environment.

Every activity of the camp was also designed to foster awareness and appreciation of each other’s tribal identity. Short drama presentations every night gave the youths a chance to tell their story. Bringing these ethnic groups to a point of understanding and acceptance was the crucial part of the camp. During Bible sessions, facilitators combined their lectures with tasks that encouraged campers to express their thoughts and feelings. They described their idea of peace, distinguished between peaceful and conflicting situations, and discovered their biblical responsibility as peacemakers taking after Christ’s example.

While peacemaking starts with one’s self, it does not end there. It must affect other people’s lives. And so, the campers did community service in three neighboring areas during the camp. But the true litmus test for a peacemaker is when a conflict breaks out. The camp was on its homestretch when two campers from different tribes got tangled in a fight during the morning assembly. It was about to turn violent, until other youths stepped in. The two youths were brought to the camp director. Everyone was clearly upset as they streamed into the classrooms for the day’s round of Bible sessions.

They were in for a surprise. An Open Doors co-worker shared, “The fight was staged. We wanted the campers to have an opportunity to apply what they had been learning so far. During the Bible session, we processed what happened. They realized that it brought out their biases and impatience; that some of their responses were condemning. They wanted to be a peacemaker, but they had yet to learn how to sow peace in times of conflict. It is a lifestyle.”

It was an important lesson for the youths to learn, especially for those who lived in conflict areas. After the session, many campers approached the two volunteer actors and asked their forgiveness for judging and condemning them.

Then, the youths were given some time to write down their commitments to becoming a peacemaker. One fifteen-year-old said, “It’ll be hard becoming a peacemaker, but I will try my best…The pastor taught us that becoming a peacemaker like Jesus comes with suffering. I must be prepared for that too.”

RESPONSE: Today I will take practical steps in being a peacemaker for Jesus wherever I am.

PRAYER: Pray for young tribal Christians who struggle with Christ-like actions and responses in conflict situations.

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.
Jesus' instruction to His followers to be peacemakers is not as easily practiced in some areas of the world as we in the west might think.

The NIV Couples Devotional — Conquering Regrets

Conquering Regrets

Genesis 19:1–29

“Flee for your lives! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!”

— Genesis 19:17

If only we hadn’t married so soon. If only we had more money. If only I had married Jake instead of John. Regrets in marriage are damaging. They keep our eyes fixed on the rearview mirror instead of on the road ahead. While reviewing the past and assessing what we’ve learned through mistakes can be a healthy exercise, regretting the past only serves to fuel discontentment and impede growth.

When Dan and I decided to close a three-year-old business, I struggled with regret. I had used up all of our nest egg to pursue a business venture I had believed in. When the business failed, I regretted so many decisions I had made, especially not listening to Dan’s advice along the way. My failure meant that we would be struggling financially again after having enjoyed several years of monetary comfort. Even though I knew God had walked us through this difficult time and taught us invaluable lessons, it was tempting to think, “If I hadn’t tried to start that new business, we’d be financially set right now.” Instead of keeping my eyes focused on God’s plan for my life, I chose to get stuck in my tracks with if-only thinking.

Lot’s wife had a similar problem. She and her husband were running for their lives from Sodom and Gomorrah, knowing that God had judged the culture they were living in and was about to decimate everything they had ever known. While Lot was running full steam ahead, his wife kept looking over her shoulder. Eventually, the distance between them became so great that Lot literally left his wife in the dust.

Regret is like that. We keep looking over our shoulder, wondering if what we’ve left behind might have been better than what we’re moving toward. God’s angel warned Lot and his wife not to look back, and it’s a warning for us too.

If you routinely catch yourself starting a sentence with “If only,” regret may be an issue you need to deal with. While dwelling on what might have been is never healthy, regret can be an important signal to stop and examine your emotions. For instance, if you catch yourself thinking, “If only I had married Jake instead of John,” it may be time to evaluate why John isn’t measuring up. In your private time with God, pray about the emotions you’re experiencing. Perhaps you’ll discover that your disappointment is springing from unmet needs. With these needs clarified, you can then have a forward-thinking conversation with your spouse about how to improve your relationship.

