Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 18, 2010
Topic: Heaven


Heaven Is Real

Michael Faraday, the great scientist, was taken ill. When it became evident that the sickness would soon result in his death, a group of fellow scientists came to see him--not so much to talk about science as to talk about death. One of them said to him: "Mr. Faraday, what are your speculations about your future?"

This magnificent Christian, with a heavenly glow upon his face, turned to him and said, "I know nothing about speculation; my hope is built upon Him. I know in whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day."

What Does God Say?

Faraday's hope was not based on whimsy, positive thinking or hoping against hope. Instead, his hope was in Jesus--that what His Savior promised, He would do. Read Jesus' words in John 14:1-3.

   1. Why does Jesus acknowledge your heart might be "troubled"?
   2. What does He tell you to do about your concern?
   3. What does He promise will happen in your future if you believe in Him?

My Thoughts

Is heaven real? Jesus told us it is, and He told us it is a literal place. How real it is to you depends on your answer to two questions:

    * First, do you believe Jesus is the Son of God?
    * Second, do you believe Jesus always told the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?

If your answer to both of those questions is "Yes," then believing that heaven is a real place is not difficult at all. After all, who would know better than Jesus about heaven?

"But if you don't believe me when I tell you about earthly things, how can you possibly believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven" (John 3:12-13, NLT).

My Part

One of the most wonderful aspects of heaven is that it can be our heavenly home simply by receiving Jesus as our Savior.

"One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, 'So you're the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself--and us, too, while you're at it!'
"But the other criminal protested, 'Don't you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn't done anything wrong.' Then he said, 'Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.'
"And Jesus replied, 'I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise'" (Luke 23:39-43, NLT).

To be sure today that heaven is your eternal home, trust Jesus as your personal Savior. To help you do that right now, visit the "Meet Jesus" page.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 19, 2010
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, Heaven


Copy vs. Real

Have you ever seen the Mona Lisa? I mean, in person, at the Louvre in Paris? I haven't. I've seen poster-sized prints or detailed photographs in art books. But I've heard it's different when you experience the real thing. Now imagine a photocopy of the Mona Lisa--a gray, scratchy, flat picture, without the shadings of color or texture of the original. It might be nice, but it's not as good as the real work.

The difference between earth and heaven is a lot like that. Here on earth we know only the copies, the shadows, the interpretations of the real thing--heaven is the "real-est" life.

What Does God Say?

The Book of Hebrews uses this concept frequently. The priesthood of Israel served as "a copy and shadow of the heavenly things" (Hebrews 8:5, ESV), reflecting the reality of Jesus' ministry before the Father.

The holy places in the tabernacle, the work of the priests, and the sacrifices were visual teaching tools to show the people what would happen "when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) he entered once for all into the holy places, not by means of the blood of goats and calves but by means of his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption" (Hebrews 9:11-12, ESV).

God used shadows, symbols, copies to help us understand that Jesus brought the superior covenant, the "real" relationship (see Hebrews 9-10). What we see now is real, but not the "real-est" thing.

My Thoughts

Take a look at a few of Paul's thoughts.
1 Corinthians 13:8-12

    * What are some things that will pass away from this life (13:8 )?
    * What does he say about our existence now (13:9-12)?
    * What word picture does he use in 13:12?
    * How do you view yourself and your life now?
    * What is your vision of heaven like?

2 Corinthians 4:16-5:5

    * What do these verses say about what's real and lasting?
    * What is transient or will fade away (4:18 )?
    * What does Paul say we are longing for (5:1-3)?
    * How are we burdened by our earthly home and body?
    * How does this concept influence your perspective on today? On heaven and your eternal future?

Take a few minutes to think about how you live each day. Do you see this as "all there is"? Are you burdened by the limitations of life and see nothing more? Or do you hold on to the promise that this is indeed a "slight momentary affliction" and the best is coming?

My Part

So, does this mean now is only a dream and doesn't really matter? No. This earth is a very real place; you're definitely a living person. And what you do here to serve, obey and follow the Lord matters. How you live a godly life of love, righteousness, justice and purity matters. How you treat your enemies, build up your friends and love your family matters. It matters because it's what God wants to see and reward one day. But remember this is not all there is. One day, as a child of God, you will experience the "real-est" reality of life in heaven.

