Day 274 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 3:1-11; Psalm 90; Mark 1:1-15)
“The Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. And he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted by Satan. And he was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to him.” (Mark 1:12-13 ESV)
Mark reports the temptation of Jesus in 2 short verses, while Matthew uses 11 verses to fill in the details.
Many prefer to take the short version when it comes to temptation. They do this by ignoring God’s Law or by simply denying that there are any rules at all. These same folks even deny the existence of God. And since, they reason, there is no right or wrong, there can be no temptation.
This is so dangerous! God is real. His Law is in force. We also need to know that the devil is on the job, tempting us to break God’s Law.
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8 ESV)
What we really miss in the sort version is the antidote to temptation proclaimed by Jesus:
But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4 ESV)
Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.’” (Matthew 4:7 ESV)
Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! For it is written, “‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.’” (Matthew 4:10 ESV)
Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me how to withstand the temptations of Satan. Remind me of what is written in the Bible about my personal weaknesses and sinful inclinations. Please bless me again this day with a truly penitent heart and with Your gracious gift of forgiveness. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 273 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 2:6-16; Psalm 89; Romans 16:17-27)
“I will sing of the steadfast love of the Lord, forever;
with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.” (Psalm 89:1 ESV)
Back in 1973 the Carpenters sang these words:
Sing, sing a song,
Sing out loud, sing out strong
Sing of good things not bad
Sing of happy not sad
Sing, sing a song,
Make it simple, to last your whole life long
Don't worry that it's not good enough for anyone else to hear
Just sing, sing a song.
David is also encouraging his hearers to sing a song, a song praising God for two of His awesome attributes:
● His steadfast love for sinners like David and us.
● His faithfulness to all generations - offering the fruits of His Good Friday sacrifice to all who repent and believe.
This Brazilian hymn found in our hymnal offers further encouragement to sing to the Lord:
O, Sing to the Lord, O sing God a new song,
O, sing to the Lord, O sing God a new song,
O, sing to the Lord, O sing God a new song.
O, sing to our God, O sing to our God.
For God is the Lord! And God has done wonders.
For God is the Lord! And God has done wonders.
For God is the Lord! And God has done wonders.
O sing to our God, O sing to our God.
(“O Sing to the Lord,” Lutheran Service Book, #808)
Thank You, heavenly Father, for the wonders You have done in sending Jesus to the cross in payment for all of my sins. Please help me to sing a song of faith and praise for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 272 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 1:13-2:5; Psalm 88; Romans 16:1-16)
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (Romans 15:13 ESV)
The US Constitution does not promise happiness, it simply promises the pursuit of happiness. The Bible does promise joy, genuine, deep down and lasting joy and peace to all who trust in Jesus!
Do you realize how blessed you are to be a child of God? Do you recognize the glorious hope / guarantee of sins forgiven, you relationship with God restored, and heaven promised that you have in Jesus?
My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus blood and righteousness.
No merit of my own I claim
But wholly lean on Jesus' name.
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand.
(“My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less,” The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #575 stanza 1)
Lord Jesus, thank You for filling me with hope, joy and peace by taking my place on the cross and covering all of my sins. Help me to not rely on my own deeds but to wholly lean on Your precious name. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion table this morning!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 271 - (Today’s Bible readings: Amos 1:1-12; Psalm 87; Romans 15:22-33)
On the holy mount stands the city he founded; the Lord loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwelling places of Jacob. Glorious things of you are spoken, O city of God. Selah. (Psalm 87:1-3 ESV)
The Psalmist is impressing upon us the fact that heaven will be glorious. Here is how the hymn writer expressed this fact:
Glorious things of you are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed you for His own abode.
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake your sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
You may smile at all your foes.
(“Glorious Things of You Are Spoken,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH # 648, stanza 2)
Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to make the new Zion, the city of God, glorious. Yet, with the Psalmist, I know that it is being in Your presence that will be truly glorious. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 270 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 3:17-21; Psalm 86; Romans 15:8-21)
“For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me... Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.” (Psalm 86:5-7, 11 ESV)
As we get older, we sometimes get the mistaken notion that learning is over. However, due to our sinful nature, learning is never over. We don’t seem to get it. His command is perfection, not even one sinful thought. This is why David is pleading for mercy. He knew well personal days of trouble. He knew his sin. He admitted his sin. He called on the Lord for help. And he prayed: “Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth.”
And what is the Lord’s way? Listen to Jesus: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6 ESV)
The truth we get to “walk in” is the forgiveness of sins and the promise of heaven. However, this “walk” starts with a serious assessment of ones sinful condition. It continues as we “learn of” the good news that Jesus died on the cross for us, paying for every one of our many, many sins.
