Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 10, 2010
Topic: Jesus, Salvation, Evangelism


The Only Way

Do you realize all religions contradict each other? And, logically, there are only two reasons: Either they are all false or there is only one that is true. And the Bible makes it clear that the one true religion is Christianity and that Jesus is the Way--the only way to God.

What Does God Say?

    * What name recorded in Acts 24:14 were the early Christians known by?
    * What does Jesus call Himself in John 14:6?

The Bible teaches us about the Way to God.

    * Why does John say he wrote down the miracles Jesus performed (John 20:30-31)?
    * Whom does Acts 10:43 say that everyone must believe in to receive forgiveness of sin?
    * Who does Acts 4:11-12 tell you is the "stone"? What does the verse mean by that term? By what name do you receive salvation? Is any other name mentioned?
    * Paul stated the truth that Jesus is the only way to God firmly. To him it was unquestionable.

"For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:5, NLT).

"There is only one God, and he makes people right with himself only by faith, whether they are Jews or Gentiles" (Romans 3:30, NLT).

My Thoughts

    * Who/what is the narrow gate referred to in the verse below?
    * Why do so few find the narrow gate?
    * What makes the way that leads to destruction the easy way?
    * What does the narrow gate lead to?

"Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few" (Matthew 7:13-14, ESV).

My Part

Remember, God did not send Jesus to exclude people from heaven but in His love and grace, sent Jesus so we could go to heaven.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him" (John 3:16-17, ESV).

Are you on your way to heaven? You can be, if you will trust Jesus as your Savior and Lord. You'll be a part of God's family and all those who have discovered that Jesus and only Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 11, 2010
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship


Like the Father

H.G. Wells, the English science fiction writer, was not known as a religious man. But after he studied the history of mankind and observed life, he decided this: "Until a man has found God and been found by God, he begins at no beginning and he works to no end. He may have friendships, partial loyalties, even some honor. But all these things fall into place and life falls into place only with God."

Has your life fallen into place? Perhaps, as H. G. Wells suggests, you need to get to know God better. Let's see how you can do that.

What Does God Say?

"Philip said to him, 'Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.' Jesus said to him, 'Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, "Show us the Father"? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves'" (John 14:8-11).

    * How does Jesus respond to Philip's request to be shown the Father?
    * According to Jesus, on whose authority did He speak and act?
    * What effect were Christ's works to have?

My Thoughts

The disciples had spent nearly three years with Jesus. They heard Him teach and they saw Him do many miraculous things--healing the sick, raising the dead, walking on water. Through the eyes of the Gospel writers, we, too, have seen those things.

And for what purpose? John made a point to call these works "signs" (John 2:11,4:52,6:14,12:17-18 ). They were like neon arrows pointing to the Savior. See Him have compassion for those who were in trouble; see His power over nature and even death itself. That's what the Father is like.

My Part

The better you know Jesus, the better you know the Father. And how do we get to know Jesus? By reading God's Word. Plan to read through the Gospel of John during the next week (that would mean three chapters a day). Take special note of those passages where Jesus performs a "sign" (a miracle). Write down the "sign," and indicate what it reveals about Jesus and the Father; also indicate what it means to you.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 12, 2010
Topic: New Life


Jesus' Last Will

Imagine receiving a spectacular inheritance, and then ignoring it. The Bible talks about something Jesus left for all of us in His will that many Christians ignore.

Wait. Jesus left a will? John 14:27 records for us Jesus' last will, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (ESV).

Many Christians don't seem to have this peace in their lives. So, how do you embrace your inheritance? Paul has the answer to finding peace in his letter written, strangely enough, while in prison.

What Does God Say?

Near the close of his letter to the Philippians, Paul writes, "Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7, ESV).

   1. What does Paul tell us to do first?
   2. What does "let your reasonableness be known to everyone" mean?
   3. How does "do not be anxious," relate to "rejoice in the Lord"?
   4. How do we need to make our requests to God?
   5. What image does "guard your hearts" create in your mind?

In the times we need peace the most, rejoicing may not be the first thing on our minds. But it's not just, "rejoice"; it's, "rejoice in the Lord." And it's not just "rejoice in the Lord" when things get bad; it's, "rejoice in the Lord always." The first step to finding the peace that Jesus promised is to always keep your mind focused on the blessings He provides every day.