In The Last Battle, C.S. Lewis takes his Narnian characters through a door and into a place that is more real, more beautiful, a familiar and well-beloved land but with so much more depth and intensity.

The Narnia they left behind was, as Digory explains, "not the real Narnia...It was only a shadow or a copy of the real Narnia which has always been here and always will be here: just as our own world, England and all, is only a shadow or copy of something in Aslan's real world....And of course it is different; as different as a real thing is from a shadow or as waking life is from a dream."

And as another character declares a moment later, "I belong here! This is the land I've been looking for all my life, thought I never knew till now. The reason we loved the old Narnia is because it sometimes looked a little like this."

We might live today in the shadowlands (as Lewis calls the physical world), but the real world will be heaven and home.

The Last Battle, copyright 1956 by C.S. Lewis Pte., Ltd., published by Harper Collins.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 20, 2010
Topic: Heaven


In Heaven

Have you ever used Google Maps? If I'm not careful, I can wind up spending way too much time pouring over satellite images of places I'll never have a chance to visit or even an adjacent neighborhood.

But, while looking at detailed satellite images of Paris is pretty cool, it doesn't compare to actually standing on the banks of the Seine in the shadow of the Notre Dame Cathedral.

The Bible talks about a time when we'll be able to look at God from a similar perspective.

What Does God Say?

First Corinthians 13:12 says, "For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known" (ESV).

When it comes to knowing about God, the Bible is an essential resource. In fact, we would know nothing about God's personality or love for us apart from the Bible. But according to Paul in the verse above, seeing God in the Bible is like looking at an incredibly detailed satellite map--useful, but it's not the entire picture.

The entire picture, Paul says, will be revealed to us in the future when we stand before God's throne in heaven. The apostle John writes about that day in Revelation. "No longer will there be anything accursed, but the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and his servants will worship him. They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads" (22:3-4, ESV).

There will be a day when we won't need descriptions of God because He will be there standing in front of us!

My Thoughts

Read Revelation 22:1-5 and think about the following questions:

    * What benefits come from being in the presence of God?
    * What do you think it means that "his name will be on their foreheads"?

My Part

The last part of 1 Corinthians 13:12 says, "Even as I have been fully known." Remind yourself this week about just how "fully known" you are. Read Psalm 139 and make a list of everything God knows about you. It's a bit scary realizing just how much God knows about us. But on the other hand, it's incredibly reassuring to know God loves us so much He cares about every detail of our lives.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 23, 2010
Topic: Heaven, Worship/Praise/Worthiness


Worship in Heaven

I remember asking some pretty big questions about heaven when I was little. "Will I get to play with my dog again?" "Can I talk to people from the Bible?" "Will there be peanut butter?" (Hey, it was important to me!) And I remember my dad patiently answering what he could. One question that came up--and still does--is this: What will we do during all of eternity?

What Does God Say?

The Bible doesn't give us an exhaustive list of the things we'll do; but one is worship. After all, we will finally be in the presence of God the Father and Jesus, the Lamb and the Light. Just that fact will drive us to our knees and make us explode in worship.

John shows us a sneak preview in Revelation 4:6-11, "And around the throne, on each side of the throne, are four living creatures, full of eyes in front and behind: the first living creature like a lion, the second living creature like an ox, the third living creature with the face of a man, and the fourth living creature like an eagle in flight. And the four living creatures, each of them with six wings, are full of eyes all around and within, and day and night they never cease to say, 'Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!' And whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to him who is seated on the throne, who lives forever and ever, the twenty-four elders fall down before him who is seated on the throne and worship him who lives forever and ever. They cast their crowns before the throne, saying, 'Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.'" (ESV)

You don't have to be one of these creatures or an elder to join in the worship. Look at Revelation 7:9-12, "After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, 'Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!' And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying, 'Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever! Amen.'" (ESV)

How awesome will it be to take part in that worship!

My Thoughts

Check out these worship scenes in Revelation.
Revelation 5
Revelation 11:15-19
Revelation 15
Revelation 19:1-10

    * Who is the focus of all this attention?
    * What prompts this worship?
    * What are some things He is praised or honored for?
    * What are your reasons for worship?

