Saturday, July 30, 2011

Jupitar Falling

One day I bought an inexpensive model of the solar system for my son. Installing it required me to suspend each planet from the ceiling. After bending up and down several times, I was lightheaded and tired. Hours later, we heard a “plink” as Jupiter hit the floor.

Later that night, I thought about how our flimsy replica fell apart, yet Jesus sustains the actual universe. “He is before all things, and in Him all things consist” (Col. 1:17). The Lord Jesus holds our world together, maintaining the natural laws that rule the galaxy. Our Creator also upholds “all things by the word of His power” (Heb. 1:3). Jesus is so mighty that He keeps the universe in order simply by commanding it to be so!

As amazing as this is, Jesus is more than a cosmic caretaker. He sustains us too. He “gives life and breath to everything, and He satisfies every need” (Acts 17:25 NLT). While Jesus sometimes provides for us differently than we might expect, our Savior keeps us going whether we are brokenhearted, in need of money, or enduring illness.

Until the day He calls us home, we can trust that the One who keeps Jupiter from falling is the One who holds us up as well.





Awesome is our God and King,
Who upholds the stars above;
We now bow before His throne,
Thanking Him for His great love. —D. De Haan





The God who sustains the universe sustains me.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Jupiter Falling with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Character, Christian Life, God

Tags: Attributes, Creator, His Love, Jesus, Power




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Restored!
How can you rebuild a life that has been broken and shattered by pain and suffering?

In the book Restored! Back to God’s Original Plan, author Dan Schaeffer examines the book of Ruth to explore the unexpected benefits of distressful…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Friday, July 29, 2011

The Good Life

Philosophers ponder, “What is the good life and who has it?” I instantly think of my good friend Roy.

Roy was a gentle, quiet man who sought no recognition, who left the care of his life to his heavenly Father, and who occupied himself solely with his Father’s will. His was a heavenly perspective. As he often reminded me: “We are but sojourners here.”

Roy passed away last fall. At his memorial service, friends reminisced over his influence on their lives. Many spoke of his kindness, selfless giving, humility, and gentle compassion. He was, for many, a visible expression of God’s unconditional love.

After the service, Roy’s son drove to the assisted-living facility where his father lived out his final days. He gathered up his dad’s belongings: two pairs of shoes, a few shirts and pants, and a few odds and ends—the sum of Roy’s earthly goods—and delivered them to a local charity. Roy never had what some would consider the good life, but he was rich toward God in good deeds. George MacDonald wrote, “Which one is the possessor of heaven and earth: He who has a thousand houses, or he who, with no house to call his own, has ten at which his knock arouses instant jubilation?”

Roy’s was the good life after all.





Let us be Christ’s true disciples
Looking to another’s need;
Making stony pathways smoother
By a gentle word or deed. —Thorson





No one can know the good life without God.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share The Good Life with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Relating To God, Relationships

Tags: Character, Christlikeness, Compassion, Gentleness, God's Love, Humility, Kindness, Riches




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Restored!
How can you rebuild a life that has been broken and shattered by pain and suffering?

In the book Restored! Back to God’s Original Plan, author Dan Schaeffer examines the book of Ruth to explore the unexpected benefits of distressful…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Monday, July 25, 2011

The Pleasure is Mine

I always look forward to summer. The warm sunshine, baseball, beaches, and barbecues are pleasures that bring joy after a long, cold winter. But pleasure-seeking isn’t just seasonal. Don’t we all enjoy good food, engaging conversation, and a crackling fire?

The desire for pleasure isn’t wrong. God has built us for it. Paul reminds us that God “gives us richly all things to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17). Other passages welcome us to the healthy pleasure of food, friends, and the intimacy of a marriage relationship. But thinking that we can find lasting pleasure in people and things is ultimately an empty pursuit.

Ultimate pleasure is not found in the short-lived thrills our world offers, but rather in the long-term joy from a deepening intimacy with our Lord. King Solomon learned this the hard way. “I did not withhold my heart from any pleasure,” he admitted (Eccl. 2:10). But after his pleasure-seeking spree, he concluded: “All was vanity and grasping for the wind” (v.11). It’s no wonder he warned, “He who loves pleasure will be a poor man” (Prov. 21:17).