Paul also talks about not being anxious about anything and bringing our requests to God in prayer and supplication. Now, this doesn't mean that God will just remove us from whatever stressful situation we might be in. He might, but often what He'll do is give us a fresh perspective on our situation. He'll show us that He is in control.

My Thoughts

Peace--it may sound good to be true. But look at Paul's own example. Read Philippians 1:12-14 and see how and why Paul rejoiced even while in prison.

    * What was Paul's concern even more than his own comfort or advancement?
    * What did Paul find to be happy about?
    * What situation in your life can you apply these verses to?

My Part

Are you struggling to find a reason to rejoice in God these days? Believe me, I know--it's hard to find them some days. There have been times when all I could do is repeat Romans 8:28 over and over to myself.

Find that verse, and memorize it. And as you spend time with God in His Word each day, ask Him to speak to you the words you need to hear. And pray for His peace that surpasses all understanding.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 15, 2010
Topic: Christian Living/Situational


Setting the Example

Albert Schweitzer once observed, "There are only three ways to teach a child: the first is by example, the second is by example, the third is by example." And what is the greatest lesson we should be teaching our children? The Bible says it is love. First Corinthians 13:13, NKJV declares, "And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."

Let's take a look at what the Bible says about this love.

What Does God Say?

Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails (1 Corinthians 13:4-8, NASB).

    * List at least five characteristics of love according to these verses.
    * Which of these characteristics do you find the most difficult to show in your life?
    * How would love respond to: a wrong suffered, an unrighteous act, a time of trial

My Thoughts

Truthfully, only God can love at all times and in all situations in the way described by these verses. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't try. Nor do we need to do it all on our own "because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us" (Romans 5:5, NASB). The Holy Spirit within us will help us set the example for our children that reflects the love of God in our hearts.

My Part

Draw a pair of eyes and post them where you will see them. Let them serve as a reminder that there are eyes watching your example. When you are tempted to respond in a way that is unloving, think about the example you are setting. Ask the Holy Spirit to make you a good example of God's love.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 16, 2010
Topic: Christian Living/Situational


Integrity by Example

Little Mary's parents were hosting a dinner party with guests from church and the neighborhood. Once all the guests had arrived and were seated at the table, Mary's mother turned to her and asked, "Would you like to say the blessing, dear?"

"Yes," Mary said, "but I'm not sure what I should say."

Mary's mother smiled and answered, "Just say what you've heard mommy say."

Mary nodded, closed her eyes and folded her hands. "Dear Lord," she prayed," why in the world did I invite so many guests?"

If you have kids (or once were a kid) you can probably think of many stories like the one above. More than one parent has learned the hard way that their children listen to everything they say. It shouldn't be surprising, then, to find out that the Bible has some things to say about guarding our tongues.

What Does God Say?

In Exodus 22, God is relaying to Moses the rules and commandments which the Israelite people would be expected to follow. And in verse 28 we read, "You shall not revile God, nor curse a ruler of your people."

Honestly, the second part of that instruction is a bit hard to follow these days. And that's especially true every time election season rolls around. But you can be sure that if there are children around, they hear and take in every comment mom and dad make about those "clowns in city hall."

This idea is repeated in the New Testament as well. In Paul's letter to Titus, Paul wants Titus to remind the believers "to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people" (Titus 3:1-2).

Of course, the implications of these verses run much deeper than being careful when little ones are around.

My Thoughts

How would you describe a person who only followed the advice of the verses above when children were around?

Why is it important to foster these attitudes even when we're alone?

My Part

It's no secret that children learn by example, so it's worth the effort to ask, "What are my children learning from me?" This week pick one area where you think you're not such a good teacher. Ask God for help in improving that area and seek out new opportunities every day to set a better example.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 17, 2010
Topic: Relationships


Relationship and Respect

British writer J. B. Priestly wrote, "There was no respect for youth when I was young, and now that I am old, there is no respect for age--I missed it coming and going."

Rodney Dangerfield practically built his entire comedy career around the complaint: "I don't get no respect."

Is respect something God speaks of in the Bible? It surely is!

What Does God Say?