My Part

You don't have to wait for heaven to worship God; you can practice right now. What are you doing to worship God today? What helps you focus on Jesus? What have you seen Him do in your life? How have you praised or thanked Him for those things? What makes Him worthy in your eyes?

Take a few minutes today to express those things to the Lord--and do it out loud! You can be in your car or close the office door for a few minutes. Do it around the table with your kids or as you take a walk in the morning. If you need to write it down first, do it, and then post it where you can review and speak it over and over.

Just consider it a rehearsal for heaven!

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 24, 2010
Topic: Service/Servanthood, Heaven


Service in Heaven

One of the most important questions a person can ask is, "How do I get to heaven?" Once you have accepted Jesus as your personal Savior, repented of your sins and committed your life to pleasing Him, you can be sure that heaven is your eternal home. (To learn how to do those things and become a Christ-follower, see the "Meet Jesus" page.

You might wonder, then, What will I do in heaven? Just look around? Perhaps rest and relax? Visit with other Christians and Bible personalities? Spend time with Jesus?

Let's see what the Bible teaches about some of the things that will take place in your forever home.

What Does God Say?

"And he said to me, 'These are the ones who come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.'

"For this reason, they are before the throne of God; and they serve Him day and night in His temple; and He who sits on the throne will spread His tabernacle over them.

"They will hunger no longer, nor thirst anymore; nor will the sun beat down on them, nor any heat; for the Lamb in the center of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life; and God will wipe every tear from their eyes" (Revelation 7:14-17, NASB).

   1. Who is "before the throne of God?"
   2. Who is "the Lamb"?
   3. What connection do those standing before God's throne have to "the Lamb"?
   4. What are they doing on a daily basis?
   5. Where will the Lamb guide them?

Now, read Revelation 22:3-5 and write a short description of heaven. Depending on the version you read, the verse will say, "His servants will 'worship' him" or "His servants will 'serve' him."

Why do some versions use the word worship and some the word serve? Because service to God is an expression of worship. And worshipping God with all your heart, mind, body and soul is a way of serving God.

My Thoughts

Do you think heaven sounds tiresome or blasé? Look how Dr. Woodrow Kroll, Bible Teacher for Back to the Bible, describes it.

"We're going to serve the Lord with inexpressible joy. This is when, as never before, Psalm 100:2 is going to be true:

'Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come before His presence with singing!'

"We're going to have the opportunity to do that every day of our lives, and it'll never be the same--and it'll never be boring. Someday I'm going to serve God with enhanced skills, skills that I may possess now but don't possess very well--and someday I'm going to serve Him with skills I don't even have now. Think I'm gonna get bored doing that?--when there are new things for me to learn and do and use to serve Him all of eternity? I just can't wait to see what they all are!"

Draw figures (stick figures are okay) of yourself enjoying skills you don't have now and using them to worship God. For instance, draw yourself singing (even if you can't hold a tune now) or using another skill you'd like to possess.

My Part

How does a Christ-follower prepare for heaven?

    * First, by doing your best to please Jesus every day in every relationship and situation.
    * Second, by learning how to worship with joy and gladness.
    * Last, by getting to know God--that will give you a wonderful foundation for all you will do and learn in heaven.

Don't wait for heaven, begin today.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 25, 2010
Topic: Other


Your Lasting Inheritance

A destitute young man's famous uncle left him a fortune in his will. On the day the uncle died, his nephew made this short note in his journal: "Today, my uncle and I passed into a better life."

If you are like most of us, you probably won't inherit a pot-of-gold in this life. Those who do inherit this world's wealth often take the route of the prodigal son.

Isn't there something better? Absolutely!

What Does God Say?

In the Scriptures, much is said about inheritance. The apostle Peter makes the following joyful statement about the Christian's inheritance in 1 Peter 1:3-5 (ESV).

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time."

    * What words or phrases does Peter use to describe the believer's inheritance?
    * Using your own words, how would you describe a Christian's inheritance?

Now, let's look at some other Bible references containing thoughts about your spiritual inheritance in Christ.

