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[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 13, 2013
Topic: Hope, God's Care

When You're Down, Look Up

When you're feeling down and discouraged, where is your focus? When I feel that way, I'm usually focused on me--my problems, my worries, my pain--and I really can't see anything else--including God. But as long as we stay self-focused, we can't receive any help. Help comes only when we set our eyes, our hearts and our hope on something better.

Receive

In Psalm 42, the psalmist speaks to his troubled heart:

"Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you in turmoil within me?"
Then he offers a solution:
"Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my salvation and my God" (42:5-6, ESV).

Why does he "hope" in God? Because he has the sure and certain confidence that God is faithful.

When we're down and discouraged, we need to get our focus back on God where it belongs. That's the perfect time to look to Him for our hope and to trust Him to deliver and take care of us. The rest of Psalm 42:6 says,

"My soul is cast down within me;
therefore I remember you" (ESV).

It's time to remember God who is faithful, good, compassionate, powerful--all the things you need when you're down.

There's a second step included. The first is to look to God and remember who He is and what He can do, but Psalm 42:5 also encourages praise. You see Him as your hope; then you praise Him for that. You remember His faithfulness; then praise Him for that too.

Psalm 20:5 tells us to celebrate:

"May we shout for joy over your salvation,
and in the name of our God set up our banners!" (ESV).

Raise the flags; hang up the banners or set off fireworks; show everybody that you belong to the God who is your salvation. That's what setting up banners is all about. It's how you tell others about God's faithfulness and draw them in to celebrate with you.

Reflect

Of course, before you can celebrate it, it helps to be familiar with God's faithfulness and the hope He offers. Jot down what you learn about God's faithfulness from these verses:

Deuteronomy 7:9

Psalm 86:15

Lamentations 3:22-23

Hebrews 10:23

The fact of God's faithfulness is awesome, but you can also find a reason to celebrate when you see examples of when or how He is faithful. How do you see that in these verses?

Psalm 91:1-6

Psalm 143:1-2

1 Corinthians 10:13

2 Thessalonians 3:2-3

1 John 1:9

Lamentations 3:20-24 is an excellent way to adjust your focus. Put it in your own words or memorize it for future need.

Respond

What are some examples of God's faithfulness you've seen in your life? When you've found your hope in Him? Put those in writing as a concrete reminder for days when you're feeling low and discouraged.

Then follow the example of Psalm 20:5 and "raise a banner." Be specific as you tell your spouse, your children or grandchildren how God has been faithful to you. Drop it into an email or a letter. If your family is around, turn dinnertime into a mini-party and give each member an opportunity to share. You can create a poster or maybe an actual banner that reminds you of God's faithfulness and how you find your hope in Him. Use your imagination to find a way to remember and celebrate today. It's a great cure for those times of self-focused discouragement.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 14, 2013
Topic: Hope

Waiting in the Desert

King David was having a wilderness experience, and it wasn't a good one. In the first place, this wilderness was not a land filled with beautiful fir trees, snow-capped peaks and clear, rushing streams. It was a barren, waterless, sun-scorched, desert wasteland. Secondly, David wasn't there to relax on a camping trip with the family. He was fleeing for his life from his rebellious son, Absalom. David had sought God in the matter and longed to be back at home in the sanctuary of God.

But it was not the moment when God was answering his prayers. David had to pray and wait and wait some more upon God.

Maybe you've been in a spiritual desert. You've prayed. God has been silent. What can you do while you wait on God for an answer? Let's look at David's plight and hopefully learn some biblical lessons about dry times in your spiritual life.

Receive

Read Psalm 63:1-8 (ESV) below and answer the questions that follow.

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you;
my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.
Because your steadfast love is better than life,
my lips will praise you.
So I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands.

My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food,
and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips,
when I remember you upon my bed,
and meditate on you in the watches of the night;
for you have been my help,
and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.
My soul clings to you;
your right hand upholds me.

    How does David describe both his spiritual and physical state (verse 1)?
    What three attributes of God gave David unswerving confidence in Him (verses 2-3)?
    In spite of David's bleak circumstances, what were the many ways in which he responded to the Lord (verses 4-7)?
    How does David express his ongoing faith in God (verse 8 )?

