TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 2:1-12
- Matthew 2:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
It remains to be seen whether our generation will witness another transfer of power as extraordinary as the passing of Hong Kong from British to Chinese control. The final days and weeks before the July 1transferthis year were hectic and, at times, tension-filled. Hong Kong governor Chris- topher Patten packed his last days in office with a dizzying schedule of events and appearances, then departed the city in style on board the British royal yacht Britannia, accompanied by Prince Charles.spectacular, transfer of power in the universe is still ahead. It will come when Jesus Christ returns to claim the kingdoms of this world from Satan and usher in His millennial kingdom. Then all earthly powers, and Satan himself, will be shown to be merely temporary usurpers.Even though Jesus came the first time to die as a sacrifice rather than reign as a King, His birth signaled the end of Satan’s kingdom.of Jerusalem into a panic (v. 3). The murderous monarch wasn’t about to put up with any rival, baby or adult. As we will see on Sunday, he lashed out violently in a futile attempt to do away with heaven’s King. adoration that are due Jesus. No distance, inconvenience, or expense was too great a price for them to pay to see the newborn King. The time they actually arrived in Bethlehem is open to interpretation. What they did when they got there is not. They worshiped Jesus and brought Him their finest gifts (v. 11).in his Jerusalem palace, the Magi followed God’s leading and went back home by a different route. Satan had been trying to stamp out God’s promised Redeemer since the Garden of Eden—a move that was doomed to frustration. We can see Satan’s human ally, Herod, sputtering with rage as he shared his master’s frustration.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Some day, the baby of Bethlehem will be crowned King of kings and Lord of lords.church and Lord of all those who claim Him as their Savior. Is Jesus ruling in your heart today as Lord? He will take no lesser title. The celebration of Christmas and approach of a new year is a great time for you to reaffirm your submission to the Lordship of Christ in your heart and in your home.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:21-38
- Luke 2:30-31
TODAY IN THE WORD
Although the emotional rush of Christmas may be subsiding by now, we hope you are still rejoicing in this wonderful season of worship, wonder, celebration, and new beginnings.December 25, the original Christmas story did not end the day Jesus was born. God had prepared two more key participants whose spiritual profiles were remarkably similar to the profiles of Mary, Joseph, Zechariah, and Elizabeth. These elderly servants of God were obedient to Him and waiting for the fulfillment of His promises. Since both Simeon and Anna were old, it’s possible that they were the kind of people who ordinarily would not attract much notice. If so, they were just the kind of people God seems to prefer to do His work.His circumcision was in accordance with the Mosaic Law, and they gave Him the name the angel had told both parents to give Him. God’s promised Messiah and Savior (v. 29-32). Simeon prophesied that God’s salvation through His Son would reach to the Gentiles, a common theme in Luke’s Gospel but still an unheard-of idea at that time in Israel. as He carried out His ministry. It’s not certain that Mary understood all of this yet, but Simeon’s prophecy was another piece of information that Jesus’ mother pondered in her heart. A sword did in fact pierce her heart as she saw Jesus die on the cross (v. 35).and His redemptive work. By and large, the official spiritual representatives of Israel were not attuned to God’s movement and therefore missed the Messiah’s coming. So God raised up people like Simeon and Anna to speak for the nation and point people to the promised Redeemer.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Today might be a good time for you to reflect on a different kind of gift: the spiritual gifts that God has provided for each member of Christ’s body.and 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, where Paul discusses the believer’s spiritual gifts. As you read, ask the Holy Spirit to make your spiritual gift or gifts clear to you, if that is the need. Also, why not pray that God will give you greater opportunities to use your gifts in the year ahead?

