Blessed By The Lord: May 2024

Friday, May 31, 2024

Saturday, June 1, 2024 - WHY?

"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, June 1, 2024 - Day 153 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Chron. 7-9; John 13:1-17)

WHY?

“What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” (John 13:7 ESV)

Life’s biggest question is “why.” There are many times in life when we cannot figure why certain things happen in our lives. Simon Peter could not understand why Jesus would want to wash his feet. Jesus’ answer was, in effect, just wait and see.

“What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” When you are faced with circumstances in your life that you cannot understand, remember Jesus’ words to Peter. While you may be grieving the loss of a loved one, or have come to realize that your dreams will not materialize, or whatever other heartaches and disappointments of life you may find yourself dealing with, remember that God is in control.

Benjamin Malachi Franklin’s poem, “The Weaver,” captures well how we Christians can deal with life’s “whys”:

My life is but a weaving between my Lord and me;

I cannot choose the colors He worketh steadily.

Oft times He weaveth sorrow and I, in foolish pride,

Forget He sees the upper, and I the under side.

Not till the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly,

Shall God unroll the canvass and explain the reason why.

The dark threads are as needful in the Weaver’s skillful hand,

As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern He has planned.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your skillful hand weaving the varied strands in my life. Help me to face the “why” in my life with faith in Your perfect will. And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. 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

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Friday, May 31, 2024 - THE FIRSTFRUITS

Friday, May 31, 2024 - Day 152 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today:

2 Chron. 4-6; John 12:20-50)

THE FIRSTFRUITS

And Jesus answered them, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:23-24 ESV)

“Verse 24 emphasizes the necessity of Jesus’ death as the way to glorification and the blessing of many disciples. According to the time reckoning in John, Jesus rose from the dead on the 16th of Nisan, the day barley firstfruits were offered in the temple.” (Concordia Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 1806).

St. Paul connected Jesus’ resurrection to firstfruits this way: “But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (1 Corinthians 15:20 ESV)

What comfort we have in the fact that Jesus is the seed that died and bore eternal fruit on Easter. Now, because Jesus lives, you, too, will live.

Lord Jesus, thank you for dying and rising for me. May I always remember to find comfort in the fact that You are the firstfruits of all who die in the faith. And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, May 29, 2024

Thursday, May 30, 2024 - THE SECRET TO PEACE

Thursday, May 30, 2024 - Day 151 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Chron. 1-3; John 12:1-19)

THE SECRET TO PEACE

Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:47-50 ESV)

All we know about the past of the woman in this account is that she was from the city and she was known as a sinner. What we know about her present is that she came to Jesus with a contrite heart shown in her actions of washing his feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. And how did Jesus respond?

“Your sins are forgiven... Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”

So what is the secret to peace? It is so very simple.

REPENT AND BELIEVE!

Dear Lord, thank You for the example of the woman who washed Your feet with her tears. Please grant me Your peace as I, too, repent and believe. And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU

Wednesday, May 29, 2024 - Day 150 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 28,29; John 11:47-57 )

GOD HAS CHOSEN YOU

“And you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father and serve him with a whole heart and with a willing mind, for the Lord searches all hearts and understands every plan and thought. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will cast you off forever. Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong and do it.” (1 Chronicles 28:9-10 ESV)

In our reading highlight for today, Solomon is getting fatherly advice from his dad, King David. And what advice it is!

● Know the God of your father

● serve Him with a whole heart and with a willing mind,

● seek Him and you will find Him

● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary;

● be strong and do it.

Your heavenly Father has the same advice for you, with one modification. Of course you are not building a temple for the Lord.

● Be careful now, for the Lord has chosen you to...

May the Lord bless and guide you as you obediently seek His plan for your life.

Heavenly Father, please equip and motivate me to live the life that You have planned for me. Thank You for providing the motivation and example for a life of service that You have revealed to me in the life of Jesus, my Savior, in whose precious name I pray. And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Monday, May 27, 2024

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - DO YOU BELIEVE THIS

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 - Day 149 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 26,27; John 11:18-46)

DO YOU BELIEVE THIS

23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.” (John 11:23-27 ESV)

Jesus reveals the most astounding news to ever hit our ear drums.

“Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.”

Death is a harsh reality of life on this earth. Sooner or later, we will all die. However, we Christians are assured that death is only temporary. The One who is the resurrection and the life has guaranteed that, through faith in Him, we will live after we die! Christ’s death on the cross, in payment for all of our sins, guarantees this.

But wait. Did you catch what Jesus said in verse 26? “Everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” Christians never die? That’s right. Our bodies will die, but our souls will not. Like the thief on the cross, or last day is our “today,” when we will be with Jesus in paradise.

There is one more thing that Jesus said that we need to consider: “Do you believe this?” Do you?

Lord Jesus, thank You for defeating death and promising eternal life to all who believe. May I, like Martha, boldly confess my faith in You at every opportunity.

And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Sunday, May 26, 2024

Monday, May 27, 2024 - REMEMBER

Monday, May 27, 2024 - Day 148 - Memorial Day

REMEMBER

“This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations…” (Exodus 12:14 ESV)

This verse, from the mouth of God Himself, commanded Moses and the Children of Israel to remember the Passover. It was important to remember how the blood of perfect lambs painted over the doorways to their homes caused death to pass over them. This all pointed to Jesus, the Lamb of God who would shed His blood for the salvation of all who believe.

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13 ESV)

We remember that Jesus died for us so that death will pass over us on our last day, and we will begin eternity in heaven with Him.

Today we remember the members of our nation’s military who gave the greatest sacrifice by shedding their blood for our freedom. May the Lord grant their families His peace and comfort. May we never forget their sacrifice! And may God bless America!

God bless America, land that I love.

Stand beside her and guide her

Thru the night with the light from above.

From the mountains to the prairies

To the oceans white with foam,

God bless America, my home sweet home.

God bless America, my home sweet home. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Monday, May 27, 2024 - ASLEEP IN JESUS

Monday, May 27, 2024 - Day 148 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 23-25 John 11:1-17)

ASLEEP IN JESUS

After saying these things, he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus has died, and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” (John 11:11-15 ESV)

Early in my ministry, my wife, Barb, would often sing for funerals. One of the hymns often times chosen by families was "Asleep In Jesus, Blessed Sleep." The hymn well parallels the account of the death and resurrection of Lazarus.

“Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awaken him.”

Jesus is setting up the scene for his disciples’ benefit. His goal is to strengthen their faith in His power over death. Soon they would see that power as He calls Lazarus from the tomb. For Lazarus, it was a brief and undisturbed repose unbroken by the last of foes. Of course, after his first resurrection, he would die again. But once again, his death is only temporary.

This account should give you comfort, for your death will be only temporary too. Jesus promises to raise you to eternal life with Him on the last day.

Asleep in Jesus! Oh, for me

May such a blissful refuge be!

Securely shall my ashes lie

And wait the summons from on high,

("Asleep in Jesus! Blessed Sleep," The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH, 1941, #587)

Lord Jesus, thank You for teaching me not to fear death because You have it under Your complete control. Remind me of Your promise to raise me to eternal life. And then use me to tell others so they, too, do not have to be afraid. And as ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Saturday, May 25, 2024

Sunday, May 26, 2024 - THE HOLY TRINITY

Sunday, May 26, 2024 - Day 147 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 20-22 John 10:22-42)

THE HOLY TRINITY

So when they had come together, they asked him, “Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”. (Acts 1:6-8 ESV)

Today is Trinity Sunday, the day in the church year when we emphasize the mystery of the Triune God. The triangle-shaped diagram attempts to explain how God can be three persons, “Father, Son and Holy Spirit” and still one.

In Acts 1, we notice the presence of all three persons in the Trinity.

Jesus is speaking. “It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.”

He then goes on to tell us that we will be His witnesses. We are to witness to the truth that the one, true God is...

God the Father who created us,

God the Son who redeemed us,

God the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us.

In the words of today’s Prayer of the Day, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, One in Three and Three in One, accept our praise for gifting us with Your creation, redemption, and sanctification. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

“See” you at the Communion table.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Friday, May 24, 2024

Saturday, May 25, 2024 - TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?

