Day 365

I DID IT!!! The entire Bible in three hundred sixty five days! I have laughed. I have cried. And most of all, I have drawn closer to God than I could ever have imagined!

I wanted what I take from the last day to be significant. It should be something to sum up all that was read, and also be something for going forward. Revelation 22 verse 17 provides just that! It says, "The Spirit and the Bride say, 'Come.' And let the one who hears say, 'Come.' And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price."

To sum up the past 365 days, the Lord loves us! He loves us with a love that is incomprehensible! He begs us, pleads with us, cries for us to Come! Come to Him for He offers love, fulfillment, joy, peace, protection and life without price! So come!

And going forward, those who hear the Lord call, they too shall say, "Come!" We are to call out to others to come to the Lord! Call to those who are thirsty. Call to those who desire the water of life. Call them all to come!

Come, for the loving Father who, has been for all time and will be for eternity, loves us beyond measure. We can come and trust Him for everything and He will not let us down!

Come.

Day 364

In today's reading, I found the seven bowls of God's wrath, issued by some of His angels, interesting.

Revelation 16 describes these 7 bowls that the 7 angels were given to pour out onto the earth. The first poured out his bowl on the earth which resulted in pain and sores. The second poured his bowl into the sea which killed everything in it. The third poured his bowl into the rivers and water supply, which turned the water into blood. The fourth poured his bowl onto the sun which allowed it to burn people. The fifth angel poured out their bowl on the throne of the beast (assuming Satan) and cast them into darkness. The sixth angel poured their bowl onto the Euphrates River and dried it up. The last angel poured their bowl into the air and caused storms and an earthquake and great hailstones about 100 pounds each.

There have been many movies that have tried to show what it will be like at the end of times, but I am not worried. I live in the confidence that I am forgiven, and I am redeemed by the Lord. I do not have to worry about the end of times because I know that I will be with the Lord! Therefore, I have nothing to fear!

Day 363

Revelation 12 describes a great battle that took place in heaven between the Lord's angels and Satan (the dragon) and his angels and the dragon was defeated.

Revelation 12 verse 11 says, "And they have conquered [Satan] by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony..."

Only the word of Christ and Christ Himself can conquer Satan. We as humans cannot do it ourselves. We cannot fathom the battles and the power that is happening constantly between Christ and Satan for the souls of man. It is only by faith in Christ that we are saved because Christ is the only one that can defeat Satan!

I thank God for being a God who does save, protect, conquer and love for my sake. What an awesome, powerful, loving God we serve!

Day 362

I really like how John describes heaven. Chapter 7 verse 11 says, "And all the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures, and they fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God."

When I read this, I picture angels as far as the eye can see, falling with their faces to the ground, worshiping the Lord! I long for the day when I can see this for myself. I long to be one of those who fall on their face and worship.

I look for ways where I can now worship Him. I worship Him with others in church, and also on my own. I believe it gives me a glimpse of what is to come. I will continue to worship!

Day 361

In Revelation chapter 3, John hears the Lord give a message for the church in Philadelphia (not Pennsylvania). Chapter 3 verse 8 says, "I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name." Also, chapter 3 verse 10 says, "Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth."

I found the concept of patient endurance interesting. I believe patient endurance is continued faith in Christ when He seems distant. It is believing even when believing is not the logical thing at the time. I also like the fact that it seems as though to be a test. Verse 10 said because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from trials. If we pass the test, we will be spared many things!

However, I believe we are called quite often to patiently endure, and most of the time, we fail. We do not pass the test the Lord has laid out for us. The fact is, the Lord is always with us. He may give the illusion that He is far in order to test our faith, but He is always there. To patiently endure means to realize the truth; that even when the Lord seems far away, He is standing right next to you!

Day 360

The book of Jude encourages us to follow Christ. Verses 20 and 21 say, "But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life."

Keep yourself in the love of God. Do not wander and chase after our own desires. Do not chase after evil things. Pray in the Holy Spirit and continue following the Lord and you will find eternal life.

All too often it seems like we follow our own desires and stray away from the perfect love of God! Jude encourages us to stay with Him and we be blessed with eternal life! We need to keep ourselves in the love of God!

Day 359

1 John 4 talks about how we should respond to the Lord's love for us. 1 John 4 verse 7 says, "Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God."

I believe this is saying that if we have Christ in us, we will love others. This is one way we show God's love in us. It says loving one another is proof that we know God. That is a strong statement!

God calls us to love one another to reflect His love for all of us. I will continue to try and display God's love through my actions, so others may see and believe.

Day 358

Jesus is love. Jesus loves us beyond measure. Jesus cares for us. Jesus would do anything for us...These are bold statements that many do not believe. Even Christians may not fully accept all of these statements.

However, 1 John 3 offers a statement that I believe proves it all. 1 John 3 verse 16 says, "By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us..."

Love is sacrifice and Jesus paid the ultimate price for sins He did not commit, but sins that we did! We deserve death for the sin we have. But Jesus took our place! He died in our place so that we may live! This can only be described as the greatest acts of love the world has ever known, or will know.

Jesus gave us the perfect example of how to love others. We are to sacrifice ourselves for others. We are to put others first. We are to serve. What a great example Jesus is!

Day 357

2 Peter 1 talks about the law, and now reading it, translates to the entire Bible. Verses 19 and 20 say, "And we have something more sure, that prophetic word [the Bible], to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation."

Peter references the Bible as a lamp shining in a dark place. Peter is saying the key to life in the Lord, and the way to the truth and the light is through the Bible! This is our source until the Lord comes again.

Peter is also saying the Bible is not from man. God only uses man to write it. However, all scripture is God breathed and meant for us in all times and all ages!

Peter puts a lot of emphasis on the importance of Bible. This book should be treated as a gift from God and pursued!

Day 356

Again in First Peter, I am reminded what a loving God I serve! 1 Peter 5 verses 6 and 7 say, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you."

Cast all your anxieties, cast all your cares on Him! Give it all to Him! Why? Because He cares for you, He loves you! He longs to take your troubles from you! I believe there are troubles you need to go through to prepare you for something later, but God will be with you in those and carry you through!

I thank Him for being a God who loves us and cares for us so much.

Day 355

Hebrews 13 strikes a chord for me today. Verse 5 says, "Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'"

In other words, do not dwell on your finances. Instead, be content with what you have, for the Lord will never leave us or forsake us! This is the lesson I have been trying to learn over the last year or so. The author of Hebrews sums this issue and how to deal with it in one verse. I believe this shows how little it is to God!

I am trying so hard! Scripture such as what was read yesterday that define what faith really is help tremendously. I believe that once I an through with the Bible in just 10 more days, I will be equipped to handle any issues that come my way through faith in Christ.

Now I will just have to put it into action as James and others talk about.

I thank God for the book, the Bible, He has given us to handle this life! Without it, I would be lost!

Day 354

I think I have found my favorite chapter in the whole Bible so far. Hebrews 11 talks about faith and also tells of the heroes of faith throughout the Bible! It was a good encouragement.

Hebrews 11 also gives a definition of faith in verse 1. It says, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." To reword this, the New International Version puts it this way, "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for, and certain of what we do not see."

Faith is believing, knowing that what we hope for will be. It is also being sure of what we do not see. It is knowing that the Lord is with us always and can do all things, and it is trusting that what we hope for through Him will be so.

This is the basis for a relationship with the Lord. Believe. Have faith.

Day 353

Hebrews 10 talks about what happens when we continue to sin deliberately, even after receiving the knowledge of the truth. It talks about the punishment that will happen. Then, to sum it all up, chapter 10 verse 31 says, "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God."