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Matthew 2:13-23
- Matthew 1:23
TODAY IN THE WORD
It’s interesting to encounter the same two groups of people at Jesus’ birth that were present at His death. That is, Herod represents the worriers while the Magi, Joseph, and Mary represent the worshipers. nervously in Jerusalem, worrying that someone might try to steal Jesus’ body and raise more of an outcry (Matt. 27:62-66). In reality, they were disturbed because they knew that they had shed innocent blood. anoint Jesus’ body with spices, but observed the Sabbath according to God’s commandment (Luke 23:56).a worrier after the Magi came to him with the disturbing news that a new King had been born. Just as Pilate was in a position of authority and could order Jesus’ grave sealed and a guard posted, so Herod had all the authority he needed to try to stamp out this invisible threat. to be killed. Through the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, Luke saw the tragedy in the same light were spiritually sensitive enough to the God of Israel to receive His instruction in a dream and to obey, defying Herod’s order to report back to him (Matt. 2:12).and instantly obeyed each time. We know we have truly worshiped God not just when we have offered up thanksgiving for what He has done, but when we have obeyed what He tells us to do. The worriers at the crucifixion got nowhere, and neither did Herod. Their actions only brought God’s judgment upon them. But the worshipers in each case were blessed as God once again used humanly weak and insignificant vessels to confound the mighty.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
At Easter time, we usually talk about the worriers and the worshipers and encourage our readers to reaffirm their commitment to be God’s worshipers.your desire. This day is made for worship, for leaving off the week’s worries and fastening our minds and hearts on our great God. studies planned for next year, and we want God to use them to bless His people.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:39-52
- Luke 2:52
TODAY IN THE WORD
Jonathan Edwards had a precocious childhood. The great colonial pastor, revivalist, and theologian was writing papers on philosophy before he was a teenager. And by the time he was thirteen, Edwards had studied Greek, Hebrew, and Latin. It was at this tender age that Jonathan Edwards entered Yale University in 1716. He later served as a tutor at Yale before entering the pastorate at the age of twenty-one.Jesus a precocious child, but that does not do justice to Him. He was not merely advanced; He was and is the eternal God, the second person of the Trinity. At the age of twelve, Jesus was already preparing Himself for the work He had come to earth to accomplish.faithful worshipers. The Passover Feast was one of the times when every male Israelite was to come to the temple in Jerusalem, and Jesus’ family made it their custom to make the annual trip. deity and the things He learned in His home. The Bible doesn’t make that distinction, but there is no doubt that the youthful Jesus was taught the Word of God. He also had godly examples in Joseph and Mary.At age thirteen a boy became bar mitzvah, a “son of the commandment.” Jewish boys would often prepare for that significant moment by going to the temple. child. He amazed the elders of Jerusalem (v. 47). That’s an interesting observation in light of the fact that as an adult, Jesus routinely confounded the Pharisees and other experts with His insights. amazed His elders. Did they recognize Jesus or listen to Him? A better question is, will we listen to Him?
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
What will the Father’s business require of you in 1998?example for you to follow. The example is Mary, Jesus’ mother. At Jesus’ first miracle (John 2:1-11), Mary asked Him to help provide wine. Jesus indicated that He alone would determine what needed to be done, so His mother told the servants, “Do whatever He tells you” (v. 5). Make it your commitment for the new year to do whatever Jesus tells you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Isaiah 9:6-7
- Revelation 19:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