Saturday, May 25, 2024 - Day 146 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 17-19 John 10:1-21)

TO WHOM ARE YOU LISTENING?

“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, the thief and the shepherd. The sheep can either listen to the thief or to the shepherd.

To whom are you listening? Jesus did not come to steel, kill and destroy. And yet foolish sheep (sinners) turn their ears to the thieves and robbers of this world, instead of Jesus, their 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 your name, but knows exactly what you need for this world and the next.

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, my 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 may also know the joy of being Yours forever. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. 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

Thursday, May 23, 2024

Friday, May 24, 2024 - THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Friday, May 24, 2024 - Day 145 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 14-16 John 9:24-41)

THANK THE LORD AND SING HIS PRAISE

Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name;

make known his deeds among the peoples!

Sing to him, sing praises to him;

tell of all his wondrous works!

Glory in his holy name;

let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice! (1 Chronicles 16:8-10 ESV)

“David, the new king, acts as a priest by blessing and ministering to the congregation of Israel. God has consecrated you as a priest in His kingdom to bless, thank and praise God before the nations. He sustains you in this precious service with His very body and blood for the forgiveness of all of your sins.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 652)

Thank the Lord and sing His praise;

tell ev'ryone what He has done.

Let all who seek the Lord rejoice

and proudly bear His name.

He recalls His promises

and leads His people forth in joy

with shouts of thanksgiving.

Alleluia, alleluia.

(Post Communion Canticle, Divine Service One, Lutheran Service Book, CPH, 2006)

Thank you, Lord, for all that You have done for me. Please lead me through the rest of my life with the joy that comes from sins forgiven, Your presence with me each day, and Your promise of heaven. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Thursday, May 23, 2024 - THERE IS STILL TIME

Thursday, May 23, 2024 - Day 144 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 11-13 John 9:1-23)

THERE IS STILL TIME

“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.

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,

for his steadfast love endures forever!

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so,

whom he has redeemed from trouble.” (Psalm 107:1-2 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. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - I AM

Wednesday, May 22, 2024 - Day 143 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 8-10 John 8:37-59)

I AM

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. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Monday, May 20, 2024

Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - TRUE DISCIPLES

Tuesday, May 21, 2024 - Day 142 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 6,7 John 8:21-36)

TRUE DISCIPLES

So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32 ESV)

Jesus came to this earth to free sinners like you and me from the eternal consequences of our sin and from the power of the devil.

This means everything to us for the devil wants to take us captive with his fake promises... wealth, power, prestige, even health. None of these can even come close to freeing us.

However, the message of Christ’s cross, His death and resurrection offer eternal freedom to all who believe. So...

● Abide in His Word ... read, mark, learn and inwardly digest the Word of God.

● Know (trust in) His truth.

● Celebrate your freedom in Christ!

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for freeing me from my enemies of sin, death and the devil. Please give me the desire to remain in Your Word. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Sunday, May 19, 2024

Monday, May 20, 2024 - GO AND SIN NO MORE

Monday, May 20, 2024 - Day 141 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chron. 3-5 John 8:1-20)

GO AND SIN NO MORE

The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in the midst they said to him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” (John 8:1-11 ESV)

“Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” While our attention is often drawn to this part of the scene, it is the words Jesus speaks to the woman that I wish to focus on today.

And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.”

This is the message we hear in worship as our sins are forgiven. He calls us to also “go, and from now on sin no more.” Yes, the Lord is calling us to... “bear fruits in keeping with repentance.” (Luke 3:8 ESV)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for forgiving my sins. Please grant me the wisdom and the strength to bear the fruit of repentance You require. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Saturday, May 18, 2024

Sunday, May 19, 2024 - I AM BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST

Sunday, May 19, 2024 - Day 140 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: I Chronicles 1,2 John 7:32-53)

I AM BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST

Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:37-39 ESV)

Inspired by the Holy Spirit, Peter preaches a powerful sermon on Pentecost (today). The people are “cut to the heart” and ask “what shall we do?” The answer is THE ANSWER for all sinners... for all people like you and me.

“Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”

Peter then assures us of the importance of infant Baptism by adding: “For the promise is for you and for your children.”