Reflect

Why does God sometimes leave you in the "desert" to wait for His answer? How should you respond in a way that honors Him and strengthens you? Look at some promises as you reflect on the following verses:

    Psalm 25:5. What does the psalmist ask God to do while he waits?
    Psalm 38:15. What confidence does the psalmist have while he waits?
    Psalm 130:5. What gives the psalmist confidence that waiting is not hopeless?
    Isaiah 30:18. Why does the Lord sometimes wait? What is granted to the one who waits on God?

Respond

Your desert of dryness is a good place for silently meditating on God.
Your desert of waiting is a good time for actively serving God and others.
Your desert of weakness is a good place for strengthening your faith.

Work in the next few days on memorizing what is likely the greatest passage on "waiting" in the whole Bible:

Isaiah 40:29-31 (ESV)

"He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Even youths shall faint and be weary,
and young men shall fall exhausted;
but they who wait for the L ord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint."

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 15, 2013
Topic: Christian Living/Situational

Not Moved

It's not difficult to walk on a sidewalk under normal circumstances. However, it's a little more difficult when the surface is coated with ice. And it would be almost impossible if there were hundreds of ball bearings covering the concrete. Balance and stability are adversely affected by anything that prevents reliable traction. We need a sure, solid surface to make any headway when we're walking.

Life is like that too. We need sure, solid footing in our lives. How do we keep balance and stability so we can keep moving forward in life? For the Christian, two things provide a solid foundation.

Receive

"For you [God] have delivered my soul from death,
yes, my feet from falling,
that I may walk before God
in the light of life" (Psalm 56:13, ESV).

1. What is the first thing that provides Christians with a sure footing?

2. Why is this done?

The Psalmist also tells us a second thing that keeps Christ-followers from falling:

"Your word is a lamp to my feet
and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105, ESV).

3. What is something else that gives us stability when we walk?
4. How can you apply this verse to your life?

Reflect

Falling down is no fun--it hurts! You can end up with broken bones or other major damage. And what is true physically is also true spiritually. Falling spiritually can damage not only our own lives but the lives of other people.

That's why in a world of spiritually slippery surfaces (jealousy, lust, hatred, etc.), it's vitally important to maintain your relationship with God and His Word.

In Psalm 73, the psalmist realized he was about to fall. He said,

"But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled,
my steps had nearly slipped" (verse 2).

He was envying the wicked because of the easy time they were having. But notice verse 17 says,

"Until I went into the sanctuary of God;
then I discerned their end."

When the psalmist went to God's house, he was able to refocus on God and His Word. It was then that he got his sure footing back again.

Respond

Are your feet ready to slip? Make it a point to go to God's house this weekend. And while you're there, focus on God and His Word. Make it a true worshipful experience. When you come home, write down what God has said to you. How will this keep your feet from slipping?

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 16, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust

Unshakable Faith

Look back over the last few days or weeks of your life. Can you point to anything that was constant? A lot of our lives are in flux. And these days, it's hard to be certain that we'll even have our jobs or our homes in the near future.

But two things are certain: one is that life is uncertain, and it always has been. (People in King David's day had worries similar to today's concerns.) But something else is certain. Let's look at Psalm 16 and see what it is.

Receive

In verse 8, David tells us,

"I have set the LORD always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
Therefore my heart is glad, and my whole being rejoices;
my flesh also dwells secure" (Psalm 16:8-9, ESV).

David goes on,

"For you will not abandon my soul to Sheol,
or let your holy one see corruption.
You make known to me the path of life;
in your presence there is fullness of joy;
at your right hand are pleasures forevermore" (Psalm 16:10-11, ESV).

Look back at verse 7.

"I bless the LORD who gives me counsel;
in the night also my heart instructs me" (Psalm 16:7, ESV).

    What was the certainty in David's life?
    What affect did that fact have on his life?
    How did David approach eternity?
    How did he respond to God?
    Who gave David counsel?
    How do you seek the Lord's counsel?
    When was the last time you sought the Lord's counsel?

