Tuesday, September 17, 2024 - CHEERFUL LIVING

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Tuesday, September 17, 2024 - Day 261 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Ecclesiastes 1-3 2 Cor. 9)

CHEERFUL LIVING

“The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (1 Corinthians 9:6-7 ESV) 

Paul is giving us a partial description of cheerful Christian living. We who have been given everything by means of the death and resurrection of Christ, now get to respond in cheerful thanksgiving. He who gave us His best, now expects us to return our best to Him, and to do it joyfully. And what is it that He expects us to give? The best of our time, talent (abilities), treasure and testimony.

   Lord of Glory, You have bought us

   With Your life-blood as the price,

   Never grudging for the lost ones

   That tremendous sacrifice;

   And with that have freely given

   Blessings countless as the sand

   To th' unthankful and the evil

   With Your own unsparing hand.

   Grant us hearts, dear Lord, to give You

   Gladly, freely, of Your own.

   With the sunshine of Your goodness

   Melt our thankless hearts of stone

   Till our cold and selfish natures,

   Warmed by You, at length believe

   That more happy and more blessed

   'Tis to give than to receive.

   (Lutheran Service Book #851 stanzas 1&2)

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for giving Your best to me. Please help me to thankfully give my best back, and to do it cheerfully. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, September 16, 2024 - GODLY WOMEN

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Monday, September 16, 2024 - Day 260 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 30,31 2 Cor. 8)

GODLY WOMEN

“An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels...

Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:10 & 30 ESV) 

Young men thinking of marriage would do well to use Proverbs 31 as a “shopping list.” 

Above all, he should be looking for a Christian woman who loves and honors the Lord.

While many husbands are as blessed as I am, and are able to say that they are married to a Proverbs 31 wife, every wife would say that she is far from the perfect mate pictured in this chapter. The fact is that none of us measure up to God’s expectations for our roles in life. But there is good news for us imperfect husbands and wives.

“For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.”  (2 Corinthians 5:14-15 ESV) 

Lord Jesus Christ, thank You for dying for me. Now help me to live for You by being the best wife/husband/parent/friend/neighbor/Christian I can be. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, September 15, 2024 - HOW’S YOUR VISION?

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Sunday, September 15, 2024 - Day 259 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 28,29 2 Cor. 7 )

HOW’S YOUR VISION?

“Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Proverbs 29:18 ESV) 

Part of taking care of your body is having your vision tested. How did it go the last time? Do you need assistance with your vision?

We sinners all have a vision problem. Our sinful nature blinds us to the truths of God. However, God’s Word corrects our vision by focusing our spiritual vision on the cross of Christ and God’s message and method of reconciliation.

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 ESV) 

The hymn writer reminds us of another aspect of the Christian’s cross-centered vision:

1. The vision of a dying world is vast before our eyes; 

    We feel the heart-beat of its need, we hear its feeble cries:

    Lord Jesus Christ, revive Thy church in this, her crucial hour!  

    Lord Jesus Christ, awake Thy church with Spirit-given power.

2. The savage hugs his god of stone and fears descent of night; 

    The city dweller cringes lone amid the garish light:

    Lord Jesus Christ, arouse Thy church to see their mute distress! 

    Lord Jesus Christ, equip Thy church with love and tenderness.

4. The warning bell of judgement tolls, above us looms the cross;

    Around are ever-dying souls - How great, how great the loss!

    O Lord, constrain and move Thy church, the glad news to impart!

    And Lord, as Thou dost stir Thy church, begin within my heart.

Heavenly Father, keep my vision focused on Jesus and His cross. May that vision also include those in this world who are dying without Jesus. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion rail!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, September 14, 2024 - WHAT TIME IS IT?

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Saturday, September 14, 2024 - Day 258 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 25-27 2 Cor. 6)

WHAT TIME IS IT?

“Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For he says, 

‘In a favorable time I listened to you, 

    and in a day of salvation I have helped you.’

Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Corinthians 6:1-2 ESV) 

What time is it? When some of us were kids, we sang along with that black and white TV show. It’s Howdy Doody time... But it sure isn’t Howdy Doody time any more! That show has been off the air for over 60 years.

Paul is encouraging his hearers to realize what time it is. It is time to trust in Jesus. 

“Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.”

