Daily Devotion, June 30, 2020

Devotion: Read Joshua 1:1-9.

Moses has just given his farewell address and sanctions Joshua as the Israelite leader. Joshua and Caleb showed great courage and faith 38 years earlier when they arrived at the Promised Land the first time. Joshua is now 80 years old and God calls him to settle the land of Canaan by conquering it through battles. God promises to be with him and never leave him and then gives him three commands to ensure his success.

1.  Be strong and courageous

2.  Obey God’s law

3.  Constantly read and study the Book of Instruction – God’s Word.

 The message for our personal success is the same! We are to show courage in difficult times. We are to obey God in all things. And we are to read, study, and meditate on God’s Word. If we do these things, God promises that we will be successful because we will be living according to his plan for us.

Adult Challenge:

Which of these three commands do you find the most difficult to obey? Do you struggle being strong in hard times? Do you know and consistently follow the principles God gives us in the Bible? Do you daily read and study God’s Word? Today choose one of these commands to focus on and practice. Write the three commands on a note card as a reminder of what God tells us to do to find personal success in life.

Youth Challenge:

Have you ever had to do something that was way out of your comfort zone? Or do something that you were not prepared to do? What helped you commit to it? How did it go? What can we learn from these scriptures?

 

Children's Challenge:

Focus on verse 9.

What You Do:

• Write the words of the verse on notecards or scraps of paper.
• Hide the verse cards around the room ahead of time.
• Hide the card with “Lord your God” or “the Lord” (wording depends on the version of the verse you use) somewhere in your pocket.
• Lead the kids to play “hot or cold” to find the pieces one at a time:

-During each kid’s turn, when she gets close to a hiding place, tell her she’s getting warmer, warmer, hot, super-hot, etc.

-Continue this until she finds a verse card.

-If a kid moves away from a card, tell him he’s getting cold, colder, FREEZING, etc. to get him to change his direction.

• Once kids have found “all” the pieces (except for the one you’ve kept), challenge kids to try to put the verse together.
• When they figure out they’re missing a card, ask which card they’re missing.
• In a funny way, help kids see the irony in losing the card with God on it.
• Then pretend to “find” the card in the spot where you hid it. Or act like you forgot it was there.

 

“Can we ever actually lose God?! (Of course not!) We lost the card with God on it, but God Himself is always with us. [Make It Personal] (Talk about a time when you were struggling, but something or someone helped remind you of God’s constant presence.) Sometimes when we’re struggling to have courage and be brave, we just need to remember that God is always with us. You can do what you should because God is with you.”

Daily Devotion, June 29, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 32:24 - 33:10.

This week, as we look at some of the great people of the Bible, we will often observe that they were ordinary people who did extraordinary things through God’s power. Sometimes we will see them as flawed characters whom God chose to use for God’s purposes, and Jacob certainly was one of those! He had deceived his aging father, Isaac, into giving him the blessing of the firstborn son that was meant for his older twin brother Esau. When Esau threatened to kill him, Jacob ran. Now, years later, he was coming home with his wives and children and all the animals he had acquired. His fight with God’s agent on the night before he would see Esau had humbled him.

But still Jacob sent herds and flocks ahead, almost as a bribe, hoping to soften Esau’s heart so he would not attack him and his family. From the earlier stories, we may see Esau as a bit of a dullard (after all, he traded his birthright for a bowl of stew). But in his encounter with his twin brother after so many years, we see him as a loving, forgiving, agent of grace. Esau did not want Jacob’s animals, and he certainly had no desire to hurt Jacob or his wives and children. In Esau’s forgiving face, Jacob could see God’s face! Perhaps Jacob was finally prepared to pass along the covenant. Adult Challenge:

Think about people you know who God is using and who seem like unlikely choices. Is God using you for things that surprise you? This happens all through the Bible, as God sees things about us that we and others often cannot see. Pray today that God will prepare you and give you the gifts to respond to God’s call on your life.

Youth Challenge:

Jacob wrestles with God and receives a new name. (Israel)

Have you ever been on a mission trip or gone through an experience where, although your name didn’t change, you came out of it feeling like a new person? What was the significance in that and have you continued to live into it?

 

After his reunion with Esau goes well, he again says it is like he has met God.

Have you ever hurt someone or gotten in an argument with a sibling and then THEY were the one to show YOU grace and forgiveness? What did you learn in that experience?