What we are really looking for is satisfied only in a fulfilling and growing relationship with Jesus. Pursue Him and taste His delights!



The world is filled with so much good
That brings us joy and pleasure,
But true fulfillment only comes
When Christ we love and treasure. —Sper





Are we living for our own pleasure,
or living to please our heavenly Father?



« Previous Day Next Day »

Share The Pleasure Is Mine with your friends:
Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark

Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Relationships

Tags: Contentment, Growth, Happiness, Joy, Love For, Sanctification

Our Daily Bread iPhone App

About Our Daily Bread

RBC MinistriesOur Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »

Special Offer
Restored!

imageHow can you rebuild a life that has been broken and shattered by pain and suffering?

In the book Restored! Back to God’s Original Plan, author Dan Schaeffer examines the book of Ruth to explore the unexpected benefits of distressful…
Read More »




Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

Search Archives

Languages

Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai


Find Peace with God

Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/

Station Finder

Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Popular Topics

Categories

Basics Of Faith
Bible Study
Christian Life
Life Stories
Ministry And Outreach
Relationships
Uncategorized

Saturday, July 23, 2011

An Amazing view

From my home in Colorado, I recently used Google Maps to “wander around” the neighborhood in Nairobi, Kenya, where my family lived 2 decades ago. A satellite image on my computer screen enabled me to identify roads, landmarks, and buildings. In some cases, I got a street-level view, as if I were standing on the ground there.

It was quite a view, but only a small taste of how the Lord must see our world.

The psalmist celebrated God’s view by writing these words: “The Lord looks from heaven; He sees all the sons of men. . . . He considers all their works. . . . The eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy, to deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine” (33:13-19).

Unlike an unfeeling satellite, the Lord sees with His heart of love as He considers who we are and what we do. The Bible reveals that He longs for us to trust Him and follow His way. We are never out of God’s sight, and He keeps a close eye on everyone whose hope is in Him.

For all who know the Lord through faith in Jesus Christ, it’s encouraging to realize that every day we’re part of His amazing view.



Beneath His watchful eye
His saints securely dwell;
That hand which bears all nature up
Shall guard His children well. —Doddridge





Keep your eyes on God; He never takes His eyes off you.



« Previous Day Next Day »

Share An Amazing View with your friends:
Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark

Categories: Archives, Basics Of Faith, Christian Life, Relating To God

Tags: Attributes, Care, Creator, Mercy, Protection

Our Daily Bread iPhone App

About Our Daily Bread

RBC MinistriesOur Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »

Special Offer
Our Daily Bread

imageSince 1956, Our Daily Bread has been the favorite devotional used by millions of people around the world. Now you can enjoy the timely stories and life applications found in its pages. Spend time in God’s Word and find deeper meaning…
Read More »




Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

Search Archives

Languages

Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai


Find Peace with God

Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/

Station Finder

Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Popular Topics

Categories

Basics Of Faith
Bible Study
Christian Life
Life Stories
Ministry And Outreach
Relationships
Uncategorized

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Pain no more

For a good portion of my life, I shared the perspective of those who rail against God for allowing pain. I could find no way to rationalize a world as toxic as this one.

As I visited people whose pain far exceeded my own, though, I was surprised by its effects. Suffering seemed as likely to reinforce faith as to sow doubt.

My anger about pain has melted mostly for one reason: I have come to know God. He has given me joy and love and happiness and goodness. It leaves me with faith in a Person, a faith so solid that no amount of suffering can erode it.

Where is God when it hurts? He has been there from the beginning. He designed a pain system that, in the midst of a fallen world, bears His stamp. He transforms pain, using it to teach and strengthen us if we allow it to turn us toward Him.

He has hurt and bled and cried and suffered. He has dignified for all time those who suffer, by sharing their pain. But one day He will gather the armies of heaven and will unleash them against the enemies of God. The world will see one last terrifying moment of suffering before the full victory is ushered in. Then God will create for us a new, incredible world. And pain will be no more (Rev. 19:11–22:6).