When I caught myself saying, “If only I hadn’t tried to start this business,” I realized that my fear of God’s inability to meet our needs in the future was driving my regret. Once I discovered that, I could stop looking to the past and begin focusing on a vision for what God might accomplish in our future.

Marian V. Liautaud

Let’s Talk

• What, if any, regrets do either of us have in our lives?
• What unmet need might those regrets indicate?
• How might we use regrets to improve our relationship with each other? What do we need to entrust to God to move forward in our marriage?

If only we hadn’t married so soon. If only we had more money. If only I had married Jake instead of John. Regrets in marriage are damaging.

John Piper Devotional — Absolute, Sovereign, Almighty Love

Absolute, Sovereign, Almighty Love

“The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”

— Exodus 34:6

God abounds in steadfast love and faithfulness.

Two images come to my mind:

1. The heart of God is like an inexhaustible spring of water that bubbles up love and faithfulness at the top of the mountain.
2. Or the heart of God is like a volcano that burns so hot with love that it blasts the top off the mountain and flows year after year with the lava of love and faithfulness.

When God uses the word “abounding,” he wants us to understand that the resources of his love are not limited. In a way, he’s like the government: Whenever there’s a need, he can just print more money to cover it.

But the difference is that God has an infinite treasury of golden love to cover all the currency he prints. The government is in a dream world. God banks very realistically on the infinite resources of his deity.

The absolute existence, the sovereign freedom, and the omnipotence of God are the volcanic fullness that explodes in an overflow of love. The sheer magnificence of God means that he does not need us to fill up any deficiency in himself. Instead his infinite self-sufficiency spills over in love to us who need him.

We can bank on his love precisely because we believe in the absoluteness of his existence, the sovereignty of his freedom, and the limitlessness of his power.
When God uses the word “abounding,” he wants us to understand that the resources of his love are not limited.

Un dia a la Vez — Oración por dominio propio

Oración por dominio propio

Dios [...] nos enseña a rechazar la impiedad y las pasiones mundanas. Así podremos vivir en este mundo con justicia, piedad y dominio propio.

— Tito 2:11-12

Padre de la gloria, me presento delante de ti para darte gracias por un nuevo día. Para reconocerte como el Dios de mi vida.

¡Oh, Señor, cuánto te necesita mi alma!

Hoy, mi Dios, necesito tu intervención milagrosa, ya que mi carácter es débil y me resulta difícil tener dominio propio.

Muchas veces me he prometido cambiar y dejar malos hábitos, pero vuelvo a recaer o incluso a fallar.

Por eso, mi Señor, en este día vengo ante ti para hacer un pacto contigo, pues sé que solo con tu ayuda saldré adelante.

Dios mío, hoy te entrego este hábito (decir el tuyo) y te prometo que me esforzaré al máximo para no fallarte.

Gracias, mi Dios, porque sé que cuento contigo. Tú me darás la fuerza que necesito y podré dar testimonio de tu poder.

En el nombre de Jesús, amén y amén.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
Oración por dominio propio: Padre de la gloria, me presento delante de ti para darte gracias por un nuevo día. Para reconocerte como el Dios de mi vida.…

Хліб Наш Насущній — Прибрати непроханого гостя

Прибрати непроханого гостя

Читати: Ефесян 5:25-33 | Біблія за рік: Ісаї 17–19 ; Ефесян 5:17-33

Завантажити MP3

Чоловіки, – любіть своїх дружин, як і Христос полюбив Церкву, і віддав за неї Себе.

— Ефесян 5:25

Почало тільки світати, коли мій чоловік піднявся з ліжка і пішов на кухню. Я з подивом побачила, що він увімкнув і знову вимкнув світло. Потім я згадала, як вчора зранку закричала, побачивши на кухонному столі “непроханого гостя”. Пояснюю. Це небажане створіння з шістьма ногами. Чоловік знає про мій страх і одразу прибіг прибрати це створіння. Цього ранку він прокинувся раніше, аби пересвідчитися, що на кухні немає жодних жуків, щоб я могла туди спокійно зайти. Який молодець!

