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May 1 - 1 Corinthians 14

Eagerly pursue and seek to acquire [this] love [make it your aim, your great quest];
1 Corinthians 14:1a (Amplified Bible)

The Great Quest - Welcome to May!!
This chapter begins with a charge from Paul to pursue love. The love we are to pursue as our highest goal is the love we read about in the previous chapter; a love that is patient and kind, and never jealous, boastful, or rude. It’s a love that is never irritable and keeps no record of when it is wronged. It never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. I don’t know about you, but that kind of love often eludes me—I try, but
usually seem to fall short.

The pursuit of this kind of love really is a “quest,” a great adventure. And like all great adventures, it is not without risk. The potential for vulnerability, hurt, and danger are all inherent in loving. Dan Allender says, “Love is the most profound risk of life.” But God calls us to join Him in this great quest and to pursue this love as our highest goal even though we might be hurt in the process. When we achieve it—and it may be only in momentary flashes—we see a true glimpse of how God loves us. The wonder and experience of that love makes the quest and all the risk well worth the effort. This May, make love your aim, your great quest, and experience the adventure of learning to love like God does.

—Phil Waite

 

“An adventure without monsters is just a gaggle of friends wandering about.”
—Owl in Winnie the Pooh, by A.A. Milne

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May 2 - 1 Corinthians 15
Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15:58 (NIV)

Not in Vain
It amazes me how full each day can become. By the time we’ve accomplished the day’s tasks and finally put our head on our pillow, we can be pretty grateful just to have made it. Sometimes, as I’ve tried to settle down enough to let sleep catch and overtake me, I’ve looked back at the day and wondered, “What did I do that really mattered?” 

Paul tells us three times in 1 Corinthians 15 how to ensure our lives are not in vain:

1. Receive, stand in, be saved by, and hold fast to the gospel (vs 1-2). I recently heard Louie Giglio, of the Passion movement, comment on this principle. He said our lives and our worship—as a lifestyle—are empty for us and God, if we have lost the beauty of the gospel and its relevance in our lives. Let us not forget the wonder of the gospel and how Jesus has changed our lives; and let us live appropriately.
2. Work for God and His glory (vs 10). Paul says his life and the gospel are not in vain because he works, in all things, for the glory of God.
3. Stand firm, be immovable, and give yourself fully to the work of the Lord (vs 58). Paul wouldn’t say this if we didn’t struggle with distractions and half-hearted efforts in our devotion to God. I cannot help but wonder what joys we would know if we would give ourselves more fully, in every area, to the work of the Lord.
 
Let’s not give ourselves to our own plans today and hope for God’s blessing. Let’s instead give ourselves to His purposes and know that the joy of the Lord will follow a well-spent day.

—Pastor Joe Fitzgerald

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May 3 - 1 Corinthians 16
Now as far as the fund for Christians in need is concerned, I should like you to follow the same rule that I gave to the Galatian church. On the first day of the week let everyone put so much by him, according to his financial prosperity, so that there will be no need for collections when I come.

1 Corinthians 16:1-2 (Phillips)

Rainy Days
When I was young and first learning about financial responsibility, my parents would remind me to “save it for a rainy day.” I had few of those rainy days growing up in the desert of central Washington, yet I continue even now to have rainy day savings set aside.

Today, approximately forty-five years after its first introduction from my parents, God revealed to me more of that rainy day principle. Verse 2 says, “…let everyone put so much by him, according to his financial prosperity.” It says when I prosper, when I have more than I need, then set aside a portion to be used for that rainy day.

Here was the revelation: the rainy day did not have to be mine! In this case, some saints in Jerusalem were having a rainy day and needed a little help. When the goods are already set aside, it is easy to pass them on. Remember, they were set aside out of my increase. My bills were paid and I wasn’t in need.

Fellow saints, He taught us to self-insure our brethren. And it can be done without pain or strain.

 

—Terry Carlson

 Lord, thank You for Your blessings and Your instruction
on how to use prosperity for the extension of blessing to one another.

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May 4 - Mark 1
As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said,“and I will make you fishers of men.” At once they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1:16-18 (NIV)

The Call
The calling of Simon and Andrew by Jesus has always fascinated me. How did Jesus get these fishermen to drop what they were doing and follow Him? Fishermen I’ve met are not easily called away to something else, especially when they are already fishing.

 

The word saw in verse 16 comes from a Greek word that means “to gaze with wide open eyes, as at something remarkable.” What did Jesus find extraordinary about Simon and Andrew that would cause Him to look at them like that?

 

Have you ever wondered why Jesus called you? What compels Him to “gaze with wide open eyes as at something remarkable” when He sees you? Staring at ourselves will not provide the answer because we cannot always see what others observe. Perhaps the true meaning of our calling lies in the One who called us. Perhaps we should fix our gaze on Him “with wide open eyes as at something remarkable”! That’s a calling we are all equipped to answer.