He left His Father’s throne above,
So free, so infinite His grace!
Emptied Himself of all but love,
And bled for Adam’s helpless race. —Wesley





Pain will either turn us against God or draw us to Him.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Pain No More with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Christian Life, Personal Crisis, Relating To God

Tags: Doubt, End Times, Future, Grace, Joy, Love For Others, Pain, Suffering, Trials




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Our Daily Bread
Since 1956, Our Daily Bread has been the favorite devotional used by millions of people around the world. Now you can enjoy the timely stories and life applications found in its pages. Spend time in God’s Word and find deeper meaning…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Monday, July 18, 2011

Sticks and Stones

The psalmist was fed up with “the contempt of the proud” (Ps. 123:4). Perhaps you are too. People in your neighborhood, office, or classroom may be scornful of your faith and determination to follow Jesus. Sticks and stones do break our bones, but words can wound more deeply. In his commentary on this psalm, Derek Kidner refers to contempt as “cold steel.”

We can fend off the jeers of the proud by becoming like them, or we can view their attempt to humiliate us as a badge of honor. We can rejoice that we’ve been “counted worthy to suffer shame for [Jesus’] name” (Acts 5:41). Better to bear shame for a short time than to endure “everlasting contempt” (Dan. 12:2).

We must not be like the mockers by mocking them in turn, but bless those who persecute us. “Bless and do not curse,” Paul reminds us (Rom. 12:14). Then God may draw them to faith and repentance, and turn our moments of shame into eternal glory.

Finally, as the psalmist counsels us, we must “look to the Lord our God” (123:2). He understands as no other, for He too has endured reproach. He will show compassion to us according to His infinite mercy.





When persecution comes your way
And people mock your Lord,
Remember what’s in store for those
Who love and trust His Word. —Sper





When others’ treatment of you gets you down, look up to Jesus.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Sticks And Stones with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Relating To God

Tags: Compassion, Humility, Jesus, Mercy, Persecution, Pride, Repentance




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Our Daily Bread
Since 1956, Our Daily Bread has been the favorite devotional used by millions of people around the world. Now you can enjoy the timely stories and life applications found in its pages. Spend time in God’s Word and find deeper meaning…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Perfect fit

Too long. Too short. Too big. Too small. Too tight. Too loose. These words describe most of the clothes I try on. Finding the perfect fit seems impossible.

Finding a church that is a “perfect fit” poses similar problems. Every church has something that’s not quite right. Our gifts aren’t recognized. Our talents aren’t appreciated. Our sense of humor is misunderstood. Certain attitudes, beliefs, people, or programs make us uncomfortable. We feel as if we don’t fit. We struggle to find our place.

We know, however, that God wants us to fit together with one another. The apostle Paul said we are being “built together to become a dwelling in which God lives” (Eph. 2:22 NIV).

The believers in the church today, like the tabernacle in the days of Moses (Ex. 26) and the temple in the days of Solomon (1 Kings 6:1-14), are the dwelling place of God on earth. God wants us to fit together—for there to be no divisions in His church. This means that we, the building blocks, are to be “perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Cor. 1:10).

No church will be a perfect fit, but we can all work at fitting together more perfectly.





For Further Study
Check out the online resource The Church We Need
for help in learning to get along with brothers and
sisters in Christ. See www.discoveryseries.org/q0904





Christ’s love creates unity in the midst of diversity.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Perfect Fit with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Christian Life, Personal Crisis, Relating To God, Relationships

Tags: Church, Confrontation, Criticism, Judgment, Love For Others, Unity




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Our Daily Bread
Since 1956, Our Daily Bread has been the favorite devotional used by millions of people around the world. Now you can enjoy the timely stories and life applications found in its pages. Spend time in God’s Word and find deeper meaning…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Empty Me

“What a rotten design,” I grumbled, as I emptied our paper shredder. I was following good advice about shredding personal documents, but I could not empty the container without spilling strips of confetti all over the carpet! One day as I was gathering trash, I debated whether I’d even bother since it was only half-full. But when I slipped a small plastic bag over the top and flipped it upside down, I was pleased to see that not a bit of paper had fallen on the floor.