Children's Challenge:

Do you have a brother or sister or close friend? Ever have a fight or disagreement with them? Sure – me, too! But what happens next? Do you forgive each other and move forward? Do you hold on to anger and keep the conflict going? Forgiveness is the key to every relationship. Jacob was learning this lesson even though it took years.  Jacob gave generously to Esau because he wanted him to understand how very sorry he was for all he had done. Esau obviously forgave Jacob, because he accepted all the gifts. Forgiveness is showing others who God is. Look at verse 33:10. How does Esau show Jacob he is forgiven?  Do you need to forgive anyone? Ask God for the courage to forgive. Forgive TODAY.

Daily Devotion, June 28, 2020

Devotion: Read 1 Samuel 16:1-13b.

  In his journey of faith with God, David experienced some tremendous highs and some humbling lows. He defeated the Philistine giant Goliath when nobody else in the army of Israel would dare step up to his taunting challenge. David was anointed as king of Israel by Samuel and later united all the tribes into one kingdom. He led them to victory in many battles.

  

  However, he also committed adultery with Bathsheba, then tried to cover up his sin, first with deception, then finally by orchestrating the death of her husband. God’s prophet revealed his sin and told of God’s punishment to come. He was humiliated and deeply grieved. He went on to experience being forgiven by God and being restored to live again.

  Each of us have had our own experiences of highs and lows in life. We are all some mixture of saint and sinner, and the percentages of each tend to fluctuate throughout our life.

  The key is to let God guide and teach you during both experiences. Learn from both the highs and the lows. Stay connected and faithful to the God who is with you in all of life. Personal Worship Option:

Reflect on some of the highs and lows of your life. Offer a prayer of thanksgiving to God for being with you in all of it.

Daily Devotion, June 27, 2020

Devotion: Read Psalm 23.

  It is one of the most widely read, memorized, displayed and cherished passages of the Bible. Psalm 23 is taught to many children early in their life and is read at many funerals to celebrate a life and give comfort to those who grieve.

  Most scholars agree that it was written by King David. He himself was a shepherd. He knew what it meant to watch over the sheep, to take care of their needs and keep them safe. He had spent many days and nights tending to flocks of them. So the words of this Psalm are very personal and deeply meaningful to him. They speak of an intimate relationship with God.

  

  This and many other Psalms show that David was skilled with words. He knew how to describe his feelings and experiences. With words, he could paint a picture of the world around him and inside of him. He used that gift to help others see and better understand those same experiences and feelings. He helps us all know how to pray and relate to God. Give thanks to God for this shepherd and writer who served God in so many ways! Personal Worship Option:

What other 3-5 Psalms (or portions of them) are most helpful to you on your spiritual journey? Consider reading them at least once a month as foundational spiritual resources.

Daily Devotion, June 26, 2020

Devotion: Read 2 Samuel 12:1-14.

David became king of Israel after Saul’s death. Although a successful commander of Israel’s army, he let himself be conquered by lust. He committed adultery with Bathseba, then arranged to have her husband murdered. But God always holds us accountable for our actions.

David’s friendship with Nathan brought God’s perspective into their relationship, especially in tough times. One day, Nathan came to share a story with David. It was a story that God used to shatter David’s denial of his own sin. Nathan confronted David about his sin and called him to accountability before God.  The consequences of these sins were set, but God’s forgiveness was abundant.

God has forgiven us. But many times we have done something so painful that it is difficult to forgive ourselves. You are sorry for what you have done. You have tried to make amends. Now forgive yourself and begin to live life anew. Personal Worship Option: Reflect on God’s forgiveness. Thank Him for the generosity of that forgiveness. In accepting God’s forgiveness - forgive yourself. Begin this day in the newness of life!

Daily Devotion, June 25, 2020

Devotion: Read 2 Samuel 5:1-12.

The tribes of Israel came and recognized David as king over Israel. At that time David was 30 years old. We know from the previous chapter, 2 Samuel 4, that until this time part of the tribes did not recognize David as king. Other tribes had recognized Ishbosheth, a son of Saul, as king.  Ishbosheth was murdered, so then all of the tribes turned to David. It’s sad that the tribes only turned to David when their previous choice was taken away, that they did not follow our God as first choice.  For me, I thought about how that is like many people through the ages who have not chosen Jesus as king until other options crumbled.

