Bible Minute

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Oct 28, 2009
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.

What Does God Say?

"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?

My Thoughts

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.

My Part

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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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Oct 29, 2009
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.

What Does God Say?

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.

My Thoughts

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?

My Part

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 411God.net and Powered by 4 ministries.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Oct 30, 2009
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, God, Faith/Trust


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.

What Does God Say?

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.

My Thoughts

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"?

My Part

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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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 2, 2009
Topic: Jesus


A Virgin Shall Conceive

For Mary, it was far from an ordinary day. First an angel suddenly appeared before her.Then she learned that she's about to become pregnant--although she's a virgin. Not only that, her child will be the Son of God, the One prophesied 700 years before.

What Does God Say?

"And the angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end'" (Luke 1:30-33, ESV).

In his Gospel, Matthew explains, "All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:

'Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel'

(which means, God with us)" (Matthew 1:22-23, ESV).

Matthew spoke of the prophet Isaiah who lived about 700 years before Christ's birth. To put this in perspective, imagine finding out that Geoffrey Chaucer, who lived nearly 700 years ago, wrote about you in the Canterbury Tales.

The birth of Jesus, one of the most significant events in human history wasn't planned at the last minute. Even before the creation of the world, God had that day in mind.

My Thoughts

As you read the Scripture for today, think about the following questions:

1. What questions might you have asked if you were in Mary's situation?

2. What in these verses indicates that God had been planning for this event for a long time?

3. Write out a list of preparations that God made to send His Son into the world such as arranging a census to be taken in order to get Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, etc.

My Part

There are not many days left in 2009. Maybe you're considering reading through the Bible in 2010. If so, you can find a variety of Bible Reading Plans online at backtothebible.org. Click on "Bible Studies and Devotions" and then "Bible Reading Guides." You will draw closer and closer to God as you read His Word.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 3, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Hope


Born in Bethlehem

Born in Tarsus: Does that mean anything to you? Probably not, although most Bible students associate this city with the birthplace of the apostle Paul.

Born in Bethlehem: Now, that carries significance, not only for two and a half billion Christians but for most of the world. Christ's birth in Bethlehem is the most well-known birth of all time--and it was predicted hundreds of years before it happened.

What Does God Say?

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah,
Though you are little among the thousands of Judah,
Yet out of you shall come forth to Me
The One to be Ruler in Israel,
Whose goings forth are from of old,
From everlasting" (Micah 5:2 NKJV).

   1. What does this scripture from Micah foretell?
   2. Read Matthew 2:1. What does this verse tell you about Jesus' birthplace?
   3. Why is the Bible's ability to foretell events accurately important to you?

My Thoughts

Have you ever tried to prophesy? Don't answer too quickly. Have you ever tried to predict whether a baby would be a boy or girl? When your wife would come out the mall door? When your daughter would get home from a date? Where the Wheel of Fortune would stop? When your boyfriend would text back? Whether the weatherman is right this time?

All those were efforts to predict the future. And we quickly discover that only God can know for sure what's to come. He not only knows it, He's in charge of it.

The timing of Christ's birth was set by God long before creation, and everything was perfectly, divinely, timed. That Jesus was born in Bethlehem was not a guess, but a fact that had already been set in reality by the mind and power of God.

"Remember the things I have done in the past.
For I alone am God!
I am God, and there is none like me.
Only I can tell you the future
before it even happens.
Everything I plan will come to pass,
for I do whatever I wish" (Isaiah 46:9-10, NLT).

"But when the right time came, God sent his Son, born of a woman, subject to the law" (Galatians 4:4, NLT).

   1. Who is the only One who can tell the future?
   2. How do you feel when you read the words, "I do whatever I wish?"
   3. Write a card to God telling Him how grateful you are that "God sent his Son."

My Part

Do you believe that God has a plan and purpose for your life? His Word says this:

"You saw me before I was born.
Every day of my life was recorded in your book.
Every moment was laid out
before a single day had passed.