Whoa! It is a fearful thing! It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands that created the universe, loved us so much He died for us, governs all things and has infinite knowledge and power, who judges those who are to be judged and punishes those who are to be punished.

It is a fearful thing to think of our God! However, it is wonderful to think of our God and how He loves us, how He died for us, how He governs all things and has infinite knowledge and power. What an awesome God!

Day 352

As I stated before, I have been a Christian all my life. I was raised in the church from birth. So when I see passages such as Hebrews 5 verses 12 through 14, I take it to heart. These verses say, "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."

I have a son who is just about two and a new daughter who is a little over six weeks. My daughter is on a milk only diet, and my son is transitioning, but still likes some Vitamin D milk quite often. They are still babies, children, and they are immature and unskilled. So when Hebrews says that I am like them spiritually, where I still need milk and not solid food, I understand what I must come across as to the Lord. I am immature in my faith. I am like a boy (note the name of the blog) to the Lord when looking at my faith.

However, I desire to be mature, living on solid food, and to have the power of discernment to distinguish good from evil! How do I get it? Verse 14 says it is trained by constant practice. Constant practice in the word, prayer and all righteousness! This is my goal.

Day 351

Yesterday I talked about the Word of the Lord and how it is breathed by God. Today, Hebrews 4 verses 12 and 13 expand on that. They say, "For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."

Whoa! Those are some powerful words! First of all, the word of God is living and active. It is alive within all Christians, and moving with the help of the Holy Spirit. Also, no creature is hidden from His sight! He is above all, loves all, and governs all.

The Lord is powerful, and His Word is powerful. It pierces like a double edged sword! I cannot under-estimate the power of the Lord or His word.

Day 350

When I first started going through the Bible, I was wondering if I would be able to find something to pull out every day. There are some difficult books!

Today is day 350 and I have found at least one thing each day! Quite often there are several things I could pull out, but choose only one. I have not had any trouble finding something that speaks to me each day.

Every day before I start reading, I pray that the Lord speaks to me and shows me what He wants me to see in the reading. I ask God to fill me with His spirit so I may see through His eyes.

I think the reason I am able to find something each day is stated in 2 Timothy 3 verses 16 and 17. They say, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work."

All Scripture is breathed out by God! There is nothing there that He does not want there. Everything there He spoke for our benefit. From it, we are equipped to be Christians who live for Him. What an amazing book!

Day 349

I found it interesting that the concept of actions came up again in today's reading. Titus 3 verse 1 says, "Remind them to be...ready for every good work."

We are called to be ready for every good work. We are to be on the lookout, anxious about missing what can be done to show God's love to others. We have to be on our guard to do good!

I admit that I am not ready for every good work. I need to change this and step it up. I need to be ready to help, and serve, and show God's love through me.

Day 348

From other readings, I have found that Timothy was rather young, but sent to lead a church on his own. With this in mind, it makes 1 Timothy 4 verse 12 that much more powerful. It says, "Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."

Paul is saying that age does not matter. What matters is the example you set. What matters is how you act. Set an example in all areas of life, not just one. Even this is a ministry.

We need to set an example for others so Christ can be reflected in us and through us. It does not matter how old we are, what we look like, or if we are a man or woman. One of our purposes is to live in such a way that we reflect Christ.

Day 347

I like how the Lord reminds us often of the lesson found in James 4 verses 13 and 14 say, "'Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit' - yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring."

My wife and I, as most parents had everything planned out for kids, such as which month they will be born in, what year after our marriage, and their birth order. However, the Lord had other plans! Our first came several years before we intended on getting pregnant. I cannot tell you how much I love my kids. I wouldn't change anything, but it threw off our timeframe. It was the same thing for our second. She came several months before she was due.

In a way, this is comforting to me because it shows I do not have control. I do not think I could handle that responsibility! I want my plans and agendas to come from the Lord who knows all, not myself who sins, and can only see the moment. I thank God for reminding me that I am not in charge!

Day 346

Already in James there is so much to learn, it is difficult to focus on just one thing. However, there was a theme in the first few chapters that did catch my attention.

James 2 verse 17 says, "So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."

I have heard the saying, "Actions speak louder than words" many times. That is also what James is trying to say in chapter 2. We can speak kind words to others and wish them well, but if there are no actions behind it, those words are worthless!

We as Christians must show the love of Christ by example. We have to show that when we are filled with Christ, we are changed. We are full. We are loved. Actions speak louder than words.

Day 345

Just how valuable is Christ? How valuable is knowing Him?

Paul tells us how valuable Christ is to Him in Philippians 3 verses 7 and 8. He says, "But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For His sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ."

Paul says that everything is worthless compared to the worth of knowing Christ! He is more valuable than everything. Paul gave everything in order to obtain Christ.

I have to think about this when I consider something of value. Christ is worth everything I have and more. Why focus on other things when I need Christ?

Day 344

In Philippians 2 verses 3 through 8, Paul uses Christ as an example of how we ourselves should act. It says, "In humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is your in Christ Jesus, who though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, He humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross."

This is saying be humble like Christ was. Christ was God in human form. Yet, He was a servant to others and even died on a cross, a humiliating death.

We as Christians are called to be humble, and most of all, put others first. We are meant to serve and not be served. This is a good lesson we can get from Christ and is something we should remember every day.

Day 343

As I have discussed before, my mind is what limits me in much of my faith. I always ask how after I know the Lord will take care of me.

That's why I found Colossians 2 verse 8 interesting. It says, "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."

This is not a new issue. Even Paul addresses this to where others are taken captive, or limited in faith by philosophy, empty deceit and their own limits of comprehension. Paul even says this is human tradition! We get caught up and limited by ourselves and do not focus on what Christ can do!

It is comforting to know I am not the only one with this issue, and in fact that it is even considered human tradition. But that makes it even more important to address and to realize each day how the devil is taking hold of us and limiting us in faith. If we can get past this limitation, I believe the devil would be afraid of what would be possible!

I need to get past this limitation and unlock the true wonders that are available in Christ!

Day 342

Ephesians 6 verses 14 through 19 describe the full armor of God. What an awesome analogy! I find it interesting that this passage mentioned several items to have, like the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and the sword of the spirit.

Most of what was listed above is defensive equipment; e.g. shields, helmets. However, the sword is an offensive weapon! It is used to attack and become victorious. Ephesians 6 states we have the sword of the spirit! We have the Lord with us! Who can be against us?

I know that the Holy Spirit is with me. I also know that the word of the Lord strengthens me and my commitment to Him and in order to grow in the Holy Spirit, I must be diving into the word often. The word gives me a firm foundation going forward.

I thank the Lord for the Bible provided to us in order to deepen our faith in Him!

Day 341

The church that I grew up in quite often gave a doxology taken from Ephesians 3 verses 20 and 21. They say, "Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever, Amen."

I was always, and still am, encouraged by these words. Just the thought that He can do far more than we could ever imagine is such a comfort to me! And whatever chance I get, to Him be the glory forever and ever!

I give God the praise and glory, for He is deserving. And I pray that He does far more than I could ever ask or imagine! I am filled with joy knowing that I serve this God!

Day 340

Every once in a while, I question myself. I wonder what value I provide. I wonder what good I am. I wonder what I can do.

Thankfully, the Lord answers this in Ephesians 2 verse 10. It says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand."

I am God's workmanship. That is what good I am. I am His! He created me. And not only that, but He created me for a reason! I am part of His master plan! How encouraging is that?

I pray that not only do I fulfill my part of God's plan when the time comes, but I also recognize that I did when it (or they) happens! I pray that I see God and all His power! And most of all, I rest in the knowledge that I am His workmanship and I am the way I am because He made me this way!