It was obvious that David was called by God.  To be a good leader David had to belong to God’s people in his heart and have the capability to lead the kingdom of Israel. He reigned for 40 years, 7 years in Judah and 33 in Jerusalem. King David easily took Jerusalem from the Jebusites. Jerusalem became David’s new capital city and was called City of David. David knew that the kingdom belonged to God – it was God’s kingdom. David also knew God wanted to use him as a channel to bless His people. It was not for David’s sake that he was lifted up to be king, but for the sake of His people Israel. Personal Worship Option: Think about whose Kingdom we live in? In reflecting all that America has recently been through with COVID-19, regional tornadoes, and the riots and unrest due to injustices, let’s all pray that God leads us and focuses us on Him.

Daily Devotion, June 24, 2020

Devotion: Read 1 Samuel 30:1-25.

This chapter tells us about one of David’s many battles. It is at Ziklag and in the end David and his army of 400 men win the battle. In verses 21-25, David teaches his men a lesson about sharing what God has given them.

David had 600 men he was taking with him into battle, but 200 of them were too exhausted to “cross the Besor Valley, so they stayed behind.” After winning the battle the 400 men decided that all the plunder was theirs to keep instead of sharing the plunder with the 200 who had stayed behind.

But David said, “No, the Lord is the One who delivered us….and the share of the one who stayed with the supplies is to be the same as that of him who went down to battle. All will share alike.” And this became an ordinance for Israel, as the narrator says “from that day until this.”

Out of the shepherd’s heart, David, the youngest of 8, perhaps was the one left at home to tend the sheep while his older brothers went into battle. Perhaps he understood what it was like to be the one who stayed behind.

It’s been said the humorous philosophy of a toddler is, “If I want it, it's mine; if it's in my hand, it's mine; if I can take it away from you, it's mine; if I had it a little while ago, it's mine; if it's mine, it must never appear to be yours in any way; if we are building something together, all the pieces are mine; if it just looks like mine, it's mine; if I think it's mine, it's mine; if I give it to you and change my mind later, it's mine; once it's mine it will never belong to anyone else, no matter what, it’s mine.”

Sometimes, we all get stuck there. But David had a lesson for his 400 men and for us, too. It’s all God’s and we are called to share with others.  Personal Worship Option: God is generous. God can help us become more generous with others. It is inspiring to see the sharing with others throughout our community during the recent tornadoes. Could this be the beginning of a new way in all of our lives? Dear Lord, help us to have generous hearts to share what we have with others. Amen.

Daily Devotion, June 23, 2020

Devotion: Read 1 Samuel 24:1-22.

Threatened by David’s growing popularity, Saul sets out to kill him. David runs away and goes into the wilderness of En-gedi, a perfect defense with no approach but from the Dead Sea. It has an endless supply of water and many rocky natural mini-fortresses. We read today of a somewhat embarrassing event that is really a revelation of David's loyalty. Saul ducks into one of the caves at En Gedi to take care of personal business. He needs to relieve himself and it just happens to be the one David and his men are hiding in. David’s men urge him to kill Saul now that he has the chance. Instead of killing Saul, David cuts off part of Saul's garment just to prove he was there and could have killed him. David shows respect for the king even though Saul is trying to kill him. David knew Saul was God's anointed king. He knew it wasn't right to strike down the man God had placed on the throne. When Saul realizes what could have happened, he begins to cry. He acknowledges David was a better man. David’s refusal to kill Saul was not an example of cowardice but of courage to stand against the group and do what he knew was right. Personal Worship Option: Remember not to compromise your moral standards by giving in to group pressure or taking the easy way out. Ask God to guide you to do the right thing and then have the courage to do it.

Daily Devotion, June 22, 2020

Devotion: Read 1 Samuel 17:4-11, 16, 32-50.

Let me begin today’s devotion with somewhat of a technicality. David’s weapon was a sling, not a “slingshot” as so many writers and speakers are prone to say. To propel its projectile, a slingshot depends upon rubber or some other highly elastic material that did not exist in the time of David. David’s weapon was a sling, consisting of two narrow strips of leather or cords of some other material, joined together by a leather strap or pouch on which the stone was placed. As the sling was spun around in an arc, one of the strips was released at precisely the right moment, and the huge centrifugal force projected the stone at great velocity. I remember my own dad making slings for my younger brother and me and showing us how to use them. What on earth was he thinking?

Amid all Goliath’s trash talk was an obvious challenge to the strength of Israel and its army. David saw that also as a challenge to God. David was young and ambitious. But his going out against the giant went beyond youthful braggadocio and became an act of faith in God’s might and protection. His action teaches us to use what we have, our familiar resources and our experience and training, and to trust God as we face our giants. Personal Worship Option: What giants are you facing today? In other words, what seems overwhelming and too powerful for you? You are not alone! Pray for God’s strength and protection and go forward. And if you are not facing any particular giants today, reflect on those from your past and give God thanks for helping you overcome them.