Haile Selassie I, who served as emperor of Ethiopia from 1930-1974, was a member of a ruling dynasty that claims to have descended from King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. The Bible gives no indication of any marriage between these two monarchs. But according to Ethiopian legend, this queen was the queen of Ethiopia whose son by Solomon became the first king of Ethiopia.legends. But Jesus Christ needed no such stories to strengthen His claim to be the Son of God, the King of Israel, and the Head of His church. His words and His works proved the legitimacy of His claims.attributed some incredible titles to the Child born in Bethlehem. Only someone who is both God and man could rightly claim these lofty titles for Himself.but He was “given” to us as a Son. Jesus the Son of God did not begin His existence in Mary’s womb or in the manger of Bethlehem. The writer of Hebrews states it so clearly: “About the Son [God the Father] says, ‘Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever’” (1:.Christ are present in the two verses we are considering today. Although the Old Testament prophets did not always understand the full significance of what they wrote, we can see that the eternal reign of Christ on David’s throne remains to be fulfilled (Is. 9:7). In that day the world will understand why Jesus is called the “Prince of Peace.”“The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this” (v. 7). As we said earlier, no pretender to the throne will be able to stand against the King of Kings. No claim to authority, whether from earth or from hell, will be recognized when Jesus appears the second time to take what is rightfully His. He alone is supreme, both as Creator and Redeemer.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The four exalted names given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6 are not simply titles He will acquire some day. They are true of Him today.circumstance, any uncertainty that you face, either today or in the year ahead, that Jesus does not have the power to help you meet? Why not thank Him today for who He is and what He means to you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: 2 Timothy 1:8-12
- 2 Timothy 1:13
TODAY IN THE WORD
We believe that Paul’s stirring challenge to Timothy is a great text on which to end 1997 and to get us ready for a new year of service and faithfulness to Christ. remind us that one benefit of being faithful to Christ is the blessing we can be to those who are following us on the path. Paul’s ministry to Timothy is a great example of this truth. journalist and Christian apologist G.K. Chesterton, whom we read about earlier this month (See December 4), were being read by a young atheist who later became a professor of English at Oxford University. Chesterton’s powerful pen made a lasting impact on C.S. Lewis, being used by God to help lead Lewis from atheism to faith in Christ. in for. A young man who wishes to remain a sound atheist cannot be too careful of his reading.”remember that you don’t have to be a skilled writer and apologist to influence a life for Jesus Christ. All of us can fulfill Paul’s charge to stand for Christ without shame or embarrassment, to live a holy life, and to speak up for Christ. God even promises us the ability, as the need arises, to suffer for His sake.Christ and what He has done. His “appearing” refers to His birth, earthly life, death on the cross, and resurrection, by which Jesus saved us, destroyed death, and assured us of eternal life (v. 10). 1998 because of the deposits they have “salted away” in various accounts and investments. How much more secure should we be in the knowledge that our faith is deposited with Christ in heaven, secure for all eternity, waiting to be realized on the day when He comes for us!confidence? Have a blessed New Year!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
In today’s reading, Paul gives us at least four worthy goals we can aspire to in 1998. embarrassment. Second, we can prepare our hearts and minds to triumph rather than to fade in whatever trial or suffering God may send our way. Third, we can be holy, living in a way that honors God and brings His approval. Fourth, let’s determine to speak up for Christ in the year ahead.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:1-20
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. - Luke 2:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
It may be difficult to look at today's passage with a fresh perspective, although reading it in August might help. The beginning of Luke 2 is most commonly read in church Christmas programs and on family couches before beginning to open presents. To many of us, it is simply, “The Christmas Story.”