Day 339

What a ministry Paul had at sea with the 275 other men on the ship. A great storm tossed the ship for many days. So much so, the men had no time to eat.

Several days later, Paul encouraged them all to eat. Acts 27 verses 35 and 36 say, "And when he had said these things, he took bread, and giving thanks to God in the presence of all he broke it and began to eat. Then they all were encouraged and ate some food for themselves."

I find it so cool how it is written that after Paul broke the bread, they all were encouraged! Their faith was strengthened and I believe the Lord's spirit filled them.

I need to remember that even in the storms of life, if we focus on the Lord and what He has done for us, we will be encouraged.

Day 338

In these readings, Paul is being led on a journey orchestrated by the Lord! He is bringing the Word to all he comes in contact with. And with his Roman citizenship, he is bringing the word to even the kings.

I can't imagine the faith Paul has though! On this journey, he was detained by Felix the governor. He ministered to Felix for two years! He must have had the faith of knowing that he was exactly where the Lord wanted him.

Then a new governor took over and heard Paul's case. He also brought in King Agrippa to hear as well. By going through what he did, Paul was able to spread the word to many important people of influence.

I must remember not to belittle where I am and what I am doing. I need to have faith that the Lord has me exactly where He wants me for His purpose. I have to have the kind of faith that Paul had! I long and pray for this kind of faith.

Day 337

What a charge the Lord gave Paul! Acts 23 verse 11 says, "The following night the Lord stood by him and said, 'Take courage, for as you have testified to the facts about Me in Jerusalem, so you must testify also in Rome.'"

That must have been a shocker for Paul! Rome was the capitol and, with the vastness of the Roman Empire, it was also known as the capitol of the world!

I find it so amazing how the Lord works! He does not think small, but calls ordinary people to do great things! He equips us with all we need to accomplish what we are called to do and also gives us the comfort of knowing He is with us every step of the way.

Don't be afraid to hear a calling that is greater than what you can imagine! For the Lord will equip you with all you need and will be with you every step of the way!

Day 336

One of the things I love about the Bible is that is constantly comforts me.

I am far from perfect and I have many flaws and weaknesses. I am human! 2 Corinthians 12 verses 9 and 10 say, "But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me...For when I am weak, then I am strong."

This is such a comfort to me! The Lord is there in my weakness and uses that for His glory! Also, His grace is sufficient for me. He is all we need!

The Lord's power is made perfect in weakness! The Lord shows Himself through the weakness of his children. That is why we are to boast of our weakness, so when others see us strong, they will know it is the Lord, not ourselves!

Day 335

In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul calls us to not only give, but to be cheerful givers. This may be difficult sometimes.

However, I believe that even when we give when it is difficult to do so, we give with the confidence of knowing that God will take care of us, and bless us as He sees fit! That is how we are cheerful, because we know that others are blessed by our giving, and we know God will take care of us!

I need to be sure to give cheerfully to my Lord who has blessed me with all things!

Day 334

2 Corinthians 8 verse 15 struck me hard. It says, "Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack."

I believe this pertains to finances, and is saying if you save and save and save and try to have it all for yourself, you will never have enough. However, if what you have you give away and bless others, you will always have enough.

This is a tough concept for me to handle. I have been trained to think that if I have x amount and give away y, I now have x-y left over. But that is not necessarily how it works. When we bless others, we receive back as well.

God calls us to use our gifts to bless others. I need to stop gathering, and start giving!

Day 333

I know that even with all that I am blessed with, and all that I am capable of, that is not sufficient.

2 Corinthians 3 verses 4 and 5 say, "Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God."

We can be confident that our sufficiency come from God. We cannot claim anything as our own accomplishments. God provides, God protects and God fulfills. He is sufficient!

Day 332

Being in Christ also means that we are to build each other up. Romans 15 verses 1 and 2 say, "We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up."

We are to comfort those who are weak, to build them up and be an encouragement. This especially means we are to be an encouragement to those of weak faith. Those who are deeply rooted in their faith are to be mentors to others. We are to be Christians together, not on our own!

I will try to build up in faith those of my family, and to those who need spiritual encouragement.

Day 331

We are all made with unique gifts. The Lord has designed it this way in order for everyone to use those gifts for His glory.

Romans 12 verses 6 through 8 say, "Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness."

The Lord says in these verses that no matter what your gifts are, use them to the full to bring Him glory. The point too is that we use them. Do not hide them, but instead use them to the full!

We are here to give God glory in all we do. Our gifts are the way we do that; a way of giving back to Him for the gifts He has given. Let us remember to use them to give Him glory.

Day 330

Romans 8 verses 35 and 37 through 39 are amazing verses! They say, "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword?
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor power, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

What an amazing couple of verses that sum up the amount of love the Lord has for us! Nothing in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord! I find great comfort in these verses.

Not only will God love us in all things, but in all things we as Christians are more than conquerors! Through whatever trials and tribulations that come our way, we come out victorious since we are in Christ!

Day 329

Romans 7 verses 21 through 23 describes the inner torment that we go through. These verses say, "So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members."

There are several good points in this and the first one talks to the fact that when we want to do right, when I want to put my trust wholly in the Lord, evil lies close at hand! When I try and fully turn my worries and troubles over, evil is right there! Evil is what drives me to ask why. Evil is what puts doubts in my mind that pull me away from the Lord.

These verses also show that both good and evil are present in our bodies at one time! We strive for good, but the evil takes over! This is a somewhat scary concept!

This war and battle is never ending, however, I know that I have someone on my side who is more powerful than the evil inside me! They have the power to overthrow the evil inside and make me pure! Only through Jesus can we do this! All we must do is trust and pursue Him!

Day 328

It is always good to review the basics of the faith. This is done in today's reading.

Romans 3 verses 23 and 24 say, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus."

The basics: All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. We do not deserve to be saved! However, by His grace and mercy, we are justified, we are forgiven, through the redemption in Christ Jesus. We have done nothing to earn this forgiveness. It is a gift from Christ. We are helpless to save ourselves. It is only through Christ that we are saved!

We thank God, and in response to this, we live to give Him all glory and honor and praise! What an awesome God we serve!

Day 327

Quite often, I believe people do not realize the importance of the Holy Bible. They do not realize the contents of it and what it can do!

However, Romans 1 verse 16 reminds us of this, "For [the gospel] is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes..."

The gospel, the message, is the power of God for salvation. This is given to all who believe! All we have to do is believe and salvation is given to us! What a plain and simple truth that is so important! I thank God for His word and for the salvation, grace, mercy and love found there.

Day 326

I take comfort in knowing that the Lord has made me the way I am. He has given me the spiritual gifts I possess, and has blessed me with other gifts as well.

1 Corinthians 15 verse 10 says, "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believe."

By the grace of God, I am what I am. That is a solid truth! The only way I am where I am today is through the grace of God. I thank Him every day for the blessings I have and the gifts He has given me, and I know that all good things come from Him!

I trust Him for all things. I know that He will take care of me and my family and I thank Him for being a God who is trustworthy. What a God I serve!

Day 325

In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul talks about how each person has their own spiritual gifts. Each person is different, and that is what makes up the body of Christ. All of the different members are needed to make the body complete. Paul calls the spiritual gifts, higher gifts.

1 Corinthians 12 verse 31 says, "But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way."

Paul is saying that if we chase after and pursue spiritual gifts, we will find a more excellent way, or a more excellent life! Every spiritual gift is different and each one is needed to complete the body.

No one has the right to say that the gifts they have are worthless, or they wish they had some other gifts. We are all created by God and have the gifts we have to complete the spiritual body.