    * According to Galatians 3:26, what position does every believer have in Christ?
    * Ephesians 1:13-14. After you heard God's Word and believed in Christ, what else happened to you? Who guarantees your inheritance until you actually receive it?
    * In Galatians 4:4, 6, what two persons did God "send forth"? Where did He send them?
    * What two positions do you have in God's family as a believer (Galatians 4:7)?

My Thoughts

You may wonder, Then what is my inheritance? If I am an heir, how does that affect my personal life now and in eternity?

One blessing of being in God's family is, according to Romans 8:17, you are a joint-heir (KJV) or a fellow heir (ESV) with Christ. You share His eternal life and all the riches that God has prepared from the foundation of the earth (Matthew 25:34).

Another facet of your inheritance is that you will rule with Christ. You are "an heir of the kingdom" of Christ (James 2:5). Revelation 5:9-10 tells you about your reign upon the earth with Christ. The redeemed from every tribe and tongue and people and nation will reign as co-rulers with Christ. Joint inheritance means joint rulership.

You may read of other benefits of your inheritance in Revelation 21:1-7. Note especially verse 7.

My Part

Rejoice that Christ the Savior came into the world to save you, make you His brother in the family of God, His co-heir and co-ruler with Him. Spend some time today thanking Him for making you a part of His eternal family.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Title: People Get Ready
Date: Aug 26, 2010
Topic(s): Other
Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 2:8-10


As I write this, it is early afternoon the last day of the month. In my car is a postcard from the State Department of Motor Vehicles telling me I need to renew the license on my car. As of now, I have three hours to get it done. Just this morning I told my boss I would have to leave a couple hours early today to get to the DMV on time.

I've had plenty of time to license my car. With a little bit of planning, I might have been able to work ahead a bit and take a whole day off instead of just an hour or two. (I won't mention that the deadline for this Bible study is today!)

As much as my procrastination annoys and frustrates me (and others!), I'm thankful that God lets it bug me because there's a very important inflexible deadline coming up that I want to be ready for.

What Does God Say?

Matthew 25 describes this future "deadline": "'When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats'" (Matthew 25:31-32, ESV).

In verses 35-36, Jesus tells us the criteria He uses in separating the sheep from the goats. The sheep:

    * gave Him food when He was hungry
    * gave Him drink when He was thirsty
    * welcomed Him when He was a stranger
    * clothed Him when He had no clothes
    * visited Him when He was sick
    * came to Him when He was in prison.

The goats did none of these things (vv. 42-43). But here's the important part: Both groups were surprised at God's judgment!

   1. What does the surprise of the sheep reveal about their hearts?
   2. What does the surprise of the goats reveal about their hearts?

That Day of Judgment hasn't come yet, but it will. When it does, it will be too late to ask for any second chances. There will be no bargaining with God and no extensions given.

    * In light of this, why do you think God has chosen not to tell us when He will return?

My Thoughts

Do you live each day as if it were your last? When many people ask that question, they're wondering if you're embracing every opportunity each day provides. For the Christian, that question carries an extra dimension. Are you embracing the opportunities to serve that God brings your way? What if God were to return today? What would He find you doing?

My Part

As you read about the sheep and the goats, be careful not to get the impression that salvation is based on works alone--it's not. Salvation is by the grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ--our works have nothing to do with it. See Ephesians 2:8-9 for Paul's emphatic statement about this. But while you're there, read the next verse too: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10, ESV).

If you've accepted Christ into your life, congratulations, you've made the most important decision you'll ever make--you will be one of the sheep on the final day. But don't let it stop there. Seek out new ways each day to express your love and commitment to God.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 27, 2010
Topic: Second Coming/Rapture/End Times


Jesus Is Coming

Most of us have received a variety of invitations: Come to dinner. Come to my party. Come to my wedding. The majority of these we gladly accept. We get cleaned up, put on special clothes and go enjoy the fellowship of those who invited us. In a few cases, we have to regretfully (or not) decline.

But the most special invitation we'll ever get is found at the end of the Book of Revelation. Let's take a look.

What Does God Say?

"The Spirit and the Bride say, 'Come.' And let the one who hears say, 'Come.' And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price (Revelation 22:17, ESV).