Perhaps more than any other Bible passage, this narrative captures the feeling of a storybook. Luke doesn't offer a commentary on the Son of God being placed in a feeding trough. He doesn't see fit to record details about precisely where they stayed or what Jesus' birth date was. All we have is a simple, beautiful, rather poignant story of a couple who gave birth to their first child in extremely inconvenient circumstances.

Then the nameless shepherds entered the picture, continuing the story line of the intersection between the humble humanity and the eternal majesty of heaven. The angel of the Lord delivered the strangest, yet most important birth announcement in the history of the world.

Shepherds might not seem to be the most credible sources for substantiating claims of divinity, but their story is crucial to our understanding of Christ's birth. As the sole recipients of the angelic announcement, the shepherds verified that everything happened exactly as God had said it would.

Notice Luke's attention to the personal emotions involved. The shepherds went from absolute fear to ecstatic rejoicing. All who heard their story were filled with wonder and interest. And Mary continued to reflect with awe on what had happened. Maybe it's Luke's attention to emotion that creates such a strong response in our hearts to this beloved passage of Scripture. After all, the birth of our Savior should stir deep emotion within all who believe on His name.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Some well-meaning teachers try to detach emotions from our understanding of Scripture. While we shouldn't let our feelings dictate our study, we shouldn't ignore them either. The Bible records a broad range of human emotions, which means God cares about them! Perhaps you've read Luke 2 so many times, familiarity has tarnished your sense of the wonder, joy, sadness, and mystery in the passage. Meditate on it today and ask God to soften your heart and awaken your emotions.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:21-40
If she cannot afford a lamb, she is to bring two doves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. - Leviticus 12:8
TODAY IN THE WORD
After a performance of Thornton Wilder's Our Town, producers asked Alexander Woollcott for an endorsement, and he declined. “It doesn't need it,” the drama critic explained. “I'd as soon think of endorsing the Twenty-third Psalm.”

Jesus hardly needed further endorsement when He was presented in the temple. He had already received a stamp of approval from Gabriel before He was born—of a virgin, in fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. His birth and identity as Christ the Lord had been proclaimed by angels and verified by shepherds. But Luke continues to provide a landslide of evidence that Jesus was the Christ, the Anointed One of God, even before He had spoken His first word.

Jesus was circumcised and officially named on the eighth day after His birth, but the rest of the events in today's reading would have occurred at least thirty-three days later according to the Law (Lev. 12:4). Their sacrifice of birds tells us that Mary and Joseph couldn't afford a lamb. God had not sent His only Son to be born into the wealthy ruling elite, but into a humble home. The purpose of the offering was a sacrifice to God and the ceremonial cleansing of the mother's impurity—even Mary was not exempt.

Once again the Holy Spirit was actively involved in confirming Jesus' identity, this time through Simeon, and his message revealed the broad scope of Jesus' ministry. He would offer salvation not only to Israel, but to all peoples, including the Gentiles (cf. Isa. 42:6). But Jesus would also bring judgment. He was to cause the falling as well as the rising of those who met Him (v. 34). Simeon's words of warning made it unmistakable that the glory of the life of Christ came at considerable cost.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
Simeon mentioned that Jesus would cause “the thoughts of many to be revealed” (v. 35). That statement is still true of our Savior. We can quickly learn the condition of people's hearts by discussing Christ with them. Someone who thinks He was just “a good man” doesn't really know Him. Those who claim He is one of many roads to faith have denied Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you the boldness and the grace to approach others about Jesus.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 2:41-52
Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house? - Luke 2:49
TODAY IN THE WORD
Not just anybody could have stolen the spotlight on The Mike Douglas Show on the night in 1978 when the guests included Jimmy Stewart and Bob Hope, two of the biggest stars Hollywood has ever known. So why did a young golfer named Eldrick draw most of the attention simply by besting Hope in a putting exhibition? Because that golfer was two years old, and today he's known around the world as Tiger Woods.

Not many toddlers show a proficiency at golf, and it would have been similarly rare for a pre-teen to be the center of attention in the temple.

There were three distinct perspectives in this story. The parents, Mary and Joseph, were at first “anxiously searching” for Jesus—a perfectly natural parental reaction—and then they were “astonished” when they saw what He had been up to (v. 48). As parents, they didn't understand why He would stay behind.

Then there were the teachers, who were amazed at Jesus' knowledge. A normal boy of His age would have been trying to learn the rudimentary lessons and memorizations in preparation for his interview signifying his passage to manhood. But Jesus was capably conversing with the most learned minds in the center of the Jewish world. They didn't understand how He could know so much.

Finally, there was Jesus' perspective. He thought everything was just as it should be and matter-of-factly told His parents just that. Adolescents are quite often the only ones to think their behavior is normal, but in this case it was true. Jesus understood perfectly what He was supposed to do.