Turn in your Bible to Exodus 20:1-17, where you'll find the Ten Commandments (have you read through them lately?). They are the wellspring for all our relationships to God (e.g., vv.1-7), ourselves (e.g., vv, 9-10, 12), our families (e.g., vv. 12,14,17), other people (e.g., vv. 13-17) and all of God's creation (cattle, donkeys, oxen). Loving respect governs all those relationships. Without honest respect, you cannot have decent relationships in your family, your work or society in general.

"Respect" includes the idea of "esteem." If you esteem persons, you value them and are careful not to violate your relationship with them. You show consideration and thoughtfulness. If you respect somebody or something, you think a lot of them and honor your relationship to them. If you have self-esteem, you respect yourself, but you do not think more highly than you ought to think (Romans 12:3)!

So, it is reasonable to expect that God will have some things to say about how respect works in many relationships that you experience almost daily. Let's see what we can find about respect in the following Scripture passages. Look them up and make a note of your observations:

Psalm 127:3; Ephesians 6:4. Who are the objects of proper respect in these verses? How might a person show this respect?

1 Peter 2:17. In general, whom should you respect? What particular persons are mentioned?

Ephesians 6:1-3. To whom are these verses addressed? What is the promise for those who practice this kind of respect?

Ephesians 5:33. What two persons are admonished to practice respect in their relationship?

1 Timothy 6:2 is addressed to servants. How do you think it relates to your situation on the job or at school? What are you warned against?

Leviticus 19:32. For what two relationships does God stress respect in this verse?

My Thoughts

Tyndale House's iLumina software offers this helpful thought on the matter of respect:

"Respect is recognizing someone else's worth, honoring them for what they have done and for who they are. In a very real sense, it is a gift you confer on someone, a gift of valuing them highly. To honor and respect others requires humility on our part because we are making others look good without trying to make ourselves look good at the same time."

My Part

Write down this short list of categories:

    * God
    * Family
    * Others

Now, taking them one at a time, beside each category jot down any areas where you detect an attitude of disrespect or lack of respect on your part with that person or group. Then, prayerfully record what you want to do to put the relationships back on track.

Right relationships and proper respect for all things start with your right relationship and respect for God. Christ summed it up this way (Matthew 22:37-40 NASB):

"'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets."'

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 18, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness, Relationships, Christian Living/Situational


Good Gifts

This time of year, we put a lot of thought into gifts and giving. But not every gift is wrapped in bright paper or bought with money. Yet money is usually the first thing we think of when someone mentions giving: donating to charity, putting a check in the church offering or slipping a couple dollars in a birthday card. That's the obvious and, in some ways, the easy gift.

While the Bible has a lot to say about financial giving, we must also give in other ways and, by our example, teach giving to our children as well as to others.

What Does God Say?

In Matthew 7:9-11, Jesus says, "Which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" (ESV).

As a parent, you want to do what is necessary for your child (food, shelter, clothing) and what is good. Right now, you're probably spending a lot of time and money finding "good gifts" for Christmas. But how are you doing with the good gifts you can give every day?

Here's one of those good gifts: praise and thanks. "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver" (Proverbs 25:11, ESV). Who doesn't love to hear a little praise? A word of thanks for a job well-done? In Paul's letters, he's quick to give thanks and commendation to and about fellow believers. Romans 16:1-16 is full of his appreciation and praise for those in his [Paul's] spiritual family.

Another precious gift is time and attention. Paul again shows us that. Take note of the time and attention he invested in the leaders of the early churches, like 18 months with Aquila and Priscilla in Corinth (Acts 18:1-11). And he was a spiritual father to Timothy (1 Timothy 1:2). Deuteronomy 6:6-9 speaks of the time we need to invest in passing along the words and commands of God to build the spiritual legacy of our families. The time and attention we give to our children not only helps to build them up spiritually, but it helps them to see their value as individuals, just as God sees and values each one of us (Matthew 6:26).

A third good gift is service, to those within our families but also to those in need. Among instructions for the year of Jubilee in Deuteronomy 15:10-11, God tells us how to give to those in need. "You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the LORD your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake. For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, 'You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land'" (ESV).

By acting with compassion, you give a wonderful gift, not just to the person in need but by example to your children and those who watch for godliness in your life. The gift of service and compassion is a powerful one in a world with so many needy and poor.