"How precious are your thoughts about me, O God.
They cannot be numbered!" (Psalm 139:16-17, NLT).

Thank God that He knows all about you and He has laid out each day of your life. Thank Him that His thoughts toward you are precious, and He is thinking of you often--you can't number the times. Submit to Him anything that you've been struggling with and rest knowing that He is working out His plan for you.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 4, 2009
Topic: Evangelism


Christ's Mission

We know very little about Jesus' boyhood. The Bible wasn't written to give us a full account of all the things He did when He was young. One event in His early life, however, was significant enough for Luke to record it in his Gospel.

Jesus was 12 years old. He went with Joseph and Mary to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover Feast. After the seven-day-long celebration ended, Joseph and Mary traveled with a large group of people who were on their way back home to the provinces. Jesus wasn't with them, but they didn't discover His absence until the end of a whole day's journey. When a careful search among their relatives and friends didn't turn up the boy, Joseph and Mary, now very concerned, returned the 20 miles to Jerusalem searching everywhere along the road and finally spending a whole day frantically trying to find Him in the city.

At last, they found Jesus in the Temple, sitting with the top teachers of the nation of Israel and astounding them with His questions and answers. Mary scolded Jesus, and He answered, "Why were you looking for Me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?" He meant that He had a mission to do His Heavenly Father's work. You can read about the event in Luke 2:41-51.

What Does God Say?

Why does Luke tell this story? For a very important reason: it introduces you to the keen consciousness Jesus had about His mission of coming to earth. All through His earthly ministry, Christ made it clear that God the Father had sent Him on a mission designed to defeat Satan and settle the destiny of mankind forever.

Jesus had many things to say about why He had been sent. In the Bible verses below, you'll find some of the reasons God the Father sent His Son, Jesus. Find each passage; read it carefully and write down the important feature you discover about His mission.

    * John 6:38-39
    * John 3:17
    * John 8:26
    * John 17:23
    * 1 John 4:9-10
    * 1 John 4:14

My Thoughts

Jesus Christ's mission did not end with His ascension to heaven after His Resurrection. He passed the mission on to all who follow Him.

In John 20:21 (ESV), the resurrected Savior said this to His disciples: "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you."

What does that mean? It tells you that as Christ came because of God's love for us, you, too, are to go forth in love. It tells you that as Christ came to spread the Word of God, so you are to proclaim the Good News as well. It shows you that when you speak the truth of God's Word, you speak with the authority of the Father behind you. It tells you that you are always to be conscious of your mission, which is an extension of His mission.

So, you are to be about your Father's business.

My Part

In Matthew 9:37-38, the Lord instructed Christians to pray for laborers for His fields. That is an important part of a believer's prayer life and should never be omitted. Are you burdened about the needs of your neighbors, family and friends? They are some of Christ's "fields," and He wants you to pray for them. But don't stop there. You are one of His workers, and the fields are full.

Memorize what He said in Matthew 9:37-38 (ESV): "Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.'"

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 5, 2009
Topic: God


The God of Details

At the Eutaw Street entrance to Oriole Park in Baltimore, Maryland, stands a nine-foot, 800-pound statue of Babe Ruth in bronze. Every detail had been painstakingly researched. Did the Babe wear his belt buckle on the left or the right? Was his hat cocked to the side or worn straight? No detail was overlooked except one. The statue shows the famous baseball player leaning on a bat and clutching on his hip a right-handed fielder's glove. The real Babe Ruth was a lefty.

It seems like there's always some little detail that fouls us up. But God is different; He never lets a detail slip by. We see that in the genealogy of Jesus.

What Does God Say?