Чоловік прокинувся з думкою про мене, віддавши перевагу моїй потребі. Для мене його вчинок ілюструє любов, яку апостол Павло описав у Посланні до ефесян: “Чоловіки, – любіть своїх дружин, як і Христос полюбив Церкву, і віддав за неї Себе” (Еф. 5:25). Далі він продовжує: “Чоловіки повинні любити дружин своїх так, як власні тіла, бо хто любить дружину свою, той любить самого себе” (в. 28). Порівняння любові чоловіка з любов’ю Христа пов’язане з тим, як Ісус віддав перевагу нашим потребам. Мій чоловік знає про мій страх перед певними комахами, тому моя потреба стала для нього першочерговою.

Цей принцип стосується не лише чоловіків. Наслідуючи приклад Ісуса, кожен із нас може жертовно допомогти прибрати “незваного гостя”, який викликає стрес, страх, сором чи хвилювання, аби хтось інший почувався комфортно.

На якого “непроханого гостя” вам треба звернути увагу, аби допомогти іншому? Як дозволити комусь іншому допомогти нам прибрати з нашого життя певних “незваних гостей”?

Дорогий Боже, дякую за дар Твого Сина, Який прибрав із мого життя гріх і примирив мене з Тобою!

Автор Еліза Морган

© 2020 Хліб Наш Насущні
Чоловік прокинувся з думкою про мене, віддавши перевагу моїй потребі.

The Daily Bible Readings for FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

The Daily Readings

FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

Psalm 19; Exodus 23:14-19; Philippians 2:14-18; 3:1-4a

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Today’s Verse-of-the-Day:

Proverbs 29:25

The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.

Many are ashamed to own Christ now; and he will not own them in the day of judgment. But he that trusts in the Lord will be saved from this snare.

Today’s Readings:

Psalm 19

The law rejoices the heart

1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.

2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.

3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.

4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,

5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.

6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.

13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.

The wonder and glory of creation, and the perfection and power of God’s Word. The God of nature is made known to humanity through His written Word. These thoughts about God’s Word are greatly expanded in Psalm 119. The closing prayer (Psalm 19:13–14) is one of the best prayers in the whole Bible. God’s Word is perfect, sure, true; it gives joy and is sweeter than honey (Halley's Bible Handbook Notes).

Exodus 23:14-19

Festivals recall the covenant

23:14 Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year.

15 Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:)

16 And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field.

17 Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord God.

18 Thou shalt not offer the blood of my sacrifice with leavened bread; neither shall the fat of my sacrifice remain until the morning.

19 The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the Lord thy God. Thou shalt not seethe a kid in his mother's milk.

Solemn religious attendance on God, in the place which he should choose, is strictly required. They must come together before the Lord. What a good Master do we serve, who has made it our duty to rejoice before him! Let us devote with pleasure to the service of God that portion of our time which he requires, and count his sabbaths and ordinances to be a feast unto our souls. They were not to come empty-handed; so now, we must not come to worship God empty-hearted; our souls must be filled with holy desires toward him, and dedications of ourselves to him; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Philippians 2:14-18; 3:1-4a

Boast only in Jesus Christ

2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.

3:1 Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe.

2 Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.

3 For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

4a Though I might also have confidence in the flesh.