Day 324

As I said about two weeks ago, my wife and I just had a baby girl! However, we are now going through the tough time of little diapers, little clothes, and most of all, little sleep!

We also have a son who is almost two with more energy than both my wife and myself put together. This combination of newborn and energetic son puts us at the end of our rope!

That is why it is relieving to read verses like 1 Corinthians 10 verse 13. It says, "No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation He will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

God will not let us be tempted beyond our ability! At this stage, we feel that we cannot do it; we cannot handle it! It is too much! We are not going to make it! But God is with us! And He will not let us be tempted beyond our ability. We must endure! We can endure with God's help! With God's help.

Day 323

In 1 Corinthians chapter 4, Paul is talking about boasting. In verse 7, he says, "For who sees anything different in you? What do you have that you did not receive? If then you received it, why do you boast as if you did not receive it?"

Quit often, we boast about ourselves. We boast about our abilities, our possessions and our friends. But Paul poses some questions. First of all, what do you have that you did not receive? Or in other words, God has given us everything. Why then do we go around acting like we have obtained or earned anything?

The second question is, if we were given those things, why do we boast as if we earned them ourselves? The credit goes to the Lord, not to ourselves! He is the one who has blessed us with our gifts. He is the one that deserves the credit!

I will continue to give God the glory and the credit for the gifts He has blessed me with! I know I could not earn or obtain any of those things on my own!

Day 322

I find it fascinating how even the evil spirits knew Jesus. They had never met him before on Earth, but they still know him. There were men who were using both Jesus and Paul's name to try and drive out evil spirits.

Acts 19 verse 15 says, "But the evil spirit answered them, 'Jesus I know, and Paul I recognize, but who are you?'"

First of all, it is only by faith in Christ that this could have been done. Second, the evil spirit said he knew Jesus; not just recognized or heard of, but knew. This goes to show that Jesus has even conquered Satan! He has conquered the evil spirits and is Lord of all! What an awesome and worthy God we serve!

Day 321

What encouraging words Paul gives in 2 Thessalonians 2 verses 14 and 15. They say, "[The Lord] called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then brothers, stand firm and hold to the traditions that were taught by us..."

I like that mandate to stand firm. It clearly portrays how we as Christians are empowered through Christ. With Christ in us, we are able to stand firm before all that is thrown at us but the evil one because Christ is in us, with us and for us!

I will stand firm in the promise that the Lord is with me and I am in Christ. I can stand firm with the confidence of knowing the Lord is with me, who can be against me?

Day 320

All too often it seems as though we are prone to tear someone down than to encourage one another. But Paul writes to encourage the Thessalonians and also in 1 Thessalonians 5 verse 11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."

Encourage one another and build one another up. Do not tear down. Also, encourage one another in Christ. Be there for others physically but also spiritually so you may grow together. This is what we are called to do!

Day 319

I find it amazing, the great example Paul and Silas were! They were spreading the Gospel to town after town. They were then thrown in prison for advocating customs that did not follow the Roman ways.

Acts 16 verse 25 says, "About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them."

Paul and Silas were thrown in prison for spreading the Gospel, but still they praise the Lord! They are in a cold, stone prison with shackles on their hands and feet, but they are still singing! For they know the Lord has them there for a reason and are resting in that comfort. They have faith that the Lord will bring them out.

What an example of faith and trust! Even when they are in prison with shackles on, they continue to praise and believe! I must learn from Paul and Silas to always trust, and always believe, no matter what!

Day 318

Paul spoke very plainly to me today in Galations 4 verse 9. It says, "But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more?"

There are a few things said here. First of all, when we accept Christ, we are then known by God, or acknowledged by God as His own! Once we acknowledge Him, we are His children!

Also, once we are His children, how can we go back to the ways of the world? How can we be influenced by the evils of the world, or the worries or troubles? How can we becomes slaves to the worries and troubles of the world when we know God and God acknowledges us as His children?

What a strong question for me to answer! Why do I let the worries of this world enslave me when I have a God who has taken me as His child and promises to take care of me? Why do I worry when I know my God can do all things and loves me with a love deeper than I can imagine? I don't know. And if I don't know, then it doesn't make any sense to continue!

Day 317

As I am going through these readings, I am finding that I both want and need to rely on God for everything.

I try to do good. I try to set an example of Christ in all that I do. However, in the end, that really means nothing! Galations 2 verse 16 says, "yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified."

No matter what I do, I cannot earn my way to Salvation! It is only by faith in Christ that we are saved! No matter how good we are, we still need God! We need His grace and mercy.

Once we believe, we are to do good and set an example of Him in response to His grace and mercy in order to glorify Him! We do these things to glorify Him, but not to be saved. This is good to keep in mind!

Day 316

Again I see the reactions of believers and I can relate.

Peter was imprisoned and sentenced to death. A group of believers gathered together to pray for Peter. An angel appeared to Peter in the cell at night and helped him escape! Peter then went to the house where everyone was praying and told them he was okay.

Acts 12 verse 16 says, "But Peter continued knocking and when they opened, the saw him and were amazed."

It is quite often amazing to me too when the Lord answers prayer! After thinking about it, I am not sure why it is so surprising, but it is wonderful to know that the Lord answers prayer!

What an awesome and all powerful God we serve! A God capable of doing anything and a God who answers prayer! Praise be to the Lord!

Day 315

In today's reading, Peter went to visit the house of Cornelius who was not a Jew. Although, Cornelius was a man who pursued God and had faith.

When Peter arrived, Cornelius came out to meet him. Acts 10 verses 25 and 26 say, "When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. But Peter lifted him up, saying, 'Stand up; I too am a man.'"

I think this is so cool because Cornelius bowed down to Peter, but instead of accepting the recognition, Peter told him to stand up, for Peter is just a man.

Peter was showing that the Glory does not go to ourselves, but instead to the Lord who is more than a man, but also God! I need to keep this same mentality always, that I am just a man, but the Lord is God!

Day 314

In this reading, Saul, a persecutor of Christians, experiences the Lord and all his wonder, and believes.

Ananias is a prophet who was sent by the Lord to minister to Saul (now Paul). When Ananias heard the Lord say to go to Saul, he was apprehensive since Ananias had heard of what Paul was doing to those who believed.

But the Lord responded in Acts 9 verse 15. He said, "Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine..."

How cool is that? But I think about it and realize that we are all chosen instruments of the Lord! We all have special gifts given to us by the Lord. We are all chosen instruments of His!

Day 313

Stephen was a man chosen to serve others out of the increasingly large number of disciples. He did great wonders and signs among the people.

However, some people belonging to the synagogue rose up against Stephen and brought him before the council. They set up false witnesses against him and made him out to be a liar. But through it all, Luke (the author of Acts) writes in chapter 6 verse 15, "And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel."

The Holy Spirit was with Stephen that day. Stephen was later led out and stoned, but it says that after Stephen prayed, he fell asleep rather than dying from the stones.

Even through trials and tribulations, the Holy Spirit was with Stephen and it was outwardly visible. I pray that even in tough, trying times, others can see the Holy Spirit in me and the Lord can be glorified!

Day 312

In today's reading, a few of the apostles were arrested by the council of the Pharisees. They were being questioned about the teachings they were giving.

When the council demanded that they stop teaching and the apostles said they would not, the council was furious and wanted to kill them.

Then one of the Pharisees named Gamaliel stood up in Acts 5 and said in verses 38 through 39, "If [the plan of the apostles] is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!"

How amazing of a statement is that! If the plan is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, nothing can stop it!

I believe this is true in most things in my life. Anything I try to do on my own, anything of man, fails. But everything that I do that is of God cannot be stopped! I have to have faith and see which things are of man and which are of God, and chase after those of God!