Daily Devotion, June 21, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 2:1-10.

  As a baby, Moses’ mother ingeniously saved him. She “technically” followed the mandate of Pharaoh that all the male Hebrew babies were to be put in the river. She put him in the river; just floating on top of it in a basket. God not only gave her that wisdom, but also worked in the situation when Pharaoh's daughter found the baby. Moses ended up being raised in the households and stories and ways of both the Egyptians and the Hebrews. When he grew up, he faced a situation in which he realized that his deepest loyalty was to the people of his birth.

  

  Many years after that, God called him to lead the people of God on a salvation journey out of Egypt. God had saved him in a miraculous way; now it was time for him to be part of God’s plan to save many others. It is another example of what God had said to Abram when this covenant relationship began; that he was being blessed in order to bless others. Moses had been blessed in powerful ways as he grew up; now it was time for him to bless others.

  Whatever blessings you and I have been given were not given just for our own benefit. God always invites us to both receive and share. Welcome and accept the gifts and blessings that come your way in life. Even your ability to “earn” something is a gift from God. Then constantly be listening and seeking God’s direction for how you can use what you have learned and what you have for the benefit of others.

  For Christians, this most applies to our blessing of being given salvation through Jesus Christ. You have been saved through Christ. The calling for all of us then comes to discern how we can participate in God’s plan to save everyone else. You have been blessed to be a blessing. You have been saved to help save others. Personal Worship Option: Whatever has happened to you earlier in your life, God can use that to help you reach other people who have traveled a similar path. Offer all of your experiences to God for God to use in blessing others.

Daily Devotion, June 20, 2020

Devotion: Read Numbers 13:1, 17 - 14:23. (In case the listing of those Bible verses is not clear to you, read the first verse of chapter 13, then skip to verse 17 and continue from there to verse 23 of chapter 14.)

  Every once in a while, there are moments and situations that present a crossroads for us. A critical decision has to be made, one that will shape our future. Such was this scene in the life of the “Children of Israel.” God had done just as God said and brought them to the border of the land to which he had promised their ancestors Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. All along the way, they had faced situations where they had to decide if they were going to trust God. Once again, that same decision needed to be made. In the face of what looked impossible, could God be trusted to come through for them.

 

  Their leaders tried to encourage them. They reminded the people of the challenges through which God had already brought them. They reminded them that God had been with them all along and was still with them.

  But the people gave in to the voices of doubt and fear. And God was not pleased. After another fascinating dialogue with Moses, God declares that nobody in the leading generation will get to go into the promised land. They will have to wait until that generation is gone in order to move forward.

  At least two lessons can be gleaned here. First, we are reminded that there are consequences to our decisions. They can have long-lasting effects. Second, even when God is displeased with us, God forgives us and finds a way to continue to work with us into God’s future. Personal Worship Option: Ask yourself if there are ways that you have chosen to not trust God or if there is some situation in which you need to trust God more. Ask God for wisdom and courage to more fully trust God on this journey of faith.

Daily Devotion, June 19, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 24:1-18.

God invites Moses up to the mountain for an extended time to receive God’s instructions. These instructions were God’s guidelines for relationship with him and with each other. This is what set Israel apart from all the other nations. God also gave a special ceremony that confirmed the agreement between God and his people. In the ceremony, blood from animals symbolized forgiveness of sins and reconciliation to God. It was also a “signature” of sorts to confirm that the people would adhere to the agreement. All of this took place in the context of worship.

 

As the leaders of Israel came to Mount Sinai, only Moses was permitted to come near to the LORD. We don’t have a Mount Sinai to climb to be near God, but every day we can come near to God through worship and prayer. Because of Christ we can “come boldly to the throne of grace.” (Heb. 4:16) The closer we draw near to God’s presence, the more clearly we will hear His voice, and the more our lives will be transformed. Personal Worship Option:

Spend the next few minutes in worship and prayer with God. Hear His voice and allow Him to direct your thoughts, words, and actions.

Daily Devotion, June 18, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 14:5-31.