We must be diligent in the use of all the means which lead to our salvation, persevering therein to the end. With great care, lest, with all our advantages, we should come short. Work out your salvation, for it is God who worketh in you. This encourages us to do our utmost because our labor shall not be in vain: we must still depend on the grace of God. The working of God's grace in us is to quicken and engage our endeavors. God's good-will to us, is the cause of his good work in us. Do your duty without murmurings. Do it, and do not find fault with it. Mind your work, and do not quarrel with it. By peaceableness; give no just occasion of offense. The children of God should differ from the sons of men. The more perverse others are, the more careful we should be to keep ourselves blameless and harmless. The doctrine and example of consistent believers will enlighten others, and direct their way to Christ and holiness, even as the lighthouse warns mariners to avoid rocks, and directs their course into the harbor. Let us try thus to shine. The gospel is the word of life, it makes known to us eternal life through Jesus Christ. Running, denotes earnestness and vigor, continual pressing forward; laboring denotes constancy, and close application. It is the will of God that believers should be much in rejoicing; and those who are so happy as to have good ministers, have great reason to rejoice with them. Sincere Christians rejoice in Christ Jesus. The prophet calls the false prophets dumb dogs, Isaiah 56:10; to which the apostle seems to refer. Dogs, for their malice against faithful professors of the gospel of Christ, barking at them and biting them. They urged human works in opposition to the faith of Christ, but Paul calls them evil-workers. He calls them the concision; as they rent the church of Christ, and cut it to pieces. The work of religion is to no purpose unless the heart is in it, and we must worship God in the strength and grace of the Divine Spirit. They rejoice in Christ Jesus, not in mere outward enjoyments and performances. Nor can we too earnestly guard against those who oppose or abuse the doctrine of free salvation.

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

Commentaries from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible.

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 FRIDAY, October 2, 2020
Psalm 19; Exodus 23:14-19; Philippians 2:14-18; 3:1-4a (KJV)

Prayer of the Day for FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

Prayer of the Day

FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

In you, Lord, I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me.

— Psalm 31:1–2 (NIV)

Lord our God, give us your Spirit, we beseech you, that we may find your paths on earth and live in the hope and certainty that everything is in your hands, even when we see much that is unjust and evil. May we remain under your protection, living by your commandments and in your Spirit. For your Spirit witnesses to the truth and longs to change and lift up our lives. Your Spirit longs to reach all people who have felt your touch, longs that they may come to you and have life. Amen.

Verse of the Day for FRIDAY, October 2, 2020

Proverbs 29:25

The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.

Read all of Proverbs 29

Listen to Proverbs 29

The Holy Bible, King James Version (KJV)

Ichthus Ministries Daily Devotions — Keeping Jesus Front and Center

Keeping Jesus Front and Center

So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.

— 1 Corinthians 3:7

When some people do a thing well, they often expect praise or recognition for their deed. Truth be told, some people are often entirely preoccupied in their desire for praise for the good things they have done.

Sadly, this all-too-human tendency sometimes manages to creep into the church. You may have met individuals—either clergy and laity—whose itch for public praise draws people's attention away from God, and directs it to themselves.

Now, it occurs to me that if ever there was someone who deserved a palm-branch parade for the work he did, it was the apostle Paul. He was a tireless worker for the Gospel's cause, but rather than receive the praise rightfully due his efforts, he was vilified, bound in chains, thrown in prison, and even placed at death's door—several times.

Yet, in spite of all of this, Paul maintained that Christ should be the center of everything. He does not minimize or discount the work done by himself or others on their missionary journeys, especially at Corinth, but he does point out that they are all merely servants—table workers—whom God has used to carry His message of salvation to the world.

Likewise, those of us who are workers in Christ's church—clergy and laity—don't serve God for our own glory. We don't seek our own glory because to do this we draw attention to ourselves and take honor away from the One to whom it is rightfully due: our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

This kind of attitude was what Paul confronted in the church at Corinth. There were believers there who were not living with a Christ-first-and-before-all-things mindset. Instead, some were acting like children—competing with each other, seeking their own way, acting immaturely. Paul writes, "For you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?" (1 Corinthians 3:3)

As part of his ministerial duties, Paul took time to address and warn Corinthian Christians about placing emphasis on the human worker and not on their divine Creator, Savior, and Sanctifier. It is God all the way. He provides the nourishment and growth. There is no room for our egos and foolish pride.

These are words we do well to heed. After all, we are the recipients of God's great grace as shown to us in Jesus' life, His suffering, and the cruel cross of Calvary. It is through His sacrifice we are saved, and it is to the Lord that all glory is due.

Heavenly Father, keep us steadfast in Your Word—mindful to live as those before Your throne, as humble servants before an awesome God. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

Elias Thejoane, prison ministry volunteer in Africa

Reflection Questions:

1. What's your response, typically, to people who seek the attention or applause of others?

2. How do you react to people who should be more mature than they are based on their age and experience?

3. Is there a way to do our work and avoid being "too full of ourselves" when we work hard and accomplish things?

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin! Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).
Some people are often entirely preoccupied in their desire for praise for the good things they have done.