"He who testifies to these things says, 'Surely I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20, ESV).

    * Who extends this invitation?
    * To whom is this invitation offered?
    * What makes this invitation so urgent?

My Thoughts

If there ever was an invitation you don't want to decline, this is it. It is an invitation to eternal life. Jesus says in John 7:37, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink."

This invitation is extended to those who need it the most--those who are thirsty for the waters of life. Jesus tells the woman at the well, "Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life" (John 4:13-14 ).

My Part

If you have drunk of the waters the world has to offer and come away still thirsty, this invitation is for you. But it is an invitation that has a closing date. Jesus says, "Surely I am coming soon." And when that happens, the invitation is over.

Don't wait to respond to God's invitation. Come, just as you are, and accept His offer to receive eternal life. If you want to know more about how to do this, click on "Meet Jesus."

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 30, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness


To Life!

Every day you get a gift. God handed it to you the moment you were conceived. It's called your life. And no matter how well your day goes or what your physical, mental or emotional condition might be, life is a precious gift--one you need to thank God for.

What Does God Say?

Genesis 2:7 describes that first life-breathing gift: "The LORD God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature"(ESV).

In Job 33:4, Elihu says,

"The Spirit of God has made me,
and the breath of the Almighty gives me life" (ESV).

And "in his hand is the life of every living thing
and the breath of all mankind" (Job 12:10, ESV).

Isaiah talks about the Lord God as the One "who gives breath to the people on it [the earth] and spirit to those who walk in it" (Isaiah 42:5, ESV).

It sounds so simple, doesn't it? God gives you life--the air you breathe, the energy you burn, the muscles and thought, skills, emotions, personality and soul--all come from Him.

In Ecclesiastes, the Preacher (King Solomon) records a long and thoughtful search for meaning and purpose in life. In the end, he comes down to a few simple truths: daily food, good work and obedience to God. "Remember also your Creator in the days of your youth" (Ecclesiastes 12:1, ESV), and to "fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man" (Ecclesiastes 12:13, ESV).

This type of "remember" is more than not forgetting something; it's a conscious choice to recall and reflect on something (specifically God) with gratitude, worship, honor and respect. It translates into how you live, not just what you say.

My Thoughts

Ecclesiastes focuses on life--what makes it meaningful or pointless, pleasant or unhappy. See what these verses say about the basic elements of a good life.

Ecclesiastes 2:24-26
Ecclesiastes 3:11-13
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
Ecclesiastes 8:15

    * What activities do these verses talk about?
    * What attitudes keep cropping up?
    * What is/are God's gifts according to these verses?
    * What are some ways you can translate these things into your view of daily life?

My Part

When the alarm goes off too early, when your body doesn't work like it used to or your job drags you down, it's easy to forget that life is a gift from God. When you view your activities and routine as meaningless, difficult or without any joy, maybe it's like that because you've forgotten to be thankful. God calls us to be thankful. First Thessalonians 5:18: "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."(ESV)

Take a few moments to list some of the gifts you receive every day that you have life. Make it as basic as you want; maybe start with just two or three things. Then write God a thank-you note for those. Over the next week, take a moment to read your note out loud to Him (in prayer, if you like), adding to it whenever something else catches your attention. Making that conscious choice to be thankful for the basics of life can change your perspective.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Aug 31, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness


Thanks for Work!

A man got up in the morning, rushed to the window, jerked up the shade, looked outside and lamented, "Oh, no! Not another day!"

Is that the way you feel about your daily work? Is it a burden to be borne until this weary life is over or is it a God-given privilege for which you give thanks?

Is work something eternal, or is your work forever over after you die? What attitude should Christians have about work? Let's look at some key lessons the Bible teaches about work.

What Does God Say?

The first mention of work in the Bible is in Genesis 2:2-3, where you see that God worked six days to accomplish His entire creation.

The first mention of work as it relates to human beings is in Genesis 2:5, where you find that "there was no man to work the ground."

Now, look up Genesis 2:15, what do you discover there about man and work?

All of those events took place before Adam and Eve sinned, showing that work is not a result of sin but a lasting gift of God.