There are times in life when we might think that things are looking up, that we are in the clear, that the trial has passed. But sometimes the table turns again, and we find ourselves thrown right back into the midst of a trial. For the last few months as we all have struggled with COVID-19, many have had their faith tested. This must have been the feeling that the Israelites had as they looked back toward Egypt and saw Pharaoh’s entire army coming at them in hot pursuit! Moses was probably at his wits end as the people challenged his leadership and yet again doubted God’s ability to bring them through their circumstances. Life has the tendency to bring the unexpected our way. Many times, those unexpected occurrences lead to unpleasant circumstances. Life’s great challenges can have a way of bringing us to a crisis in our faith as well. The Israelites’ initial reaction was to doubt the promise of God. In light of their reaction, I love Moses’ response: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Regardless of where you are in life right now, or where you find yourself in the future, don’t forget that God is by your side. When God delivers the Israelites yet again, we see the people finally put their trust in God. God can use our circumstances to deepen our trust in Him. When that next crisis of faith comes along, or if you are in one today, choose to run toward God, not away from Him. God can use what you are going through today to strengthen you for future circumstances. Personal Worship Option: God, help us to remember to trust in you and sometimes be still and listen for your direction.

Daily Devotion, June 17, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 5:1-21.

Exodus 5 takes us into the middle of the story of God’s liberation of the Hebrew people. God has heard the cries of the Hebrew people and God is at work bringing deliverance and liberation. Pharaoh has much to lose if the Hebrew people, who had been slaves for over 400 years, are set free.

After Moses makes the first request for the Hebrew people to go on a spiritual retreat, Pharaoh requires the Hebrew people to go and gather their own straw for making the same quota of bricks. Then the Israelite foremen go to Moses and Aaron with strong words. “May the Lord look upon you and judge you!"

We have the privilege of knowing the rest of the story including the plagues, the deliverance and the exodus from Egypt. It is a story of a very difficult season which included 40 years in the desert. But God was faithful at work bringing the Hebrew people out of bondage and into freedom.

Sometimes in our lives, we too are in the in-between time, “in the middle of the story” of God’s work in our lives. We may find ourselves like Moses who asks in verses 22-23 “Why?”

Compare and contrast the great differences between God, their Maker, and Pharaoh, their owner. God their Maker offers life, with a healthy balance of work, worship, Sabbath rest and freedom. Pharaoh, their owner simply perceives them as his property for his own gain, takes life away from them, works them 24/7 and enslaves them. God declares they are worth all and Pharaoh declares they are worth nothing. From time to time in the Exodus story, the people relay to Moses to stop trying to deliver them, perhaps this enslaved life is the best life possible.

But God their Maker and our Maker knows what’s possible for the people and continues to work to give them deliverance and liberation! Personal Worship Option: Perhaps you are in the middle of a story of a season of suffering. God is hearing your cries. God is at work to bring you deliverance and freedom. God is your Maker. Keep hope alive in the middle of the story, because God is still at work! God says you are worthy, and offers life, forgiveness, and redemption through Christ to bring you deliverance and freedom! 

Daily Devotion, June 16, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 3:1-22.

While Moses was tending his father-in-law's flock, God spoke to him from the middle of a burning bush. God said he was aware of the suffering of his people and he was ready to rescue them. When God called Moses to be the one who would lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses began to make excuses for answering God's call.

Excuse 1: I'm not good enough

"Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and that I should bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?" -Exodus 3:11

God reminded Moses that he was with him. He didn't have to do anything alone.

Excuse 2: I don't have all the answers

“When they say to me, 'What is His name?' Then what shall I tell them?" -Exodus 3:13

God gave Moses the response, "Tell them who I am." Moses knew that God is unchanging, steadfast, and immoveable. He is good and trustworthy.

Even though Moses came up with many more excuses to God, God responded to every one of Moses' concerns. Moses eventually accepted the call to lead his people out of Egypt. Moses was a reluctant leader but he became a leader. He ended up accepting God's call and led the Israelites for 40 years through the Wilderness. God gave him guidance every step of the way. Despite our protest that something won't work or somehow we're not qualified, if God calls us to do something new, he will provide a way. Personal Worship Option: Do you have insecurities about sharing God with others? Are you concerned you won’t have the words to say? God gave words of encouragement to Moses and he will do the same for you. You don’t have to know the history of God, the history of Jesus, the history of the Bible, all the books of the Bible, and where everything is found. All you need to share with others is who God is to you. Pray for courage to do what God calls you to do today.

Daily Devotion, June 15, 2020

Devotion: Read Exodus 2:11-22.