—Steven L. Stone

 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord,
thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NKJV)

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May 5 - Mark 2
Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said to the paraplegic,“Son, I forgive your sins.”

Mark 2:5 (Message Bible)

Active Intercessors
William Tenny-Brittian writes about kinesthetic prayer in his newly published book, Prayer For People Who Can’t Sit Still. He promotes a wide variety of “kinesthetic” prayer activities to improve one’s focus in prayer. Some are familiar, like prayer walking; others are creative, traditional, or unusual. Mark 2 relates the experience of four very determined intercessors.

 

Four friends set out on a mission of intercession, carrying a paralyzed man on a stretcher to Jesus for healing. Nave’s Topical Bible sites this passage as an incident of intercession. The sick man was powerless and unable to move or get to Jesus on his own. The condition may have left him without any physical sensation, or perhaps in great chronic pain. Either way, he certainly lived in a difficult and humiliating condition that stirred compassion and passion in the four friends.

The intercessors were zealous, determined, strong in faith and very focused on the goal. Nothing deterred them: not distance, difficulties, crowds, or physical barriers. Their destination was the very presence of Christ; they knew exactly where He was, and they would not be denied. Jesus was moved by their faith and determination. Much good came of it. He not only healed the man, but seized the opportunity to teach the group gathered in the house a major lesson: He had
authority and power to forgive sins as well as heal disease. God was glorified!

—Patty Gropp

 

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May 6 - Psalms 9-10
The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; for You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You.
Psalm 9:9-10 (NKJV)

Trust in the Lord
Trust, as defined in the dictionary, is a “firm belief in the honesty, truthfulness, justice, or power of a person or thing.” Trust is a powerful force in most everyone’s life, for we all witness to and experience trust from infancy to the grave.

 

There exist varying degrees of trust. We believe (trust) that our car will get us to work or the store each day. We trust the alarm will awaken us for work or church. We trust a Betty Crocker box cake mix, properly baked, will taste good. But these examples are not trusts of the heart. We trust Dad to catch us after he hurls us into the air. We trust Mom to provide the proper remedy for our illness. These are trusts of the heart. Our Father God desires our whole-hearted trust in Him, from the depths of our heart, for we know and profess His name. Even in the tough times, He will not forsake us as we consistently seek Him.

—Fred and Peggy Lange

 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage;
do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

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May 7 - Psalms 11-12
God’s words are pure words, pure silver words refined seven times in the fires of his word-kiln, pure on earth as well as in heaven. Psalm 12:6 (Message Bible)

God Makes Good on His Promises
Is there any doubt? If we are honest, we’d probably say, “yes.” “But what about the time I stood on that promise and it didn’t come to pass? What about the time I claimed that word, only to still be waiting?” Even the Psalmist cries out “Lord, are you there? Do you hear my cry?”
   

What is so awesome about our God is that His ways are higher than ours. His thoughts are greater than ours. He very well hears our cries, and His promises are true. But to see the answers, to see His Word in action, we have to see from His perspective. Many times I’ve wrestled with, “Why didn’t God answer my prayer as He promised?” only to realize some time later how He did, in fact, answer my prayer. At the same time, He kept me from harm or blessed me even more by how He did answer that prayer. If God answered my prayers exactly as I prayed them, I would often be a mess. As a good father, God knows exactly what I need, and answers my prayers as a good father should.

The key is in living life from God’s perspective, seeing things from His point of view. Then I see that His Word is true, pure, righteous, and as solid as a rock. 

—John Dieker

 “I don’t think the way you think. The way you work isn’t the way I work.’ God’s Decree.”
Isaiah 55:8

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May 8 - Mark 3
The Pharisees had their eyes on Jesus to see if he would heal him, hoping to catch him in a Sabbath infraction…“Obedience is thicker than blood. The person who obeys God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3:2, 35 (Message Bible)

They are Watching…
In the first part of Mark 3, Jesus is being watched by the Pharisees. Will He dare “work” a miracle on the Sabbath by healing the man’s hand?

 

These opening verses reminded me of a time years ago, while I was in the Navy. I was talking and suddenly found myself falsely accused. Later, I realized when those around you know you are a Christian, they watch you.

Jesus was watched to see if they could trip Him up in His words or actions. Today, we are watched to see if we will trip up in our words or actions. As we read Mark 3, we see that Jesus did not hesitate to do what His Father wanted Him to do, even if it meant false accusations.

 

The more important observation, I believe, is who is watching? To name a few…my children, my friends, my co-workers, people in the grocery store, and, of course, God. I don’t know who first said it, but it is true. “You may be the only Bible they read.” How do I read? Do I show God’s love and truth when I respond to a situation? I am convicted as I write these words.