The error had been mine. I had been waiting until the container was filled to the brim before emptying it!

When we allow sin to fill up our hearts, it too will overflow into our life. Luke 6:45 says that “an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil.” It is “out of the abundance of the heart” that we speak.

What if we were to empty our hearts of the rubbish of sin before it started spilling into our interactions with others? To dispose of our bitterness, stubborn pride, seething anger? (Eph. 4:26-32). First John 1:9 reminds us that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

A paper shredder is designed to be a rubbish receptacle. You and I are not!





Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin, and set me free. —Orr





Own up to your sin—you can’t hide it from God anyway!





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Empty Me with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Character, Christian Life, Relating To God

Tags: Confession, Faithfulness, Forgiveness Of, Repentance, Righteousness, Sin




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Called To Serve
In their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Burmese
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Indonesian
Japanese
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Thursday, July 14, 2011

See the person inside

On February 1, 1960, four students from an all-black college sat down at a “whites only” lunch counter in Greensboro, North Carolina. One of them, Franklin McCain, noticed an older white woman seated nearby looking at them. He was sure that her thoughts were unkind toward them and their protest against segregation. A few minutes later she walked over to them, put her hands on their shoulders, and said, “Boys, I am so proud of you.”

Recalling the event years later on National Public Radio, McCain said he learned from this never to stereotype anyone. Instead he should pause to consider others and seek an opportunity to talk with them.

The first-century church, like ours today, was often fractured by divisions based on race, language, and culture. Paul wrote to the followers of Jesus in Corinth to help them respond to those who were more concerned with outward appearance than with what is in the heart (2 Cor. 5:12). Because Christ died for all, Paul said, “From now on, we regard no one according to the flesh” (v.16).

May we all look closely to see the person inside, for everyone is made in the image of God and can become a new creation in Christ.





First impressions can mislead us
For we do not know the heart;
We can often be mistaken
Since we only know in part. —Fitzhugh





It’s what’s in the heart that matters.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Seeing The Person Inside with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Relationships

Tags: Compassion, Judgment, Kindness, Love For Others, Prejudice, Racism




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Called To Serve
In their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Old School

As we hurtle through the first part of this new century, we see an increase in people questioning time-honored standards. This was plainly detailed recently by a teen pop star—a girl who professes faith in Jesus.

While discussing standards for modesty in how she dresses, she discounted criticism of her skimpy clothing by saying, “That’s so old school.”

This young woman is both right and wrong. In a sense, she’s right. The standards of dress for Christians are “old school.” They were written down more than 2,000 years ago. But her attitude that suggests ancient standards can be set aside is wrong. In the truest sense, the principles in the Bible are not “old” as much as they are timeless. While written ages ago, they are still fresh and applicable.

As to the question of modesty, when the Bible says women should “adorn themselves in modest apparel” (1 Tim. 2:9), it is still true today that we shouldn’t dress to draw attention to ourselves. A more general principle, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed” (Rom. 12:2), is a 2011 command that can guide the question of how we dress.

So whether you’re a pop star or a pew sitter, don’t worry about being “old school” if what you are doing is done according to the Book.





Dear Lord, help us to follow the timeless
standards of the Bible in speech, clothing,
and other lifestyle matters. May all
we say and do bring glory to You. Amen.





Do my choices bring glory to God or draw attention to me?





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Old School with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Basics Of Faith, Character, Christian Life, Relating To God

Tags: Choices, Christlikeness, Decisions, God's Glory, Modesty, Purity




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Called To Serve
In their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Monday, July 11, 2011

Occupational Hazzard

My occupation is words. Whether I am writing or editing, I am using words to convey ideas so that readers can understand. I can usually see what’s wrong with someone else’s writing (though sometimes not with my own) and figure out how to fix it.

As an editor, I am paid for being critical. My job is to see what’s wrong with the way words are used. This ability becomes a disability when I carry it over into my personal life and always look for what is wrong. Focusing on what’s wrong can cause us to miss everything that’s good.

The apostle Paul had reason to focus on what was wrong in the Philippian church. Certain people were preaching the gospel out of selfish ambition to add to Paul’s suffering (Phil. 1:16). But instead of concentrating on the negative, he chose to look at the positive and rejoice in it: Jesus Christ was being preached (v.18).