Christ be my Teacher in age as in youth,
Drifting or doubting, for He is the truth.
Grant me to trust Him; though shifting as sand,
Doubt cannot daunt me; in Jesus I stand.
(Christ Be My Leader, Lutheran Service Book, Concordia Publishing House, 2006, #861 stanza 2)
Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me about my sin and my Savior. Please help me to walk in Your truth. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 269 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:28-3:3; Psalm 84; Romans 14:1-12)
“Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother.” (Romans 14:13 ESV)
Paul continues to deal specifically with first-century controversial issues among Jewish and Gentile Christians (food and holy days). Paul knew all foods are clean, but flaunting his freedom will give offense in the presence of Jewish Christians who still observe Old Testament food laws. In similar manner, we should not engage in behaviors that would cause other believers to stumble in their faith. Freedom in Christ is not simply freedom from the Law, but freedom given for a purpose, to serve others in love.
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
Father, thank You for the freedom You give me in the kingdom of Your Son, Jesus. May I enjoy my freedom by using it to serve others. Show me how I ought to limit my freedom for the benefit of my brothers and sisters in the faith. Amen. (The Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1938-1939)
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 268 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:28-3:3; Psalm 84; Romans 14:1-12)
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” (Philippians 4:8 ESV)
The devil is an expert at confusing our thinking. This is why the Holy Spirit led Paul to give us this thought-provoking advice. But it is not merely positive thinking that is being advanced here.
What is worthy of all praise? The answer is the Gospel, the message of God’s grace showered upon sinners like you and me. It is the Gospel that we need to remember more often than we do.
Peter gives us more details of what God wants us to think about in his first letter:
“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 1:13 ESV)
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your undeserved mercy and grace showered upon me and all sinners who repent and trust in You. Help me to think about that which is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 267 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:18-27; Psalm 83; Romans 13:1-14)
“‘Yet even now,’ declares the Lord, ‘return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments.’ Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.” (Joel 2:12-13 ESV)
“Return to the Lord your God” is the message John the Baptizer proclaimed in his day. His hearers desperately needed to be called to repentance so that they could receive God’s mercy and forgiveness.
“Return to the Lord your God” is the message all mankind needs to hear today too! We, too, need to repent so that we can receive Christ’s steadfast love and mercy. We, too, need to have our sins forgiven.
Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me to return to You through faith in Jesus. Please continue to be gracious and merciful to me so that I may be reconciled to You now and eternally. May others hear Your voice calling them to return to You through me. In the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 266 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:12-17; Psalm 82; Romans 12:1-21)
“Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor... Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:9-10, 21 ESV)
How do you measure up? Need help? Then focus on this godly definition of love: “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:10 NIV)
Love in Christ is strong and living,
Binding faithful hearts in one;
Love in Christ is true and giving,
May His will in us be done.
(“Love in Christ is Strong and Living”, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #706 stanza 1)
Lord Jesus, may Your dying love for mankind motivate me to return Your love by loving others. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 265 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 2:1-11; Psalm 81; Romans 11:25-36)
“Be not quick in your spirit to become angry,
for anger lodges in the heart of fools.” (Ecclesiastes 7:9 ESV)
We have all known people that have a difficult time controlling their anger. You learn to treat them in a cautious manner. How are you doing with anger?
This is an important question. Uncontrolled anger can have some terrible consequences, such as broken relationships.
Paul urges us to apologize for angry outbursts and seek reconciliation.
‘Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.” (Ephesians4:26)
The best motivation for controlling our anger comes from remembering that Jesus’ death has assuaged God the Father’s anger over our sins. All who repent and believe in Christ are reconciled to God and are free to share that reconciliation with others.
Heavenly Father, thank You for not being angry with me over my sins. Help me to share Your forgiveness with that person(s) I have been angry with. Just as I celebrate my reconciliation with You, may that person and I soon celebrate our reconciliation. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 264 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel 1:12-20; Psalm 80; Romans 11:11-24)
“The people who walked in darkness
have seen a great light;
those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,
on them has light shone.” (Isaiah 9:2 ESV)
Isaiah’s prophetic words point sinful humanity struggling in our spiritual darkness to the Light of the world. A few verses later he identifies this light:
“And his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
The hymn writer has a similar understanding of the luminating power of Jesus.
I want to walk as a child of the light;
I want to follow Jesus.
God set the stars to give light to the world; The star of my life is Jesus.
Refrain:
In him there is no darkness at all;
The night and the day are both alike.
The Lamb is the light of the city of God.
Shine in my heart, Lord Jesus.