If you want to bring some certainty back into your life, start where David did by seeking the counsel of God.

Reflect

As you read Psalm 16:7-11, think about the following questions:

    What does it mean to "set the LORD always before me"?
    How have you seen these verses at work in your life?

Respond

The Bible is like a compass that always points to God. It's like an antenna that allows you to hear His words of love and comfort loud and clear. That's why we will never apologize for telling people day in and day out to read their Bibles every day! If you'd like some guidance, check out our goTandem and Powered by 4 ministries.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 17, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust, Christian Living/Situational, God

Trust at All Times

On July 30, 1956, President Eisenhower approved a Joint Resolution of the 84th Congress declaring IN GOD WE TRUST the national motto of the United States. But do we really? Look at your own life. When do you trust God? Do certain experiences help you trust Him more? Do the ups and downs of life undermine a consistent confidence in God? Not easy questions but consider them.

Receive

Psalm 62:8 tells us,

"Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us" (ESV).

That tells us exactly when we need to trust the Lord: at all times.

All means "all." There should be no time when we're not trusting God. And because the Lord does not change (Malachi 3:6) and He is always good (Nahum 1:7), God is always--at all times--completely trustworthy.

What are those "all times"? Well, the same root word is used in Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace" (ESV).

Each of those times--birth and death, planting and uprooting, weeping and laughter, etc--are times when we are to place our trust in God. When it's hard, when you wonder and question God, even when you're angry with Him, that's when you need to still trust Him.

Reflect

Trusting God is not an emotional response but a choice--a commitment you make.

Proverbs 3:5-6

Psalm 37:3-6

Psalm 31:15

    What do these verses tell you about the choice to trust?
    What times or circumstances require you to trust?
    How do you trust God with your "times"?

Respond

Go back through Ecclesiastes 3 and match these "times" up with experiences in your life. Think about when you found it easy to trust God and when it was a struggle. Is it harder when life is difficult? When you're weeping or mourning or seeking? Maybe it's harder when things are going well because you think you don't really need God.

With your list in mind, do two things: First, thank God for both the ups and the downs, the times that tested you and the times when trusting came easily. Ecclesiastes 3:11 says, "He [the Lord] has made everything beautiful in its time" (ESV), so it's good to praise Him for what He's made beautiful in your life.

Second, make the choice to trust God at ALL times, not just when you feel like it or when emotions run high. Make a conscious choice for your life; post it where you can see it; write it across each day on your calendar, whatever it takes to choose to trust at all times. Then ask God for His help--and ongoing reminders--to keep you trusting Him.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 20, 2013
Topic: God, Obedience/Discipleship

A Rock-solid Friend

Have you ever had a friend you felt you could pour out your heart to? You knew your friend would never betray you. Not only that, but you were confident that, if it were possible, your friend would do whatever he or she could to help you with the concerns of your heart.

David had a friend like that. It was God. And he urged others to develop that same kind of relationship with God--one of love and trust. Let's see what he says about this friendship.

Receive

"My soul, wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him.
He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense;
I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength,
And my refuge, is in God.

"Trust in Him at all times, you people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us" (Psalm 62:5-8 ).

    What do you think it means for your soul to "wait silently"?
    Find at least two descriptions of God in these verses that would encourage you to trust Him.
    Because David trusted God, what were some of the results?
    If you were to "pour out your heart before Him" today, what would you say?

Reflect

Everyone needs a friend they can trust implicitly. That's the kind of friendship God offers to those who accept His Son as their Savior. He is Someone whom we can pour our hearts out to and know that He will both listen and act on our behalf. The hymn writer says,

Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?
Take it to the Lord in prayer;
In His arms He'll take and shield thee--
Thou wilt find a solace there.*

Respond

Find a copy of the hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." If you know the tune, quietly sing it and notice all the ways Jesus is our friend. If you don't know the tune, read the words. Then prayerfully ask Jesus to help you experience that kind of friendship with Him.