Yesterday was a very special day in my life. It was my BAPTISMAL BIRTHDAY! 73 years ago yesterday, the Holy Spirit gave me saving faith in Jesus by means of the water and the Word. Since that special day when I was a little over a month old, I have known and confessed that Jesus is my personal Lord and Savior. The following hymn from our hymnal perfectly expresses how blessed by the Lord I am because of that special day when God called me to be His child.

1. God’s own child, I gladly say it: I am baptized into Christ!

He, because I could not pay it, gave my full redemption price.

Do I need earth’s treasures many? I have one worth more than any

That brought me salvation free, Lasting to eternity!

2. Sin, disturb my soul no longer: I am baptized into Christ!

I have comfort even stronger: Jesus’ cleansing sacrifice.

Should a guilty conscience seize me, since my baptism did release me

In a dear forgiving flood, sprinkling me with Jesus’ blood?

3. Satan, hear this proclamation: I am baptized into Christ!

Drop your ugly accusation; I am not so soon enticed.

Now that to the font I’ve traveled, all your might has come unraveled,

And, against your tyranny, God, my Lord, unites with me!

4. Death, you cannot end my gladness: I am baptized into Christ!

When I die, I leave all sadness to inherit paradise!

Though I lie in dust and ashes faith’s assurance brightly flashes:

Baptism has the strength divine to make life immortal mine.

5. There is nothing worth comparing to this lifelong comfort sure!

Open-eyed my grave is staring: Even there I’ll sleep secure.

Though my flesh awaits its raising, still my soul continues praising:

I am baptized into Christ; I’m a child of paradise!

(God’s Own Child, I Gladly Say It, Lutheran Service Book #594)

Lord, thank You for calling me by name on the day of my Baptism. What a blessing it is to be one of Your children. Since You love all children of all ages, please use me to help others to know how precious they are to You. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. 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

Friday, May 17, 2024

Saturday, May 18, 2024 - BOLD ACTION

Saturday, May 18, 2024 - Day 139 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 23-25 John 7:1-31)

BOLD ACTION

And the king stood by the pillar and made a covenant before the Lord, to walk after the Lord and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all his heart and all his soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people joined in the covenant. (2 Kings 23:3 ESV)

When Josiah heard the words of the long-lost Book of the Law discovered in the house of the Lord, he initiated reforms that removed false worship. “Such bold action no doubt offended some of his subjects. Today, the Lord may call you to take bold action. Set your heart to serve the Lord and pray for His help to make changes peaceably.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH, 2009, page 622)

The greatest change the Lord wants in your life and mine is a humble and contrite heart, the proof of which is a life lived in humble service to almighty God.

1. Let us ever walk with Jesus,

Follow His example pure,

Through the world that would deceive us

And to sin our spirits lure.

Onward in His footsteps treading,

Pilgrims here, our home above,

Full of faith and hope and love,

Let us do the Father's bidding.

Faithful Lord, with me abide;

I shall follow where You guide.

2. Let us suffer here with Jesus,

And with patience bear our cross.

Joy will follow all our sadness;

Where He is, there is no loss,

Though today we sow no laughter,

We shall reap celestial joy;

And discomforts that annoy

Shall give way to mirth here after.

Jesus, here I share Your woe;

Help me there Your joy to know.

3. Let us gladly die with Jesus.

Since by death He conquered death,

He will free us from destruction,

Give to us immortal breath.

Let us mortify all passion

That would lead us into sin;

And the grave that shuts us in

Shall but prove the gate to heaven.

Jesus, here with You I die,

There to live with You on high.

4. Let us also live with Jesus;

He has risen from the dead

That to life we may awaken.

Jesus, You are now our head!

We are Your own living members;

Where You live, there we shall be

In Your presence constantly,

Living there with You forever.

Jesus, let me faithful be,

Life eternal grant to me.

(Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus, LSB 685)

Heavenly Father, please make me faithful like Josiah. To that end, remind me of Your mercy revealed in Christ’s sacrificial death and glorious resurrection by which You have freed me from my sin. May I live my life in daily gratitude and thanksgiving for all that You have done and continually do for me. In Jesus’ saving name. And, as always, THY WILL BE DONE! 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

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Friday, May 17, 2024 - FAMILY BLESSINGS

Friday, May 17, 2024 - Day 138 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 18,19 John 6:22-44)

FAMILY BLESSINGS

Then the Ziphites went up to Saul at Gibeah, saying, “Is not David hiding among us in the strongholds at Horesh, on the hill of Hachilah, which is south of Jeshimon? Now come down, O king, according to all your heart's desire to come down, and our part shall be to surrender him into the king's hand.” And Saul said, “May you be blessed by the Lord, for you have had compassion on me.” (1 Samuel 22:19-21 ESV)

In his misguided pursuit of David, King Saul is aided by Ziphites. He responds to their kindness by exclaiming: “May you be blessed by the Lord...”

“Blessed by the Lord” is my preferred way to answer someone who asks “how are you today?” “Blessed by the Lord” also describes what happened to my family 46 years ago today. Our little family became complete on May 17, when the Lord blessed us with our son, Adam. He and his sister, Heidi, and now their spouses and children, are truly precious blessing from the Lord. (The picture included here shows Heidi meeting Adam for the first time.)

“Blessed by the Lord,” aptly describes all who believe in Christ and are part of God’s family, the Church. My prayer for you and your loved ones is that you are blessed by the Lord with membership in His family!

As a member of God’s family, may you be blessed by he Lord with the comfort and peace that comes from sins forgiven and heaven guaranteed. And as usual, we pray: THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Thursday, May 16, 2024 - BECAUSE YOU ARE FORGIVEN, BE NICE

Thursday, May 16, 2024 - Day 137

BECAUSE YOU ARE FORGIVEN, BE NICE

“Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32 ESV)

Paul is encouraging those who have received the most fantastic gift of all to act like it! That means that those who have been washed clean of their sins in the blood of Jesus, are to let go of anything someone else may have done to them.

Because you are forgiven, no longer let bitterness or anger have any place in your life. Don’t slander others either. Instead, be kind-hearted and forgive. In other words, follow the example of Jesus.

Lord Jesus, thank You for forgiving me. Please help me to treat others the way You have treated me. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 - AN ENCOURAGING WORD

Wednesday, May 15, 2024 - Day 136 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 15-17 John 6:1-21)

AN ENCOURAGING WORD

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11 ESV)

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” While this idiom is well known, it not always true. Negative and hateful words can hurt their target and do great emotional damage.

However, positive words can do much good. “A word fitly spoken” can greatly encourage their recipient.

There is hope!

You can do it!

I believe in you!

I’ve always liked ________ about you!

The best encouragement is spiritual encouragement. And the best spiritual encourager is Jesus:

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28 ESV)

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 ESV)

Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. (John 11:5 ESV)

And He loves YOU, TOO! Now that is a truly encouraging word!

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your encouraging Word of forgiveness given to me in Jesus, my Savior. Please use me to share Christ’s encouragement with others so they can know Him, too. And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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

Monday, May 13, 2024

Tuesday, May 14, 2024 - NOTHING ON MY OWN

Tuesday, May 14, 2024 - Day 135 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: 2 Kings 12-14 John 5:25-47)

NOTHING ON MY OWN

30 “I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me... 36b For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me.” (John 5:30&36b ESV)

Jesus is teaching us that He is all about seeking the will of His heavenly Father - “him who sent me.” For Jesus, it was all about doing works that fulfill God the Father’s plan for His life and for ours.

Jesus said: “I can do nothing on my own.” We would all like to have everything go perfectly well every day. But the Lord does not guarantee that. David records what the Lord does guarantee: “My times are in His hands.” (Psalm 31:15).

3. Nothing in my hand I bring,

Simply to Thy cross I cling.

Naked come to Thee for dress;

Helpless look to Thee for grace;

Foul I to the fountain fly;

Wash me Savior, or I die.

(Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me, LSB 761)

Since Jesus died for our sins and therefore guarantees forgiveness and heaven to all and any who repent and believe, He certainly can lead us through any of the challenges that life may throw our way.

So let’s begin this new day with this prayer of faith and submission to the God who loves us with an unending and peace-instilling love (Luther’s Morning Prayer).

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.” And as usual, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

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

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