I love what Jesus says in verse 35. “Obedience is thicker than blood. The person who obeys God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”

—Ty Simanson

 Dear Jesus, please help me to be obedient to Your will.
I want to honor You in all I do and say. Thank You for Your love. Amen.

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May 9 - Mark 4
And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples. Mark 4:34b (NKJV)

He Will Explain It All!
WOW! What a comfort this verse has been to me. Sometimes I don’t understand it all. When I hear a scripture or even when I read a verse and don’t understand, that’s okay. All I need to do is go and be alone with Jesus and my Bible, and He will explain it all to me. We know how Jesus taught Peter and the other disciples; He will also do the same for you and me when we have questions. He is Faithful!

Just the other day, as I took time to read my Bible and write in my notebook, He opened the door of understanding for me. He will do the same for you! At times I have felt it was unfair for Him to speak in parables all the time, because some of the people didn’t understand what He was saying. Yet, all of us who hear the parables have the opportunity to “go and be alone” with Him and ask, just like the twelve disciples in the New Testament. We just need to exercise that option and express our need to Him and He will explain it all. What a promise He has given us!

—Beezie Davis

 “I thank You Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things
from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes.”
Matthew 11:25b

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May 10 - Mark 5
While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.” Mark 5:35-36 (NKJV)

Jesus Speaks Life!
This is one of my favorite scriptures! It is God’s word to me, too: “Do not be afraid, only believe.”

 

I see God’s heart in Jesus’ response to the fearful news brought to the ruler of the synagogue. He immediately wanted to quench fear with faith. The words, “As soon as” speak to me. I would do well if, as soon as I hear discouraging news or thoughts that would make me fearful, I would turn to Jesus and take heed to His words of life and hope and faith. 

 

How about you? Are you encountering fearful “news” today? See Jesus turn to you and give you His perspective. Hear His words of life and hope, and heed His instructions. Remember, Jesus is the Good News!

—Rick Grunewald

 “…Blessed is the man who fears the LORD…
He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.”
Psalm 112:1, 7

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May 11 - Mark 6
Immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. Mark 6:50b-51a (NIV)

Take Heart!
This scene occurs when the disciples were out on the lake, without Jesus, and fighting against a storm—as the Amplified Bible phrases it in verse 48, “They were troubled and tormented in rowing, for the wind was against them.” 

 

There comes a time in all of our lives when a storm of life seems to be buffeting us about, and perhaps it seems that we are losing the battle. This can be in finances, a job situation, in relationships, or a seemingly dry spiritual time in one’s life. One can feel all alone “in the boat, rowing against the wind.” May these verses encourage you for such a time, and even more, to rise up with courage and believe God’s word: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you”(Deuteronomy 31:6). This encouragement was for Joshua as he succeeded Moses. The same message is found throughout the Bible, as God seeks to strengthen His people.

 

Jesus is willing to “step into the boat” with us—to walk with us every step of the way, through any storm or turn of life. Draw strength from this truth and rest in Jesus.

—Lucretia Carlson

 “…Take heart! I AM! Stop being alarmed and afraid.
And He went up into the boat with them, and the wind ceased
(sank to rest as if exhausted by its own beating).”
Mark 6:50b-51a (Amplified Bible)

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May 12 - Mark 7
…a woman came to him whose little girl was possessed by an evil spirit. She had heard about Jesus, and now she came and fell at his feet. She begged him to release her child from the demon’s control. Since she was a Gentile…Jesus told her, “First I should help my own family, the Jews. It isn’t right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs.” She replied, “That’s true, Lord, but even the dogs under the table are given some crumbs from the children’s plates.” “Good answer!” he said. “And because you have answered so well, I have healed your daughter.” Mark 7:25-29 (NLT)

Feasting Under the Table
Every time I read this portion of scripture I am challenged by it. And every time I have finished reading it, I feel like I have both gained and missed something.

 

Jesus went away, to get away, to a region where He was less well known. There, one of the first to come to Him was this Gentile woman. She shows much hunger and tenacity in laying her request before Jesus. She came at a time when He was a little harder to find. Falling at His feet, she pled with Him for her daughter.

He replies by expressing a challenge to the faith she has just displayed. She answers Him, “Even the dogs under the table are given some crumbs from the children’s plates.” Wow! If only I approached my daily devotional time the way she approached Jesus. I can understand why Jesus was willing to answer her request. She was hungry. Lord Jesus, please help me to approach Your table, even under Your table, with deep hunger and desire for Your portion for my life. Today, if you’ve finished your Bible reading and don’t feel that you’ve received His destined portion for your life, then please take a moment to press just a little bit deeper into His Word and presence. Linger just a little bit longer, and reach just a little farther for the portion He has for you.