Sin, however, made work more difficult and less rewarding--but no less necessary. Read Genesis 3:17-19.

The Bible makes it clear that God expects His people to work. Even Jesus, on the night He was arrested and condemned to be crucified, said in His prayer to the Father: "I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work that you gave me to do" (John 17:4, ESV). He came to earth with an assignment from the Father, and He finished the job.

Paul says in Colossians 3:23, ESV, "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."

Work will continue in eternity on the new earth with the curse lifted forever: "There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him." (Revelation 22:3, NASB). To work in an environment of freedom and blessing will be a glorious experience.

My Thoughts

With the above information in mind, look up the following Bible passages and write down what you find concerning a Christian's attitude about his or her work.

    * Proverbs 16:3
    * Proverbs 18:9
    * Ephesians 4:28
    * 2 Thessalonians 3:10-13
    * 1 Corinthians 15:58

"Just think, God, the Creator of heaven and earth will be watching over you as you work today. He will delight in every extra effort you make. Then on Judgment Day He will say, 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant'" (Matthew 25:21,23, ESV).

My Part

Think today about two great gifts God has given you. One is the gift of life--for without that you could do nothing. The other is the gift of strength and skill to do work. Without that, you would have no way to give meaning to your life. Whether your work is driving a semi or praying for others, it is important to God.

Your daily work may seem insignificant, but consider what Lowell Lundstrom says in his devotional book, Daily Power Thoughts for Busy People:
"Your work is your ministry unto the Lord. Remember that when Jesus was sawing boards in the carpenter shop of Nazareth, he was fulfilling the will of God as much as when He preached the Sermon on the Mount. Your work as a secretary, housewife, farmer, mechanic or whatever is the expression of your love for God. So do your job well. The Bible says, 'Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might'" (Ecclesiastes 9:10, ESV).

Take pen and paper and write down some ways that you can make your work more of a blessing to yourself and a testimony to others. Give God thanks today for the work He has given you and the strength to do it.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Sep 1, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness, God's Care


God Gives Food

What is the eighth wonder of the world? That a black cow can eat green grass and give white milk. Ask a young child where milk comes from, and he is likely to name the local grocery store. We laugh, not just because he's cute; but because we know it comes from cows and dairy farms and distribution centers. But to be completely accurate, we would need to say that, like all our food, it is provided by God.

What Does God Say?

The Bible teaches that God is the source of our physical as well as spiritual necessities.

"Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;
make music to our God on the harp.
He covers the sky with clouds;
he supplies the earth with rain
and makes grass grow on the hills.
He provides food for the cattle
and for the young ravens when they call" (Psalm 147:7-9 NIV).

"He does great things too marvelous to understand.
He performs countless miracles.
He gives rain for the earth
and water for the fields" (Job 5:9-10 NLT).

The Bible teaches that God provides for all.

This is what God does: "he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike" (Matthew 5:45, NLT).

"He gives food to every living thing.
His faithful love endures forever" (Psalm 136:25, NLT).

"Let all that I am praise the Lord.
O Lord my God, how great you are!
You are robed with honor and majesty
You send rain on the mountains from your heavenly home,
and you fill the earth with the fruit of your labor.
You cause grass to grow for the livestock
and plants for people to use.
You allow them to produce food from the earth--
wine to make them glad,
olive oil to soothe their skin,
and bread to give them strength " (Psalm 104:1,13-15, NLT).

My Thoughts

What might be one of the reasons God provides so generously for us?

"Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy" (Acts 14:17, NIV).

And what ought to be our response to His continuing provision? Remember how the Psalmist said it?

"Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;
make music to our God on the harp.
He covers the sky with clouds;
he supplies the earth with rain
and makes grass grow on the hills.
He provides food for the cattle
and for the young ravens when they call" (Psalm 147:7-9 NIV).

One of the great encouragements to give thanks to God for our food is the example of Jesus.

John 6:11 says, "Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish" (NIV). Jesus thanked God for the food when He fed the 5,000.

"After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, 'Take this and divide it among you.' And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me'" (Luke 22:17, 19 NIV).

"As they sat down to eat, he took the bread and blessed it. Then he broke it and gave it to them" (Luke 24:30, NLT).