Standing Strong Through the Storm — CHRISTIAN PRISONER ENCOURAGEMENT

CHRISTIAN PRISONER ENCOURAGEMENT

Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord’s people.

— Philemon 1:7

Twenty-nine-year-old Maryam Rostampour and thirty-two-year old Marzieh Amirizadeh spent 259 days in Tehran’s notorious Evin prison in 2009 in Iran. They had to overcome the fear of life imprisonment and the possibility of execution because they loved and followed Jesus Christ. They had to remain strong through weeks in solitary confinement, and endless hours of interrogation by Iranian officials and religious leaders. They had to endure months of harsh living conditions and debilitating sickness. In their first interview (with Sam Yeghnazar of Elam Ministries), they shared what life was like in prison and how they survived.

Marzieh said, “I would like to thank them [prayer partners] for their prayers and support, and the letters they sent us. During this time it wasn’t just Maryam and Marzieh who were imprisoned, but all these prayer warriors. This was a great encouragement for us. We felt their presence alongside us. So please keep praying for those who are in prison for their faith, believers in Afghanistan and Pakistan…Don’t think that your prayers are unimportant.”

She added, “We heard that people sent us letters in prison, but we didn’t get any of them. Just hearing that people sent us letters, was a great encouragement to us. And what’s interesting is that the guards who opened our letters, read the Bible verses and the prayers, and were impacted. We know this because they told us and mentioned some of the verses from the gospel. I can’t thank them [those who sent letters] with all that is in my heart; I can say ‘thank you,’ but this is not enough.”

Maryam concluded, “I thank them. It’s true we didn’t see the letters they sent, but we knew there was a large group supporting us. This was a huge encouragement to us and helped us to stand firm. We heard from our guards that forty to fifty letters were coming every day. They saw how Christians stood together to support their own. This was something that gave us hope.”

Check our website for names and addresses of Christians in prison for their faith whom you can write to and pray for.

RESPONSE: Today I will pray for and send letters to Christians in prison for their faith to encourage them in their persecution.

PRAYER: Pray for hope and encouragement for Christian prisoners—especially those in solitary confinement—in places like Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS), a daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks. © 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permission.
Twenty-nine-year-old Maryam Rostampour and thirty-two-year old Marzieh Amirizadeh spent 259 days in Tehran’s notorious Evin prison in 2009 in Iran. They had to overcome the fear of life imprisonment and the possibility of execution because they loved and followed Jesus Christ.

Men of the Bible — Jesus

Jesus

His name means: "Yahweh Is Salvation"

His work: Although a member of the Holy Trinity who participated in the creation of the universe, his assignment was to come humbly to earth as a man to serve as Redeemer and Lord.
His character: Fully God, fully man; sinless perfection.
His sorrow: Taking upon himself the sins of every human being to satisfy the wrath of a holy God—the sins of those who lived before his birth, those who lived during his lifetime, and those who were to follow.
His triumph: The completion of his mission as the Savior of the world.
Key Scriptures: The Gospel of John

A Look at the Man

The first day of school, the first day on a new job—these are landmark moments, times to celebrate, to give your best, to set a pattern for the days to follow.

Jesus could have begun his public ministry with a healing service or a deliverance session. He could have gathered twice as many people as John the Baptist had and begun by excoriating the religious leaders for their sins. Instead, he performed a miracle, turning water into wine so that a bride and groom could avoid embarrassment, so that a party could continue.

Didn't Jesus have more important things to attend to? What was he thinking? What about all the hungry people who needed feeding, the blind who needed to see? What about restoring worship in the temple, freeing the demon-possessed, silencing gale-force winds, and walking on water?

Jesus knew the time would come for him to confront the ugliness in people's hearts. He knew about the suffering that lay ahead and the resistance he would face. But right now it was time for a party. True, the bridegroom hadn't been quite ready for the wedding, running out of wine before the celebration was half finished. Jesus wasn't quite ready either.