*Scriven and Converse, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus," Public domain.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 21, 2013
Topic: Other, Pain/Suffering

Complaining to God

It's hard to miss the pain poured out in some of the psalms. It's almost shocking, sometimes, how honest the psalmist is, not just when he's describing his situation but when he asks God, "Why"?

And like the writer of the Psalm 102 shows us, there is a right way to take our pain and our complaints to God. Let's look at this psalm and explore that idea a little.

Receive

In my Bible, Psalm 102 has this subtitle, "A prayer of one afflicted, when he is faint and pours out his complaint before the LORD." Right away, we know something is wrong in the psalmist's life. And so he takes his complaint to God.

"Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry come to you!
Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress!
Incline your ear to me; answer me speedily in the day when I call!" (Psalm 102:1-2, ESV).

The fact that the psalmist is even crying to God for help says something. It's pointless to complain to someone you don't believe can help. In verses 3-11, the psalmist describes his situation.

Look at verse 12, though:

"But you, O LORD, are enthroned forever;
you are remembered throughout all generations" (Psalm 102:12, ESV).

It's all right to take our complaints to God, but we need to remember who He is. As you read through the rest of Psalm 102, look for all the ways the psalmist describes God.

Yes, the psalmist was in distress, and he was very honest about it. But in his distress, he knew he could trust God. He understood enough about God's character and His promises to be assured that:

"The LORD builds up Zion;
he appears in his glory;
he regards the prayer of the destitute
and does not despise their prayer" (Psalm 102:16-17, ESV).

When your life is crumbling, going to anyone besides God with your concerns is like asking a toddler to fix your broken car; it's not likely to happen.

Reflect

As you read Psalm 102, think about the following questions.

1. According to the psalmist, why does he think God would help him?

2. What reasons does the psalmist give for trusting God?

3. What were some of the physical responses to despair the author of Psalm 102 was experiencing?

4. In verse 12, how does the tone of the psalm change?

5. How does Psalm 102 conclude?

Respond

There's a difference between registering your complaint with God and second guessing what God does in your life. Remember, taking our complaints to God isn't so much about making the world the way we want it but making it the way God wants it. If there's something troubling you today, don't be afraid to take your complaint before the throne of God.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 22, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust

Two Masters: It's Your Choice!

It's not uncommon to see leaders of the world's nations scurrying about, desperately trying to find answers to their countries' financial problems. Newspaper articles, radio and TV shows and Internet bloggers consume huge blocks of time speculating and advising us about money--how to keep it, why we're losing it, where to find it and whom to bail out. Fear often grips governments, industry and individuals.

As a Christian, you must be careful not to get caught up in the world's worries about money. Oh, of course, you are to be a good steward of all that God provides; and you are responsible to care for your family's needs. But you also need to avoid any attitude toward money that would cause you to spiral down into the world's way of thinking. God is still on the throne. He knows your needs and has much to say about trust and money.

Receive

Have you thought seriously about Jesus' warning in Matthew 6:24 (ESV)? "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."

Why did He say that? Is it a sin to earn an honest living? Didn't Jesus Himself use money to pay taxes and buy groceries? Didn't the disciples have a money bag and a treasurer? When Jesus sent the disciples forth a second time, didn't He tell them they would need money (Luke 22:35-36)?

Now, read a few verses and jot down your answers to the questions:

    1 Timothy 6:10. What two results of loving money does the apostle Paul mention in this verse?
    Hebrews 13:5. What does God want to see in your life instead of the love of money?
    Matthew 13:22. In the parable of the sower, what does Jesus say about how an obsession with wealth can affect your relation to God's Word?
    Deuteronomy 8:17-18. If God does bless you with wealth in this life, what should be your proper attitude toward it?

Reflect

Jesus never claimed that money is evil. But He did teach that the love of money will get you into deep trouble and draw you away from God (1 Timothy 6:10).

Satan, the Prince of this world, runs his domain on money. It will all come to sudden ruin one day. God, on the other hand, operates His kingdom in the power and provision of the Spirit of God. His Kingdom is eternal and will never fade away. While you are in this life, you are, in a sense, caught between the two worlds of God's everlasting kingdom and Satan's doomed realm. You need some money and material things to live and to support God's work on this earth, but you must constantly be on guard against trusting in the things that will ultimately rot and rust.