The phrase “in my Father's house,” could be referring not only to the temple but to the nature of Jesus' work as well. Jesus was going about His Father's business, a behavior that often conflicted with human expectations.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We naturally follow the expectations that the world has placed on us. We're expected to be good neighbors and mind our own business; to work during the week and relax on the weekends; to enjoy our youth, retire in peace, and enjoy the ride all along the way. But do we ever stop to find out what God expects from us? As the rest of the world returns to business as usual on this Monday, be sure to ask God to show you His agenda.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 3:1-38
You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. - Luke 3:22
TODAY IN THE WORD
Nature or nurture? The world of science may never be able to answer the question. Even with the massive volume of genetic knowledge compiled in recent decades, researchers still cannot determine precisely which attributes of human behavior are inherited genetically and which develop from external influences.

John the Baptist had an answer from the realm of faith. He assured his audience that repentance and forgiveness aren't genetic. Any Jew that trusted in ancestry for forgiveness would be disappointed. John's task was to prepare the nation of Israel for a family expansion, one that would include people from all nations in the family of God (v. 6) and that would also cast out those who refused to truly repent (v. 9).

Repentance was both essential and necessary preparation for following Christ. A person had to be willing to turn from selfish, evil behavior and adopt an attitude of generosity and love in order to be a disciple of Christ. And John wasn't afraid to confront any sin, even that of the wicked and brutal ruler, Herod Antipas (v. 19). But John knew that One was coming who didn't require repentance.

John simultaneously deflected the suspicion that he was Messiah and acknowledged that the true, exalted Christ was in fact coming. When Jesus came to be baptized, it brought another confirmation that He was the Christ. The appearance of the Holy Spirit and the voice of the Father marked a rare observable manifestation of all three members of the Trinity.

Scholars generally agree that the genealogy that follows is Mary's, and the human ancestry indicates Jesus' right by blood to claim the throne of David. Luke also points us to the fact that Jesus descended from Adam, linking Him to all of humanity—but more important, He, like Adam, was born directly of God. Though His bloodline was important, His connection to God was what really mattered.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
The all-important question for us is posed in verse 10: “What should we do then?” God expects our repentance to produce results in our lives. In all of John's examples of repentant lifestyles, he referenced possessions and wealth. Today, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any sinful behavior or attitudes, particularly relating to finances. Be willing to loosen your grip on all of your possessions so that you can take hold of the true rewards of faith.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 4:1-13
Who has been tempted in every way, just as we are–yet was without sin. - Hebrews 4:15
TODAY IN THE WORD
In the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, the USA men's basketball squad, “The Dream Team,” featured Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Michael Jordan, three of the best players of all time. Rather than even attempt to win, some opposing players posed for photographs during the games, which the USA won by an average of forty-four points. Victory was never in doubt.

To an even greater extent, the Devil never had a chance of persuading Jesus to sin. As if opposing the Son of God wasn't impossible enough, Jesus was full of the Holy Spirit at the time of the temptation. As majestically powerful as that was, Satan didn't come to pose for photographs.

While Christ's victory was sure, His suffering was also certain. The Devil tempted Him for forty days, and in the desert none of His family, religious community, dis- ciples, or even life's pleasant distractions were available.

We don't know exactly how Jesus spent His previous thirty years, but from this point on, Jesus' life would be categorized by suffering. As for this period, Jesus undoubtedly faced many more than just three temptations (v. 2).

These were examples or possibly the final three of Satan's attempts. Satan's appeal to His hunger would have been most tempting when His hunger was at its peak near the end of the forty days. But even at the end of this trial, Jesus' physical weakness by no means diminished His limitless spiritual strength. In these temptations, Satan asked Jesus to misuse His power (v. 3), His praise (v. 7), and His privilege (vv. 9-11), but each time Jesus resisted the offers of the Devil by quoting Scripture. His resistance proved that Jesus indeed had power over Satan and temptation, and it also made such victory seem possible for us!
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
In the examples of Jesus' victory over temptation, He didn't use any special powers that we are unable to access. He was filled with the Holy Spirit (who indwells us as believers) and quoted the Word of God (which He has preserved for us to study). Rather than relying on His own strength, Jesus depended on these outside sources to help Him prevail. Don't try to take on temptation on your own! Use the infinite resources at your disposal.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 4:14-30
He went into the synagogue, as was his custom. - Luke 4:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
At the time of his death, Cecil Rhodes was one of the wealthiest men in the world. His will established a fund that became the Rhodes scholarship at Oxford. The recipients of Rhodes's inheritance were not to be his family members, but rather those people who met his standards—prompting his brother Arthur to sneer, “It seems I shall have to win a scholarship.”