But three years later, as he hung on a Roman cross dying for our sins, it was a completely different story, because now the Bridegroom was ready. That day Jesus declared his work "finished," for the purpose of his life and ministry was to prepare his people to become his spotless bride.

At Cana he had changed water to expensive wine. On the night before he died, he lifted a cup of wine, saying to his friends: "This is my blood, shed for you." On the cross he turned the costly wine into his own precious blood.

After Jesus' resurrection, the Spirit of God moved on the disciples so powerfully that three thousand people became believers in one day. Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in his followers, was drawing people to himself, changing the course of history, giving us the best news we could ever hear, throwing the greatest party anyone had ever attended.

Reflect On: Matthew 26:36–46
Praise God: For his love.
Offer Thanks: For his Son—the child born of a virgin, the boy who grew in character, the one who lived a sinless life and died to redeem us—the groom who not only loved his bride but gave his life for her.
Confess: The temptation to forget who Jesus really is and to treat his life as only an example of right living rather than to fully embrace his purpose for coming to earth.
Ask God: To fill you with his Spirit, to live as a person who has been redeemed by the blood of Jesus, to teach you to pray and to celebrate.

Today's reading is a brief excerpt from Men of the Bible: A One-Year Devotional Study of Men in Scripture by Ann Spangler and Robert Wolgemuth (Zondervan). © 2010 by Ann Spangler. Used with permission. All rights reserved. Enjoy the complete book by purchasing your own copy at the Bible Gateway Store. The book's title must be included when sharing the above content on social media.
The first day of school, the first day on a new job—these are landmark moments, times to celebrate, to give your best, to set a pattern for the days to follow.

John Piper Devotional — God Isn’t Gloomy

God Isn’t Gloomy

“The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.”

— Psalm 33:10–11

“Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases” (Psalm 115:3). The implication of this text is that God has the right and power to do whatever makes him happy. That is what it means to say that God is sovereign.

Think about it for a moment: If God is sovereign and can do anything he pleases, then none of his purposes can be frustrated. “The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples. The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations” (Psalm 33:10–11).

And if none of his purposes can be frustrated, then he must be the happiest of all beings.

This infinite, divine happiness is the fountain from which the Christian (Hedonist) drinks and longs to drink more deeply.

Can you imagine what it would be like if the God who ruled the world were not happy? What if God were given to grumbling and pouting and depression, like some Jack-and-the-beanstalk giant in the sky? What if God were frustrated and despondent and gloomy and dismal and discontented and dejected?

Could we join David and say, “O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water” (Psalm 63:1)? I don’t think so.

We would all relate to God like little children who have a frustrated, gloomy, dismal, discontented father. They can’t enjoy him. They can only try not to bother him, or maybe try to work for him to earn some little favor. For the aim of the Christian Hedonist is to be happy in God, to delight in God, to cherish and enjoy his fellowship and favor.
If God is sovereign and can do anything he pleases, then none of his purposes can be frustrated.

Un dia a la Vez — Dominio propio

Dominio propio

Porque no nos ha dado Dios espíritu de cobardía, sino de poder, de amor y de dominio propio.

— 2 Timoteo 1:7, RV-60

Creo que lo más difícil para cualquier ser humano es el dominio propio. Es decir, controlar los deseos, las cosas nocivas y las que más nos gustan. Por diferentes razones, y debido a que somos débiles, no tenemos una razón por la cual renunciar a algo que no es bueno para nosotros.

También es posible que el problema esté en que no tengamos motivación para hacer cambios. Sin embargo, cuando tenemos temor de Dios, esa lucha se hace aun más difícil porque queremos cumplirle. Entonces, si le fallamos, nos sentimos muy mal con Él.

Déjame aclararte que el domino propio no necesariamente es útil para abandonar una falta grave. Puede ayudarnos en otras cosas como trabajar en exceso, comer sin control, fumar, beber y descuidar a la familia. Asimismo, es conveniente para la gente que va al gimnasio, pero no por salud ni por deporte, sino porque idolatra su cuerpo. En fin, el dominio propio les resulta provechoso también a los compradores compulsivos y los malos administradores del dinero.