Day 311

What an example of generosity the apostles and others showed after the Holy Spirit came.

Acts 2 verses 44 and 45 says, "And all who believed were together and had all things in common. And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need."

This was the first church! All who believed were gathered together. They were also giving of themselves in order to help those in need! What a great and difficult example of what we are called to do. We are to give and help to those who are in need, even if it means giving of ourselves.

I pray that I can recognize these needs and have the faith to give up of myself and fill those needs as shown in the example of the apostles.

Day 310

Another one of my favorite stories is of Jesus and the men on the road to Emmaus. I love how it is made clear that the death of Jesus was talked about by many.

Although, the verse that caught my eye was Luke 24 verse 32. It says, "Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked to us on the road, while He opened to us the Scriptures?"

Jesus, with the Holy Spirit, has the power to fill us and overwhelm our hearts with His love and mercy. His scripture can set a fire within us, a burning desire for Him!

I look forward to this time every day. I long for His word and am thankful for a book that describes how to discover my Lord. Through it, Jesus has the power to touch our hearts and make them burn within us.

I pray that every day, He touches my heart and enhances the desire I have to dive into His word to discover more about Him and His love and mercy!

Day 309

Again I find it fascinating how the Lord shocks and awes! The guards at the tomb saw the angel rolling away of the stone and felt the earthquake. The only reaction they had was to shake and become like dead men!

How amazing the Lord's resurrection is! But that is not all! Not only His resurrection, but also His love, His grace, His mercy, His forgiveness, and His power also are so splendid, that the only rational reaction is to shake and become like dead men! His characteristics are so overwhelming that we cannot even move, or think. All we can do is be still in shock and awe!

That is my God.

Day 308

What a Savior! What a sacrifice. Jesus was crucified for us! God sent His son to save us from our sin.

When Jesus died on the cross, there were many things that happened all at once. Rocks split, the curtain to the temple was torn in two, people rose from the dead and an earthquake occurred, all when the Lord died. After these events, a centurion keeping guard saw them and said in Matthew 27 verse 54, "Truly this was the Son of God!"

My daughter was born today. She is a perfect 6 lbs 6 oz and is a true blessing! I look at her and I see the Lord! I see the Glory of His design and the love He has for us!

After reading this and seeing what I saw today, I believe that we are to live in such a way where others will look upon us and say without a doubt, "Truly, the Son of God lives! I believe!"

Day 307

I have heard the story of the events leading up to Jesus's crucifixion, but there was one part that I do not recall that I find interesting.

When Jesus was before Pilate, Pilate's wife came to him and said in Matthew 27 verses 19 and 20, "While he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, 'Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much because of him today in a dream.'"

I find this interesting because it is almost as though it is Satan's last push to keep Jesus from dying for us! He was working through Pilate's wife to persuade him to let Jesus go! However, Pilate still went through with the crucifixion, fulfilling the prophesies of the Old Testament.

We have to work at determining what is from the Lord and what is Satan trying to lead us astray. To do this, I have found we must speak to God often through prayer, and also, take time to listen to what God has to say to us, so we can clearly know what is of God and what is not.

I pray that the Lord reveal His will to me and make it crystal clear what is of Him and what is not.

Day 306

After Jesus was betrayed and arrested, He was brought before the council to be tried. Matthew 26 verses 59 and 60 says, "Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking false testimony against Jesus that they might put Him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward."

Matthew 26 verse 62 says, "And the high priest stood up and said, 'Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?'"

Many people tried to testify against Him, but they could not convict Him, for He was innocent! He only spoke once through the trial. Matthew 26 verse 64 says, "Jesus said to him, 'You have said so. But I tell you, from now on you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming on the clouds of heaven.'"

This truth was seen as blasphemy and it was this that they marked Him as guilty. Jesus was innocent and remained silent for us! He did this for us to save us from the punishment that we deserve! Thanks be to the Lord for the ultimate sacrifice for us!

Day 305

When Jesus went to pray in the garden, He knew what was ahead of Him. He knew that there was going to be great suffering and pain. However, Jesus still did it.

What an example Jesus is for us! When He was praying in the garden, knowing what was ahead, Jesus prayed in Luke 22 verse 42, "Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me. Nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done."

How much strength and faith it takes to say, "Not my will, but Yours be done." It is a reminder that we are not on this Earth for ourselves, but to give glory to the Lord. It is all for Him!

I pray that the Lord works in me for His glory. I pray that His will is done through me. Not my will, but His be done!

Day 304

What an amazing God we serve! Whenever we feel insecure, or are troubled, we can remember what Jesus offers us in John 16 verse 33. He says, "In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."

Wow! How profound that is! Jesus says that we will have tribulation, not that we may. It is a certainty. But the comfort in that is knowing that there is hope! Jesus has overcome the world! There is not reason to fear or be worried. Jesus has overcome!

I rest in that comfort!

Day 303

I really like the analogy Jesus uses in John chapter 15 verses 1 and 2. They say, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit."

The Lord is my God and He is constantly working on me. He is pruning me and removing the dead parts, the withered parts of me that no longer bear fruit; that no longer give Him glory, so I can feed the good in me. He is constantly at work in me to make me more like Him!

I feel He has done a lot of work in me since the start of these readings, however, I feel like He has a lot more work to do in me! I look forward to being molded and pruned further to not only display His beauty in me, but also bear more fruit for Him!

Day 302

What an amazing illustration! Jesus, at the last supper, gets down and washes his disciples's feet! He shows by example what we are meant to be. We are meant to be servants.

Jesus requires that we serve others. He requires that we show others that we are lesser, humble servants of the Lord, and that means serving others and sharing the love of Christ with them.

I need to keep this in mind every day that I am not here to be served but to serve!

Day 301

I truly believe that the Lord entrusts us with a little. Then, based off of what we do with those blessings, He determines if we should be blessed further, like in the parable today.

The Lord has blessed me with so much! I am so grateful to Him for everything. I have an amazing wife who I love deeply, a great son who I am so proud of already, and also we are expecting our second any day now!

But I believe the one area where I have failed in is with our finances. The Lord has blessed us with a little and I do not think I am handling it as best as I should or could. I sometimes feel like the man who was given one talent. I am not investing my blessings like I should.

I continue to pray that the Lord will give me guidance as to how to handle His blessings and how to make them grow as He demands.

Day 300

I fell very blessed to be a Christian in the United States. Here we are not persecuted for what we believe, but accepted, and in certain areas, encouraged. But there are others who are being persecuted for the Lord. I can't imagine the pressure when witnessing to say the right things.

But Jesus gives some advice on this. Luke 21 verses 14 through 15 says, "Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer, for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict."

Jesus is saying, when we are witnessing for the Lord, do not worry about what you will say! The Holy Spirit will handle that! Just have faith and trust the Lord to speak of Him and witness!

I have a difficult time with this. I do not feel confident enough in my faith to talk about it with others. But with this, I know that the Lord will put the right words in my mouth and the Holy Spirit will take it from there! I just have to have the nerve to speak!

Day 299

In Luke 21, Jesus and His disciples are watching the tithe being collected. There are several rich men putting large amounts in the collection. But then, a poor widow comes and places just pennies in the offering basket.

In response to this, Jesus says in Luke 21 verses 3 and 4, "Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on."

Jesus is saying that the window contributed more because she had nothing. She was not comfortable with her current situation, but she still gave to the Lord as a gesture of faith.

The Lord recognizes gestures of faith to Him and I am so thankful for that! I continue to work on my trust in the Lord. I give everything to Him to show how much I love and trust Him!