Today, read Revelation 18:1-24. It describes the sudden destruction of Satan's economic and financial system in the final hours of this old earth. As you read, compare today's godless worldview and ask yourself, Is this something I want to be part of? Am I getting entangled with the love of money?

Respond

Take time to review your own attitudes toward money. Is money at the center of your purpose in life and your career? Are there changes you need to make that will bring you more into line with God's teaching about wealth?

Reflect on Philippians 4:19 (ESV): "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus."

Then memorize it!

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 23, 2013
Topic: God's Care, Faith/Trust

Money and Trust

Will any one group of people find it especially difficult to trust in Jesus and receive the gifts only He can give including eternal life in heaven? Jesus thought so. In fact, He singled out one particular class of people who will have great difficulty trusting God.

Receive

"And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, 'How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!' And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said to them again, 'Children, how difficult it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God'" (Mark 10:23-25, ESV).

    What specific pitfalls do the rich face?
    Who supplies us with all we have?
    Read the following verse and name some reasons why it is difficult for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of heaven?

"Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy" (1 Timothy 6:17, NASB).

Reflect

Because it is difficult for the rich to get into God's kingdom, is it better to be poor? Read the following verse to learn the answer to that question.

"But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction" (1 Timothy 6:9, NLT).

    What is the real problem according to this verse?
    What traps someone who is striving for riches?
    Create a newspaper headline (just a few words) to summarize 1 Timothy 6:9.
    What does a wise person realize about wealth? (See Proverbs 23:4-5.)

Respond

So, how should you, as a Christ-follower, view possessions and wealth? Jesus teaches us a great truth to build our lives on.

"'Do not worry then, saying, "What will we eat?" or "What will we drink?" or "What will we wear for clothing?"

"'For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.'

"'But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you'" (Matthew 6:31-33).

Take an inventory of your life. Ask yourself these questions:

Do I trust God? Do I believe His promises? Do I trust Him for His provision and care? Do I worry often about having too little? Do I seek first "His kingdom and His righteousness"? And now the real question, Will I trust God completely for everything?

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 24, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust

Wind and Waves

Here's an astounding statistic: By the year 2020, depression will be the second largest killer--right after heart disease. The number of people (even children) who are sad, constantly in tears and feel they can't face another day is increasing. To them the world seems an unfair and scary place. They don't want to keep struggling day after day. Fifteen percent will take their own lives.

You may be facing circumstances that have you discouraged or make you feel disillusioned with life. Oftentimes we, even Christians, allow our circumstances to impact our faith. We take our focus off the Lord and put it on our own situation.

The apostle Peter did the same thing on one specific occasion recorded in the Book of Matthew. Let's see what happened to him.

Receive

Read this passage from Matthew 14:22-33 (ESV) and answer the following questions:

"Immediately he made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was a long way from the land, beaten by the waves, for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, 'It is a ghost!' and they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, 'Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.'

"And Peter answered him, 'Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.' He said, 'Come.' So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, 'Lord, save me.' Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, 'O you of little faith, why did you doubt?' And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshiped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God.'"

1. Where was Jesus when the disciples and the boat departed for the other side of the lake?

2. When the disciples saw Jesus walking toward them on the waves, what did they think?

3. What was Jesus' response to their thoughts?

4. When he heard Jesus' voice, how did Peter react?

5. What caused Peter to become afraid as he walked towards Jesus?

6. When Peter suddenly became afraid, what did he begin to do?

7. How did Jesus help Peter?

8. Why did those in the boat say to Jesus, "Truly you are the Son of God"?

Reflect

Like Peter you might be facing "winds and waves" that have weakened your faith. Today, many are facing foreclosures, diminishing 401K plans, job losses--all kinds of circumstances that cause fear and uncertainty. Where is God, might be the cry of your heart. Hebrews 13:5 promises that God "will never leave you nor forsake you." That doesn't mean, however, things will always turn out the way you'd like. Sometimes we're required to cling to our faith even while we endure difficulties and trials.