The people in Jesus' hometown were expecting to be treated to a wealth of miracles. To understand this, it helps to realize that verses 14 and 15 actually summarize the first year of Jesus' ministry (which is recorded more fully in the Gospel of John). The news of Nazareth's hometown hero and His amazing miracles had circulated throughout Galilee. Jesus knew that although they were impressed by His speaking ability, the condition of their hearts was not receptive to His ministry. They felt entitled to benefit from the power of Joseph's son (v. 23) and He didn't honor that.

Many times in His ministry, Jesus angered the religious leaders by claiming to be equal with God, but the people of Nazareth didn't react to His claims. They grew enraged when He insinuated that foreigners were more likely than they were to receive God's miraculous grace through Christ. Jealousy, and not righteous indignation, fueled their attack on Jesus. But an angry mob could never threaten the Son of God unless He allowed it.

Luke begins the story of Christ's ministry on a tumultuous note that sets the tone for the rest of the book. As he makes the case for the authenticity of the gospel, Luke never implies that universal acceptance of Jesus would prove His identity. On the contrary, controversy, rejection, and hateful opposition would regularly plague the true Christ and His followers. For a church undergoing intense persecution, the message of Luke was, and is to this day, a comforting assurance of their faith.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
We claim an inheritance of faith, not entitlement, but we far too easily become victims of our own complacency. Have you ever assumed that because you are “a Christian” God owes you answered prayer and rich blessing? The inverse is true. God has given us so much, and we owe Him our strict obedience and generous sacrifice. Commit yourself to an attitude of faithfulness and thankfulness today.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Luke 4:31-44
For our struggle is . . . against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. - Ephesians 6:12
TODAY IN THE WORD
Henry Ford once received a letter from a satisfied, but rather unsavory, customer. “While I still have got breath in my lungs, I will tell you what a dandy car you make,” wrote the man. “I have drove Fords exclusively when I could get away with one.” The phrase “get away” was well chosen, for the customer in question was the infamous bank robber, Clyde Barrow.

An endorsement from a dreadful source can carry a lot of weight, because such people don't offer praise lightly. Being acknowledged by demons might not be our idea of a good compliment, but it lends credibility to Jesus' claims as Christ.

In fact, the demons' proclamations were too convincing, to the point that Jesus silenced them from further disclosing His identity as the Son of God. Scholars suggest many different reasons why Christ quieted the demons, but Jesus' words in verse 43 offer a helpful perspective on the matter. Jesus came to spread the good news about the kingdom of God, not simply to draw attention to Himself. There's a small but important difference between using power to authenticate a message and using power to glorify the messenger. Jesus' pursuit was the former, directing people's attention to the words of His Father.