(“I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light,” Lutheran Service Book #411)
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Jesus to be the Light that this sin-darkened worlds needs so desperately. May He continue to shine on me and through me for the rest of my life. Amen.
“See” you in church tomorrow!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 263 - (Today’s Bible readings: Joel1:1-11; Psalm 79; Romans 11:1-10)
“Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.” (Psalm 103:2-5 ESV)
The psalmist is calling us to bless the Lord because He has first blessed us. And what is at the top of the list of His blessings (benefits)?
● Your sins (iniquities) are all forgiven.
● Your soul has been healed.
● Your life has been redeemed.
● And the Lord has crowned you with His love, mercy and goodness.
Sounds like blessings worth remembering, right?
Thank You, Lord, for all Your benefits to me. I do not deserve any of them. Yet You daily shower me with Your forgiveness, redemption and my daily life. My response is to bless You, O Lord. Please keep showering me with Your blessed benefits for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Don’t forget how blessed by the Lord you are!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 262 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 14; Psalm 78:36-72; Romans 10:5-21)
For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13 ESV)
What good news for sinners caught in an evil world! God invites us to call on Him for forgiveness and salvation. In fact, this is what we get to do every time we gather around God’s Word and Sacraments on Sunday morning. We cry out to the Lord for peace and mercy. And He grants these treasures in great abundance to all who repent and believe!
In peace let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For the peace from above and for our salvation let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For the peace of the whole world, for the well-being of the Church of God, and for the unity of all let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
For this holy house and for all who offer here their worship and praise let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
Help, save, comfort, and defend us, gracious Lord.
Amen.
(The Kyrie, The Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, Divine Service One)
Lord, thank You for promising forgiveness and salvation to me when I call on You. Lord, have mercy on me, a poor, miserable sinner. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 261 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 13; Psalm 78:1-35; Romans 9:27-10:4)
I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done. (Psalm 78:2-4 ESV)
If we don’t teach our children to believe in Jesus, the world will teach them not to. Let us not fall down on the job and fail to teach children the things of God. How precious when little ones can sing/pray these word:
1. Let me learn of Jesus, He is kind to me;
Once He died to save me, Nailed upon a tree.
2. When I go to Jesus, He will hear me pray,
Make me pure an holy, Take my sin away.
3. Let me think of Jesus, He is full of love,
Looking down upon me, From His throne above.
4. Oh, how good is Jesus, May He hold my hand
And at last receive me To a better land.
(“Let Me Learn of Jesus,” All God’s People Sing, #156)
Almighty God, please bless children with truth of You love and mercy in sending Jesus to be the Savior of all and any who repent and believe. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 260 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 12; Psalm 77; Romans 9:1-26)
For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” (Romans 9:15 ESV)
http://nethugs.com/inspirational/angels-of-the-morning/
The attached link is the story of a very special dog. Without a day of training as a therapy dog, Nala is on the job reaching out to residents of a Minnesota nursing home. Those on the receiving end of her canine compassion are filled with peace and joy. What a special pooch!
Paul quotes the Lord’s words to Moses about His mercy and compassion. Just as Nala chooses whom she will visit with her special presence, so God chooses whom He will visit with His mercy and compassion.
The good news is that God’s desire is for all of us be on the receiving end of His compassion.
This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:3-4 ESV)
God wants all people to know His compassion and mercy, for He truly cares about sinners like you and me. This is the reason He sent Jesus to the cross. He mercifully offers you forgiveness for all of your sins and the assurance of heaven.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy and compassion showered on me through Jesus my Savior. As You have shown me Your compassion, may I now share that compassion with others. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 259 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 11; Psalm 76; Romans 8:18-39)
For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. (Romans 8:18 ESV)
Life can really be rough sometimes. What we need to remember at those times is simply that our problems and struggles are only temporary. Paul is reminding us that nothing we experience now can compare with the glories of heaven.
“What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.” (1 Corinthians 2:9 ESV)
The glories of heaven are far beyond what we are able to comprehend now.
I can only imagine
What it would be like
When I walk by your side
I can only imagine
What my eyes would see
When your face is before me
I can only imagine
I can only imagine
Surrounded by your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in your presence
To my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
(“I Can Only Imagine” MercyMe)
Click this link for the song on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEW_xenfaz0
Heavenly Father, remind me when things are rough, that this life is only temporary and that the best is yet to come. In Jesus’ saving name, amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 258 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 19; Psalm 75; Romans 8:1-17)
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1 ESV)
Ever since Adam and Eve gave into temptation and fell into sin, guilt and fear of condemnation have been our human lot. In spite of those who try to cover up and deny their sins, we all stand condemned on our own. Any attempt to correct our condition on our own is futile.