Day 298

Through this reading, I am also trying to deepen my faith and understanding so I can speak confidently of the word.

Right now, I believe I miss opportunities to speak of the Lord and all He has done because I am not confident enough to speak on behalf of the Bible. I know that when situations arise, the Holy Spirit is with me and He will speak through me and for me. However, I need the confidence to speak.

Jesus, when He spoke, spoke with confidence and with knowledge. As a result, He was able to fend off all traps and attacks on Himself (Luke 20 verse 40).

This reading is helping to strengthen my confidence and give me what I need to speak up when talking about my Lord. I will do what I can to speak up and not back down when confronted about my Lord!

Day 297

My son has a book about Whistler the Dog. It is a story based on Mark 11 verse 24. It is a children's book, but it has time and again been exactly what I needed to hear.

Again Jesus talks about faith. Mark 11 verses 22 through 24 says, "And Jesus answered them, 'Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.'"

To me, this is so profound! What power prayer has! The only difficult part is not doubting in your heart. We as humans on this Earth are influenced by the world around us, and therefore, are introduced to doubt. But if we rid ourselves of doubt, we can move mountains!

I need to focus on removing all doubt, because with the Lord, there is no reason to doubt.

Day 296

What an all powerful, mighty, gracious, loving, deserving God we serve.

As Jesus was riding the donkey into Jerusalem, some Pharisees came to Jesus and told Him to quiet His disciples. Jesus replied in Luke 19 verse 40, "I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out."

I believe this! Our Lord is so worthy of praise, if we don't do our part to praise the Lord, then the stones and the very Earth will break forth!

Our Lord is so wonderful, He deserves constant praise! May we, along with all creation, give the Lord the praise He deserves!

Day 295

Again and again I see Jesus speaking to and healing those who believe.

Mark chapter 10 verses46 to 52 tell of Bartimaeus who was blind. He was a beggar outside the city. When he heard that Jesus was walking by, he shouted for Him to heal him.

Jesus heard his cry and asked him what he wanted Jesus to do. When the man asked to restore his sight, Jesus responds in verse 52, "Go your way, your faith has made you well."

Time and time again Jesus proves He is all powerful and can do far more than I could ever imagine. However, it is all by faith! Each time it is by faith. I continue to strive to obtain the faith that moves mountains and to be able to fully trust Him for everything.

Day 294

I consider myself to be a rich person. Not necessarily in monetary possessions, but rather in the family that I have, the friends that I have, and other similar things.

So I found it interesting in Matthew 19 verse 24 says, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God."

This concerns me a little bit! Does that mean that all that I have to consider myself rich must be taken away in order to enter the kingdom of heaven?

Thankfully, the Lord answers my question a few verses later. Verse 26 says, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

Whew! There is a chance! However, I do believe that this does not come easy! I must devote my entire self to the Lord and trust Him completely. I trust Him to pull this camel through the eye of a needle because I know only He can do it.

Day 293

Before every reading, I pray. I pray about everything, mainly about what is on my mind at the time, and also I pray of the things I have learned so far and I pray that the Lord would reveal to me what He is speaking in the readings for that day.

In the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus prays twice. Once when He hears of Lazarus, and once at the tomb.

The second time Jesus prays, He says this in John 11 verse 41 and 42, "Father, I thank You that You have heard me. I knew that You always hear me, but I said this on account of the people standing around, that they may believe that You sent me."

Jesus said the second prayer to increase the faith of those at the tomb. However, Jesus knew that His first prayer was answered. He knew that the Lord hears every prayer.

I have to remember that the Lord hears every prayer. When I pray, I am talking directly to the Lord! I have to take that seriously. What a privilege and a blessing it is to be able to talk to the Lord my God!

Day 292

Luke chapter 16 gives the parable of the dishonest manager. In this story, a man entrusted with the wealth of another did not manage the money honorably. However, after being confronted, he turned from his ways.

Luke chapter 16 verse 10 says, "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest with much."

My wife and I, along with my son, live in a great house! It is not that big, but good for us. We have 2 modest cars and just enough money to get by for now. However, I feel that this is our test. I feel that the Lord is testing us with this amount. He is saying that if we manage what we currently have well, then He will continue to bless us.

I believe He does this with more than just possessions, but also responsibility and other things too. I thank the Lord for what He has already blessed me with and I pray I am trustworthy in His eyes to receive more.

I thank the Lord for the blessings He has given me, and the ones yet to come!

Day 291

I like the way Jesus explains the benefits of being humble in Luke 14 verses 7 through 11. He describes how it brings honor when one is humble and lifted up, but brings shame when one is proud and brought down.

Jesus also said in Luke 13 verse 30 says, "And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last."

One of the many lessons Jesus teaches is to be humble in all circumstances. It will only bring honor to your name. I will strive to be humble and put others before me.

Day 290

I found it interesting today the story of the blind man. Jesus restored his sight, but He did it on the Sabbath. The Pharisees questioned the man about Jesus to figure out who He really is.

The Pharisees brought in the man's parents and all who would help validate the man's story and determine who Jesus was. The man told them the story of how he was blind, and now he sees, but still they did not believe.

After the man realized the Pharisees still did not believe, he said to them in John 9 verse 30, "Why, this is an amazing thing! You do not know where He comes from, and yet He opened my eyes..."

I like this man's way of thinking. He's basically telling the Pharisees that they may not believe who He is, but look at what He has done!

I think the same goes for us. We may have doubts or even sometimes not believe, but look at what He has done! Not only in the Bible, which is the spoken word of God and the true account of what has been, but also in our lives as well! Whenever we doubt, think about these things!

Day 289

In today's reading, Jesus says in Luke 11 verse 28, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

I need a reminder like this one that says it is not only good enough to read, but what I am reading must be kept and followed through with.

These readings are a two step process. The first is obviously reading it, but the second is retention. This can be done by thinking about what was read several times that day and it can also be done by memorization and other ways.

I believe this is important to keep the intent of the passage fresh in my mind and live it throughout the day.

Day 288

After reading the Lord's prayer in Luke 11, verses 2 through 4, I have more of an appreciation for what Jesus is saying.

Earlier, Jesus had charged His disciples to go and spread the gospel. However, they were not to take any supplies; no food, no extra clothing, nothing.

So when the disciples ask Jesus how they should pray, when the Lord says in Luke 11 verse 3, "Give us each day our daily bread." Jesus is literally saying, pray to the Lord and trust Him to provide your daily needs. I am sure that meant a whole lot more to them than it would for us.

However, Jesus emphasized praying this prayer to have their daily bread, rather than just expecting it. Ask and it shall be given to you. We have to pray and we have to ask.

I believe Jesus is saying to pray often and ask Him to meet our needs. We then must trust Him to do so. This is how we should pray.

Day 287

In this reading, Jesus was put to the test by the Pharisees. A woman who, by local law, deserved to be stoned by the people was brought to Jesus. They wanted to test Him to see if Jesus would throw stones at her as per the law.

Jesus responds to their test by saying in John 8 verse 7, "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her."

Jesus is saying that only the one who is sinless has the right to judge. The only person that is sinless is the Lord. Therefore, do not judge others.

I have to remember to be pure with my comments. I have to talk positively about others, and build others up. Also, it is not my place to judge others. This is the Lord's responsibility, not ours.

Even in our minds we must refrain from judging others. I will work on being pure with my comments and not judging others when I have no right to do so.

Day 286

In the reading for today, the disciples try to cast out a demon from a boy, but are unable.

The disciples approached Jesus later and asked Him why they could not cast out the demon. Jesus replied in Matthew 17 verse 20, "Because of your little faith. For truly I say to you. If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move, and nothing will be impossible for you."