    
—Dan Fitzgerald

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May 13 - Psalms 13-14
Their words are poison gas, fouling the air. Psalm 14:1 (Message Bible)

Poisonous Words
How often do I think about the kinds of words tumbling out of my mouth? Not as often as I should. But I have paid more attention lately, as I pondered this verse.

 

What kind of words would be considered poisonous and foul? Words that are ungodly. Not just the easily identifiable kind like critical, mean, or hateful words; but words that we are so accustomed to hearing that we don’t realize they are in opposition to God’s Word.

How often I have said, “I know God is able to meet this need, but…” Then I proceeded to tell how monumental my problem was. When I finished my tale, I was depressed and hopeless, and so was the listener. Those words were poisonous and foul.

It isn’t necessary to deny problems or not speak of them. How else will someone be able to help or encourage us, if they aren’t aware of our needs? But now I am learning to state my problem when necessary, and follow it with, “but God is able to…” Then, instead of magnifying (making larger) my problem, I magnify God. He is able to do more than I could ever think or ask. When I finish making God bigger than my problem, I am full of faith, reminded that God’s Word never returns void. No longer will I leave my listener or myself without hope or pollute the air around us with discouragement.

 —Jan Chase

Lord, help me to consciously choose words that give life
and hope to those around me.

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May 14 - Psalms 15-17
He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart… shall never be moved… I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved. Psalm 15:2, 5b, 16:8 (NKJV)

I Shall Not be Moved!

In a world where we are tossed to and fro by popular opinion, passing fads, and the rise and fall of our own emotions, what peace and joy is found in plugging into the unchanging, rock-solid
nature of our Lord Jesus Christ! It is so easy to be focused on the temporary—the exam I have this afternoon, the review I have at work, or the relational issue I need to work out with a family member. But in the midst of it all, we must let the driving force of our lives be to live a life that is built upon the immovable—our hope in the eternal, our “good inheritance” (Psalm 16:6).

When our hope is found not in what today will bring, but in our eternal hope of abiding in His tabernacle, and dwelling in His holy hill (Psalm 15:1), we will experience a steadfast, immovable joy and strength of character that can come only from Christ. It is in this place where we can truly walk in the promise that no matter what today will bring, our hearts are assured, “in Your presence is fullness of joy” (Psalm 16:11).

—Suzanne Fitzgerald

 “In this world sorrow is our lot, but in heaven there is joy,
a fulness of joy; our pleasures here are for a moment,
but those at God’s right hand are pleasures for evermore.”
 —Matthew Henry, Concise Commentary of the Whole Bible

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May 15 - Mark 8
Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the towns of Caesarea Philippi; and on the road He asked His disciples, saying to them,“Who do men say that I am?”… “John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” He said to them,“But who do YOU say that I am?”
Peter answered and said to Him, “YOU are the Christ.” Mark 8:27-29 (NKJV)

 

Who Do YOU Say that He Is?

Caesarea Philippi is about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee. It stands on the southern edge of the Mount of Hermon and is today called Banias. One of the sources of the Jordan River springs forth from under a large rocky cliff that rises a hundred or more feet above the village. Many idols were carved into the rock face located there. The contrast between Jesus Christ and these local gods was striking—and the perfect place for Christ to ask the question, “Who do YOU say I am?”

In life today, with all of its gods carved into the rock façade of society, the question still is asked—“Who do YOU say that I am?” We live out our response by what we give priority to in our lives. If He is just another god in the business of life we won’t pay Him much attention or take a stand for Him; we will begin to subtly deny Him in the decisions of life. However, if Jesus is our Christ, then He will totally govern what we do with our life and how we live it. We will gladly embrace the closing section of this chapter that says, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” If He is our Christ, then we will gladly deny ourselves so that we NEVER deny Him.

—Pastor Phil Vance

 Who do you say that He is?
What does your lifestyle reveal about your answer?

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May 16 - Mark 9
Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? You must have the qualities of salt among yourselves and live in peace with each other. Mark 9:50 (NLT)

S.A.L.T.
I love how Jesus taught. He often used the simple things of this world to teach about Kingdom principles. This verse talks of salt, a substance that Jesus’ listeners could relate with. His audience would have used salt for health reasons, worship, food, covenants, and so much more. People could relate to this message. They could feel it, taste it, and simply use it.

One way I like to use salt in my life is to apply to everyday conversation an acronym that my Senior Pastor taught me.                                                                                                        
          S – Say anything
          A – Ask questions
          L – Listen
          T – Turn the topic of conversation to Christ
   
I have been trying to live this life of SALT in my relationships with both Christians and non-Christians, and it is truly powerful. Today we have the opportunity to salt people. Let’s be sensitive to the prompting of the Lord as he might direct us in this way. The “T” part of SALT can be anything from someone sneezing and you say, “God bless you,” to hearing of a need and responding with, “I will be praying for you.” Let’s be open to being SALT, and see how He might pour us out for His glory.