In Hebrews 11, you can read about those who kept their faith--even in distressing circumstances. Hebrews 11:33,36-39 tells us,

"Through faith ... others suffered mocking and flogging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword. They went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, mistreated--of whom the world was not worthy--wandering about in deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.

"And all these, though commended through their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect."

    What kinds of "winds and waves" are you facing?
    How do you keep your eyes on Jesus, no matter what the circumstances?
    How does your faith help you whatever happens?

Respond

Rejoice in the knowledge that if you love Jesus, your future includes heaven, and that while you may struggle here and now at times, Jesus is always with you. Rejoice that this life is just the blink of an eye compared to eternity. But keep that eye on Jesus rather than on whatever difficulties are causing your boat to rock furiously.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 27, 2013
Topic: Hope, God's Care, Heaven, Doubt/Fear, Joy, Pain/Suffering

When It's All Bad News

I have good news and bad news for all Christ-followers. First the bad news: God never promises anywhere in Scripture that His children are exempt from the trials and problems of life.

What's the good news? God is always faithful--in all circumstances and situations. That's more than good news; that's the greatest news!

Receive

Your unfailing love, O LORD, is as vast as the heavens;
your faithfulness reaches beyond the clouds.
Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains,
your justice like the ocean depths.
You care for people and animals alike, O LORD (Psalm 36:5-6, NLT).

    List the ways the psalmist counts on God.
    What is true about God's love?
    What does the psalmist compare God's righteousness to?
    What emotions permeate your heart as you read this psalm?

Sometimes circumstances cause us to doubt God's presence and help. Our faith wavers when we realize that Christians lose their jobs, get cancer, go bankrupt, have trouble with their children, have automobile accidents, get divorced and go through other trials.

It is in the midst of such dark times that the light of God's presence and care shines the brightest. We discover anew that God is faithful. Here is a wonderful affirmation:

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
So we will not fear when earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge! (Psalm 46:1-3, NLT).

Reflect

When the skies are dark and the storm clouds come, and we are overwhelmed with what is happening, what then?

    Our first response is always prayer--go before God and pour out your heart asking for His strength and help.
    Our second response is to realize that no matter how traumatic the situation, it's only for the moment, and eternity with Jesus awaits us.
    Our third response is to remember that what really matters is not what happens to us, but what happens in us. And we can choose whether trials will make us bitter or better.

Here is what the psalmist learned when it was all bad news.

"Trust in Him at all times, O people;
Pour out your heart before Him;
God is a refuge for us" (Psalm 62:8, NASB).

Read the following scriptures to learn the nature and benefit of trouble.

"For our present troubles are small and won't last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don't look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever" (2 Corinthians 4:17-18, NLT).

"Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing (James 1:2-4, NLT).

    How does Paul describe the troubles you have today?
    What do the troubles we're facing produce in us?
    Where should we put our focus when we're disturbed by our problems?
    What has a chance to grow when our endurance is tested?
    What happens when our endurance is fully developed?

Respond

Have you experienced the faithfulness of God in your life? Journal about what you're facing right now. Keep track of what is happening and how you can see God working in the situation and in your life. And then take time to thank God for His promises and His faithfulness.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 28, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust, God

No Expiration Date

I found a bag of carrots hiding in the refrigerator the other day, but I couldn't recall how long they'd been there. And I couldn't find an expiration date. Now, I know carrots can last a long time but not forever!

We get used to thinking everything has an expiration or "best by" date, and we have trouble believing that something might last forever, something like God's faithfulness. It has no expiration date. It never has; it never will.

Receive

The psalmist says to God,

"Your faithfulness endures to all generations;
you have established the earth, and it stands fast" (Psalm 119:90, ESV).

God's faithfulness covers all generations--past, present and future. It's a sure thing. And His faithfulness is enduring--it lasts. It's as eternal as God Himself. You can count on it.

While this faithfulness is enduring, it is also new and fresh, ready for you each day as Lamentations 3:22-23 explains,

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness" (ESV).