He is encouraging you to take seriously God’s call to repent and trust in Jesus’ death as payment for your sins. It is an urgent call. Since none of us knows if we will see tomorrow, today is the day to listen, believe, repent and be saved!

This hymn is calling us to remember what time it is:

   Delay not, delay not, O sinner, draw near.

   The waters of life are now flowing for you.

   No price is demanded, the Savior is here,

   Redemption is purchased, God’s promise is true. 

   Delay not, delay not, O sinner, to come;

   For mercy still lingers and calls you today.

   Its voice is not heard in the vale of the tomb;

   Its message, unheeded, will soon pass away. 

   Delay not, delay not! Why longer abuse

   The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?

   A fountain is opened; how can you refuse

   To wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood? 

   (Lutheran Worship, CPH, 1982  #349 stanzas 1,2,5)

Heavenly Father, thank You for warning me to repent today and trust in Jesus before it is too late. Please use me to share this message with others. Amen.

“See” you in church tomorrow morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, September 13, 2024 - SWEET WISDOM

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Friday, September 13, 2024 - Day 257 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 23,24 2 Cor. 5 )

SWEET WISDOM

“My son, eat honey, for it is good, and the drippings of the honeycomb are sweet to your taste. Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.”  (Proverbs 24:13-14 ESV) 

What do comedian Jackie Gleason, Winnie the Pooh and King Solomon all have in common? They would all say of honey, “How sweet it is.” Gentlemen, remember the wisdom of saying the same thing of your honey, “How sweet she is.” In fact, wisdom is the focus of these verses, as well as the rest of the book of Proverbs.

“Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off.”

The kind of wisdom Solomon is highlighting for us is...

● wisdom that listens to the Word of the Lord,

● wisdom that trusts the Word of the Lord,

● wisdom that obeys the Word of the Lord, and ultimately

● wisdom that trusts in Jesus, and in Jesus alone, for forgiveness and heaven!

We sing about this kind of sweet wisdom in this hymn stanza:

    How sweet the name of Jesus sounds

    In a believer’s ear!

    It soothes our sorrow, heals our wounds,

    And drives away our fear. 

    (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #524 stz 1)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the sweet Gospel message I find in Your Word. Please keep my faith strong so that my ears will continue to hear and my life will honor the sweet name of Jesus. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, September 12, 2024 - TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT JESUS

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Thursday, September 12, 2024 - Day 256 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 21,22; 2 Cor. 4)

TEACH CHILDREN ABOUT JESUS

“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.”   (Proverbs 22:6 ESV) 

I have often used this verse to encourage parents whose children have strayed from the Lord. Since they have imparted the truths of God’s Word to their children, these faithful parents can pray that their children will return to the Lord. 

My wife and I have been blessed in our efforts to “train up” our two children in the Christian faith. I remember those precious times of teaching them how to pray, how to sing hymns, how to worship, and how to trust in the promises of God. While both are involved in Christian education, we are most thankful that they are also training their children in the way of the Lord! 

Lord Jesus Christ, the children's friend,

To each of them Your presence send;

Call them by name and keep them true

In loving faith, dear Lord, to You.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #866 stz 1)

Heavenly Father, please bless all Christian parents as they train their children in the Christian faith. We beg You to keep our children and grandchildren close to You forever. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 - WE MUST NEVER FORGET

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 - Day 255 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 19,20 2 Cor. 3)

WE MUST NEVER FORGET

“Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked... For you, O Lord, are my hope.”  (Psalm 71:4-5 ESV) 

Today is the 23rd anniversary of September 11, 2001. Most of us, I am sure, remember exactly what we were doing when we first heard the news that our country was under attack. It was a day that filled us with fear, foreboding, sadness and anger.

That evening, like many other congregations around our country and the world, we gathered in church for a special service of the Word and prayer. On the way to church, I passed a gas station with a long line of cars. While our first reaction to the tragedies of 9/11 was to turn to God, others could only think of running out of gas. I heard something even worse on the radio this week. The host said that all he could do was get drunk!

What a striking contrast between God’s people and those who do not know Him, or at best don’t possess Christian coping skills. Our Bible verse for today is a prayer for help in time of fear, tragedy and uncertainty. “Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked.” We especially pray this prayer for those we have deserted in Afghanistan. 