Moses had grown up in a strange situation, the son of Hebrew slaves yet reared in the surroundings of wealth and power by the daughter of Pharaoh. He dressed as an Egyptian, spoke their language, and followed their customs (the Midianite girls referred to him in verse 19 as “an Egyptian”). Yet he identified with his own people, the Hebrew slaves toiling in forced labor for the Egyptians. His own mother had nursed him, and we can only imagine how Moses’ identity with his fellow Hebrews had been ingrained and kept alive in him. That identity caused him to kill the Eqyptian who beat the Hebrew slave, but his Hebrew brothers then turned on him as an outsider.

Moses, in this short passage, identifies with and comes to the aid of persons being abused by those in power on two separate occasions -- with the Hebrew slave and with the Midianite girls. He expresses his continuing identity crisis in the naming of his new son, whose name refers to Moses’ being a foreigner or alien in a foreign land. There is a key point for us in this passage: If we step up to correct an injustice or to offer help to those victimized by our systems of power, we too will likely be made to feel excluded. We are called, not to fit in, but to do the right thing. Personal Worship Option: As you worship today, think of times when you have stood up for someone being marginalized or mistreated. Did some of the people you care about most criticize you or make you feel excluded? Pray for more opportunities to do the right thing and to be a bit of a foreigner...in the world but not of the world.

Daily Devotion, June 14, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 25:19-27.

  From the time they were toddlers, these twin boys were competitive. The one who was born second, Jacob, had a name that certainly fit is personality. He was always seeking after whatever his brother Esau had. The midwives who assisted with their birth told that even when they were born, that second baby was grasping his brother’s heel. Rebekah, their mother, said this rivalry had started even before they were born. She said it felt like they were wrestling inside of her!

  So Jacob developed this reputation very early in his life. And he continued to live into it as he grew. What reputation have you developed during your lifetime? All of us have experiences and situations from our younger days which shaped us. Some we are proud of; others, not so much. Did you continue to live into an early reputation or learn to live differently?

  The good news of Jesus Christ is that if there are life experiences that have tainted your reputation, God can give you the wisdom and power to change and become a whole new person. You can develop a new reputation. You can be known by other traits and characteristics. You can become someone through whom other people can see and meet Jesus Christ for themselves. May we all learn and live into that mission! Personal Worship Option: No matter your reputation now, how would you like for it to change in the next 3-5 years? Pray and ask God to guide you in making that change.

Daily Devotion, June 13, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 32:3-33:11.

  Jacob’s life had come full circle. Because of the way he tricked and deceived his brother and father, he had to leave home. However, the Lord had blessed him and he had done well for himself. He had become a wealthy man. He now had a large family, many servants and large herds of animals. Then God let him know that it was time to go back to his homeland and face his brother. Though he trusted God, he had to wonder if this reunion would go well.

  When he received word that his brother was coming to meet him with four hundred men, his confidence in a good outcome had to be shaken. So he sent lavish gifts ahead, hoping to appease his brother. Then, while all alone on the night the meeting was to take place, he had a wrestling match with God. He emerged with a new name and a limp. I believe that limp helped shape the outcome of the reunion.

  Too often, you and I approach people with whom we have differences thinking we must present some show of power or strength. God forced Jacob to enter this encounter with a limp. It reminds me of another person much later in the Bible story: one who washed the feet of his disciples and died on a cross for us all. Personal Worship Option: The new name given to Jacob was “Israel,” which means “one who wrestles with God.” Is there anything you need to wrestle with God about? Are you willing to leave the match with a limp?

Daily Devotion, June 12, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 31:3-21.

Jacob tells about how Laban has deceived him. In other words, the deceiver has been deceived. Still, God blessed him and he became wealthy. Trust and deception were struggles in Jacob’s life. Jacob had been deceived several times by his father-in-law. Both in his marriages and in his employment, Jacob found Laban to be less than honest. Jacob no longer trusted Laban, so he took his family and left.

Trust involves being trustworthy and being willing to trust another. Earlier in his life, Jacob too had been a deceiver. He had experienced the hurt and separation that violated trust brings into a family. Violated trust can destroy relationships. How much better to build a bond of trust with those closest to us. Even when trust has been violated, there is hope to rebuild that relationship, which Jacob experienced with his brother - which is a story for another day. Personal Worship Option:

Is there a relationship that needs mending? Is there a relationship that needs to be released? Bring it before the LORD and follow his leadership in your decisions.

Daily Devotion, June 11, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 29:13-30.