—C.J. Carrier

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May 17 - Mark 10
“What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked him. The blind man said, “Rabbi, I want to see.” Mark 10:51 (NIV)

 

Grow Up and Act Like a Child
Years ago I had a roommate whose child-like faith made me mad. It seemed to me that she could walk in irresponsibility and because of her great faith, God would come through for her. After all, I was “mature” and able to do the things God asked of me without His help. Uh-oh.

 

Mark 10 faces very “grown-up” issues: divorce, wealth, desire for authority. Interestingly, however, in the midst of these adult things, the Word clearly speaks of child-like faith.

 

First, the disciples are scolded by Jesus for not allowing the children to be brought to Him. He says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it” (Luke 18:16-17). The chapter then ends with the story of blind Bartimaeus, a beautiful picture of child-like faith.

Read verses 46-52 again. When you hear Jesus coming, shout “Jesus, son of David, have mercy on me!” When others tell you, “He’s calling you,” throw aside the thing that weighs you down and go to Him. When He asks what He can do for you, simply tell Him, “I want to see.”

—Cheryl Mitchell

 Today, sing “Jesus loves me!” and enjoy being all “grown-up.”

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May 18 - Mark 11

 

Three Eventful Days
Mark 11 is one of those chapters that is packed with action. There is so much here. I am going to share some points that stood out to me.

Chronologically it covers three days. On the first day, Jesus enters Jerusalem, to the shouts of “Hosanna!” Do you know what Hosanna means? It literally means, “Lord Save.” As such, the Lord’s entry into Jerusalem on a donkey was not only a fulfillment of prophecy, but the people in their praise were prophetic as He moved toward His sacrificial death and resurrection. Lord Save! Hosanna!

Did you notice, after His entry, He went to the temple and looked it over, then went to Bethany for the night? The next day He drove out the money changers. That means He had observed the goings-on in the temple, and waited until the next day to respond by driving out the money changers. He slept on it. He was slow to anger. What an example of the proper way to express righteous anger.

 

The last half of the chapter is a contrast of fear and faith. In verse 18, we see the Scribes and Pharisees fearing Jesus and therefore seeking His destruction. In verse 32, they are unable to answer Jesus because of their fear of the people. Sandwiched between these
verses is Jesus’ teaching about faith. I have found that whenever there is fear in my life, there is an opportunity to exercise faith. Indeed, the opposite of faith is fear. We can choose either one to motivate our actions. Fear leads to legalism, rigidity, hypocrisy, and isolation—all things that Jesus confronted. Faith leads us toward the Lord, His ways, and the destiny He calls us to. 
    The next time you are confronted with your fears, look to your faith and choose to believe.

—Howard Davis

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May 19 - Mark 12
Jesus answered and said to them,“Are you not therefore mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God?” Mark 12:24 (NKJV)

In Word and Power
Jesus asked a question of a group determined to trip Him up in His words. Often speaking in parables, Jesus was countering the wisdom of the cultural leaders and what had become the conventional beliefs of their time.

A group of Sadducees thought they had posed to Jesus a difficult question, and even prefaced it with a parable of their own. They also framed it within what they thought was an indisputable trap: “Moses said… and what do You say?” 

However, Jesus directed His response to their basic spiritual weakness—a problem which still persists today:“…you do not know the Scriptures, nor the power of God.”

 

If we are speaking to Christians, we would simply define this as a need for foundations. But, in a broader sense, Jesus stated what sets true Christianity apart from all other religions: thoroughly understanding the ancient texts, and intimately experiencing the Divine power.  The lack of these principles has allowed the acceptance of other religions and spin-off beliefs. Even those claiming to be attached to Christianity fail due to the same reasons. Sadly, this is often the source of our own doubts and sinful behavior.

 

The Bible says that even Jesus’ enemies “marveled at Him.” What will set us apart, and what will let us counter the secular, religious, and nominal “Christian” culture of our day, is if we truly walk in this same knowledge of the Scriptures, and live by the power of the true God.

—Curtis Troll

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May 20 - Psalm 18
In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried out to my God; He heard my voice from His temple, and my cry came before Him, even to His ears. Psalm 18:6 (NKJV)

And My Cry Came Even to His Ears...
I was in the grocery store awhile back and observed a drama unfolding. A baby was stuck in the shopping cart and let out a cry. He had found himself in a place of distress (a “tight place”), and he desperately wanted someone to come to his rescue. At the sound of his cry, every head turned and every eye settled on this baby and his dilemma. It was an involuntary response. The heart to nurture, to protect, and to rescue was engaged in each one of us as his cry came to our ears.