In the past 23 years our world has not gotten safer, even more so in the last month! We continue to have to deal with terrorism, hatred, war, and all other forms of evil. But Christ is still our Redeemer and our hope. We can still trust in His steadfast love to deliver us. 

    If thou but suffer God to guide thee,

    And hope in Him through all thy ways,

    He’ll give thee strength whate’er betide thee,

    And bear thee through the evil days.

    Who trusts in God’s unchanging love

    Builds on the rock that nought can move.

    (Lutheran Service Book 750-1)

So, on this September 11th, let’s start the day right:

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.   (Luther’s Morning Prayer) 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

 

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 - A GRAND BLESSING

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Tuesday, September 10, 2024 - Day 254 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 17,18 2 Cor. 2)

A GRAND BLESSING

“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged,

    and the glory of children is their fathers.”   (Proverbs 17:6 ESV) 

When I was a child I certainly thought like a child. Many of the things I thought were so important turned out only to be foolish “dreams.” The blessings in my life are all from the Lord...

● Baptism

● Forgiveness and salvation

● Family

David knew this when he wrote: “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged.” I agree with him, even though I don’t see the term “aged” apply to me!

One of the great joys of life is when the members of your family are also members of the family of God. 

  Children of the heav’nly Father

  Safely in His bosom gather;

  Nestling bird nor star in Heaven

  Such a refuge e’er was given.

  (Lutheran Service Book, #725, stanza 1)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of family, especially grandchildren. Please keep all of faithful to You so that families can be together in heaven. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, September 9, 2024 - WHAT WISDOM!

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Monday, September 9, 2024 - Day 253 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 15,16 2 Cor. 1)

WHAT WISDOM!

“A soft answer turns away wrath,

    but a harsh word stirs up anger.”   (Proverbs 15:1 ESV) 

Have you ever found yourself in an argument?

Have you ever gotten someone mad at you because of your harsh words?

This proverb gives you some very wise words... “soft answers” and no “harsh words.”

As sinners, we know that we need help in this area. The good news is that Jesus died to pay for our sinful words and other misdeeds.

    I am trusting Thee for power; 

    Thine can never fail.

    Words which Thou Thyself shalt give me 

    Must prevail.

    (“I Am Trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book #729-5)

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen. (Psalm 19:14 ESV)

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, September 8, 2024 - REAL MEN LOVE JESUS

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Sunday, September 8, 2024 - Day 252 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 13,14 1 Cor. 16)

REAL MEN LOVE JESUS

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 14 Let all that you do be done in love.”   (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ESV) 

“Paul likely addressed his letter to congregational leaders who were men; they needed to display manly virtues...in love. The virtue of strength does not conflict with the virtue of love.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, page 2168) 

According to former NFL player, Rosey Grier, real men do needlepoint. They also love Jesus. Here are some famous men who do love the Lord.

Phil Robinson

Denzel Washington

Tim Tebow

Steve Carrel

Usain Bolt 

Will Smith

Josh Hader

Sylvester Stallone

Dennis Quaid

Mr. T

Tim Allen

Tyler Perry

Chuck Norris

and many, many more.

Their stories can encourage other men to do the same. So can the story of your walk with Jesus.

God wants His people, men and women, to stand firm in the faith, in the love of Jesus.

1. 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.

2. Love is patient and forbearing, 

    Clothed in Christ’s humility,

    Gentle, selfless, kind, and caring, 

    Reaching out in charity.

3. Love in Christ abides forever, 

    Fainting not when ills attend;

    Love, forgiving and forgiven, 

    Shall endure until life’s end.

    (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #706) 

Heavenly Father, help me to be a real Christian, trusting in Jesus for the forgiveness of my sins, and living for You every day. I do love You Jesus. Amen. 

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, September 7, 2024 - KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Saturday, September 7, 2024 - Day 251 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 11,12 1 Cor. 15:33-58)

KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT

“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense,

    but a man of understanding remains silent.

Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets,

    but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.”   (Proverbs 11:12-13 ESV) 

Years ago I shared a sermon on this topic. When one of our members was driving home from church, she asked her five year old what the pastor had said that morning. He answered: “I should keep my mouth shut.”

The Eighth Commandment  You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. 

What does this mean?  

We should fear and love God so that we do not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest possible way.