"Now Jesus Himself began His ministry at about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, the son of Heli, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Janna, the son of Joseph, the son of Mattathiah, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Naggai, the son of Maath, the son of Mattathiah, the son of Semei, the son of Joseph, the son of Judah, the son of Joannas, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri, the son of Melchi, the son of Addi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elmodam, the son of Er, the son of Jose, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonan, the son of Eliakim, the son of Melea, the son of Menan, the son of Mattathah, the son of Nathan, the son of David, the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon, the son of Amminadab, the son of Ram, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalalel, the son of Cainan, the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God" (Luke 3:23-38 ).

    * How old was Jesus when He began his ministry?
    * Notice carefully how Luke begins this genealogy. What is the implication here?
    * Whose genealogy is this? Why is it included in these verses?

My Thoughts

God promised David that He would give him a descendant who would sit on his throne forever (1 Chronicles 28:4,7). Through hundreds of years of births and deaths, God never lost sight of that promise or the details needed to fulfill it. Even though Satan was able to corrupt that part of the lineage which produced Joseph (see Jeremiah 22:24, 28-30), Jesus, as the adopted son of Joseph, still had a legal claim through His adopted father to the throne. And through His mother, Mary, a descendant of David through another son, Jesus had a biological claim to the throne as well.

It is mind boggling to consider the myriad of details God kept track of through the centuries to produce a Messiah who met His promise to David. Without the use of computer software or even a PDA, God fulfilled every detail of what He had promised. You can be sure He will do the same for your life.

My Part

It's good to pay attention to details. Making sure you pay the bills on time, follow traffic laws and fulfill your responsibilities at work are details that you can control. And you should. But there are other details that are beyond your control. You can't control (usually) the way others choose to respond, the outcome of lab tests, the ups and downs of the stock market--these are details you need to leave with God.

List five "details" that you are concerned about right now. Indicate after each detail whether this is something in which you have control over or whether it's something only God can deal with. Lift these details up in prayer asking for strength and wisdom to fulfill what you're responsible for--and God's peace concerning the details that only He can control. Memorize Philippians 4:6-7.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 6, 2009
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, Faith/Trust


Tempted to Shortcut

"Shortcuts make long delays," argues one of the one of the hobbits in J. R. R. Tolkien's book The Fellowship of the Ring. But after some debate, the hobbits eventually take the shortcut and run into all kinds of trouble.

Shortcuts in our lives often lead to misery, and, more than that, to sin. Let's look at a couple examples from the Bible where people chose to take a shortcut.

What Does God Say?

The story of Abraham and Hagar is a very well-known story from the Bible. In case you're not familiar with the story, take a few moments and read about it in Genesis 16. God had promised Abraham a son to be his heir. Years passed and Sarah was beyond the child-bearing age. So, Sarah came up with an idea and Abraham agreed. Instead of continuing to wait, Sarah gave Abraham her servant, Hagar, to bear a son in Sarah's place.

The right thing for Abraham to do would have been to continue to wait and trust God to bring a son through Sarah as promised. Instead he took a shortcut. The child born out of his relationship with Hagar, Ishmael, became a problem for Abraham and his descendants--and still is even today.

My Thoughts

Read Matthew 4:3-4 and think about the following questions:

1. What shortcut was the devil tempting Jesus to take?
2. Why would this be a sin?
3. What does Jesus' response tell you about what our response to these kinds of shortcuts should be?

My Part

Shortcuts can be hard to spot. Why? Shortcuts boil down to being assertive and claiming something we think we deserve or have earned. These are qualities that are typically praised today. So, how can we avoid these hidden traps? Keep the words of Jesus always in your mind. "Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). In other words, God knows what you need, and He'll make sure you get it. Just keep your eyes focused on Him, and you'll never need another shortcut again.

[nChrist]

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 9, 2009
Topic: Obedience/Discipleship


Aw, Lord, Do I Have To?

Bible translators who work with languages that are not yet put into writing often struggle to find the right word or phrase to convey the correct meaning of a portion of Scripture. One worker hunted long to find a way to translate the word obedience into the tribal language he was recording but had no success.