God's faithfulness is great--great in quantity because it is limitless and great in quality because it reflects the nature of God. In fact, everything that makes up faithfulness is seen in God: steadfast love, promises kept, reliability, commitment, follow-through and more. It's all there. Just as God is the very definition and demonstration of love (1 John 4:7-12), He is the perfect definition and demonstration of faithfulness. In fact, God's "steadfast love" and His faithfulness are frequently connected. Just look at Psalm 117:

"Praise the Lord, all nations!
Extol him, all peoples!
For great is his steadfast love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever" (ESV).

What's really beautiful about God's faithfulness? It's not affected by our lack of faithfulness. Second Timothy 2:13 says, "If we are faithless, he remains faithful--for he cannot deny himself" (ESV). God is faithful, no matter what. Just look at Exodus. When God brought His people out of Egypt, their cycle of complaint, rebellion and repentance continued through the journey and into their establishment as a nation. Yes, God chastened and disciplined them, but He was always faithful. Psalm 106 recounts this history with praise for God's continued faithfulness and love.

Reflect

What do you learn from these passages about the ways to see God's unlimited faithfulness?

Psalm 33:4

Psalm 86:15

Psalm 89:1-2

Psalm 111:7-8

How do you see God's faithfulness to His people and His promises in these passages?

Deuteronomy 7:6-11

Genesis 21:1-7

Psalm 89:19-29

1 Kings 8:22-26

Acts 13:16-39

Respond

So, how have you seen God's enduring faithfulness in your life? Have you ever thought it might be expired or that it doesn't include you? Why?

In the psalms, God's faithfulness is praised as the stories are told of all that He's done. Take time to recount your own experience with the faithfulness of God. Put it in a form that can be shared with your children or grandchildren. Perhaps you will want to include the experiences you've heard from other family members. Or it could be the story of how God found you and brought you into a relationship with Him. Use this as an opportunity to praise Him for His faithfulness, to share it with others and to commit your future to Him.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 29, 2013
Topic: God

Great Is God's Faithfulness

    "Maybe I will bless you."
    "I might guide you."
    "Once in a while I may help you."
    "I'll try not to forget you."
    "Call on Me, and I'll think about answering you."
    "Perhaps I will save you."
    "If I feel like it, I will forgive you."

How would you like to have a Bible with promises like those? It's doubtful you would spend much time reading it, isn't it? It surely wouldn't make the bestseller list. An unfaithful, ever-changing God is unimaginable. Yet sometimes we treat Him as though He can't be trusted.

Receive

The truth is that the Lord is never, ever, anything but faithful to Himself, His Word and His people. He cannot change. The prophet Malachi says of God,

"For I am the LORD, I do not change;
therefore you are not consumed, O sons of Jacob" (Malachi 3:6).

Consider the following Scripture passages in your Bible and record what they say about God's faithfulness and how it affects your life.

    According to Psalm 31:23, what does God do for the faithful?
    Psalm 71:22. What kind of open response should you have to God's faithfulness?
    What does Galatians 5:22-23 say faithfulness is a part of?
    2 Thessalonians 3:3. What special protection does your faithful God promise you?
    Psalm 33:4. You can trust God's Word. What else does the Psalmist say you can trust?

Reflect

Since God Himself is faithful in all things, He also requires and rewards faithfulness in His followers. God's faithfulness assures your salvation, your forgiveness of sins and your deliverance from temptation. But it is your faithfulness that openly demonstrates your love for your Savior.

    Matthew 23:23. What three responsibilities were the scribes and Pharisees neglecting in their lives that caused Jesus to rebuke them sharply?
    Revelation 2:10. Which eternal crown of reward does God give for faithfulness?
    2 Timothy 2:2. What kind of people did Paul instruct Timothy to look for in order to keep on spreading the truth of the Gospel?

Dr. Richard Halverson, former U.S. Senate chaplain, once said, "The emphasis must be on God, not on faith. The strength of faith is the faithfulness of God."