Jesus offers us the solution with His invitation to “repent and believe,” (Mark 1:5) leading Paul to conclude: “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
Fellow sinner, redeemed in the blood of Jesus, rejoice in this glorious thought.
My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to His cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
It is well (it is well),
with my soul (with my soul),
It is well, it is well with my soul.
(“When Peace, Like a River,” Lutheran Service Book, #762)
Holy Spirit, thank You for calling me to faith in my Savior, Jesus. Help me to share the good news that there is no condemnation for anyone who trusts in Jesus. Amen.
“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 257 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 9; Psalm 74; Romans 7:7-25)
“For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind.” (Hosea 8:7 ESV)
“Topping the list of Israel’s misdeeds is idolatry–their rejection of the Creator and their devotion to calves made of gold. Verse 7 stresses the futility of turning away from God and trusting in idols . One sowing the wind can hardly expect any harvest but a whirlwind. Sadly, we too, begin to fall into idolatry whenever we fear, love, and trust anything or any person more than the true God. Admitting that, we should also remember that the same God threatening to punish idolatry is also the One whose forgiving love and sustaining Spirit never fails.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 1438)
Lord, Thee I love with all my heart;
I pray Thee, ne’er from me depart,
With tender mercy cheer me.
Earth has no pleasure I would share.
Yea, heav’n itself were void and bare
If Thou, Lord, wert not near me.
And should my heart for sorrow break,
My trust in Thee can nothing shake.
Thou art the portion I have sought;
Thy precious blood my soul has bought.
Lord Jesus Christ, my God and Lord, my God and Lord,
Forsake me not! I trust Thy Word.
(“Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart,” Lutheran Service Book #708)
“See” you in church tomorrow!
Heavenly Father, keep me faithful to You so that I do not live an aimless and Christless life, thereby reaping the eternal whirlwind of damnation. I beg this of You for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 256 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 8; Psalm 73; Romans 7:1-6)
“But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.” (Psalm 73:28 ESV)
“Being troubled by doubt and envy does not mean that we have lost our faith. We are called to struggle against doubt and envy. We find strength to do so in the certainty of the final outcome of God’s promises.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 918)
“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are ‘Yes’ in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 1:20 NIV)
No wonder David calls God his refuge. Christ is our refuge too. It so important to always, always, always stay close to our Jesus! And how do we do this?
● Weekly Worship
● Bible Study
● Prayer
Be near me, Lord Jesus! I ask thee to stay
Close by me forever and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.
Lord, help me to fight doubt and envy by keeping me close to You. Bless me with a hunger for Your Word of promise. Amen.
Stay close to your Jesus today and always.
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 255 - (Today’s Bible readings: Hosea 7; Psalm 72; Romans 6:15-23)
Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. For the death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. (Romans 6:8-11 ESV)
“Wanted Dead or Alive,” read the old West poster. A reward would be given if a criminal was brought in “dead or alive.”
The Lord wants us both dead and alive. He wants us to be dead to sin and alive to God. He is calling us to repent of our sins and trust in Christ for life today and in eternity.
Since it is the Lord who grants us new life in Christ, the words of the hymn writer form the prayer we need to pray every day.
1 O God, forsake me not!
Your gracious presence lend me;
Lord, lead Your helpless child;
Your Holy Spirit send me
That I my course may run.
O be my light, my lot,
My staff, my rock, my shield--
O God, forsake me not!
2 O God, forsake me not!
Take not Your Spirit from me;
Do not permit the might
Of sin to overcome me.
Increase my feeble faith,
Which You alone have wrought.
O be my strength and pow'r--
O God, forsake me not!
4 O God, forsake me not!
Lord, I am Yours forever.
O keep me strong in faith
That I may leave You never.
Grant me a blessed end
When my good fight is fought;
Help me in life and death--
O God, forsake me not! Amen.
(“O God, forsake me not!” Lutheran Service Book, #731)
Pastor David Paape
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105 ), is the theme for this three-year journey through the entire Old Testament once (the Psalms - twice yearly), and the New Testament twice. There will be daily readings from the O.T., Psalms and the N.T. Special days on the church calendar will be highlighted with appropriate readings. This calendar has been compiled by representatives of the Lutheran Church of Canada, the North American Lutheran Church and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. Please click this link for the daily reading calendar:
https://blogs.lcms.org/2017/lcms-lcc-and-nalc-compile-three-year-schedule-of-daily-bible-readings
Then scroll down to 2019 Bible Reading Calendar and download it if you so wish. The “assigned” daily readings will appear on a daily basis in this blog. May the Lord bless your meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
