February 28 | The Promise of Deliverance

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Psalm 72:12, “For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help.”

Lesson 28 | The Promise of Deliverance        

The Bible promises God will deliver or rescue from harm all those who call on Him, especially the needy and those who have no one to help.  However, today we are witnessing the greatest slaughter of Christians around the world.  According to Gordon-Conwell Seminary over 150,000 Christians are killed for their faith each year. Thus, why doesn’t God deliver these precious people from persecution and death? 

Also, there are countless millions of children who wake up each day starving and suffering physical harm, not to mention the many around the world who are afflicted from cancer and other destructive ailments- why doesn’t God deliver those needy people?  Some Christians say it is “God’s will for people to suffer.”  However, if God was a fatalistic Creator and just made everything the way it is and has no intention of intervening why did He give us the above promise to deliver if we cried out to Him?

These are all tough questions I get asked all the time as a pastor, however, I believe the answer is simple.  God created us perfect, but sin brought death and destruction.  For that reason He sent Jesus to deliver us from Satan’s affliction and thus when we cry in our suffering He hears us and delivers us- either in their world or the world come.

Meaning, even if we are healed from every sickness and delivered from every affliction in this life we will still die because of sin’s penalty upon our bodies.  Thus, the greatest deliverance isn’t the one to keep us safe and healthy in this world.  The greatest deliverance is the one from sin’s destruction in our soul, thus when we cry out to be saved we can trust that He always saves us.

And at the same time, we can hope that if God is going to save us in the world to come- then He does care about our daily needs and concerns thus we can pray for His deliverance in this life too.  Therefore, whenever you are needy- cry out to God for He promises to deliver you!  Whenever you are afflicted, call on His name for He will also help you!

Reflection | What do you need deliverance from today?

Action | (1) Other than sin, think of two things you need to be delivered from. (2) Cry out to God and ask Him to save and deliver you from the things you are facing.  (3) Lastly, wait and trust God to deliver you either in this life or the one to come!   

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 22:17-23:44, Mark 9:30-10:12, Psalm 44:1-8, &Proverbs 10:19. Click here to read online.

February 27 | The Promise of Wisdom

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Proverbs 14:34, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”

Lesson 27 | The Promise of Wisdom        

Since becoming a Christian have you ever said the following things to describe life’s hardships? “Man, I’ve got some big financial problems.”  “My wife and I are having marriage problems.”  Or, “I’m struggling in my Christian walk because I’m having major sin problems.”  If you have ever described your problems like this since being saved, the first thing you need to know is that your biggest problem isn’t “money, marriage, or sin,” it's the lack of “wisdom.”  Meaning, you don’t have money, marriage, or sin problems- you have a wisdom problem!  

The day you received salvation the Bible says Jesus gave you everything you would ever need for life and godliness, 2 Peter 1:3.  He also said that the power of God in you would always be greater than the things that come against you, 1 John 4:4.  Plus, Paul declared that you are more than a conqueror and nothing could ever separate you from the love of God, Romans 8:37.  As a result, you have already been given everything you will ever need to overcome and conquer every one of the problems you will face in life- you just need the wisdom on how to receive and act on God’s abilities and blessings. 

Therefore, every believer should not focus on their problems and try to solve them by doings things the “world’s way.”  Rather, we should call upon God in the name of Jesus and ask for wisdom to succeed in each and every situation we face.  Wisdom is “the practical and successful application of knowledge.”  For example, if you ask God for wisdom in your marriage He will give you the practical steps to take to bring about a healthy and prosperous marriage.

In turn, no matter what you are facing in life as your “problems,” remember to call out to God and receive His wisdom.  Because if you don't have God’s knowledge and practical instructions for success in life (wisdom)- your biggest problem is a “wisdom problem.”  Therefore, whenever you lack wisdom ask God for it because He loves to generously give us all the wisdom we need to succeed in life!     

Reflection | Do you need God’s wisdom for a situation you’re facing in life?