My Part

When God gives us what we need but do not have, that is an expression of His grace. And we follow Jesus' example when we "say grace" before a meal, thanking God for His goodness and His provision.

"Then he took some bread, gave thanks to God before them all, and broke off a piece and ate it. Then everyone was encouraged and began to eat" (Acts 27:35-36, NIV).

By the way, when we do that sincerely with grateful hearts, we, too, feel better and eat with less indigestion and stress.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Sep 2, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness


God Gives Salvation

Do you know anyone who--every single day--complains! Maybe it's a coworker who is constantly negative or a relative who voices unhappiness every time you see him or her. Have you noticed that when you're with a complainer, your own attitude begins a downward spiral?

That's why taking some time to stop and give thanks is an emotional and spiritual necessity.

What Does God Say?

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul wrote, "May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light" (Colossians 1:11-12, ESV).

We have a lot to be thankful for. But without the Father's gift of salvation through Christ, that wouldn't be true. Our lives would be hopeless. It is through His gift we have forgiveness from sin, a relationship with Him and a future in heaven. As part of His gift, the Holy Spirit strengthens us and gives us endurance. Through His salvation, we experience patience with joy and for all that we should give thanks. It is the Father's gift of salvation that qualifies us " to share in the inheritance of the saints in light."

To the Thessalonians, Paul put it this way: "But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you as the firstfruits to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth" (2 Thessalonians 2:13, ESV).

My Thoughts

Read the following passages from the New Testament and think about the questions.

Acts 28:15: How can we encourage thankfulness in others?
Romans 1:21: What can happen when we don't give thanks?

My Part

An attitude of thanksgiving will change your outlook. So, if you're more negative than positive, determine to become a more thankful person. Here's one way to begin: In the coming week make it a point every day to thank God for at least three things. Be sure to include salvation and all God gave you when He provided you with this amazing gift. Also make it a point to demonstrate your thanksgiving when you're with family or friends.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Sep 3, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness, Jesus, Salvation


Thankful for Your Savior

When was the last time you thanked Jesus for being your Savior? Is it a daily practice? Or is it something you did only when you were first saved? The fact that God has given you the precious gift of His Son, Jesus, who died for your sins and made it possible for you to have peace with God and eternal life...well, that's worth a "Thank You!

What Does God Say?

The Bible records a number of people who praised God for the gift of the Savior. Mary started it. When she was told her son would be the Savior of all mankind, she turned to praise:

"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior" (Luke 1:46-47, ESV).

Zechariah starts his song with,

"Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for he has visited and redeemed his people
and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David (Luke 1:68-69).

And he then goes on through verse 79 to recount the great promises of God's salvation.

Simeon and Anna were two elderly people who'd devoted their lives to God and who had spent years praying for the promised Savior to come. When each met the baby Jesus, his or her heart overflowed in gratitude. Simeon said,

"Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace,
as you have promised.
I have seen your salvation,
which you have prepared for all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations,
and he is the glory of your people Israel!" (Luke 2:29-32, NLT).

And while Anna's specific words are not recorded for us, "she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem" (Luke 2:38, ESV).

My Thoughts

Having a Savior is definitely a matter for thanksgiving. God didn't have to do this for us--He didn't have to give us a Savior, the forgiveness of sins, fellowship with Him and eternity in His presence. But He did, even though it meant sacrificing His own Son. We can't really imagine what that cost God, but we can thank Him for it.

John 3:16 is so familiar we just rattle it off. Take a couple minutes right now to read it again. Read it a second time in a different translation or paraphrase (If you don't have one available, go to www.biblegateway.com and select a translation from the numerous options there.) Then answer these questions:

    * Who does God love?
    * What did this love cost God? (You may want to respond to this question by drawing a picture. Give your picture an appropriate title.)
    * What is the purpose of this love?

My Part

Now, how will you apply this? Let's make it really easy. Just do it--just take a moment or two as you go through your day to say thank you to God for the gift of Jesus your Savior. Borrow a Bible verse of praise, maybe one from this study, if you need it.