 

Isn’t this a true example of our Heavenly Father’s heart for us—a heart full of desire to nurture, protect, and rescue? And won’t His heart be easily engaged when we cry out to Him in our place of distress, our “tight place”?

 

As we read on in Psalm 18, we get a clear picture of His Fatherly response. The earth shakes...He bows the heavens and comes down...He sends from above, He takes us...and draws us out and delivers us. His response is swift and sure because He delights in us—His children.

 

Let your cry come to your Father’s ears today whatever your
distress may be. He will deliver you from every distress! It is the very nature of His heart for you.

—Lynn Little

 “You received the Spirit of adoption by whom you cry out,
‘Abba, Father.’" Romans 8:15b

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May 21 - Psalms 19-20
The revelation of God is whole and pulls our lives together. The signposts of God are clear and point out the right road. The life-maps of God are right, showing the way of joy.
Psalm 19:7-8a (Message Bible)

The Signs in Our Life
Every day, I drive the same way to work, passing the same signs day in and day out. I know there’s a stop sign ahead, that I have to turn the corner, and that the speed limit is 25 mph. I don’t even have to look at them anymore because I know they are there, and I know what they say. However, I know I still have to obey these signs, so I need to re-read them from time to time.

 

These natural road signs give us direction—stop, go, one way, yield, do not enter, watch for deer, sharp curve ahead, etc. Each one, if ignored, can have terrible consequences. The direction of our lives can be altered forever, even with the slightest hesitation, questioning, ignoring, or disobedience of the sign. We think we know the way, have a better idea on how to get there, know a shortcut. But in reality, the signs are tried and true. They are trustworthy and for our safety and benefit.

 

God’s Word is our spiritual roadmap, giving direction to our lives, and guiding us to make right choices. Again, we need to read His signs (His Word), even if we think we know them. When we ignore God’s signs and don’t believe them, when we hesitate and don’t take an opportunity, when we question and don’t trust, then we’re in disobedience and terrible consequences can lie ahead.

 

At times, I’ve wondered if I’m on the right road and questioned where God is. Yet, God has been faithful to bring more signs, clearer visions, brighter hope, and a wholeness—all of which has led me back to His plan for my life and filled me with His life and joy.

—Jodi Luree Anderson

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May 22 - Mark 13
Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory… And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch! Mark 13:26, 37 (NKJV)

I’ll Believe It When I See It!
How many times have we heard or said that before?! We live in a world which demands tangible, fact-based evidence. The problem is, we love and serve a God who demands just the opposite. He says, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” And Paul writes, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”

 

But, in Mark 13:5-6, Jesus warns us to see before we believe: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name saying ‘I am He,’ and will deceive many.” Throughout the chapter, He urges us to watch. He says we’ll see the Son of Man coming (vs 26). He says to take heed, watch, and pray (vs 33). In verse 35 He says to watch and in 37, the last verse of the chapter, He says, “And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

 

Let’s be like the early Christians! Let’s search the scriptures for the signs of our Lord’s coming. Let’s live on the balls of our feet, our hearts poised and ready. Watch, pray, and be ready. Even if Jesus doesn’t come in our time, let’s live so Christians yet to come will reap the benefits of our relationship with and obedience to Jesus!

—Tom Fitzgerald

 

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May 23 - Mark 14
…My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death: tarry ye here, and watch. And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him.
Mark 14:34-35 (KJV)

Human Moments
Jesus rebuked the storm and walked on water. He healed the sick and raised the dead. His wisdom had no match and His power had no end. He was simply amazing.

 

Well, these verses might surprise us. But there’s Jesus, on the ground and shaken out of place, desperately looking for a way out. What a human moment for the glorious Son of God! What a comfort to us who can’t always keep it together.

 

Most of our lives we are told to “keep a stiff upper lip.” But that’s hard to do when we’re upset. When we get emotional, our lips usually tremble. And the whole idea behind “keeping a stiff upper lip” is to hide our emotions. We certainly don’t want others to see us as weak.  And here is Jesus letting His lips quiver. How very touchable. Not only can I worship this Man, but I can relate to Him. He puts me at ease because sometimes I quiver…feeling more like a two-year-old than a stalwart champion of God.

 

Haven’t we all been there? At some time or another, others have seen you at a low point. Not standing at the top of the world…but looking like Jesus did…on the ground…tears mixed with dirt. It’s embarrassing—because we dress to impress. But look at Jesus. It’s just nice to know we have permission to be human.

—Demetrius Rogers

 Lord, thank you for accepting us just as we are,
when we’re weak like a two year old
or strong like a champion.