If you lips would keep from slips, five things observe with care...

... to whom you speak,

......of whom you speak,

..........and how and when and where!

   Keep me from saying words

   That later need recalling;

   Guard me lest idle speech

   May from my lips be falling;

   But when within my place

   I must and ought to speak,

   Then to my words give grace

   Lest I offend the weak.

   (“O God, My Faithful God,”  LSB 696-3)

Heavenly Father, help me to keep my mouth shut when it comes to gossip and lies. And, when the time is right, open my mouth to defend my neighbor and share Your love. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, September 6, 2024 - RESURRECTION DAY IS COMING

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Friday, September 6, 2024 - Day 250 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 9,10 1 Cor. 15:1-32)

RESURRECTION DAY IS COMING

“But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.”   (1 Corinthians 15:20-22 ESV) 

This is your guarantee that the best is yet to come. Because Christ has been raised from the dead, you will all be raised from the dead on Judgment Day. “In Christ shall all be made alive,” refers to all who believe, all who are trusting in Jesus for forgiveness of their sins.

He’s risen, He’s risen, Christ Jesus, the Lord;

He opened death’s prison, incarnate, true Word.

Break forth, hosts of heaven, in jubilant song

While earth, sea, and mountain their praises prolong. 

The foe was triumphant when on Calvary

The Lord of creation was nailed to the tree.

n Satan’s domain his hosts shouted and jeered,

For Jesus was slain, whom the evil ones feared. 

But short was their triumph, the Savior arose,

And death, hell, and Satan He vanquished, His foes;

The conquering Lord lifts His banner on high.

He lives, yes, He lives, and will nevermore die.

Oh, where is your sting, death? We fear you no more;

Christ rose, and now open is fair Eden’s door.

For all our transgressions His blood does atone;

Redeemed and forgiven, we now are His own. 

▲Then sing your hosannas and raise your glad voice;

Proclaim the blest tidings that all may rejoice.

Laud, honor, and praise to the Lamb that was slain;

With Father and Spirit, He ever shall reign. 

(Lutheran Service Book #480)

Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise that all who believe in You will be raised from the dead. What comfort to know that death is not the end for all who are in Christ! Please use me to reach others with this good news. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, September 5, 2024 - DECENTLY AND IN GOOD ORDER

 

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Thursday, September 5, 2024 - Day 249 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 7,8 1 Cor. 14:21-40)

DECENTLY AND IN GOOD ORDER

“But all things should be done decently and in order.”   (1 Corinthians 4:14 ESV) 

What excellent advice for life. 

What excellent advice for students going back to school. What excellent advice on how to interact with others. 

What excellent advice for your daily walk with Jesus.

Where do you find the details for doing all things decently and in order?

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

Following any advice other than the Lord’s, will lead to disorder, confusion, sin and its consequences. Following what the Bible teaches concerning Christian living will lead to a decent and orderly life in the middle of the chaos of life today. We will still fall victim to our sinful nature, but we will have someone right there with us holding our hand and leading us along life’s way!

Lord, take my hand and lead me Upon life's way;

Direct, protect, and feed me From day to day.

Without your grace and favor I go astray,

So take my hand, O Savior, and lead the way.

(Lutheran Service Book. #722, stanza 1)

Lord, please help me to live my life to Your glory by doing everything decently and in order. Please remind me that the order is You first, others second, and me last. May I find the motivation for such obedience in the forgiveness of my sins that You bestow on me through Jesus, my Savior. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - SIN

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - Day 248 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 5,6 1 Cor. 14:1-20)

SIN

“There are six things that the Lord hates,

   seven that are an abomination to him:

   #1 haughty eyes, 

   #2 lying tongue,

   #3 and hands that shed innocent blood,

   #4 a heart that devises wicked plans,

   #5 feet that make haste to run to evil,

   #6 a false witness who breathes out lies,

   #7 and one who sows discord among brothers.”   (Proverbs 6:16-19 ESV) 

What does God hate? The six things listed here can be summed up on one word, sin. God is serious about sin. The truth is that all people can find themselves somewhere on the list, especially #4. 

“For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.” (Matthew 15:19 ESV)

Thank God, there is comforting news for sinners: “The blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7b ESV)

1. Delay not! Delay not! O sinner, draw near!

    The waters of life are now flowing for you.