God wants us to be discerning—we need to know good from bad—but He doesn’t want us to focus on the bad and become critical or discouraged. Even in circumstances that are less than ideal (Paul was writing from prison), we can find something good because in times of trouble God is still at work.





The eyes of faith when fixed on Christ
Give hope for what’s ahead,
But focus on life’s obstacles
And faith gives way to dread. —D. De Haan





When your outlook is blurred by problems, focus on Christ.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share Occupational Hazard with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Basics Of Faith, Christian Life, Ministry And Outreach, Relating To God

Tags: Christian Faith, Criticism, Discernment, Judgment, Persecution, Sharing the Gospel




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Called To Serve
In their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Saturday, July 9, 2011

A Family Reunion

For the past 29 years, the annual Celebration of Life reunion in our city has brought together members of a unique family. The festive gathering reunites doctors, nurses, and staff from Colorado Springs’ Memorial Hospital for Children with former patients from its neonatal intensive care unit. Some are infants in strollers while others are young teens. Their parents have come with them to say thank you to those who saved their children’s lives and gave them a second chance. Edward Paik’s article in The Gazette quoted Dr. Bob Kiley’s heartfelt response: “Both professionally and personally, for all the staff, this solidifies why we’re in this job.”

I wonder if in heaven there will be many such times when spiritual caregivers and those they helped as “babes in Christ” will reunite to share stories and give praise to God. The New Testament describes how Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy worked among the young believers in Thessalonica with gentleness, “just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children” (1 Thess. 2:7), and with comfort and encouragement, “as a father does his own children” (v.11).

Helping new believers at a critical stage in their faith is a labor of love that will be cause for great rejoicing at the “family” reunion in heaven.



Friends will be there I have loved long ago,
Joy like a river around me will flow;
Yet, just a smile from my Savior, I know,
Will through the ages be glory for me. —Gabriel





One of heaven’s pleasures will be to share our earthly stories.



« Previous Day Next Day »

Share A Family Reunion with your friends:
Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark

Categories: Archives, Christian Life, Ministry And Outreach, Relating To God, Relationships

Tags: Discipleship, Eternity, Father, Heaven, Joy, Mother, Savior

Our Daily Bread iPhone App

About Our Daily Bread

RBC MinistriesOur Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »

Special Offer
Called To Serve

imageIn their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…
Read More »




Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

Search Archives

Languages

Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai


Find Peace with God

Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/

Station Finder

Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Popular Topics

Categories

Basics Of Faith
Bible Study
Christian Life
Life Stories
Ministry And Outreach
Relationships
Uncategorized

Friday, July 8, 2011

The Power of A Promise

I wear only two pieces of jewelry: a wedding band on my finger and a small Celtic cross on a chain around my neck. The ring represents my vow to be faithful to Carolyn, my wife, as long as I shall live. The cross reminds me that it is not for her sake alone, but for Jesus’ sake that I do so. He has asked me to be faithful to her until death shall separate us.

A marriage vow is more than a contract that we can break by paying damages. It is a unique vow that is explicitly intended to be binding until death separates us (Matt. 19:6). The words “for better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health” take into consideration the probability that it will not be easy to keep our vows. Circumstances may change and so may our spouses.

Marriage is hard at best; disagreements and difficult adjustments abound. While no one must live in an abusive and dangerous relationship, accepting the difficulties of poverty, hardship, and disappointment can lead to happiness. A marriage vow is a binding obligation to love, honor, and cherish one another for as long as we shall live because Jesus has asked us to do so. As a friend of mine once put it, “This is the vow that keeps us faithful even when we don’t feel like keeping our vows.”





“For better or for worse,” we pledge,
Through sickness and through strife;
And by the help and grace of God
We’ll keep these vows for life. —D. De Haan





Love is more than a feeling; it’s a commitment.