One day, the translator was going for a walk; and he whistled for his dog to come with him. The dog immediately ran to its owner. An old tribal man who saw what happened said to the missionary, "Your dog is all ear."

The missionary immediately knew he had the exact phrase to express obedience.

Are you "all ear" when it comes to obeying God? Let's look at some lessons about obedience and disobedience today.

What Does God Say?

Read this from Luke 5:4-8 (ESV):

"And when [Jesus] had finished speaking, he said to Simon, 'Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch' And Simon answered, 'Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.' And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking. They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.'"

Jesus ran an "obedience school" for His disciples. He wanted them to learn to trust Him absolutely in every area of life. Peter hadn't been a disciple very long. He was weary from a night of unsuccessful fishing, and he felt he knew far more about fishing than Jesus did. But Jesus told him, "Go back out there on the water and try again."

Peter revealed his reluctance as he replied, "OK, Master, if you say so."

When the boats almost sank from the weight of the fish, Peter realized how sinful his attitude had been. He fell on his knees and said, "Lord, don't have anything more to do with this sinful man!"

My Thoughts

It's pretty irritating when your dog doesn't come the first or second time you call, isn't it? And you might say that it's downright infuriating when the dog just totally ignores you and keeps on doing its own thing when you call!

If a person willfully disobeys God, that is one thing; if he or she delays or reluctantly obeys God, that is another. But do you see how both attitudes show lack of faith?

Here is a Bible record of a person who willfully disobeyed God: Read 1 Kings 11:4-11.

    * Who was the person who disobeyed?
    * What did he do that angered God?
    * How many times had God told him not to do what he did?
    * What was the outcome of this person's disobedience?

Now, look at another person who was reluctant to obey God but changed his mind and later obeyed. Open your Bible to the Book of Exodus, chapters 3 and 4, and look at these verses about God's command to Moses to deliver the people of Israel from slavery in Egypt.

    * What did God want Moses to do (Exodus 3:10)?
    * What was Moses' first response to God's order (Exodus 3:11)?
    * What was Moses' second response (Exodus 4:1)?
    * What was his third response to God's order (Exodus 4:10)?
    * What was Moses' fourth reaction to God's command (Exodus 4:13)?
    * What was God's response to Moses' continuing reluctance to obey (Exodus 4:14-17)?

Someone has said, "Delayed obedience is disobedience." As long as you are reluctant to obey and you hold off doing something that God has told you to do, no matter what your intentions are, you are disobeying the Lord. And if you do finally get around to obeying, the blessing will never be as great as if you had obeyed the moment the Lord showed you what you should do.

My Part

Is God revealing anything to you these days that you ought to be doing but are delaying to do because of your lack of faith? Is there any area of your life where you are willfully disobeying Him?

Read Matthew 21:28-31 to see something Jesus had to say about willful disobedience and reluctant, delayed obedience.

Determine that you will no longer delay. Take the first step today to be obedient to God.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 10, 2009
Topic: Christian Living/Situational, Faith/Trust


Poor & Hungry

Packing up my household "stuff" made it painfully obvious that I'm not really as poor as I think I am. And stepping on the scale at the doctor's office told me in big, bold numbers that I'm clearly not going hungry.

Being poor or hungry is something we try to avoid, isn't it? But how do you define those words. In Luke 6, Jesus encouraged us--dare I say, commanded us--to embrace His kind of poverty and hunger.

What Does God Say?

Luke 6:20-21 says: "And he [Jesus] lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said: 'Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you shall be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh.'" (ESV)

You may not feel blessed if you see yourself as poor because our view of poverty is determined by economic condition, but Jesus was talking about the heart. He didn't say that you're more spiritual if you have nothing or that if you're starving, you're closer to God. Instead, He was talking about your heart's desires. That's what's important. The rest of the world might pity you because you don't have what they have financially, but if your faith and your desire are focused on the things of God, "yours is the kingdom of God"--the indescribable treasures of heaven and God's good pleasure.