I long for a faith like this where I pray wholly confident that the Lord can do all that I ask and more. I am getting there, but still traces of doubt creep in. I believe that is what is holding me back.

I continue to strive for this kind of faith, and as the father of the boy with the spirit said in Mark 9:24, "I believe; help my unbelief!"

Day 285

In today's reading, Jesus shows us how to identify Satan and how to respond.

When Jesus foretells His death and resurrection, Peter takes Him aside and rebukes Him. But Jesus sees the devil working through him and says in Matthew 16 verse 23, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man."

Jesus saw that what He was being told was not of the will of the Lord and it did not fall into the Lord's plan. When He saw this, He rebuked Peter and did not listen.

I need to keep on the lookout for Satan working in my life, and also through others to try and sway me from my purpose and part in the Lord's plan. I need to see that when someone says something, or a thought enters my mind that is not of the Lord, I need to acknowledge that and focus again on the Lord.

I pray that the Lord will help me identify when things are not of Him and give me the strength to overcome them and continue to focus on Him.

Day 284

In today's reading, Jesus feeds 4,000 men. The thing about this story is the lack of faith by the disciples.

Jesus had compassion on the people and told His disciples that they need to feed the people before they go home, otherwise they will not make it.

Mark 8 verse 4 says, "And His disciples answered Him, 'How can one feed these people with bread here in this desolate place?'"

Are you kidding me? A few chapters ago, Jesus fed 5,000 men with nothing but scraps! Why would they even ask this question when they know what Jesus can do?

But at the same time, I look at myself. I do the same thing! I have seen what Jesus can do, but I still question Him! I still ask Him how. Jesus can do all things. Why then do I question Him? Why then do I doubt?

Day 283

Quite often I wonder if I am a good Christian. I wonder if I am following in His ways and doing His works.

This is clarified in John chapter 6 verses 28 and 29, It says, "Then they said to Him, 'What must we do, to be doing the works of God?' Jesus answered them, 'This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.'"

The main thing, to sum it all up, that we have to do to be accomplishing the works of God is to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. We simply have to believe!

Day 282

I am all too often like Peter. I see something miraculous like Jesus walking on the water, or have my faith strengthened in some way and I take a step of faith too. I get out of the boat to walk on water to Jesus.

Unfortunately, all too often, I am like Peter. I get a little ways out, and I see all that is around me, the storm that I am in and I loose sight of Jesus. I start to sink. I then, always, hear the Lord say to me as He said to Peter in Matthew 14 verse 31, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

I am faced with that question a lot. Why did I doubt? I know the Lord can do all things and I know He will take care of me. There is no reason to doubt. I will strive to have faith and not doubt.

Day 281

What an ultimate act of faith by the disciples. Luke 9 verses 1 through 6 describe how Jesus sent out the disciples to spread His teachings to Israel. However, Jesus had some requirements. Luke 9 verse 3 says, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money, and do not have two tunics."

To me that is the ultimate act of faith, to devote your entire life to spreading the Gospel but not taking any supplies. They are to trust completely for their everyday needs.

I can learn a lot from Jesus's charge and the disciples's faith. The disciples left knowing they would be taken care of, even when they had nothing. It is a tough lesson for me, but I too am learning to trust. I know that it is through Christ that I am taken care of. I thank Him and continue to hand over everything to Him.

Day 280

I am consistently amazed at the faith of others. A woman suffering from a disease for the past 12 years could not be healed by any doctors or anyone else. But she had the faith to just touch the cloak of Jesus and she knew that she would be healed.

When Jesus confronted her about touching His cloak, she responded with why she touched Him and also let Him know that she was immediately healed!

Then Jesus responds in Luke 8 verse 48, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace."

That is interesting. Her faith has made her well. This implies that if she had touched Jesus's cloak and not believed, she would not have been healed.

I wonder how many opportunities are missed by us when we do not believe. I wonder how many blessings are available to us that we do not receive because we do not have faith.

It is only by faith that we live in Christ.

Day 279

I love the story of how Jesus calms the storm. Jesus and the disciples are in a boat and a storm arises. The waves get bigger, the wind gets stronger and the boat is starting to take on water. The disciples awake a sleeping Jesus and confront about the storm.

Matthew 8 verses 26 and 27 say, "And He said to them, 'Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?' Then He rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, 'What sort of a man is this, that even winds and sea obey Him?'"

I know quite often I run to Jesus, concerned or frightened about one thing or another. And each time Jesus comes back and says, "Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?"

Why am I afraid? Why do I worry? Is my faith that small? I am finding out that it is all about faith and trust. I need to work on having both.

Day 278

I feel that I can relate to the parable of the sower. Mark 4 verses 18 and 19 say, "And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desire for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful."

I have a strong base in the word. I have been raised as a Christian all my life. But I continue to falter in my faith as the cares and concerns of this world choke my faith. I worry about finances and safety and many other things that deter me from true faith.

However, I am working on ridding myself of these things that choke my faith. It is not an easy process, but it is a rewarding one. I desire to have the kind of faith that never can be swayed and I am getting there.

Don't be afraid or unwilling to take on the process of removing the cares and concerns of life that choke one's faith. It is far more rewarding and worth while.

Day 277

I think it is sometimes difficult to fully understand the power of the Lord. However, the centurion knew the power of Christ in Luke 7.

The centurion's servant was very ill, and when he heard that Jesus was near, he sent messengers to Him requesting that He heal his servant. Luke 7 verses 6 through 7 say, "And Jesus went with them. When He was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends, saying to Him, 'Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have You come under my roof. Therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed.'"

Luke 7 verse 9 says, "When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed Him, said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith."

This centurion understood not only was Jesus all powerful, he also understood that Jesus was worthy of honor and respect and he knew that he was not worthy to have Jesus step into his house.

Do we go to the Lord in this kind of humbleness? Do we look at the Lord in this kind of light? I have to keep in mind that the Lord is worthy of all honor and praise and I am not worthy of even having Him speak to me. However, it is by His grace and mercy that He is mindful of us and loves us! What an amazing Lord!

Day 276

Again, God speaks to me and tells me exactly what I need to hear. He tells me He is in control.

As I stated before, I worry. I worry about many things. But this passage hits home. Matthew 6 verses 25 through 34 says, "Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life...Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more valuable than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?...Therefore, do not be anxious saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'...for your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself."

This is a long excerpt but it says so much! Jesus is saying do not worry! The birds are not near as important as you, but the Lord takes care of them. Why do we think the Lord will not take care of us just the same? Also, why worry about material things? The Lord knows that we need them all!

And here's the key: Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Seek after the Lord and He will take care of you.

I have to have faith that the Lord will take care of all of my needs. I just have to have faith and seek after Him!

Day 275

Jesus is good at hitting on the points I need the most. Today, Jesus is talking about lending money in Luke 6 verses 34 through 35. He says, "And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount. But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great..."

Lend to others and do not expect anything in return! Whoa! That is a new concept for me. But I think Jesus is saying to give your money away. If you do, your reward will be great.

This is tough for me because once again, I am bound by what I understand. The way I look at this is if I give money away, that means I have less than before. How then can my reward be great? But Jesus is the giver of all blessings and He can do anything. He is the one that blesses me and He works outside the scope of what I understand.

I need to give often and happily knowing that the Lord will take care of me in all ways and in all things.

Day 274

I have to laugh at the Pharisees. In Matthew 12, they were so focused on the Law and so focused on their religion, they completely missed what was happening right in front of them!