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May 24 - Mark 15
Pilate asked them, “Then what should I do with this man you call the king of the Jews?” They shouted back, “Crucify him!”“Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?”
But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!” So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified. Mark 15:12-15 (NLT)

Would You Smoke ’em?
Just think about it. Jesus took on humanity to feel what we feel, and to be tempted to sin like we are tempted, but He chose not to sin.

 

The same people who praised Him a week earlier are now yelling for Him to be crucified. They didn’t want Him killed in a humane way, but the most gruesome way possible.

 

I wonder, could we have done what He did? Knowing myself like I do, I would have wanted to at least call fire from heaven and consume the two-faced hypocrites. It would have made going to the cross easier for me. What kind of love would it take to not only NOT “smoke” them all, but to actually ask the Father to forgive them, since they didn’t know what they were doing? What kind of love is this? Do I even have one one-hundredth of this kind of love?

 

May I suggest to you, my friends, it wasn’t nails that held Him there, but love. Love like we have never comprehended.

—Mick Chase

Father, please saturate me with love for those
who persecute or misuse me. Amen.

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May 25 - Mark 16
Later Jesus showed himself to the eleven followers while they were eating. He criticized them because they had little faith. They were stubborn and refused to believe those who had seen him after he had risen from death. Mark 16:14 (New Century) 

God, Help My Unbelief
Three times in this short chapter, it says the followers of Jesus did not believe when they were told Jesus had risen from the dead. Perhaps there is a connection between their lack of belief here and the fact that they all scattered and denied Jesus when He was crucified. Later, in the book of Acts, those praying for Peter to be released from jail refused to believe when God sprung him out.

 

It’s sad when Jesus shows up for the first time after His resurrection and begins by criticizing their lack of faith and their stubbornness. Yet, in spite of His disappointment with His followers, He goes on to give great promises to those who believe—they will cast out demons, speak in tongues, receive miraculous protection, and heal the sick. Then Jesus was gone physically, and with the Lord helping them by His Spirit, they changed their world. 

 

Today we can do the same, with the Lord helping us. He will turn our unbelief into faith and power if we focus on Him.

—Pastor John Carlson

 Lord Jesus, sometimes I find myself not believing
even though the evidence is obvious. Help me to accept
Your mercy and grace, and give me the faith to believe
and have impact in the world. Amen.

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May 26 - 2 Corinthians 1
He comes alongside us when we go through hard times. 2 Corinthians 1:4a (Message Bible)

Right By My Side
Several years ago, the office manager for our business and her unborn child were killed in a head-on collision. During the painful and difficult days that followed, Jesus spoke to me about a hike I had taken up Electric Peak in Yellowstone National Park. From the summit, the view had been breathtaking and had brought tears to my eyes. All the effort to reach the summit had been immediately forgotten. To this day, I remember that view, but have very little memory of the actual climb.

 

Jesus spoke to me, then, that He was my personal mountain guide, that He would help me climb the rocky path of Ramona’s death. He told me that the path didn’t end with this tragedy, but that life would go on and that there was a breathtaking view ahead that He couldn’t wait to show me.

 

“But I’ll take the hand of those who don’t know the way, who can’t see where they’re going. I’ll be a personal guide to them, directing them through unknown country. I’ll be right there to show them what roads to take, make sure they don’t fall into the ditch. These are the things I’ll be doing for them—sticking with them, not leaving them for a minute” (Isaiah 42:16).

—Gina Young

 Thank You, Jesus, for always being right by my side.

 

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May 27 - Psalms 21-22

…in you they trusted and were not disappointed. Psalm 22:5b (NIV)

 

Bigger Than Our Disappointment
Disappointment seems to be a thing that’s all around us these days—disappointment in our jobs, our financial status, our relationships, even our clothing size. Marketers everywhere revel in our state of disappointment and dissatisfaction and try to sell us products that will help us to “better” ourselves with their miracle cure. But there is One who never disappoints—our Father God.

 

When we trust in our gracious, awesome, amazing God, and align our will with His perfect will for our lives, there is a peace and contentment that comes. And instead of being disappointed in all the things that are going wrong in our lives and in this fallen world, we are driven to get as close to Him as we can. The disappointment in this world turns into an excitement to get close to God, and the things of the world grow strangely dim.

 

I long for the day when there will be no more disappointments, and we will be with our Lord Jesus forever in a world without sin. But until then, I strive every day to cling to my gracious Father, in whom I will never be disappointed.

—Tracy Early

 

Lord, help me to always trust in You! Especially on those days
when my bank account is wearing thin, I can’t find a thing
to wear, and my job just isn’t as exciting as I’d like it to be.
Help me to put my value and my trust in You, instead of in this world,

because You are so much greater than the world!