My Thoughts

So, why do we give in the first place? Go back to Matthew 7:11.

Where does giving begin (Galatians 6:10)?

What is our best example for a giving life (John 10:15)?

When we give with the generosity and compassion that God shows us, we set an example our children and others can follow in how and what to give. One of the greatest gifts we pass along is the legacy of faith in God. Look up Deuteronomy 11:18-21.

How do we go about doing this? What blessings or reward does it bring?

My Part

Take a few minutes today to jot down some ways you're giving "good gifts" to your family or friends and neighbors.
What does your example look like?
Where do you need to be more intentional with one of these gifts?
Set a goal along with a couple action steps you can take to get there.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 19, 2010
Topic: Bible Characters


Nehemiah Perseveres

Feel like giving up? Is the challenge you face just too much to endure? Don't lose heart. Instead, take some cues from Nehemiah!

What Does God Say?

It was an incredible sight!

Stretched out before Nehemiah, all along Jerusalem's broken walls, were hundreds of men clutching weapons with one hand and making repairs with the other. Half of the busy crew was working tirelessly day and night, rebuilding the crumbled structures, while other men--equipped with spears, bows, shields and armor—watched and waited for the enemy.

Nehemiah and his workers had confronted what looked like an impossible task: rebuilding Jerusalem's toppled walls in the face of fierce opposition.

Striking a balance between prayer and action, this hero of the faith didn't give up. He had armed the workers with weapons, positioned armies all around Jerusalem, and commanded his Jewish brothers and sisters to persevere with the hope of God in their hearts. (See Nehemiah 4:1-23 for the full story.)

My Thoughts

Look over these passages for more examples of endurance.

Jeremiah 12:1-6
Hebrews 3:1-6
2 Timothy 4:7-8

    * Have you ever quit something at the first sign of opposition? Ask yourself two important questions (questions Jeremiah probably had to consider): What does God want me to achieve in life? Am I willing to endure tough times for Him?
    * As you read the Bible passages listed above, do you feel encouraged?
    * Do you understand that Jesus Christ went the distance in His life--especially through His death and Resurrection--just for you?

My Part

Nehemiah lifted the spirits of a despondent people and restored their faith--just as he was restoring their city. His example speaks loudly to believers of all generations:

Find a fellow Christian you can share your burdens with. (Someone who is facing the same obstacles you are is good but not a necessity.) Set a time to pray together. If you can't actually meet for prayer, pick an agreed-upon time to pray about the tasks facing you. Remember to make it a "two-way street;" everyone has challenges to face in life. Pray for the other person as well as for yourself.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 22, 2010
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship


Walking in Integrity

The integrity of something is its condition of being whole or undivided. A person of integrity has the qualities of being honest and morally upright.

It's no wonder an old Chinese proverb says, "To starve to death is a small thing, but to lose one's integrity is a great one."

What Does God Say?

At the climax of His sixth day of creation work, our all-knowing, all-seeing, everywhere-present God surveyed everything He had made and pronounced that it was "very good" (Genesis 1:31). The entire creation, including the first man and woman, was exactly what God intended it all to be.

"Sometime later, though, in the midst of Eden's pristine garden, God had to tell Adam,
'cursed is the ground because of you;
in pain you shall eat of it all the days of your life;
thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you;
and you shall eat the plants of the field.
By the sweat of your face
you shall eat bread,
till you return to the ground,
for out of it you were taken;
for you are dust,
and to dust you shall return'" (Genesis 3:17-19).

Adam and Eve lost their integrity and with it the integrity of all their descendants. God created human beings to give glory to Him, but they were no longer what God intended them to be. They were no longer whole and undivided but were separated from the life of God and corrupted by sin. Since that dark day in Eden, the only way any human being can regain true integrity is to enter into a right relationship with God by faith. Without integrity, no person can give glory to God.

Read Proverbs 10:9

    * What may the person who walks in integrity expect?
    * What may the person who does not have integrity expect?

In 1 Samuel 16:7 you'll find what God said to the prophet Samuel when He sent him to anoint a successor to the throne of Saul.

    * Where does God look to test the quality of a person?
    * How do men commonly make their judgment of quality?