Today's reading describes an unusual wedding, or rather, weddings. Jacob had arrived at his uncle Laban's house with nothing due to his deception (sin) at his own family’s house. Lacking the ability to pay for a bride, he struck a bargain to work seven years in exchange for the hand of his beloved, Rachel. Jacob did what he had always done, relying on his cleverness to get what he wanted. However, dealing with Laban he met his devious match. On the wedding night, Laban slipped Rachel's sister Leah into the wedding tent. The bride was veiled, it was dark, the groom may have had too much wine, and the trick worked.

 

Why did Laban dupe Jacob? Partially because it was the custom for older sisters to marry first, as he rationalized, but also for convenience (Leah was not attractive and had probably proven difficult to find a groom for) and additional labor (he suggested another seven years rather quickly). To keep Jacob happy, he allowed him to marry Rachel right away, which seemed absurd. The predictable results were mistrust between Jacob and Laban, Jacob and Leah, and Leah and Rachel, as well as an unequal marriage in which one wife was clearly more loved. Leah, despite the probability that she was complicit in her father's scheme, was blessed with many sons, Old ways are hard to change. Yet when Jacob saw a mirror of himself in Laban's words and actions, his self-confidence must have been shaken. It was all part of God's plan. Personal Worship Option: Jesus, we are deeply conscious that we cannot live up to our calling except in your strength and through the power of Your Holy Spirit. Keep us ever alert to your calling for us and help us avoid distractions of the world, which the Devil uses to distract us from our calling. Be patient with us.  AMEN

Daily Devotion, June 10, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 28:10-22.

 

Jacob was on a journey to Haran because his father, Isaac, had instructed Jacob to return to his mother’s family of Bethuel to marry a daughter of Laban. In verse 10, it says, “Jacob left Beersheba and went to Haran.” 

Beersheba and Haran are 500 miles apart. Imagine this journey by foot. Imagine this journey without a GPS or even a paper map, mobile phone, restroom stops, fast-food restaurants, hotels, without knowing anyone along the way and with the unknown encounters with wildlife.

 (For perspective, Orlando, FL is 556 miles from Chattanooga. Imagine walking from Chattanooga to Orlando.) 

And imagine this journey out of fear that the brother you had tricked out of his birthright may come after you for revenge. Thus, 58 miles before Jacob got to Haran, Jacob is exhausted both physically and emotionally and he stops to sleep for the night, and uses a stone for a pillow.

But God is faithful. God visits Jacob in a dream. As God gave to Abram, God gives the same covenant and blessing to Jacob and Jacob’s descendents. God promises to be with Jacob wherever he goes.

In The Message Translation, the sentence, “God is in this place—truly. And I didn’t even know it!”, caught my attention. How often in the journeys of life have we not realized that God was with us? When we are going through difficult times, we might sense that God is “500 miles” away, but God is consistent throughout all of the scriptures. God is with us. God is faithful. As God kept covenant with Abraham and Jacob, God keeps covenant with us. Even when we fall away, God is faithful. Personal Worship Option: Wherever you are today, I believe you can say with Jacob, “God is in this place---truly. And I didn’t even know it!” Live in the same assurance as Jacob, “God is with you.”

Daily Devotion, June 9, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 27:1-41.

Sometimes looking back on our life is hard, especially if it’s filled with mistakes. Late in his life, Jacob summed up his past, “My years have been few and difficult.” (Genesis 47:9) There is no doubt one of his biggest mistakes was when he deceived his father and took away the blessing from his twin brother. When his mother shared her deceitful plan, Jacob hesitated for fear of getting caught. Even though his hesitation was out of fear, he was still experiencing a moment of reflection that could have prevented him from sinning against God. God speaks to us in the gaps of time between considering a sin and sinning. Nevertheless, Jacob carried out the plan. He received the blessing, but it came with a price. He never saw his mother again; his brother wanted to kill him; his family was torn with conflict; and he was exiled from his family for many years. Imagine how different his life would have been if he had listened to God in the gap instead of his mother. Twenty years later Jacob and Esau were united. God eventually changed Jacob’s name to Israel because “you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome.” (Genesis 32:28) Despite Jacob’s faults, God chose him to be the leader of a great nation that still bears his name today. Personal Worship Option: Whatever mistakes you’ve made in the past, God will forgive them. Ask him today to forgive your past. Commit to listen to his still small voice when you are tempted to sin against him. Thank him for his redeeming.

Daily Devotion, June 8, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 25:27-34.