Look for another opportunity tomorrow and the day after that. When you feel like you've blown it in some area, be thankful again that you have a Savior who took care of that sin and forgives you. Before long, you'll make gratitude a daily, positive habit.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Sep 6, 2010
Topic: Sin/Temptation


Temptation

Think for a moment about what tempts you. Got a picture of that (or those) temptation in your mind? Now, ask yourself where temptation originates. Does it come from God? And also, consider a practical question, what's the most effective way to deal with temptation?

Let's see what light the Bible sheds on this matter.

What Does God Say?

James 1:12-15 answers both our questions. It tells us clearly and succinctly about God and temptation.

"God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, "God is tempting me." God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death" (James 1:12-15, NLT).

    * How does God expect you to respond to temptation?
    * What will be the end result if you properly handle temptation?
    * Does God tempt you?
    * Where does temptation come from?
    * What's the result of giving in to the temptation?

My Thoughts

Have you ever been tempted and sinned, and then when you looked back on it, you realized that you walked right into that temptation. Maybe you ignored the warning signs, or for some reason, thought you could handle the temptation. Well, Scripture tells us exactly what we should do in such a situation.

Don't do as the wicked do,
and don't follow the path of evildoers.
Don't even think about it; don't go that way.
Turn away and keep moving." (Proverbs 4:14-15 NLT).

"Run from anything that stimulates youthful lust. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts" (2 Timothy 2:22).

    * Write down the best action to take when tempted?
    * Plan ahead. Determine how you can avoid situations where you may be tempted.
    * If you find yourself in a tempting situation, ask the Lord for His strength to get out of the setting as fast as you can. This is the time to run first; pray later. Or better still, run first--while you are praying!

My Part

Jesus Himself taught us to pray,

"Don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one" (Matthew 6:13, NLT).

That's a wonderful petition to pray not only for ourselves but for others. Here's what Dr. Woodrow Kroll, radio Bible teacher at Back to Bible, shared from his life: "I've often been asked what I pray for my children. I never pray for my girls to be great women of faith. I never pray for my son, who's a pastor by the way, I never pray for him to become a great preacher of the Word. But I do pray this for my children; I've always prayed, 'Lord, don't let them fall into sin' because I figure as long as they stay away from temptation and don't wander down a path that leads them into sin, God will take care of the rest of their lives."

Make this your prayer this week as well.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Sep 7, 2010
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, Sin/Temptation


Steps of Self-Destruction

In debate or rhetoric, the "slippery slope" is an argument for the likelihood that an action will initiate a chain of events culminating in an undesirable result. We find the original slippery slope in Genesis 3:1-6. And, sure enough, we find it is the path to self-destruction.

What Does God Say?

"And remember, when you are being tempted, do not say, 'God is tempting me.' God is never tempted to do wrong, and he never tempts anyone else. Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.

"So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters" (James 1:13-16, NLT).

    * What are three of the important truths in this Scripture?
    * According to these verses, what is the sequence leading to death?

Read the following passage:

"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23, NLT).

    * How can we avoid the consequences of sin?

My Thoughts

Did it ever cross your mind that when you did something wrong, it did not happen in just that moment? The sinful action is always preceded by sinful thoughts which are motivated by selfish and ungodly desires. And the more we think wrong, the worse our attitudes are and the closer we are to acting out in sinful ways. And that is a slippery slope that we cannot easily climb back up.

The apostle Paul wrote to the Romans about his struggle:

"I don't really understand myself, for I want to do what is right, but I don't do it. Instead, I do what I hate. But if I know that what I am doing is wrong, this shows that I agree that the law is good. So I am not the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

"And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can't. I want to do what is good, but I don't. I don't want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway. But if I do what I don't want to do, I am not really the one doing wrong; it is sin living in me that does it.

"I have discovered this principle of life--that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong" (Romans 7:15-21, NLT)

Has that been your experience? Well, there's good news. There is a way off the slippery slope.

My Part

The secret to keep from destroying yourself is to stop wherever you are on the downward path and look to God.

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9).

Stop destroying yourself and others with you. Confess your sin. Forsake it. Ask God to forgive you of it. And then, start over. This time walk before God and be blameless. You can do it. The Spirit will help you to be strong. Ask Him to help you stop destroying yourself.