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May 28 - Psalms 23-24

Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation. This [is] the generation of them that seek him, that seek Thy face, O Jacob. Selah Psalm 24:3-6 (KJV)

Required and Provided—Clean Hands and a Pure Heart
Over ten years ago, God laid this scripture on my heart—the scripture that would describe the worship team for our church. I had a poster made with the outline of the platform, the stage, and curtains, and had this scripture overlaid on the picture, filling the area of the stage in front of the house curtain. I knew without a doubt that we were to minister before the Lord with humble hearts that were the fruit of clean hands and pure hearts.

 

As Christians, we all serve as believer priests in the areas of ministry to which the Lord has called us. It is important to never take for granted the fact that He has asked us—in fact required us—to
have clean hands and a pure heart in preparation for these areas of service. The most amazing thing is that He has not expected us to come up with our own righteousness, but He has provided it by the blood of Jesus Christ.

 

Take a moment today to thank Him for that precious gift that provides your purity. 

—Pastor Kari Vance

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May 29 - 2 Corinthians 2

Now wherever we go he uses us to tell others about the Lord and to spread the Good News like a sweet perfume. 2 Corinthians 2:14b (NLT)

 

That Gospel Fragrance

Our annual school shopping extravaganza to the big city north of us included a layover at a cinnamon roll shop. Our mouths would start watering as the sweet smelling cinnamon reached our noses. Theresolve to “just share one” always melted away by the time we reached the to place our order.

I’ve realized people can carry an aroma about them just like that shop. Most of us can remember someone whose godly aroma has touched our lives and even left a hint of their fragrance behind with us. My Christian grandmother was one of those people. She loved God and served Him by caring for all those He brought into her life. Her life “spread the Good News” that there really is a powerful God around, and that He even cares about me!  Her sweet perfume stirred me to follow her example.

 

In reading this verse, I can’t help but consider my own life. How can I live life today in such a way that “tells others about the Lord”? Can I make Jesus smell so sweet and irresistible that those around me want to partake of Him as I have? 

—Jackie Dieker

 

“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.”
—St. Francis of Assisi

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May 30 - 2 Corinthians 3

We are confident of all this because of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God.
2 Corinthians 3:4-5 (NLT)

The Secret of Significance: TRUST
No one would contest that the apostle Paul had great impact for the spread of the Gospel of Christ Jesus in the world. From the vantage point of history, we can look back and see phenomenal results! A great deal of what became the New Testament was written by him, which has—century after century—planted the Gospel deeply in the hearts of mankind. But Paul had no way of knowing that he would have such significance in so many lives! 

 

What an encouragement for us to throw our lives in trust on the same God! As we obey the call of the Holy Spirit, we can trust confidently that God will give our Spirit-led lives lasting impact. Perhaps we won’t see it in our lifetime, but fruit will grow out of all we do in Him.

 

Those who know me know that I feel called to sing.  The Holy Spirit often gives me a promise or image for an audience before I perform. But usually, I cannot see results right then and there. Often, faces appear rather blank. This is where I have to be confident of God’s power and success in the inward working of hearts. I trust that there is lasting value in what I’m doing, because I sense His anointing and His Spirit reaching out to people.

 

Let’s not give up or get discouraged about results! He is faithful who has promised! And, if we’re doing His bidding with Him, we are never working alone!

—Nancy Grunewald

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May 31 - 2 Corinthians 4

...we possess this precious treasure [the divine Light of the Gospel] in [frail, human] vessels of earth, that the grandeur and exceeding greatness of the power may be shown to be from God and not from ourselves. 2 Corinthians 4:7 (Amplified Bible)

 

Can Anything Good Come Out of... Me?
The account of Gideon’s life found in Judges 6-8 is an interesting one. A man of no particular importance, in fact, the least in Israel—and yet God favored him and selected him to be His mighty warrior. God then selected a very small supporting army in order to demonstrate the power that comes from allowing God to use weak—but willing—vessels.

 

A great battle ensued as earthen vessels, housing blazing lights, were broken open. With God’s help, the enemy was routed and Gideon’s army was victorious.

 

Gideon’s life ended in dismal failure. And yet, take a moment to read Hebrews 11, where he is listed as one of the heroes of the faith.

 

God still uses weak and broken vessels to display His light today. Have you allowed the Potter to form you in a way that will carry and display His bright glory?

 

It is proper to clothe ourselves with humility and to acknowledge that without Christ, we are indeed nothing. It is also proper to then allow Him to carry us wherever He desires, in order to display the glorious richness of His Holy Spirit.

 

—Bob Mitchell

 

 “Bear in mind that it is the will of God that this heavenly treasure which makes you

rich for eternity, should be lodged in an earthen vessel.”
 —Joseph Philpot, Daily Portions