Todos estos ejemplos que menciono quizá te identifiquen y no es que seas una mala persona, ni que te desprecie Dios. Todo lo contrario. Dios es tu Padre y te ama. A Él le interesa que seas feliz y una persona equilibrada en todo lo que haces.

Así que ahora quiero hacerte la pregunta del millón: «¿Cómo lo logras?». Depende de ti, pues si quieres ver un cambio, la oración es más que suficiente para respaldar tu decisión.

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón
Creo que lo más difícil para cualquier ser humano es el dominio propio.

Devocional CPTLN — Manteniendo a Jesús en el centro

Manteniendo a Jesús en el centro

Así que ni el que siembra ni el que riega son algo, sino Dios, que da el crecimiento.

— 1 Corintios 3:7

Algunas personas viven esperando recibir elogios por las cosas buenas que hacen. Lamentablemente, a veces esto logra infiltrarse también en la iglesia. Quizás hayas conocido a personas, ya sean clérigos o laicos, cuyo ansia de alabanza pública desvía la atención de Dios y la dirige hacia ellos mismos.

Se me ocurre que si alguna vez hubo alguien que mereciera un desfile de halagos por su trabajo, fue el apóstol Pablo. Pablo fue un obrero incansable del Evangelio; pero en lugar de recibir elogios por sus esfuerzos fue vilipendiado, encadenado, encarcelado e incluso puesto a las puertas de la muerte.

A pesar de todo esto, Pablo mantuvo que Cristo debía ser el centro de todo. No minimizó ni descartó el trabajo realizado por él mismo o por otros en sus viajes misioneros, especialmente en Corinto, pero sí señaló que todos son meramente siervos, obreros a quienes Dios usó para llevar Su mensaje de salvación al mundo.

Del mismo modo, aquellos de nosotros que somos obreros en la iglesia de Cristo, clérigos y laicos, no servimos a Dios para nuestra gloria, ni buscamos llamar la atención sobre nosotros mismos, quitándole el honor a Aquél a quien por derecho se lo debemos: nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo.

Este tipo de actitud fue lo que Pablo enfrentó en la iglesia de Corinto. Había creyentes allí que no vivían con la mentalidad de Cristo primero y antes de todas las cosas, sino que actuaban como niños, compitiendo entre sí, buscando su propio camino, actuando de manera inmadura. Pablo escribe: "... porque aún son gente carnal. Pues mientras haya entre ustedes celos, contiendas y divisiones, serán gente carnal y vivirán según criterios humanos" (1 Corintios 3:3).

Como parte de sus deberes ministeriales, Pablo se tomó el tiempo para advertir a los cristianos corintios acerca de poner énfasis en el trabajador humano y no en su divino Creador, Salvador y Santificador. Dios es quien proporciona el alimento y el crecimiento. No hay lugar para nuestros egos y nuestro tonto orgullo.

Hacemos bien en prestar atención a estas palabras. Después de todo, somos los destinatarios de la gran gracia de Dios como se nos mostró en la vida de Jesús, su sufrimiento y cruel muerte en la cruz del Calvario. Es por su sacrificio que somos salvos, y es al Señor a quien se le debe toda la gloria.

ORACIÓN: Padre celestial, mantennos firmes en tu Palabra, conscientes de vivir como humildes siervos ante un Dios maravilloso. En el nombre de Jesús oramos. Amén.

Elias Thejoane, LHM África

Para reflexionar:

* ¿Cómo reaccionas ante las personas que deberían ser más maduras de lo que son según su edad y experiencia?

* ¿Es posible hacer nuestro trabajo y evitar estar "demasiado llenos de nosotros mismos" cuando trabajamos duro y tenemos éxito?

© Copyright 2020 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. Que a través de estos devocionales, la Palabra de Dios te refresque en tu diario caminar.
Algunas personas viven esperando recibir elogios por las cosas buenas que hacen.