« Previous Day
Next Day »

Share The Power Of A Promise with your friends:

Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark
Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Relating To God, Relationships

Tags: Grace, Happiness, Husband, Love For Others, Marriage, Money, Wife




About Our Daily Bread
Our Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »



Special Offer
Called To Serve
In their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…

Read More »





Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31



Search Archives
Select Month July 2011 June 2011 May 2011 April 2011 March 2011 February 2011 January 2011 December 2010 November 2010 October 2010 September 2010 August 2010 July 2010 June 2010 May 2010 April 2010 March 2010 February 2010 January 2010 December 2009 November 2009 October 2009 September 2009 August 2009 July 2009 June 2009 May 2009 April 2009 March 2009 February 2009 January 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008 May 2008 April 2008 March 2008 February 2008 January 2008 December 2007 November 2007 October 2007 September 2007 August 2007 July 2007 June 2007 May 2007 April 2007 March 2007 February 2007 January 2007 December 2006 November 2006 October 2006 September 2006 August 2006 July 2006 June 2006 May 2006 April 2006 March 2006 February 2006 January 2006 December 2005 November 2005 October 2005 September 2005 August 2005 July 2005 June 2005 May 2005 April 2005 March 2005 February 2005 January 2005 December 2004 November 2004 October 2004 September 2004 August 2004 July 2004 June 2004 May 2004 April 2004 March 2004 February 2004 January 2004 December 2003 November 2003 October 2003 September 2003 August 2003 July 2003 June 2003 May 2003 April 2003 March 2003 February 2003 January 2003 December 2002 November 2002 October 2002 September 2002 August 2002 July 2002 June 2002 May 2002 April 2002 March 2002 February 2002 January 2002 December 2001 November 2001 October 2001 September 2001 August 2001 July 2001 June 2001 May 2001 April 2001 March 2001 February 2001 January 2001 December 2000 November 2000 October 2000 September 2000 August 2000 July 2000 June 2000 May 2000 April 2000 March 2000 February 2000 January 2000 December 1999 November 1999 October 1999 September 1999 August 1999 July 1999 June 1999 May 1999 April 1999 March 1999 February 1999 January 1999 December 1998 November 1998 October 1998 September 1998 August 1998 July 1998 June 1998 May 1998 April 1998 March 1998 February 1998 January 1998 December 1997 November 1997 October 1997 September 1997 August 1997 July 1997 June 1997 May 1997 April 1997 March 1997 February 1997 January 1997 December 1996 November 1996 October 1996 September 1996 August 1996 July 1996 June 1996 May 1996 April 1996 March 1996 February 1996 January 1996 December 1995 November 1995 October 1995 September 1995 August 1995 July 1995 June 1995 May 1995 April 1995 March 1995 February 1995 January 1995 December 1994 November 1994 October 1994 September 1994 August 1994 July 1994 June 1994 May 1994 April 1994 March 1994 February 1994 January 1994

Languages
Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai




Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/


Station Finder
Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Go!