What about hunger? Matthew 5 records this same teaching session, and Jesus says, "'Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied'" (Matthew 5:6, ESV). Perhaps you don't have all the perks of life today, but does your heart desire the righteousness that honors God? That will truly satisfy you. All the other desires--food, relationships, money, significance, power--are temporary. They will disappoint you and fail to meet your deepest needs.

So much of what we pursue today can be gone tomorrow. Stocks and bonds, houses, cars, prestige, impressive titles, oodles of assets--they can all vanish in an instant, thanks to tanking economies, personal mismanagement or natural disasters. Or you lose it when you die because you can't take it with you. Jesus says, "Hunger for something better."

My Thoughts

Use the following questions to rate yourself as "poor" or "hungry" according to Jesus' definition?

    * What do you tend to value more than the kingdom?
    * What do you find yourself desiring more than righteousness?

Read Luke 6:24-25.

    * What is the warning to those who seek riches now? To those who are satisfied with the things of this world?Â

My Part

Jesus teaches us a new set of kingdom values. And they're often the opposite or in conflict with the natural bent of our hearts. But He gives us plenty of help in His Word and through the power of the Holy Spirit

Take time now to ask Him to fine-tune your values to His. Go through Luke 6:20-49, Matthew 5 and 6:19-21, to see what else you discover about living by kingdom values. And remember to check your heart. In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (ESV).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 11, 2009
Topic: God, Faith/Trust


Trusting God's Program

You've likely seen the adventure movies where the hero's in a sticky situation and his sidekick worries out loud about getting through it alive. How does the hero respond? "Trust me, I have a plan." (But you and I both know he's really just making it up as he goes.)

God is not that kind of hero. He has a plan, a perfect plan designed to accomplish His goals for His glory--and for your good. Faith is all about trusting God, no matter what. As you get to know Him better through His Word, the Bible, you'll begin to see that He can be trusted even when you wonder about His program.

What Does God Say?

John the Baptist had been a good and faithful servant of God carrying out a demanding mission which came at a high price. Yet, even John had a few questions about God's plan. In Luke 7, we read that John, in prison, sent a message to Jesus. "And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to the Lord, saying, 'Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?'" (Luke 7:18-19, ESV). How John understood his mission depended on the answer to his question.

    * Jesus' response was simple: "And he answered them, 'Go and tell John what you have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by me'" (Luke 7:22-23, ESV). He tells John to be confident in what he knows and believes because Jesus was doing exactly what Scripture said the Messiah would do.

Hebrews 11 offers us many examples of men and women who, like John, had questions about the plan of God (for example, Abraham in his desire for a son; Moses leading people out of slavery, etc.) but who, in faith, confidently obeyed and trusted God to work out His plan perfectly. They couldn't know all that God would do to accomplish His purposes, but they exercised faith that flourished and was commended. That's what we need too.

My Thoughts

Look what Hebrews 11 says about each of the following men; then review the original story.

Noah--Hebrews 11:7; Genesis 6:9-7:24.

    * What was God's command or plan for Noah?
    * If you were in Noah's shoes, what would make you question God's plan?
    * How did Noah respond?

Moses--Hebrews 11:23-29; Exodus 3; 12:1-28; 14.

    * What was God's mission or assignment for Moses?
    * What do you think might make Moses question God's plan?
    * How did Moses respond?

Gideon--Hebrews 11:32-34; Judges 6:1-27; 7

    * What did God ask of Gideon?
    * If you were in Gideon's position, what would make you question God's plan?
    * How did Gideon respond?

My Part

We've looked at just a few examples of people who put their faith in God and trusted His plan, even when it seemed impossible.

    * What do you learn from these men about God's plan, even when it's hard to understand?
    * How does this challenge your faith in God?
    * Where do you need to exercise your faith even though you don't understand?

In reality, you're not taking a big risk by doing this because God is completely trustworthy. Everyone from Hebrews 11 would tell you that, along with many others found in God's Word.