    No price is demanded; the Savior is here.

    Redemption is purchased; God's promise is true.

2. Delay not! Delay not, O sinner, to come,

    For mercy still lingers and calls you today.

    Its voice is not heard in the vale of the tomb;

    Its message, unheeded, will soon pass away.

3. Delay not! Delay not! The Spirit of grace,

    Long grieved and resisted, may take his sad flight

    And leave you in darkness to finish your race,

    To sink in the gloom of eternity's night.

4. Delay not! Delay not! The hour is at hand;

    The earth will dissolve, and the heavens will fade.

    The dead, small and great, in the Judgment must stand --

    What pow'r, then, O sinner, can lend you its aid?

5. Delay not! Delay not! Why longer abuse

    The love and compassion of Jesus, your God?

    A fountain is opened -- how can you refuse?

    Come, wash and be cleansed in his pardoning blood.

    (The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH 1941, #278)

Heavenly Father, thank You for having mercy on me and on all mankind. I am guilty of that which is an abomination to You. Please forgive me and cleanse me from all sin. In Jesus' saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 - HOW DO YOU MEASURE UP?

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Tuesday, September 3, 2024 - Day 247 

HOW DO YOU MEASURE UP?

“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”   (1 Corinthians 13:13 ESV) 

Faith, hope and love. Do you have these down? How does your love measure up? Paul opens this chapter with eye-opening statements that defines the importance of genuine Christian love.

13 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 

2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, 

and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 

3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

Paul next gives us a check list for genuine Christian love:

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. 

One way to determine how you measure up in the Christian love department, is to replace the words “love” and “it” with your name in verses 4-8. 

While your love is most likely like mine, imperfect, we know One whose love is perfect.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16 ESV)

1 Love divine, all loves excelling,

Joy of heav'n, to earth come down!

Fix in us Thy humble dwelling,

All Thy faithful mercies crown.

Jesus, Thou art all compassion,

Pure, unbounded love Thou art;

Visit us with Thy salvation,

Enter ev'ry trembling heart.

2 Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit

Into ev'ry troubled breast;

Let us all in Thee inherit;

Let us find Thy promised rest.

Take away the love of sinning;

Alpha and Omega be;

End of faith, as its beginning,

Set our hearts at liberty.

3 Come, Almighty, to deliver;

Let us all Thy life receive;

Suddenly return, and never,

Nevermore Thy temples leave.

Thee we would be always blessing,

Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,

Pray and praise Thee without ceasing,

Glory in Thy perfect love.

4 Finish then Thy new creation,

Pure and spotless let us be;

Let us see Thy great salvation

Perfectly restored in Thee,

Changed from glory into glory,

Till in heav'n we take our place,

Till we cast our crowns before Thee,

Lost in wonder, love, and praise!

(Lutheran Service Book #700)

You may listen to this beautiful hymn by clicking on this link:

https://youtu.be/iG5kpByn0lA

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving sinners like me so much that You sent Jesus to be our Savior. May Jesus’ love motivate me to live a life of genuine Christian love.  Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, September 2, 2024 - ABOVE ALL THINGS

"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)

Monday, September 2, 2024 - Day 246 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Proverbs 1,2 1 Cor. 12)

ABOVE ALL THINGS

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”   (Proverbs 1:7 ESV) 

“The First Commandment teaches that ‘we should fear, love and trust in God ABOVE ALL THINGS... He desires for His people to regard Him in awe, respect, and love... Such wisdom–given by God through Word and Sacrament, making us His children, is the theme for the book of Proverbs. True wisdom begins with an individual’s apprehension in knowledge and trust in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and Savior. Fools are those who reject God and the wisdom and instruction He freely offers through faith.”  (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 999)

Above all powers

Above all kings

Above all nature

And all created things

Above all wisdom

And all the ways of man

You were here

Before the world began...

Crucified

Laid behind a stone

You lived to die

Rejected and alone

Like a rose

Trampled on the ground

You took the fall

And thought of me

Above all

Like a rose

Trampled on the ground

You took the fall

And thought of me

Above all

("Above All" by Michael W. Smith)

Lord God heavenly Father, I truly want to fear, love and trust in You above all things. Please forgive me for the many times I have foolishly disobeyed Your holy will. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf