Day 213 - (Today’s Bible readings: )
“My times are in your hand.” (Psalm 31:15 ESV)
Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
Soon bears us all away;
We fly forgotten as a dream
Dies at the op'ning day.
(“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 5)
While the hymn stanza portrays a sober view of time, our verse for today clearly comforts us with the assurance that our time is in God’s almighty hand. The comfort comes from knowing that God’s timing is always perfect.
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)
When you take a careful look at your life, you will become aware of what I see in my life, namely, that God puts us in the right place at the right time for His right purpose.
Almighty God, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life, starting with my Baptism. In Your perfect time, grant me the gift of heaven for Jesus’ sake. Until that time, may I use my time for You and Your purposes. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 212 - (Today’s Bible readings: 2018 Numbers 30; Psalm 30; John 10:22-42)
"Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning.". (Psalm 30:5b ESV)
The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.
“And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:4b)
“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)
“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)
Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me to remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 211 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 29; Psalm 29; John 10:1-21)
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens. The sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” (John 10:1-5 ESV)
Jesus tells us that there are two voices and two choices, the thief and the shepherd. The sheep have a choice, to listen to the thief or to listen to the shepherd.
To whom are you listening? Jesus did not come to steel, kill and destroy. And yet the way foolish sheep (sinners) turn their ears to the thief and robbers of this wold, instead of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.
To whom are you listening? It is wise to listen to Jesus. He is the only One who has given His life as a ransom for yours! He is the only One who not only knows you name, but knows exactly what you need the most, forgiveness for all of your sins.
The King of Love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His
And He is mine forever. (Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, # 709, stanza 1)
Dear Jesus, the Good Shepherd, thank for calling me by name and for moving me to listen to You. Please use me to share Your voice with others, so that they are not deceived by Satan, that thief, robber and stranger. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 210 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 28; Psalm 28; John 9:24-41)
“And Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and made him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole congregation, and he laid his hands on him and commissioned him as the Lord directed through Moses.” (Numbers 27:22-23 ESV)
As Moses nears the end of his life, “God raises up Joshua, one of the two spies who returned from the Promised Land with a favorable report. Today pray that the Lord would bless leaders. . . Pray that He will raise up a new and faithful generation focused on the Word of life. He is always ready to provide for His beloved flock through our Good Shepherd, Jesus.” (Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 261)
Just as God chose Joshua to serve in his day, so He chooses us to serve Him today. We may not all be courageous leaders like Joshua. Yet the Lord has “called you out” to be His child and His servant. Your work, your vocation, your retirement, your leisure--all are opportunities to serve the One who died and rose for you.
Lord of my life, as You graciously led Joshua to serve You, so lead me to serve You with the unique gifts and circumstances of my life. Thank You for the example of such service that I see in Jesus, my Savior, who came to earth to serve You by dying on the cross for all of us sinners. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 209 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 27; Psalm 27; John 9:1-23)
“We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work.” (John 9:4 ESV)
Jesus had just healed a man born blind. He explained that the man’s blindness was intended to display God’s works. The Lord then goes on to share some very motivational thoughts for us today.
● Time is running out.
● Night is coming when our work for God will be completed.
● Until then, we have the privilege of living for Him.
How faithful was you witness for Christ yesterday? Did you seek out opportunities to share Him in some way with others? Many of us use a special response to “how are you today?” Answering, “blessed by the Lord,” can open doors to share more about the blessings that are ours in Christ.
“Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,
whom he has redeemed from trouble.” (Psalm 107:2 ESV)
Thank You, merciful Father, for my Baptism and the precious gift of faith You have bestowed on me. Help me to live the rest of my life for You by sharing You with my loved ones and with all others whom You may send my way. In Jesus’s 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 208 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 26; Psalm 26; John 8:48-59)
Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” (John 8:58 ESV)
Jesus was letting His hearers know that He is God, and they knew it. “I am.” That is how God identified Himself to Moses. And that is how Jesus identifies Himself to us.
“I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35 ESV)
“I am the light of the world” (John 8:12 ESV)
“I am the door.” (John 10:9 ESV)
“I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11 ESV)
“I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:26 ESV)
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6 ESV)
“I am the true vine.” (John 15:1 ESV)
And because Jesus has redeemed us from sin, death and the devil, we get to use the words “I am” as well.
I am Jesus little lamb,
Ever glad at heart I am;
For my Shepherd gently guides me,
Knows my need and well provides me,
Loves me every day the same,
Even calls me by my name.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #740)
We praise You, almighty God, for putting on flesh and dwelling among us. We thank You, Lord Jesus, for paying for our sins with Your holy, precious blood and with Your innocent suffering and death. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 207 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 25; Psalm 25; John 8:31-47)
“Make me to know your ways, O Lord;
teach me your paths.
Lead me in your truth and teach me,
for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.” (Psalm 25:4-5 ESV)
“David prays, ‘For You I wait all the day long.’ God promises to answer prayer, but we may be impatient or tempted to question His answers. Even when our faithfulness fails, God is faithful. He hears our prayers and truly acts for our good. In faith, we patiently wait for Him.” (The Lutheran Study Bible, Concordia Publishing House, 2009, page 867)
1. What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry
Ev’rything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer.
2. Have we trials and temptations?
Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged,
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a Friend so faithful
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness -
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
(“What a Friend We Have in Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book #770)
God of my salvation, open my eyes to Your path and Your truth. Please grant me the patience to wait for You and the faith to believe Your promises. In Jesus’ name I pray. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 206 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 24:10-25; Psalm 24; John 8:12-30)
“Unless you believe that I am he you will die in your sins.” (John 8:24 ESV)
Jesus is the One. He is the Savior promised long ago. He is the Messiah, the Christ, the Chosen One.
There have been many imitators... many who claim to be the answer to mankind’s need for divine help.
At a conference some years ago, we pastors were reminded that our task is not to talk Jesus. Instead, we are to preach Jesus. And that is what John 8:24 does. The message Jesus has for you is simply this:
● Repent and believe I died in payment for all of your sins.
● Your sins are forgiven.
● You will not die in your sins.
● Heaven is your eternal inheritance.
● Go, you are free.
Don’t fall for any imitators. Jesus is your only way to heaven!
Crown Him the Lord of Life,
Who triumphed o'er the grave
And rose victorious in the strife
For those He came to save.
His glories now we sing
Who died and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring
And lives that death may die.
(Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #525, 4)
Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being the One who died and rose for me. Bless my efforts to share You with others who need You just as desperately I do. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 205 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 23:27-24:9; Psalm 23; John 8:1-11)
“The Lord is my shepherd.... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.” (Psalm 23: KJV)
Does your life show that you believe that the Lord is your shepherd?
Does your life show that you believe that you are living in the goodness and mercy part of your life?
Does your life show that you believe that the best is yet to come – in the house of the Lord forever?
Goodness and mercy, all my life,
Shall surely follow me;
And in God's house forevermore
My dwelling-place shall be.
Dearest Lord Jesus, my good Shepherd, thank You for laying down Your life down for You wayward sheep, including me. Help me to see Your goodness and mercy now, and to look forward to being with You in Your eternal house in heaven. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 204 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 23:1-26; Psalm 22; John 7:37-52)
But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28 ESV)
One of the best tools the devil uses to divide people and set them at odds with one another is the sin of pride. Would you rather be a waiter or be waited on? Would you rather make breakfast for your family, or have your husband bring you breakfast in bed?
Jesus is clearly teaching us in this section that we are called to serve and not to be served. The picture gets at the heart of our problem. We think that is it all about us!
However, “the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Jesus lived what He is talking about. Actually He died what He is talking about. How can you and I presume to have it any better than Jesus? In fact, what Jesus is teaching us is the secret to real joy and purpose in our lives on this earth. We GET to serve Jesus by serving the needs of others. May the Lord bless you this weekend, as you joyfully find ways to lend someone else a helping hand in Jesus’ name.
Lord Jesus, as I remember Your death for me on Calvary’s cross, may I be led to remember that life is not about me and my comfort. Instead, grant me the joy of serving You by serving others. In Your merciful and saving name, O Lord. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 203 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 22:21-41; Psalm 21; John 7:25-36)
And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. (Mark 6:32 ESV)
In today’s Gospel reading at church, Jesus shows His concern for His disciples as He invites them to seek a meal and some rest.
Physical food and rest are necessary to recharge our bodies. Likewise, spiritual food and rest are necessary to recharge our souls. While the disciples went off to a desolate place for refreshment, we are called to spiritual places that are anything but desolate.
In our churches we find nourishment and rest for our souls as we listen to the One who said: “Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew1:29 ESV)
David echoed the blessings of our houses of worship when he wrote: I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord!” (Psalm 121:1 ESV)
What makes the house of the Lord so special is that He meets us there and feeds our souls with His Word and with His Body and Blood. What blessed rest comes to those who hear His words of reconciliation and forgiveness: “Your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
I love Your kingdom, Lord,
The house of Your abode,
The Church our blest Redeemer saved
With His own precious blood.
(I Love Your Kingdom, Lord, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, #651 stanza 1)
Lord Jesus, thank You for the nourishment and rest You provide my soul in Your house. Let nothing keep me from the weekly treasures You serve me there in the form of Your holy Word and the Lord’s Supper. Please grant that many more people may join us in Your house this coming Lord’s day. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 202 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 22:1-20; Psalm 20; John 7:1-24)
1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest... 16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— 17 I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; 18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. 19 But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid... 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. (Psalm 22:1-22 ESV)
“Facing great opposition, the psalmist initially feels that God has forsaken him and is ignoring his prayers. After remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance, he believes God will deliver him, and commits himself to telling that message to others. We, too, may feel alone and forsaken by God. Today we deserve to be forsaken by God because of our sinfulness. But, as the psalmist foretells, God Himself came to be our Redeemer. While many human beings have shared these feelings, the psalm finds its greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ... He was truly forsaken by His Father and died alone so that we could be reconciled to our God. We are never alone because our crucified, resurrected Savior is with us.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 865)
Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for deliverance by sending Jesus to experience the forsakenness of hell in my place. Help me to remember this at those times when I feel all alone. Grant me the comfort of knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake me . 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 201 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 21:21-25; Psalm 19; John 6:60-71)
“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14 ESV)
Can people see that you are a follower of Jesus by the words you choose to utter? Do you say things that warn, encourage and strengthen others, as well as glorify God? What do you think God thinks of your words?
And here is a tougher question. Do the things you think about, and perhaps meditate on, glorify God? Remember, He knows everything. What do you think God thinks about what you think about?
More questions... Would you want God to be at your side when you carry out your daily activities? Does everything you think, do and say match up with His commandments?
Remember, God gave His commandments to protect you, to guide you, and to show you how much you need your Savior, Jesus.
Lord Jesus, thank You for being my Rock and my Redeemer. May the Holy Spirit guide and direct my speaking, my thinking and my doing, so that I may glorify You and point others to You with every waking moment of my life. And please have mercy on me and forgive me when I fail You in any way. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 200 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 20:22-21:20; Psalm 18:31-50; John 6:41-59)
“For you save a humble people, but the haughty eyes you bring down.” (Psalm 18:27 ESV)
Humility is not the route many people want to follow on the road of life. Yet the Psalmist, and others, have mapped out humility as the way to go.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.” (James 4:10 ESV)
“You save a humble people, but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them down.” (2 Samuel 22:28 ESV)
“if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 ESV)
“The Lord lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked to the ground.” (Psalm 147:6 ESV)
Jesus: “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4 ESV)
Jesus: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12 ESV)
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,” (1 Peter 5:6 ESV)
Heavenly Father, remind me daily of Your graciousness to me in forgiving my sins for Jesus’ sake. May my response be a life of humble service to others in You name. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 199 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 20:1-21; Psalm 18:1-30; John 6:22-40)
“You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people and I will be your God.” (Ezekiel 36:28 ESV)
In promising to graciously return His people to their homeland, God assured them of the most important fact, “you shall be my people and I will be your God.”
Those words are also God’s baptismal promise to you. Just think of it. On the day the Lord came into your life, He made you His precious child, a child of almighty God.
For Israel, God’s promise meant restoration and the return to the promised land. For us, God’s promise means that we sinners have been reconciled to our holy God and that the eternal promised land of heaven is ours.
Here is another way to express God’s promise: Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, we are gathered around His cross and... You are a precious, blood-bought, baptized, forgiven, heaven-bound, gifted child of God!
Thank You, heavenly Father, for reconciling me to Yourself through the death of Your Son, Jesus. May my daily life reflect the fact that I am Your child and You are my God. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 198 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 19:1-15; Psalm 17; John 6:1-21)
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” (John 6:68 ESV)
Peter is speaking an eternal truth here. In the book of Acts, Peter reiterated this truth: “And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12)
Take a look at some of Jesus’ words of eternal life:
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)
Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13-14)
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:10-11)
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
“Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”(Matthew 19:14)
“The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
Spending time in the Bible will fill you with more of Jesus’ words of eternal life.
Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your words of eternal life. Please continue to feed me with Your words, and then use me to share Your words with 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 197 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 18:20-32; Psalm 16; John 5:30-47)
Create in me a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from your presence,
and take not your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and uphold me with a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:10-12 ESV)
The heart of the Christian faith is the gift of complete forgiveness showered freely upon all who repent and see God’s mercy.
John writes of God’s merciful promise this way:
If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1:8-9 ESV)
On Sunday, right after you confess your sins, you will hear these soul-freeing words spoken on God’s behalf by your pastor:
Upon this your confession, I, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Thank You, Lord, for hearing my cry for mercy and for seeing my sincere confession. Your complete forgiveness of all of my sins is the greatest gift You could ever give. Please use me to share this treasure with 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 196 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 18:1-19; Psalm 15; John 5:18-29)
“All the holy contributions that the people of Israel present to the Lord I give to you, and to your sons and daughters with you, as a perpetual due. It is a covenant of salt forever before the Lord for you and for your offspring with you.” (Numbers 18:19 ESV)
COVENANT OF SALT - Have you ever heard of this term before? It is an interesting and important biblical concept.
One commentator explains it this way: “Covenants were ordinarily cemented in the East by the rites of hospitality; of which salt was the obvious token, entering as it does into every article of diet. It indicates perpetuity.” (Barne’s Notes on the Bible)
Salt served the crucial role as a preservative when Moses wrote these words, much as it does in many places in the world today. There are spiritual implications for God’s people as well.
For the Christian, the covenant of salt applies to the preservation of our souls Jesus won for us on the cross, as the picture included in this devotion indicates.
● By dying on the cross, Jesus saved us from sin, death and the devil.
● His sacrifice now preserves us for all eternity.
There is another application here for us. Jesus calls us to share this covenant by being salt for others:
“You are the salt of the earth...” (Matthew 5:13 ESV)
So, let’s be salt shakers for Jesus, sharing God’s “covenant of salt” and salvation with others who need Him just as desperately as we do.
Thank You, heavenly Father, for Your covenant of salt that seasons my life with saving faith in Your Son. Please keep me in that faith forever, and use me to share Your blessings with others. In the name of Jesus, the One whose victory over death has seasoned my life forever. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 195 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 17; Psalm 14; John 4:46-5:17)
“I who speak to you am he.” John 4:26 ESV)
The Samaritan woman at the well tells the One who promised her living water that she was looking for the Messiah, the Christ. And then her special visitor tells her the glorious truth.
Jesus is the Messiah. He is the Christ. What does that mean to you? It means that Jesus is your living water. He is the only One who can fill the longing in your soul. He is your source of forgiveness and hope for heaven. His is God the Father’s promised One sent for you!
Like the woman at the well I was seeking
For things that could not satisfy:
And then I heard my Savior speaking:
"Draw from my well that never shall run dry".
Chorus
Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up, Lord!
Come and quench this thirsting of my soul;
Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more
Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole!
Thank You, dearest Lord Jesus, for being the living water that I so desperately need. Please keep my faith in You strong so that I may be Yours forever. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
Day 194 - (Today’s Bible readings: Numbers 16:24-50; Psalm 13; John 4:16-45)
“But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me.” (Psalm 13:5-6 RSV)
The Psalmist is giving us an example of how to live lives of true joy.
● Trust in the continual love of God.
● Rejoice in your salvation purchased on the cross of Christ.
● Sing hymns of praise and thanksgiving to your gracious God.
The hymn writer put it this way:
I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, Trusting only Thee;
Trusting Thee for full salvation, Great and free.
(“I Am Trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006, #729 Stanza 1)
I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, Never let me fall.
I am trusting Thee forever And for all. 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 form 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 2018 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 you meditation upon His precious life-giving Word!