The more you know Him, the more you'll understand that faith in Him is a secure anchor. And while it's okay to wonder, don't let the questions keep you from growing in your faith and stepping out in trust. Remember what the Lord says in Isaiah 55:8-9:

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.

"As the heavens are higher than the earth,
so are my ways higher than your ways
and my thoughts than your thoughts" (ESV).

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 12, 2009
Topic: Doubt/Fear


The Creator Confronts Death

The first two chapters of the Bible reveal the mighty power and goodness of God the Creator. In the third chapter, His creation is marred by the sin of the first humans and death enters the picture. From that point on, you see the history of God's dealing with sin and His provision of the only way of escape from death through a Savior. In the last two chapters of the Bible, you get a glimpse of His redeemed people, free from the presence of death forever.

Between those first and last chapters of the Bible, however, you see death, the great enemy, continually stalking every person. It is also made abundantly clear that there is only one Person who has the power to overcome it.

Death came to the home of Jairus one day--the kind of death that brings with it the greatest depth of sorrow. The distressed synagogue leader hoped to persuade Jesus to come to his house in time to save his 12-year-old daughter from dying, but he was unable to tear Jesus away from the crowds delaying Him. Before Jesus could follow him, someone came from Jairus' house with a message.

Read Luke 8:49-56 in your Bible to learn what happened after that.

What Does God Say?

After you have read the above scripture, answer the following questions:

    * What was the messenger's news? What did he tell Jairus to do?
    * What did Jesus promise?
    * Who were the five people that joined Jesus in the dead girl's room to witness what would happen?

The girl was truly dead (Luke 8:49,53), but Jesus called it "sleep" (Luke 8:52) because He would raise her to life once again.

    * When Jesus said, "Child, arise!" what happened to the girl?
    * What special care did He order for the girl?

Jesus told the girl's parents to tell no one what had happened. Why? It was probably because opposition to Christ's ministry was rising, and He wished to keep a low profile until He formally announced His identity as Messiah in Jerusalem.

My Thoughts

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the creator of the universe and all that is in it (John 1:1-3; Colossians 1:15-17; Hebrews 1:1-2). He has unlimited power over all things, and in Luke 8 you see Him demonstrating this power in order to teach His disciples they could totally trust Him. In verses 22-25, He showed them His control over nature; in verses 26-39, He demonstrated His authority and power over Satan's domain and in verses 40-56, we see His power over diseases and even death.

Jesus fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah, who wrote:

Isaiah 25:8 (ESV)
"He will swallow up death forever;
and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces,
and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth,
for the Lord has spoken."

My Part

How do you look at death? Do you pass your days in fear of the enemy who is coming, or are you confidently living in the warmth of Christ's promises to all who trust Him as their Savior? He said to Martha in John 11:25-26(ESV), "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die." Then He asked her, "Do you believe this?"

Do you?

Here's a good verse to memorize: Revelation 21:4 (ESV) "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away."

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 13, 2009
Topic: Jesus, Obedience/Discipleship


Power to Send

A young boy threw a tantrum just as a crowded airliner was about to take off. No matter what his mother did, the child continued to scream furiously and kick the seats around him.

Suddenly, from the rear of the plane, an elderly man in a Marine uniform came up the aisle, leaned down and, motioning toward his chest, whispered something into the boy's ear. Instantly, the boy calmed down and quietly fastened his seat belt.

As the man made his way back to his seat, one of the cabin attendants asked, "What magic words did you use on that little boy?"

The Marine smiled and confided, "I showed him my pilot's wings, service stars and battle ribbons. I explained they entitle me to throw one passenger out the plane door on any flight I choose."

While the Marine's authority may have been overstated, the authority of Jesus is not. Let's look at what the Bible says.

What Does God Say?

Look at the following verses and write down what it tells you about Jesus' authority:

Matthew 4:24

Matthew 7:28-29

Matthew 9:6

Luke 4:35-36

Mark 4:37-41

Mark 5:39-42

Matthew 28:18

My Thoughts

If Jesus has that kind of authority, then it only stands to reason that He has authority over your life as well.