Popular Topics



Categories
Basics Of Faith
Bible Scripture Inspiration Of Reliability Of Truth Vs. Error Christian Faith Belief General Information Relation To Works Trust Church Body Of Christ Purpose Service Worship Future Prophecy Christ's Return Eternity Heaven Hell Judgment God Attributes Authority Creator Existence Faithfulness His Love His Will Power Sovereignty Strength Trinity Holy Spirit Deity Enablement Filling Ministry Jesus Christ Birth Cross Death Deity Humanity Life Example Resurrection Role Of Savior Salvation Assurance Cost Of Doubt Election Eternal Life Grace Justification New Birth Predestination Security Sin Consequences Forgiveness Of Idolatry Repentance Temptation Spirit World Angels Devil Paranormal Satan Spiritual Warfare World Religions Judaism Worship God Jesus Christ
Bible Study
Application Effect Power Promises Understanding Difficult Passages New Testament Old Testament Ways To Study Meditation Memorization Reading
Christian Life
Archives Attitudes Compassion Conscience Contentment Courage Courtesy Encouragement Gratitude Hope Humility Joy Kindness Meekness Obedience Patience Peace Pride Thankfulness Character Choices Christlikeness Decisions Honesty Hypocrisy Integrity Priorities Purity Self Control Self Images Thinking Wisdom Church Life Attendance Fellowship Involvement Leadership Membership Unity Emotions Anger Bitterness Depression Disappointment Discouragement Doubt Envy Fear Grief Guilt Happiness Hopelessness Joy Lifestyle Issues Aging Freedom Legalism Money Morality Possessions Recreation Rest Sex Sexuality Social Concern Speech Work Our World Current Events Environment Holidays Human Governments Nature Personal Crisis Addiction Anxiety Burdens Comfort Death Grief Loneliness Perserverence Pornography Protection From Sorrow Stress Suffering Tests Trials Worry Sin Backsliding Confession Conviction Of Guilt Inherited Worldliness Worship Expressions Of God Sunday Worship
Life Stories
Historical New Testament Paul Old Testament Joseph Rahab
Ministry And Outreach
Life Stories Ministry Missions Service Serving Commitment Making Time For Rewards For Talents Sharing The Gospel Defending Your Faith Evangelism Inviting Others To Christ Missions Spiritual Gifts General Information Giving Hospitality Leadership
Relationships
Family Children Father Home Mother Parenting Youth Marriage Divorce Husband Wife Relating To God Blessings From Care Devotions Discipleship Disipline From Father Fellowship With Forgiveness From Growth Guidance Leading Love For Obedience Power For Living Praise To Prayer Presence Protection From Quiet Time Sanctification Submission Relating To Others Confrontation Criticism Forgiveness Of Hatred Judging Life Stories Love For Peacemakers Peer Presures Testimonies Women
Uncategorized

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Fusion Man

Yves Rossy accomplished something people have dreamed of since the ancient myth of Icarus. He has flown. Known as the “Fusion Man,” Rossy built a set of wings with an engine pack that uses his body as the fuselage of the aircraft, with the wings fused to the back of his heat-resistant suit. His first flight took place near Geneva, Switzerland, in 2004, and he has since had numerous successful flights.

The psalmist David longed to have wings so he could fly away. In a time when he was being pursued by enemies who were seeking to take his life, Israel’s king cried, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest” (Ps. 55:6).

Like David, when we’re facing pressure, mistreatment, hardship, or grief, we might wish we could sprout wings and fly away. But Jesus offers a better way. Rather than fleeing our struggles, He invites us to flee to Him. He said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, . . . and you will find rest for your souls” (Matt. 11:28-29). Rather than wishing we could fly away and escape life’s problems, we can bring them to Him.

Escape cannot give us rest, but Jesus can.



O give me a spirit of peace, dear Lord,
Midst the storms and tempests that roll,
That I may find rest and quiet within,
A calm buried deep in my soul. —Dawe





God gives us strength to face our problems, not to flee from them.



« Previous Day Next Day »

Share Fusion Man with your friends:
Facebook | Twitter | Email | Print | Bookmark

Categories: Archives, Attitudes, Character, Christian Life, Personal Crisis, Relating To God

Tags: Burdens, Comfort, Grief, Peace, Power For Living, Rest, Stress, Suffering, Trials

Our Daily Bread iPhone App

About Our Daily Bread

RBC MinistriesOur Daily Bread is published and distributed in more than 40 languages worldwide by RBC Ministries offices around the globe… Read More »

Special Offer
Called To Serve

imageIn their book Called to Serve, authors Tony and Penny Monetti share real-life stories drawn from their years of military experience, and offer encouragement, humor, and tools to combat relational threats faced by military families. Thirty-one compelling and encouraging chapters…
Read More »




Calendar
July 2011 S M T W T F S
« Jun Aug »
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31

Search Archives

Languages

Chinese (Traditional)
Chinese (Simplified)
French
Indonesian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Thai


Find Peace with God

Mail
Receive ODB at home

Podcast
Download ODB on iTunes

E-mail
Receive ODB in your inbox

Mobile
Get ODB on the go

Facebook
facebook.com/ourdailybread

Twitter
twitter.com/ourdailybread

RSS
odb.org/feed/

Station Finder

Discover where Our Daily Bread Radio is broadcast near you.

Popular Topics

Categories

Basics Of Faith
Bible Study
Christian Life
Life Stories
Ministry And Outreach
Relationships
Uncategorized