1 Kings 9:4-5 records God's promise to David's son, Solomon, as he took over the reins of Israel's government.

    * What was God's assessment of David?
    * What was His promise to Solomon? The promise was based on what conditions?

After being charged with wickedness by some of his enemies, David prayed the words of Psalm 26:1-3, 11. Read this short Psalm and answer the questions.

    * In verses 1 and,3, how did David evaluate his own walk with the Lord?
    * What did David ask God to do (v. 2)?
    * What promise did David make to God in v. 11?

Integrity is the goal; the mind and the heart are the testing grounds.

My Thoughts

Sadly, David lapsed into sin later in his life and marred his relationship with God. But David did the right thing. He confessed and was forgiven by God, but the consequences of failing to maintain his integrity followed him for the rest of his life on earth. His family suffered as well.

Read Proverbs 20:7in your Bible.

    * What does a righteous man do?
    * Who else benefits from the man's integrity?

My Part

When God looks at your life, does He see integrity? It is well to consider your own integrity as David did and ask the Lord to test you to see if there is any sin in your heart that is breaking your fellowship with Him. Salvation does not rest on our integrity, but our integrity does depend on right fellowship with God. We all need to pray:

"Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin, and set me free."*

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

*(Edwin Orr, "Cleanse Me" from Hymns for the Family of God #425, Paragon Associates, Nashville, TN, Public Domain)

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 23, 2010
Topic: Worship/Praise/Worthiness


Worship & Thanksgiving

How long do you think you'd last as a mechanic if you didn't love cars? How long would you last as a chef if you didn't love food? How long would you last as a movie critic if you didn't love movies?

Here's another question...

How long would you last as a worshiper if you didn't love God? The quality of our work is often a factor in our love for the job, and the quality of our worship is directly related to our love for God.

What Does God Say?

Psalm 95 is a great reminder of the purpose of worship.

"Oh come, let us sing to the LORD;
let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!" (v. 1).

Let's stop right there. How often do we remove "LORD" from this verse? Do we worship to magnify our God and Creator? How often do we say, "Come, let us sing! Let us make a joyful noise!" and think that we've achieved the purpose of worship?

The Psalmist goes on:

"Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!" (v. 2).

How do you approach your times of worship? Do you come to worship complaining about the parking at church? Do you come praising God and thanking Him for who He is and what He's done for you? If it's been a stressful week, perhaps you're having a hard time finding anything to be thankful for. Well, the Psalmist has some suggestions in the next verses.

"For the LORD is a great God,
and a great King above all gods.
In his hand are the depths of the earth;
the heights of the mountains are his also.
The sea is his, for he made it,
and his hands formed the dry land" (vv. 3-5).

The Psalmist begins by mentioning how awe-inspiringly powerful our God is. All that we see was formed by His hands. And for that alone, He would be worthy of our worship. But the Psalmist isn't finished. In the next section, we'll look at the next couple of verses and find even more reasons for worship.

My Thoughts

Read Psalm 95:6-11 and think about the following questions.

    * What form does the Psalmist's worship take here?
    * What description of God does the Psalmist add to his description from earlier?
    * What is our responsibility towards God?

My Part

Is your worship backwards? Do you sing to inspire love for God, or does your love for God inspire your singing? True, there are times when you may not feel worshipful and a little joyful noisemaking can nudge your heart in the right direction. But in general, if your worship should come from your great love for God. Next time, before you go to church, spend at least 10-15 minutes silently before God expressing your gratitude to Him for all He has done.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 24, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness, Christian Living/Situational


Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude

As Thanksgiving Day approaches, are you counting your blessings ... or mourning your losses? Are you cultivating an attitude of gratitude during good times and bad? Consider this: The Bible tells us to "give thanks in all circumstances"!

What Does God Say?

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you" (1 Thessalonians  5:16-18, NIV).

Most of us have a lot to be thankful for: a loving family, good health, a roof over our heads, food on the table. But for others, the holidays are anything but joyful. Some face unemployment, dwindling bank accounts, sickness, separation--the list could go on and on. Give thanks when life hurts? they think. Impossible!

Yet the apostle Paul instructed us to give thanks in all circumstances, not for all circumstances. And Peter chimes in with some good reasons why every believer should be jumping for joy, regardless of the struggles we experience:

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. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith--more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire--may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:3-9, NIV).

My Thoughts

Look over these passages for more examples of why you should live Thanksgiving every day.
Lamentations 3:19-33
Romans 8:31-39
Philippians 4:10-13

    * The "book of tears" (Lamentations) offers some of the most hopeful words ever written. After reading Lamentations 3:19-33, make a list of what you are thankful for.
    * Consider memorizing Romans 8:37-39. Do these verses give you joy despite difficult circumstances?
    * What is the "secret to being content in any and every situation" that Paul talks about?

My Part

Are you truly thankful for the gift of salvation that comes from Jesus Christ? Express it to the Lord … and live it among others! Strive to cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 25, 2010
Topic: Love, God


Loving God

Deuteronomy 6:5 says, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." Jesus called this the "great and foremost commandment" (Matthew 22:38, NASB).

But, to be honest, it's also the most challenging. Who else do we love all our heart, soul and might? Then again, who deserves it as much as God does?

When we consider who God is (His character) and what He has done for us (His actions), there is no one who deserves our love more than He does. Let's see how God's Word can help us grow in our love for God.

What Does God Say?

Take a sheet of paper and divide it into four columns. Label the first column "Who God Is" and the third column "What God Has Done." (We'll use the other two columns later.) Read Psalm 103 and list the different attributes and actions of God in the appropriate column.

My Thoughts

The more we know about God, the more reasons we have to love Him. No other place shows us who God is and what He has done better than the Bible. The more we read and meditate on God's Word, the greater our love for God will grow.

My Part

Go back to the four columns you made earlier. Read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John). Indicate in columns two and four where you find Jesus (God the Son) showing the same character and actions the psalmist attributes to God in Psalm 103. Ask God to use this time to help you know Him better and love Him more.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 26, 2010
Topic: Thankfulness, Worship/Praise/Worthiness


Good to Sing

So, here we are, the day after Thanksgiving and you're probably trying to clean up the leftovers, find the antacid or shop till you drop. And maybe, just maybe, it's crossed your mind that, "Phew! I don't have to think about Thanksgiving again for another year!"

Sorry to burst your bubble ... but thanksgiving is more than a one-day thing.

What Does God Say?

Throughout Scripture, we find the act and attitude of giving thanks encouraged, taught and required of us. But let's focus specifically on one psalm that helps us do more than think of being thankful. It encourages us to express our thanksgiving--to sing it out!

Psalm 147:1 gets straight to the point: "Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and a song of praise is fitting" (ESV).

What are we to do? Give praise. Why? Because it's a good thing; it's a pleasant experience for God and for you. And it's fitting; it's appropriate. When you look at the character and work of God, what is more appropriate than giving Him praise?

How are we to do it? Verbally. As in, use words. Express it--even out loud! "Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre!" (147:7, ESV). Sing it out! Put a little heart and soul into it. Use your voice and whatever other instrument you have. Our God is worthy of every attention we can bring to Him.

So, you're not a singer. Remember the thing about "making a joyful noise" (Psalm 95:1-2; Psalm 98:4,6; Psalm 100:1)? That means you. Or you can employ another Thanksgiving weekend skill and do a little shouting--not merely for football but for the goodness and greatness of the Lord (Psalm 27:6).

My Thoughts

Why should we praise the Lord and give thanks with a song or shout? Well, Psalm 147 offers a few reasons to get us started.

Read Psalm 147:1-6. What does God do for His people on a national or social level? On a personal level? What about His universal power? How does His level of understanding help you give thanks?

Read Psalm 147:7-11. What does God do in the world around us? How do we benefit?
What does God delight or take pleasure in? How does knowing this help you praise Him?

Read Psalm 147:12-20. What is praiseworthy in God's care for His people? In His power over nature?

In verses 19-20, the psalmist reflects specifically on God's interaction with His nation, Israel. What is unique about that relationship? Why would that be a reason for giving thanks?

My Part

Now, go back through these reasons for giving thanks to God and pull out a few that reflect an aspect of your life. For example, when you've been broken-hearted, how has the Lord healed you or bound up your wounds?

Jot down some of your experiences and use them as a starting point for praise.