Action | (1) Think of the top three problems you are currently facing in life. (2) Pray and ask God for the wisdom in each of the situations you are facing. (3) Lastly, apply the wisdom (practical application of knowledge) in the areas God has given you the wisdom for.  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 20:22-22:16, Mark 9:1-29, Psalm 43:1-5, &Proverbs 10:18. Click here to read online.

February 26 | The Promise of a Blessed Nation

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Proverbs 14:34, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people.”

Lesson 26 | The Promise of a Blessed Nation       

In the US we have a saying, “God bless America.”  I love this statement and the heritage that comes with it because it reminds us of the many godly people who came to this country and implored God’s blessings upon it. As a result, our great success as a nation has come from God and His exaltation. 

However, today in America many people still say that cherished statement, yet they don’t realize “how” God actually blesses and exalts a nation.  Thus, the above proverb teaches a people“righteousness exalts a nation.”  Meaning, God will only exalt and lift up in success those who do what is “right” by His standards.  On the other hand the proverb also teaches, “sin is a disgrace to any people.”  Therefore, God will never bless what He promised to curse and disgrace. 

For example in Proverbs 6:17 King Solomon states the Lord hates, “hands that shed innocent blood.”  Therefore, when America allows by its law the slaughter of unborn children in the womb, over 54 million since 1973, God will not continue to bless us until we repent and abolish this wicked infanticide. 

Also, Proverbs 6:17-18, declares God hates, “haughty eyes, a lying tongue… a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil.”  Thus, when we as a nation act in ungodly pride in sports and entertainment, have liars and devisors of wickedness in the White House and on Wall Street, and a possess a generation of young adults who are “quick to rush into evil,”- we shouldn’t expect God’s blessing, but rather disgrace.

In closing, we should hold to this precious promise and do what it demands so we can receive God’s exaltation and blessings in our nation.  And for the sins and evil deeds we’ve done, we should repent now and plead for God’s mercy through the blood of Jesus Christ on all of our leaders and citizens.  Then we can truly say, “God bless our land.”

Reflection | Are you doing your part for God to exalt and bless the nation you live in?

Action | (1) Repent of any sins you may be committing that bring a disgrace on the land. (2) Pray and repent for the sins of your nation as Daniel did for the Jewish people in Daniel 9:4-19.  (3) Lastly, live by God’s grace and Spirit in such a way that God can bless and exalt you and your nation.  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 19:1-20:21, Mark 8:11-38, Psalm 42:1-11, &Proverbs 10:17. Click here to read online.

February 25 | The Promise of Salvation for All

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | 1 Timothy 2:4, “…who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”

Lesson 25 | The Promise of Salvation for All      

What would you say if I told you there are actually some Christians that believe God doesn’t love the whole world?  But only loves the elect, the ones He choses and thus doesn’t really want all people to be saved?  How would your views concerning God’s holy and merciful character change?  I know that I could not see God in the same light if this false belief were true. 

His perfect and merciful nature would be overshadowed by a “Hitler-like” love that only shows kindness to one kind of people (Arians), but total destruction and hate to another people (Jews) simply based on His own so-called “sovereign choice.”  This kind of love would be even worse because men’s eternal souls would suffer without ever having a chance of salvation.  They would have been born just to be damned forever in hell by God’s eternal decree.   

Believe it or not, the theological belief system of “Calvinism,” founded by John Calvin in the 1500’s, actually teaches that God chose some people for salvation and others for eternal damnation.  Therefore, both the saved and damned were chosen or rejected totally by God’s own desires.  However, the above verse is a direct contradiction to the false teaching of Calvinism and thus should give all Christians comfort to know that God promises to every creature a true desire for his or her salvation- Praise God! 

What this means is that when you pray for a lost soul, you don’t have to wonder if God has already predetermined their damnation, but rather you can have total confidence that no matter who they are- God desires their salvation and has made it possible for them to be saved.  Paul also went on to declare in 1 Timothy 4:14, “… that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially of those who believe.”

Therefore, the belief system of Calvinism is totally false and anti-Bible.  As a result, let God be true and every man a liar!  This precious verse gives us a look at the very heart and character of God.  He is the Savior of the world by making salvation possible for all mankind.  However, He only will save (or bring into salvation) those who believe and call on Jesus’ name.” 

Therefore, we should pray for all people to be sent a true Gospel preacher so that the Word of God can be preached to them, Romans 10:14.  And for all those who hear the Word of God to put their faith in Christ and be saved!

Reflection | Do you believe God wants “all men to be saved?”

Action | (1) Prayerfully seek God to have Him reveal His loving and saving character to you. (2) Think about the people in your life who are not saved.  (3) Lastly, pray with confidence for their salvation because God, “wants all men to be saved.”   

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 16:29-18:30, Mark 7:24-8:10, Psalm 41:1-13, &Proverbs 10:15-16. Click here to read online.

February 24 | The Promise of Reigning with Christ

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | 2 Timothy 2:12, “if we endure, we will also reign with him…”

Lesson 24 | The Promise of Reigning with Christ     

Did you know that one day Jesus will establish His kingdom on earth and reign for a thousand years?  This is called the “Millennial Reign of Christ,” foretold by John in Revelation 20:1-6.  John wrote specifically in verse 6 concerning when this would take place, “Blessed and holy are those who have part in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.”

Can you imagine what that will be like- to rule and reign with Christ on the earth for a thousand years?  The Bible states that the subjects of the kingdom will be those who did not die in the Battle of Armageddon.  Though hundreds of millions of lost and rebellious humanity will die in Jesus’ second coming and final battle, He will still allow a portion to survive and live upon the earth in His Kingdom.

Many theories exist among scholars as to why Jesus would allow the natural order of life to continue for a thousand years before recreating the earth and only allowing His people to dwell with Him in perfect glory.  Thus, the best answer I have accepted is that Jesus does this for a thousand years to show what the Garden of Eden could have been like in the natural world.  Thus, this shows the great heart for restoration and redemption of our God.  Instead of just doing away with everything, He will allow His people to enjoy the fullness of the “kingdom of God” upon the earth with common humanity.

Now before you go get your scepter and start bossing people around in your life today you must take the full context of what Paul is saying in the above verse.  He says, “if we endure” with Him first, then “we will also reign with Him.”  Therefore, now in this current age and season we as Christians will be persecuted and suffer many trials but we should not lose heart and give up because we have a future hope in Christ to reign with.

As a result, let Christ’s promise to rule and reign with Him for a thousand years comfort your heart in the midst of whatever you may be enduring.  God is going to reward you for all you suffer in His name.

Reflection | What hardships are you enduring in life today?

Action | (1) Consider whatever you may be facing in life as the “testing of your faith.” (2) Ask God for strength to endure all that you are facing in life.  (3) Lastly, rejoice and find hope in the promise of ruling with Christ one day!  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 15:1-16:28, Mark 7:1-23, Psalm 40:11-17, &Proverbs 10:13-14. Click here to read online.

February 23 | The Promise of Forgiveness

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | 1 John 2:1-2, “1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense –Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.”

Lesson 23 | The Promise of Forgiveness     

Have you ever told a lie, taken something that didn’t belong to you, coveted what someone else had, lusted, placed things before God in your life, or taken His holy name in vain?  If you are honest (and not telling another life) I am sure like me you answered, “yes.”  Now, since by your own admission you have admitted you are a “lying, stealing, covetous, lusting, blaspheming idolater” what do you think Jesus, the Perfect and Just Judge, will do to you on judgment day in view of your sinful actions and wretched identify?

Revelation 21:8 gives the clearest answer for what will happen to sinners on judgment day, “…the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars –their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”  Thus, Paul was writing the truth when he wrote, “all have sinned and fallen short of God’s glory,” and“the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness,” Romans 3:23 & 1:18.  Therefore, all sinners are destined and condemned to the lake of fire forever because of their sins.

However, there is hope for all sinners today to be pardoned and forgiven of all their sins.  This hope is only found in Jesus’ atoning sacrifice on the cross of Calvary. The word, “atonement” means, “to make reconciliation between estranged parties, bringing them into agreement.  In other words, Jesus’ sacrifice was to satisfy the wrath of God on sinners and bring them into right relationship with Him. Therefore, all sinners are promised forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God.   

Plus, all saved saints are also promised forgiveness of all present sins if they truly repent and turn from their wicked ways.  Therefore, there is no good excuse for anyone to remain in his or her sins and sinful nature.  God’s Word promises that everyone can be forgiven of all sins because of Jesus’ sacrifice!       

Reflection | Are you forgiven of all your sins?

Action | (1) Examine your heart to see if you have any hidden sins. (2) If you have any unconfessed or hidden sin, confess them to God and ask Him to cleanse you fully with the blood of Jesus.  (3) Lastly, live by the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin and daily temptation.  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 14:1-57, Mark 6:30-56, Psalm 40:1-10, &Proverbs 10:11-12. Click here to read online.

February 22 | The Promise of God’s Kingdom

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Luke 17:20-21, “20 Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, ‘The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, 21 nor will people say, Here it is, or There it is, because the kingdom of God is within you.’”

Lesson 22 | The Promise of God’s Kingdom    

Jesus boldly proclaimed in the passage above that the kingdom of God was now upon the earth in the hearts of His people.  The “kingdom of God” means, “the active rule and reign of Jesus Christ as King.”  The kingdom of God has always been in heaven but He now wanted His kingdom “to come on earth as it is in heaven,” Matthew 6:10.

Therefore, today we should not only have hope to one day be with Jesus in His heavenly kingdom, but we should receive the kingdom of God now in our hearts.  As a result, the first place Jesus wants to invade and set up His kingdom is in your heart.  Thus, who is the King of your life?

When someone repents of their sin and accepts Jesus as the Lord of their life they are automatically given the kingdom of God in their heart.  As a result, if you have confessed Jesus as the Lord of your life the Kingdom of God is within you right now!

We are given the best description of the kingdom of God in the hearts of men by Paul in Romans 14:17.  He described the kingdom of God as, “righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.”  Therefore, according to Jesus you are first promised to have righteousness in your inner being because of Jesus’ work on the cross and are forever free from all sin.  Second, you are promised peace on the inside- to be without storm or conflict both in your relationship with God and with others.  And lastly, joy in the Holy Ghost, which is indescribable emotional elation in God’s presence.

In closing, don’t let the kingdom of this world invade your heart.  But rather fully receive the fullness of God’s kingdom within you today! 

Reflection | Do you believe Jesus has placed His righteousness, peace, and joy in your life?

Action | (1) Confess again Jesus as the Lord and King of your life. (2) Ask Jesus to give you the fullness of His Kingdom in your life by His Holy Spirit.  (3) Lastly, daily guard and hold onto the righteousness, peace, and joy His kingdom brings.  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 13:1-59, Mark 6:1-29, Psalm 39:1-13, & Proverbs 10:10. Click here to read online.

February 21 | The Promise of a Saved Family

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Acts 16:31, “They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved– you and your household.’”

Lesson 21 | The Promise of a Saved Family   

The above passage refers to the promise that Paul gave the Philippian jailer after God had rescued them from prison.  It was a prophetic promise to this specific man because Paul was given future knowledge concerning what would happen when the man brought them home to meet his family.  And when they went to the house, everyone received Jesus as their Lord and Savior and thus was “saved.”

At the same time, I also believe the verse is a general promise for all believers concerning the will of God for their lost family members.  Meaning, Paul also said in 1 Timothy 2:1-4, “1 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone… 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”  Therefore, God wants you to pray for your family to be saved knowing and believing that He strongly desires their salvation.

My Mother prayed for me for years without ceasing and she saw her prayers answered with me getting saved at her kitchen table.  Our prayers don’t over ride people’s own freedom of will and free choice, however, I believe our prayers make more opportunities for them to hear the Gospel without hindrance and gives special protection to them so they can have more time in life to be saved.

Therefore, take some time everyday to pray the promise of God to save your lost family members.  Don’t get discouraged if it looks worse even after you pray- remember you are waring for their soul against the Devil and his satanic forces.  However, God will keep His Word- your family can and will be saved! 

Reflection | Are you praying for your family to all be saved?

Action | (1) Believe God wants to save your family. (2) Pray by name for each of your lost family members to be saved.  (3) Lastly, prayerfully look for opportunities to preach and share the Gospel with them in grace and truth. 

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 11:1-12:8, Mark 5:21-43, Psalm 38:1-22, &Proverbs 10:8-9. Click here to read online.

February 20 | The Promise of Friendship

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Proverbs 18:24, “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

Lesson 20 | The Promise of Friendship   

I remember one time when my friends called me up to go skateboarding in the neighborhood and they said to meet them at a certain spot.  However, when I eagerly showed up they weren’t there- but I saw them in a distance laughing so I headed towards them because I thought they might not have reached the spot yet.  However, as I got closer I could see that they were laughing at me and then they started to run away.  For the next hour I chased them down just to hang out with them- some friends!

I’ll never forget that day because it was one of the first times that I realized that people were going to let me down- even people like my best skateboarding buds.  Plus, my older brother, from my Mom’s previous marriage, spent much of his life on drugs and deeply involved with alcohol, thus I never really got close to him either.

Therefore, for me, when I got saved and felt the love of God come to me in the form of friendship- I’ve been the same.  Jesus’ friendship to me is so real and deep that no family member or earthly friendship can compare to it.  Some unbelievers think I’m referring to Jesus like a child’s imagery friend- but my best friend is not only real- He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords! 

I pray today that you will make Jesus your best friend too.  Spend time with Him today in prayer, worship, and reading His Word- He wants to hang out with you.  Make time to talk to Him on the job with your thoughts, invite Him to lunch with your co-workers and talk about Him. 

Plus, I like to enjoy alone times with God while fishing, taking walks, or just lying in my bed enjoying His presence before and after the day.  His friendship is so encouraging, refreshing, and loving.  Jesus promised you to a friend that sticks closer than a brother- and one that will never leave you, even when others let you down.  Doesn’t it feel good to know the God of the universe loves you like that and wants to be your friend?         

Reflection | Is Jesus your best friend?

Action | (1) Make Jesus your best friend in life. (2) Spend time each day developing a deeper friendship with Jesus.  (3) Lastly, share your friendship with Jesus with others- He has enough time and love for everyone!      

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 9:7-10:20, Mark 4:26-5:20, Psalm 37:30-40, &Proverbs 10:6-7. Click here to read online.

February 19 | The Promise of God’s Church Being Built

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Matthew 16:18, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.”

Lesson 19 | The Promise of God’s Church Being Built  

Can you imagine what it would’ve been like to be Peter and hear this?  Jesus was straight up declaring to this rugged fisherman that He was going to use him to build the greatest organization on the planet, His church!

The Greek word for church, “ekklesia,” wasn’t a new or special word during Jesus’ time, it simply meant, “an assembly or congregation of people.” The word could refer to any political or religious gathering of the day.  Therefore, Jesus wasn’t trying to come up with a “new concept,” but rather a “new gathering of a new people.”  Jesus was declaring His church was going to be a gathering together of disciples like Peter!  They were going to be world changers, history makers, and roof breakers!

Why was Peter made special from the rest of the disciples?  Because when Jesus asked all of them, “Who do you say that I am?” It was only Peter who answered, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Thus, the reason Peter was chosen to be the first member of Jesus’ new church was because of his “confession of faith.”  Peter was able to hear the voice of the Father concerning Jesus’ identity and thus, confess it clearly.   

Therefore, when you confessed Jesus as the Messiah, you become a part of the church of Jesus Christ.  Also, known as the “Bride of Christ” and the “Body of Christ,” and there is nothing more important to Jesus on this earth than His church.  In turn, make a decision today, if you haven’t already, to join a good Bible church and ask God to fulfill Jesus’ promise through you.  He will build the church by advancing you into the devil's territory and the gates of hell will not hold you back!

It's time to plunder hell and populate heaven!  

Reflection | Are committed to a local church?

Action | (1) Pray and commit yourself to a good Bible believing church. (2) Ask the church’s leadership how you can become a leader and help build the church.  (3) Lastly, go and do what Peter did and build Christ’s church with new disciples.     

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 7:28-9:6, Mark 3:31-4:25, Psalm 37:12-29, &Proverbs 10:5. Click here to read online.

February 18 | The Promise of Persecution

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Mark 10:29-30, “29 I tell you the truth, Jesus replied, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel 30 will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields–and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.”

Lesson 18 | The Promise of Persecution  

At this point in our series on the “Promises of God,” I would like to introduce a promise that many might wish God never made to you.  However, to be faithful in this series to the promises of God, I felt it necessary to share this one as well. 

The reason for me sharing this promise is not to discourage or frighten you, but rather to give you hope and encouragement.  Meaning, if one were to read this series and only think that God promises pleasant things, and then when unpleasant times come someone might lose their faith.  At the same time, if I am faithful to share both God’s pleasant and unpleasant promises than the reader will be given courage to face their times of trials.

Thus, let us look to the above passage in its context and be encouraged with the promise of persecution.  First, we notice that Jesus promises great blessings to His new disciples.  He states that whatever they have left for His sake, they will receive back a 100 times in this age!  Houses, land, family- all of these things will be given to the disciples a hundred times over if they had given them up for God’s Kingdom.  And please take note that this 100-fold blessing is not promised in heaven, but rather in this “present age.” 

Now to the unpleasant promise, Jesus then says, “and with them persecutions.”  Thus, while serving Jesus you will be rewarded and greatly blessed on this earth for all that you give up, but you will also suffer man’s persecution.  Some in your family may become enemies of your faith and ridicule you with their mocking words.  Co-workers may work at removing you from your job and try to hinder your success.  Also, other religions or governments may physically attack you or destroy your property.  But during these times, remember God’s other promises to always be with you, to protect you from evil, and give you perfect peace.

Therefore, though in this world you will be greatly blessed, you will also have persecution to accompany your blessings.  But if you endure the unpleasant times with the pleasant you will be rewarded with eternal joy without any suffering forever in the presence of God!

Reflection | Are you being persecuted today for your faith in Jesus?

Action | (1) Ask God to forgive those who persecute you, for they know not what they do. (2) Pray to receive your hundred fold blessing in this life to help balance the unpleasant times with prosperity.  (3) Lastly, remember this age is not your home, you are just passing through.       

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 6:1-7:27, Mark 3:7-30, Psalm 37:1-11, &Proverbs 10:3-4. Click here to read online.

February 17 | The Promise of Financial Provision

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Proverbs 10:22, “The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.”

Lesson 17 | The Promise of Financial Provision

Did you know that God promises to bless you with wealth?  Now before you misunderstand me and start claiming the Bible promises every believer will be a millionaire, let me define the Biblical definition of wealth.  Wealth in the Bible was to have enough to meet your needs, to store up an inheritance for your children, and to have extra to share with others in need.

Therefore, no matter where God’s people live or what the economic times are like, His people can ask Him to give them wealth.  You can boldly ask God to bless you with enough wealth to meet you and your family’s needs and store up an earthly inheritance to give to your children.  Plus, you should pray that God would bless you to be a blessing.  Remember in the “Our Father Prayer,” Jesus said, “give us our daily bread?”  Notice the word, “us,” God wants you to have extra so you can give to charity, missions, and struggling people in your community.

Money is not evil, to love money is.  As a disciple learn to see money as a tool and not an idol.  Think of God’s Kingdom first when asking for blessings because every thing else comes second- even our family.  Meaning, when Christians can do what Jesus said in Matthew 6:33 and seek first His Kingdom, He promises to meet every other need.  Therefore, be faithful to give your tithe, 10% of your total income, to God’s church every time you receive money. 

Also, don’t let greed and overspending keep you in a rat race of sin and idolatry.  Use self-control and budgets to control your spending, save as much as you can for your family, and give away as much as you can to the less fortunate.  Let the Lord lead you into His wealth, never try to wander off His path to get more.  God is able to lead you to the places of opportunity on your job and in your career if you seek His will.

When God’s people have the blessing of wealth God’s way- they don’t have the trouble of this world because they are “to blessed to be stressed.”  Therefore, do things God way from your head to heart to your wallet! 

Reflection | Are you blessed with wealth? 

Action | (1) Ask God to bless you with wealth. (2) Live by the financial principles in the Bible and repent of any greed, over spending, or waste.  (3) Lastly, share the wealth with others who are hurting in this world- missions is a great place to start after giving your tithe!  

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 4:1-5:19, Mark 2:13-3:6, Psalm 36:1-12, & Proverbs 10:1-2. Click here to read online.

February 16 | The Promise of Protection

Scripture | Psalm 91:4, “He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.”

Lesson 16 | The Promise of Protection

David in the above Psalm encourages the righteous to believe and trust God to protect them from all the harm of the enemy.  Some have taken this Psalm to mean that nothing bad will ever happen to good people, but David would never have thought that.  He had been in many battles and saw good people die and suffer for the cause of God’s Kingdom.  Thus, David like Braveheart, before sending His men into battle would most likely encourage them with these kinds of words to remind them that no evil would harm them in the battle because they were on God’s side.

All throughout this Psalm David uses the imagery of a battle and incorporates it into spiritual terms.  Thus, the reader should be comforted by the fact they will have divine protection in life no matter what attacks they face from their satanic enemies.  In other words, like in Psalm 23, David is promising God’s comfort and protection to His people as they walk through the shadow of death.

Also, this Psalm is literally referring to the work of Jesus on the earth, the cross, and in the grave.  Jesus could not be harmed in any way by the Devil because He was free from all sin.  Also, Jesus saw thousands of defeated souls on His side that had turned from the Father and suffered greatly in hell, however, He was able to defeat the Devil without any harm coming near Him. 

As a result, the promise is clear for you and I today- God promises to protect and guard us from the Devil and all of his spiritual attacks.  Therefore, put on the full armor God and stand your ground because God is with you and promises His faithfulness will be your shield, Ephesians 6:10-19!

Reflection | Are you sure of God’s protection from evil in your life today?

Action | (1) Thank God through Jesus Christ for His salvation which brings protection from your spiritual enemies. (2) Declare God’s victory in your life over whatever spiritual battle you may be facing.  (3) Lastly, remain in confidence and victory because God keeps you safe. 

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Leviticus 1:1-3:17, Mark 1:29-2:12, Psalm 35:17-28, &Proverbs 9:13-18.  Clickhere to read online.

February 15 | The Promise of Peace

Scripture | John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Lesson 15 | The Promise of Peace

Jesus’ promise of peace to His disciples is a great promise for you today no matter what trouble you may be facing in life.  I love the fact that he didn't promise a world without trouble- but rather a peace in the midst of trouble.

On one hand, we shouldn't think it strange when we go through troubling times because Jesus promised we would have them. On the other hand, we shouldn’t lose our peace in our troubling times because Jesus said we would have peace in Him.

For most of us our peace is the first thing we lose and let go of in our troubles.  We tend to react to the situation we are facing with fear, anxiety, worry, anger, or even doubt.  However, we need to learn to trust Jesus in those times and believe that we may “have trouble,” but we are “in Jesus.”  And if we are in Jesus we should take heart and have courage because Jesus has overcome the world and all its trouble!

Jesus is our conquering King!  He defeated Satan, death, sickness, hell, sorrow, poverty, and sin.  There isn’t any trouble that Jesus hasn't already conquered.  Therefore, we must decide today to not let the troubles of this world take our peace.  Since God gave you peace at salvation you must daily decide whether to hold on to it or let this world take it away. 

Thus, protect your peace and never let go it.  Set your mind and thoughts on Jesus to guard your peace, Philippians 4:6-7.  In prayer cast all your cares on Jesus because He cares for you!            

Reflection | Do you have the peace of God today?

Action | (1) Receive Jesus’ perfect peace in your life today by prayer. (2) Remove any anxious thoughts, doubts, or fears in confession to God.  (3) Lastly, guard your peace with God’s Word and prayer everyday. 

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Exodus 39:1-40:38, Mark 1:1-28, Psalm 35:1-16, &Proverbs 9:11-12. Click here to read online.

February 14 | The Promise of Strength

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Isaiah 40:31, “…but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

Lesson 14 | The Promise of Strength

The above passage is one of my favorite passages in the entire Bible.  I believe I love it so much because it speaks directly to the kind of person I am.  I planted and pastored my first church at the age of 22 and since then I have always believed in hard work and passion.  However, no matter how young and strong I was in my early years I would still find myself getting tired and weary in ministry.  Therefore, I had to learn to place my hope in the Lord and receive His enduring strength.

No matter who you are and how strong you are in life, you will eventually reach the end of your own strength.  Whether you're a Mother facing a tough day and feeling wore out because of the constant energy needed to be successful or a hard working businessman providing for your family and facing increasing pressure and fatigue.  There will be times in life when you lose your passion and motivation.  However, at those times God promises to “renew” your strength.

The word “renew” basically means, “to make new again.”  Thus, God is promising to make your strength new again as if you had never used it all.  God is able to give your emotions, mental health, and physical body a refreshing and rejuvenating strength that carries you like the eagle’s wings soaring on the wind! 

You will be able to walk through whatever situation you are facing without growing faint.  And when you need an extra boast to run and have passion for your goals God will fill you with His power and energy so you will not get tired and give up.

Therefore, don’t take on life’s challenges in your own strength and endurance.  Place your hope and trust in God for the renewal of your strength.  He will make you like the eagle that effortlessly soars for miles on the wind by the usage of its God-given wings.  Relax and be renewed.        

Reflection | Do you feel renewed in your strength today?

Action | (1) Ask God to give you the wings of an eagle to soar in life today over the trouble you are facing. (2) Don’t let the trials you face bring you down to live with the chickens and turkeys.  (3) Lastly, make time everyday to be renewed in God’s presence.     

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Exodus 37:1-38:31, Matthew 28:1-20, Psalm 34:11-22, &Proverbs 9:9-10.  Click here to read online.

February 13 | The Promise of Never Being Alone

Series | The Promises of God

Scripture | Deuteronomy 31:6, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Lesson 13 | The Promise of Never Being Alone

God promised His people in the Old Testament that though they were going to face many enemies and hardships, He was never going to leave them.  And as you read the entire Old Testament one can easily see God kept His Word and never left them.

Jesus in the New Testament gave a similar promise in Matthew 28:20, “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”  Plus, the writer of Hebrews reiterates the same promise in Deuteronomy in Hebrews 13:5.  Therefore, from front to back in the Bible, in both Covenants, and with every child of God- we are promised that God will never leave us.

Your friends will not always be around, your parents will grow old and pass away, even your children and spouse will fail to always be with you.  However, God promises to never leave you.  Never.  He will always be with you in each and every situation you face.  He will be present at every moment and in every stage of your life.  As a matter of fact, when you die and are taken from every person in this life He will guide you to your eternal home and you will dwell with Him forever in His glory.

You will never be alone, forsaken, or abandoned either in this life or the one to come.  Therefore, be strong and courageous during whatever situation you face because God is with you.  Don’t let fear or terror take over your heart because God will never leave you or forsake you.  You are so loved and precious to God that He gave you a promise of eternal friendship and comfort. 

Reflection | Do you know and believe that God is with you right now?

Action | (1) Acknowledge the presence of God right now by praying something like, “God, I know you are with me and I will not be afraid.  Your Spirit gives me strength and courage.” (2) Learn to be more sensitive of God’s presence in your everyday life.  (3) Lastly, encourage others today that may not be in relationship with God, to repent of their sins and be born again to be close to God. 

One Year Reading Plan (Optional) | Exodus 35:10-36:38, Matthew 27:32-66, Psalm 34:1-10, &Proverbs 9:7-8.  Click here to read online.