Naturally, the discussion of demons can capture our attention, but Jesus paid closer attention to the people He was reaching. He showed compassion for the demon-possessed and ensured their safety, and He healed the sick to alleviate their physical pain and open their hearts to spiritual healing. In the later chapters of Luke, we'll see in greater detail examples of the powerful, authoritative teaching of Christ that accompanied all the miracles and wonders He performed. And it's this good news that provides lasting, never-ending relief from our sin, a miracle that demons could never fully understand.
TODAY ALONG THE WAY
This passage demonstrates two things that affect us today: the reality of demonic activity and the authority Jesus has over them. Even if we don't come into contact with demon possession, they can still attack us through temptation, deception, and ways we can't even understand. But we don't need to be plagued with worry. Spend time in prayer today asking for Christ's protection from spiritual attack, and be assured that He has the power to protect you and the people you love.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ruth 1:1-18
Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. - Deuteronomy 6:5
TODAY IN THE WORD
Welcome to 1998! We hope the new year has already begun on a positive note for you. and failures of the old year and beginning afresh. Thats why New Years resolutionsare so populareven though, statistically, most people need to make a resolution at least three times before they keep it.t need three tries to carry out her resolution (vv. 16-17), one of the most remarkable statements of commitment in the Bible. And even though Ruthresolution was not made on New Years Day, it puts before us a wonderful example with which to begin 1998.focusing on the difference one person can make for God. Along the way we will meet people, some famous and some nameless, whose commitments made a significant mark for the Kingdom. hall of heroes from the Bible. As a foreigner, her devotion to the God of Israel shines even brighter against the dark background of the book. The story of Ruth happened in the days when the judges ruled (v. 1), far and away one of the darkest periods in Israels history. s future father-in-law, Elimelech, to leave Bethlehem and go east to Moab that they might escape a local famine. The unfolding of events showed that for this family, blessing awaited in Bethlehem, not in Moab. Elimelech and his sons died; and his wife Naomi was left widowed with her Moabite daughters-in-law, Orpah and Ruth.s decision to become a worshiper of the true God was motivated by love and commitment alone, as Naomi had made it clear that there was nothing for Ruth back in Bethlehem (vv. 11-13). marrying Boaz, Ruth gave birth to Obed, who would become King Davids grandfather (Ruth 4:21-22). Thus, Ruth helped preserve the righteous line of the Messiah during a time when the light of God was all but extinguished in Israel.The arrival of 1998 brings a milestone for Today in the Wordour tenth year of ministry!past decade. There have been times in our family, just as in yours, when one person made a real differenceeither by completing a task, upholding the work in prayer, or providing a much-needed financial gift to meet costs. We look forward to continuing this kind of significant ministry, for Gods glory. As we work together for the cause of Christ, letcommit ourselves to love and serve Him this year.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Mark 12:41-44
The LORD is a God who knows, and by him deeds are weighed. - 1 Samuel 2:3
TODAY IN THE WORD
With his usual clarity, A.W. Tozer once said concerning the ministry of giving, In Gods sight, my giving is measured not by how much I give, but by how much I have left after I make my gift. Not by its size is my gift judged, but by how much of me there is in it. No one gives at all until he has given all! No one gives anything acceptable to God until he has first given himself in love and sacrifice.caught Jesus attention. Her sacrificial generosity made a lasting difference because her gift gave Jesus the occasion to state a timeless principle of biblical giving: God weighs the heart of the person making the gift, not the amount being given.s sacrifice takes on even more meaning when set against Jesusteaching, found in the immediately preceding verses. In Mark 12:38-40, He warned the people about the proud and self-important religious leaders of Jerusalem who devour[ed] widows houses (v. 40). treasury and poured in large amounts of money. But Jesus was not impressed, because their giving was little more than a of their total wealth and it was given with a proud heart (vv. 41-42).and influence who made it a habit to take everything they could. But then came a poor widow, totally powerless and unnoticed by society, to give all she could. No wonder Jesus praised her act of love for God!s another piece of context we need to note here. This incident happened early in Holy Week, meaning that Jesus was just a few days away from making the ultimate sacrificial gift by dying on the Cross. He had the right to question the motive of superficial givers because He too, like the widow, was prepared to give everything He had.s act of generosity became a lasting testimony of genuine love for the Lord.t it encouraging to know that the giving of just one personyou, for examplecan make such a difference to the kingdom of God?note spiritually. In addition to the widow in todays text, we can take a cue from the poverty-stricken believers of Macedonia, who gave liberally but first gave themselves to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:1-14). Following their example today will give us a head start on a great year of giving.