--Rod Sargent, NavLog, June/July 1984, page 7

Respond

Perhaps you have sung the hymn, "Great is Thy Faithfulness," which is based on Lamentations 3:22-23. When you have access to a hymnal, look up the hymn and read through all its verses. Then, memorize the Bible passage and remember to thank God regularly for His great faithfulness.

'The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness" (Lamentations 3;22-23, ESV).

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 30, 2013
Topic: Faith/Trust, God

The God Who Keeps Promises

There's a tradition that promotes this theory: "If you have your fingers crossed, you can tell a lie without suffering the consequences." But unlike men and women, God isn't looking for a way to tell a lie without being punished. God never lies. He's a promise-maker and a promise-keeper. He keeps His Word and fulfills His promises--always!

Receive

"Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments" (Deuteronomy 7:9).

While there's no firm and fast agreement on how long a generation is, Psalm 90:10 says,

"The days of our lives are seventy years;
And if by reason of strength they are eighty years,
Yet their boast is only labor and sorrow
For it is soon cut off, and we fly away."

If we take 70 as a generation and multiply it by 1,000 that gives you some indication of God's continuing faithfulness in staying true to His Word?

Now, read again Deuteronomy 7:9 and answer the following questions.

    What does God promise in Deuteronomy 7:9?
    How many years would "a thousand generations" include?
    Who does He make this promise to?
    What is required of those who receive this promise?

Reflect

It is this same promise-keeping God who made our salvation possible according to 1 Corinthians 1:9.

"God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship [ Your fellowship with God's Son began when you received Jesus into your life.] with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (NASB).

    In the above Scripture to whom is God faithful to keep His promises?
    What difference has being "called into fellowship" with Jesus made in your life?
    Write out at least two examples of God's faithfulness in your life.

Respond

Consider your own faithfulness. Do you believe that God wants you to keep your promises? Is that hard for you? If it is, memorize the following verse that assures you that God is working in you to give you the ability to do those things (like keep promises or be a faithful person) that He wants you to do.

"For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him" (Philippians 2:13, NLT).

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: May 31, 2013
Topic: Sin/Temptation

Confession Is Good for the Soul

In 1884 Grover Cleveland was running against James G. Blaine for the presidency of the U.S. Blaine supporters discovered that Cleveland, who was a bachelor at the time, had fathered a son by Mrs. Maria Crofts Halpin, an attractive widow who had been on friendly terms with several politicians. Subsequently, these men tried to pin an immorality tag on Cleveland by distributing handbills showing an infant labeled "One more vote for Cleveland." The move, however, backfired badly. Rather than deny the story, Cleveland decided to tell the truth and admit the wrongdoing. His confession helped defuse the issue, and Cleveland was elected president.

Satan does the same thing. In fact, Satan is called the "accuser of our brethren" (Revelation 12:10). But God provides a solution to this problem in 1 John 1:9.

Receive

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, ESV).

    Whom is this verse written to?
    How is God described in this verse?
    What two benefits come with confession?

Reflect

The word confess means "to admit." One of the most difficult parts of dealing with sin is admitting that it is sin. Oftentimes we want to deny it (I didn't do it!). Other times we try to rationalize it (It's not hurting anybody!) or even excuse it (My parents should have raised me better. It's all their fault!). None of those, however, work with God. Until you acknowledge that the letter "i" in the middle of "sin" stands for yourself and no one else, you'll never experience the fullness of God's forgiveness.

Confession doesn't require the involvement of another person. It can be just between you and God. However, sometimes it is helpful to let another trustworthy person know about your sin so that he or she can be an accountability partner as well as pray for you.

Furthermore, confession doesn't require restitution but such action may help deal with the guilt feelings. Satan is an expert at playing the guilt card and preventing forgiven sinners from actively serving the Lord. While we don't "buy" God's forgiveness by paying back what we owe, we demonstrate that we are forgiven by restoring as much as possible of what has been lost through our sin.

Respond

Is there sin in your life that needs to be confessed? Don't delay; do it now. And if there is some restitution that is needed because of that sin, pay up; accept God's forgiveness and cleansing and begin anew.