If you want to, create your own song and sing it out! Or make it a point to express your praise at least twice today just by telling someone one of the reasons you are thankful for God. And remember, it's a good and pleasant thing to do.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 29, 2010
Topic: Other


Family Matters

We hear about the importance of the family from many Christian leaders and teachers. We have councils on the family, family psychologists, family life seminars, family camps and family reunions. The idea of "family" is everywhere!

But is there something God wants us to understand about the family? Let's look at the Bible to see.

What Does God Say?

Let's examine some biblical teachings about the family.

From eternity past, God planned a human family that would be His family to show forth His glory forever (Ephesians 1:4), He created us with the intention of being the eternal Father (Matthew 6:9). He formed the first human family of a man and a woman who became the beginning of all human family units on earth (Genesis 2:24; 1:27-28 ) While the lineage of many families would come to an end down through the ages, there will always be one, great, unified family--a spiritual family--with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit forever (Psalm 23:6).

Though sin brought devastation and death into the human family, it did not erase or change God's original purpose of having a family relationship with those whom He would redeem through the sacrificial death of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Look up the following Bible passages and answer the questions about our family relationship to God.

1 John 3:1-3.

    * What are believers called?
    * Who will believers be like in eternity?
    * Are believers children of God now, or must they wait until they are with the Lord?
    * Why can't the world understand this relationship?
    * What does having this hope do for the believer?

Romans 8:16-17.

    * Who confirms that believers are children of God?
    * What benefits do those in the family of God receive?

John 1:12.

    * What must a person do to get into God the Father's family?

Hebrews 12:9-11.

    * Why does God discipline His family members?
    * What is the outcome of such discipline?

2 Peter 1:4.

    * As members of His family, what do believers share with God?

My Thoughts

Although you, as a follower of Christ, are a member of God's spiritual family, you are also a member of your human family. Ideally, the human family should be a microcosm of the spiritual family of God but sin and rebellion against God have corrupted it. A Christian family, however, can still reflect the qualities and values of the eternal family. Ephesians 5:18-6:9 mentions many of our earthly family relationships that can demonstrate godliness. Read the passage and make a note of relationships in human families that ought to demonstrate uplifting attitudes toward one another and toward God.

My Part

What role do you have in your family? Are you the only Christian believer? List things you can do to witness to your family. Are you a husband, a father, a wife, a mother? Jot down things you might do to help your family grow closer to the model of the Father's family. Are you a young person? Make some notes about how you can honor your parents and thereby honor God.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 30, 2010
Topic: Other


Family Ecosystem

Some years ago, Ellen Goodman wrote in the Boston Globe, "Americans once expected parents to raise their children in accordance with the dominant cultural messages. Today they are expected to raise their children in opposition to them. Once the chorus of cultural values was full of ministers, teachers, neighbors and leaders. They demanded more conformity but offered more support. Now the messengers are violent cartoon characters, rappers and celebrities selling sneakers. Parents are considered responsible only if they are successful in their resistance. That's what makes child-raising harder. It's not just that American families have less time with their kids; it's that we have to spend more of this time doing battle with our own culture."

In the ensuing years, the situation hasn't gotten any better--if anything, it's worse. Let's see what God expects from the family.

What Does God Say?

"So husbands ought also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He who loves his own wife loves himself; for no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ also does the church, because we are members of His body. For this cause a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh. This mystery is great; but I am speaking with reference to Christ and the church. Nevertheless let each individual among you also love his own wife even as himself; and let the wife see to it that she respect her husband.

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (which is the first commandment with a promise), that it may be well with you, and that you may live long on the earth. And, fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 5:28-6:4, NASB).

    * What expectations does God have for the husband?
    * What attitude does God expect the wife to have toward her husband?
    * How is a child to relate to his/her parents?
    * What obligations does God give to the father when it comes to his children?

My Thoughts

These are difficult days for the family. Many children live in single-parent families. Others live in blended families; usually the result of two divorced parents getting married and bringing their children to live together in one household on a permanent or part-time basis.

Many of the difficulties that have resulted from the breakdown of the traditional family could have been avoided by following God's expectations for the family rather than our culture's false promises.

Let's determine today to make God's expectations our expectations as well.

My Part

What expectations does God have for you in the family? Pray for wisdom and strength to fulfill your responsibilities as a family member.