From the moment of birth, Jacob had desired the honor and inheritance that was due the firstborn, but despite his grasping the heel of his twin brother Esau to hold him back, Jacob was born second. As the brothers grew up, they were clearly very different from each other. Esau was his father Isaac’s favorite, loved the outdoors, and became a great hunter. Jacob was his mother Rebekah’s favorite, enjoyed hanging around home with her, and apparently learned to cook a mean kettle of stew! We can only imagine why Esau, coming home hungry from the country, would trade his precious birthright for a bowl of Jacob’s stew. Perhaps he was indeed almost starved, or perhaps he was young and impetuous, not thinking about his future and the value of the birthright (double portion of the inheritance and the role of leader of the family). Or maybe Esau just wasn’t the brightest bulb in the chandelier!

What Jacob did was not illegal, but it was wrong. It set the tone for a relationship of bitterness and mistrust between Jacob and his twin brother. God’s covenant would eventually pass, not through Esau, but through Jacob and his descendants. God would have selected the right brother for that without Jacob’s grasping for the birthright. Personal Worship Option: Reflect today on your desire for things, position, or power. Ambition can be a good thing when it motivates us to work hard and achieve good things. But out of control, ambition can also cause us to do things that hurt or take away from others. Pray for the balance God desires for us. 

Daily Devotion, June 7, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 12:1-8.

  The story of our relationship with God begins back at the beginning of the Bible. God creates us humans and initiates relationship with us. And while there is mutual trust in the story of Noah, the story of our journey with God takes a dramatic turn at this point. God initiates a relationship of covenant with one man in order to create a people through whom God can reach and bless all the people of the earth.

  That story reaches its climax in the life, death and resurrection of One who was a descendant of Abraham. Through Jesus Christ, every person is invited into a covenant relationship of trust. Sometimes, the path laid out before us or the assignment we are given is not always clear. We are not always given all the details of the destination or the outcome of what we will be doing. But we keep moving out into that future to which God calls us, continuing a journey that was started thousands of years ago and traveled by millions since then. And the same God who invited Abraham to begin that journey continues to invite and lead us. Thanks be to God! Personal Worship Option: Reflect on your own journey of faith with God. Think about when and how it started for you, but also the times when you had to renew that trust in order to continue the journey. Give thanks to God for guiding and providing all along the way.

Daily Devotion, June 6, 2020

Devotion: Read Genesis 22:1-18.

  For many years, this story troubled me deeply. Would God really put Abraham through this ordeal? Would God put Isaac through this? Especially when I looked through the lense of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, this story does not seem to fit.

   However, there is a depth to this scene that is inspiring and instructive. God is still developing a relationship with Abraham. At the beginning, Abraham was willing to trust this God enough to take all his family and possessions and strike out on a journey to wherever this God would take him. There is much riding on this journey for God, and God needs to know if Abraham can be trusted as they move forward. Abraham’s trust in God had been strengthened when God provided this promised son. Now comes another test of that trust. And just like at the beginning, Abraham again completely trusts God, though the future suddenly looks grim.

  Maybe the most fascinating part of this whole story is God admitting not knowing something. Only when Abraham is obviously about to go through with the sacrifice of his son does God know of Abraham’s complete trust (vs. 12 - “Now I know….”) God knows that this relationship with Abraham is solid for this journey into the future, for the blessing of the whole earth.

  

  Our relationship with God is to be an ever-deepening trust. I am reminded of the chorus of one of my all-time favorite songs of the Church (written by Louisa Stead in 1882): “Jesus, Jesus, how I trust him! How I’ve proved him o’er and o’er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust him more!” Personal Worship Option: Pray for the courage to trust God more and more each day, no matter what happens or what you are called to do.

Daily Devotion, June 5, 2020

Devotion:

Read Genesis 18:22-33.

Abraham negotiates with God for mercy on Sodom. Abraham’s first concern was for his nephew Lot, but he had compassion on all the people of Sodom.  Abraham appealed to God’s justice. A just and holy God could not destroy righteous believers with the wicked unbelievers. Abraham presented his case in a truly humble manner. He didn’t argue or demand but came humbly to God to save his family and the city. Abraham was sure that there were at least ten believers in the city.

Never underestimate the importance of even a small number of believers. As few as ten people would have saved the entire population from destruction. If Lot had won only his own family to faith in God, judgment would have been averted. Your personal witness is important to God, no matter how insignificant you may feel. Personal Worship Option:

You can make a difference! Do you need to make a stand against evil or be a voice for righteousness? Brainstorm with a friend how you can make a difference.