    * What does it mean for Jesus to have authority over your life?
    * In what ways are you showing that Jesus has authority over your life?

My Part

Take a sheet of paper and divide it in half. On one side, list the actions/attitudes you need to change if you are living under Jesus' authority. On the other side, list the things you need to begin to do if you are living under Jesus' authority. Select an item from each list to focus on today. Ask Jesus to help you live as one under authority.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 16, 2009
Topic: Prayer


Instead of Worry

Someone said, "Worry is like a rocking chair; it gives you something to do, but it doesn't get you very far." Unless you just happen to be looking for something to do and don't care if you actually accomplish anything, there's a better way to approach your worries.

Let's see what the Bible says to do with those worries.

What Does God Say?

"Be anxious for nothing, 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 minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7, NKJV).
Paul instructs his readers to be anxious (worried) about nothing. Then he goes on to give them a four-step response to worry followed by a promise.

What are the four steps?

    * Step 1:
    * Step 2:
    * Step 3:
    * Step 4:

What is the promise that we find in these verses?

My Thoughts

The King James version says, "Be careful for nothing" In those days, the word "careful" meant "full of care." In the original language, the word means "to have a divided mind." God doesn't want our minds to be torn in pieces by worry.

The word "prayer" in verse 6 means "a prayer of praise." Praise focuses on who God is (His character). When we remind ourselves of the greatness of God, it assures us that He can deal with our problems. Don't rush through this part; it prepares us for all the rest of the steps.

Along with prayer, we are to bring our worries to God. And we are to "supplicate." This implies an inferior making a request of a superior. We can't demand God to respond, but we can certainly humbly ask.

We are to also to give thanks. In the same breath we ask God to deliver us from our worries, we give Him thanks for them. It is these worries that drive us closer to our Lord.

And, then, there's the precious promise of peace. The peace of God keeps (literally "guards") our hearts in Christ Jesus. The God of peace is always ready to grant us the peace of God when we cast ourselves upon Him.

My Part

Make a list of those things you are worried about. Bring them before the Lord in the manner that Paul suggests in Philippians 4:6. Repeat this as often as it takes--especially focusing on God's character--to experience the peace of God.

Don't settle for just a rocking chair that gets you nowhere; turn your worries over to God and see some action.

[nChrist]

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Bible Minute by Woodrow Kroll

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Daily Bible Study

Date: Nov 17, 2009
Topic: God's Love


The Compassion of A Father

As incredible as the journey of the Prodigal Son was, the story of his father is pretty amazing too. He was hurt and betrayed by his youngest son. He watched as this son squandered his inheritance--an inheritance the father had worked hard all his life to provide for his children. And after all this, the young prodigal decided to come back home. Let's see how the father responded.

What Does the Bible Say?

"And he [the son] arose and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him" (Luke 15:20, ESV).

Instead of a stern lecture, instead of a cold shoulder, the father gives his son a warm embrace. Instead of closing the doors, he opened his arms and showed his son that he never stopped loving him.

That's compassion at work. Compassion is that deep love we feel for others that stirs in our hearts. We see Jesus moved by compassion several times in the Gospels (See Matthew 9:36; Matthew 20:34). And every time Jesus acted out of compassion, lives were changed as a result.

My Thoughts

As you read Luke 15:20-24 think about the following questions:

      1.  How hard is it for you to show compassion for someone who has hurt you?
      2.  Is it possible to have compassion for someone without having love for him or her?
      3.  How can you foster love for others?

My Part

I think the most striking thing about the father's compassion in the Parable of the Prodigal Son is that it's so unexpected. When someone offers a compassionate embrace rather than a stinging rebuke, it always catches us off guard--especially when that rebuke has been earned. Ask God to give you opportunities to practice compassion and grow your love today.