Lời Sống Hằng Ngày — Chúa Không Bỏ Chúng Ta

Chúa Không Bỏ Chúng Ta

Đọc: Giăng 10:22–30 | Đọc Kinh Thánh suốt năm: Ê-sai 14–16; Ê-phê-sô 5:1–16

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Ta ban cho chúng sự sống đời đời, chúng chẳng hư mất bao giờ, và chẳng ai cướp được chúng khỏi tay Ta.

— Giăng 10:28

Julio gặp phải tình huống sinh tử khi đang đạp xe qua cầu George Washington, cây cầu hai tầng đông đúc nối liền thành phố New York và New Jersey. Một người đàn ông đứng trên gờ đá bên sông Hudson chuẩn bị nhảy xuống. Biết rằng cảnh sát sẽ không đến kịp, Julio nhanh chóng hành động. Anh nhớ lại lúc mình xuống xe và dang tay ra, nói những câu như: “Đừng làm điều đó. Chúng tôi yêu anh”. Sau đó, giống như người chăn chiên với cây gậy, anh nắm lấy người đàn ông quẫn trí và đưa anh ta đến nơi an toàn với sự giúp đỡ của một người qua đường. Theo báo cáo, Julio vẫn không lìa bỏ người đó, ngay cả sau khi anh ta đã an toàn.

Hai thiên niên kỷ trước đây, trong tình huống sinh tử, Chúa Jêsus – Người Chăn Nhân Lành – cho biết Ngài sẽ hy sinh mạng sống để cứu chuộc những ai tin Ngài và Ngài không lìa bỏ họ. Chúa nói về cách Ngài ban phước cho chiên Ngài rằng: chúng sẽ nhận biết Ngài cách cá nhân, được ban cho sự sống đời đời, chẳng hư mất bao giờ và sẽ được an toàn trong sự chăm sóc của Ngài. Sự bảo an này không phụ thuộc vào khả năng của những con chiên yếu ớt, nhưng phụ thuộc vào sự chu cấp của Người Chăn, Đấng sẽ không để một con nào bị cướp “khỏi tay [Ngài]” (Gi. 10:28–29).

Khi chúng ta rối trí và cảm thấy tuyệt vọng, Chúa Jêsus giải cứu chúng ta; giờ đây chúng ta cảm thấy an toàn trong mối liên hệ với Ngài. Ngài yêu thương, theo đuổi, tìm kiếm, cứu chuộc và hứa sẽ không bao giờ lìa bỏ chúng ta.

Điều gì khiến bạn cảm thấy không an toàn trong mối liên hệ với Chúa Jêsus? Bạn cảm thấy thế nào khi biết rằng sự an toàn của bạn trong Ngài phụ thuộc vào sự chu cấp của Ngài chứ không phải sự yếu đuối của bạn?

Lạy Chúa Jêsus, khi con phạm tội và chạy trốn Ngài, Ngài vẫn không bao giờ lìa bỏ con vì ân điển của Ngài.

bởi Marvin Williams

Chú Giải

Lễ Cung Hiến, còn được biết đến là Hanukkah hoặc Lễ hội ánh sáng, kỷ niệm việc cung hiến lại đền thờ vào năm 164 TCN sau khi vua Antiochus IV Epiphanes cai trị xứ Seleucid làm ô uế đền thờ vào năm 167 TCN. Trong bối cảnh này, Chúa Jêsus đã phán: “Ta với Cha là một” (Giăng 10:30), gợi nhớ lại niềm tin trọng tâm của người Giu-đa, được biết đến là shema “Giê-hô-va Đức Chúa Trời chúng ta là Giê-hô-va có một không hai” (Phục Truyền 6:4). Bằng cách nhắc lại shema, Chúa Jêsus đã khẳng định Ngài là Đức Chúa Trời của dân Y-sơ-ra-ên. Vì việc Chúa Jêsus là một với Cha Ngài không khác gì một lời tuyên bố về thần tính của Ngài.

Con Campbell

© 2020 Lời Sống Hằng Ngày
Julio gặp phải tình huống sinh tử khi đang đạp xe qua cầu George Washington, cây cầu hai tầng đông đúc nối liền thành phố New York và New Jersey.