In Matthew 12 verses 9 through 14, Jesus heals a man with a withered hand. However, Jesus did this on a Sunday. The Pharisees criticized Jesus for this because Jesus wasn't following the Law doing work on a Sunday. They completely overlooked the fact that Jesus healed a man's withered hand right in front of them! They were so concerned about the Law and their religion, they didn't see the miracle that took place.

I wonder how often we do the same thing. I wonder how often we get too tied up in the routine of our church services or too tied up in the everyday, that we completely miss the work of Jesus. I find the best place to see the work of the Lord is in church where His children come together to give Him glory. I also see His glory every day in the colorful trees in autumn, or in the wind that is invisible, but its effects are seen everywhere.

I need to work on looking for and seeing the Lord in all places and in all things, because I know He is absolutely everywhere and in all things. I cannot get distracted by routines and everyday occurrences, but I have to look. Then I will see the glory of the Lord!

Day 273

In today's reading, Jesus heals a leper. In this story, I admire the faith that this leper has. I think he could not have asked Jesus to heal him in a more perfect way.

Luke 5 verse 12 says, "While Jesus was in one of the cities, there came a man full of leprosy. And when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and begged him, 'Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.'"

This man knew that Jesus could heal him. There was no doubt in his mind! He knew that it was up to Jesus to determine if he would heal the leper or not. Therefore, the leper asked if Jesus would heal him, not if Jesus could.

Quite often, we come to the Lord asking if He can do something. This is wrong. We must go to the Lord knowing he can do anything, but also knowing it is up to the Lord to do it or not.

When I pray, I must pray with the confidence of knowing that He can do all that I ask and more, and pray that the Lord will, not that the Lord can.

Day 272

In today's reading, Jesus calls his first disciples. Mark 1 verses 16 through 18 say, "Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And Jesus said to them, 'Follow Me and I will make you become fishers of men.' And immediately they left their nets and followed Him."

Two things I find interesting about this passage. The first is that Jesus was just passing by. It sounds to me like Simon and Andrew did not know Jesus very well, but still they followed Him when He called.

The second thing I find interesting is the last line. It says, "immediately they left their nets and followed Him." Immediately, without delay. They didn't even think about it, they just did it.

I quite often wonder if I have that kind of faith, where if I hear the Lord call, will I immediately drop everything and follow Him? I have to make sure that I listen for Him and immediately follow where He leads me.

Day 271

I found it interesting that both Jesus' disciples and John's disciples were baptizing people in the same area. More people were going to be baptized by Jesus' disciples and John's disciples were jealous. They were also concerned that Jesus was not qualified to be baptizing people.

John responded in John 3 verse 30 saying, "He must increase, but I must decrease."

In other words, that is okay! That is the way it should be! John realized that his purpose was to glorify the Lord. His purpose was to lift Jesus up, while lessening himself.

I want to make sure that I do this as much as possible to. Do I lift the Lord up and give Him the glory and the credit while I lessen myself? Or do I take the credit when the credit belongs to the Lord?

I have to be aware that the Lord is the one who deserves the glory. He is the one who blessed me with the gifts that I have. All that I do is because He equipped me to do it. He must increase, but I must decrease.

Day 270

I always wondered how Jesus knew so much of the Bible and of all that He was supposed to do. But here in Mark 1 it may be explained for me.

After Jesus was baptized, He was led to the wilderness to be tempted. He was out there 40 days. Mark 1 verse 13 says, "And He was with the wild animals, and the angels were ministering to Him."

I find it interesting that even Jesus needed to be ministered to and taught.

Sometimes I am closed minded to being ministered to or to being taught of the word. However, it is humbling to hear that even Jesus needed to be ministered to and taught.

I will try to openly accept new teachings of the word when it deepens my relationship with the Lord.

Day 269

There are so many things being bombarded at us in these scripture readings, it is difficult to pinpoint one thing.

However, once again, one thing that struck me was Joseph. They just had Jesus about 2 years ago, enough time to get settled into a place, and he then has a dream. Matthew 2 verse 13 says, "...An angel of the lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, 'Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you...'"

Whoa! That would be so difficult for him. He had to pack up his life and his family and move to Egypt; a different country! I can't imagine what he told Mary!

What faith he must have had to follow where the Lord led him! It reminds me that I am not here on this Earth to do what I want to do or follow my own whims. But instead I am here to accomplish all that the Lord has set for me to do. I am here to follow Him and to glorify Him. Period!

Day 268

What a trying time for Joseph! He found out that his new wife was expecting however, he had not known her yet! His only assumption was that it was by another man! Conception by the Holy Spirit was not heard of in his day.

So Joseph had a plan. He knew that the baby was not his. Matthew 1 verse 19 says, "And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly."

But then God steps in. Matthew 1 verse 20 says, "But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, 'Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.'"

I can't imagine what Joseph was thinking after that! It had to be difficult for him. I am sure he doubted on occasion as is natural for all of mankind. But Joseph stuck with Mary and was the earthly father to our Lord and Savior.

Sometimes the Lord calls us to things that are not in our comfort zone. They may be difficult, but in the end, multiple blessings result. I have to remember not to say no to the tough things God requires.

Day 267

We start out already in the first reading of the New Testament with 2 miracles both presented by the angel Gabriel.

The first is Elizabeth conceiving in her old age. She was considered baron, however, the Lord was able to provide a son. This was so much a shock, Zechariah, Elizabeth's husband, did not believe Gabriel. In response to this, Zechariah was not able to talk until the birth of the baby.

The second miracle was with Mary. Her conception is also considered miraculous since she was a virgin. The angel explains that not only is Mary going to be expecting, but Elizabeth is also in her 6th month after being considered baron.

To sum it all up, the angel Gabriel states in Luke 1 verse 37, "For nothing will be impossible with God."

Wow! Well put! Nothing is impossible with God.

It is sometimes easy to forget how awesome and wonderful the Lord is! But I think it is imperative to keep in mind that nothing is impossible with God!

Day 266

To me, this is the culmination of all that I have read so far. Today is the last day of the Old Testament.

At the beginning of this commitment, I said that out of this study I wanted to trust in the Lord more. After looking back at the lessons I have pulled from the verses read, I see that the Lord was strongly speaking to me to trust. Trust and He will bless me.

The place where I found this to be the most difficult was with my finances. And this continues to be my primary struggle. Trusting God with my health and safety are large steps in the right direction, but trusting God with my finances continues to be my primary struggle.

I have given even my finances over to the Lord, but I find myself still trying to clutch on.

And that is why the reading for today, the last reading of the Old Testament, is perfect for me today.

Malachi 3 verses 10 through 12 says, "Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house. And thereby put Me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I were not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need. I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it would not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the Lord of hosts. Then all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a land of delight, says the Lord of hosts."

This passage says so much. First it commands to bring the full tithe, not just part. It also challenges us to put the Lord to the test! It says to challenge the Lord if you do not believe. It says the Lord will keep the devourer away and all nations will call us blessed!

I accept the Lord's challenge! I bring the full tithe to Him and trust Him for all of my finances! I am letting my finances go too! It is ALL HIS!

Day 265

I like Nehemiah's last plea to close out his book.

Chapter 13 verse 31 says, "Remember me, O my God, for good."

Very plainly put. It is a plea to the Lord to remember him in a good and pleasing way.

I too make a plea to the Lord to remember me in a pleasing way. Remember me for the good. Remember me and take me to your kingdom when I pass on from this life. Remember me.

Day 264

I find it interesting that many of the large decisions made in scripture were done by casting lots.

I see this as wholly trusting the Lord to influence the decision being made because only He could control how the decisions went.

I am working on becoming this trusting in the Lord and have made great strides already. But at the same time, I have a long way to go.

I will continue to wholly trust in the Lord as He calls us and desires us to do.

Day 263

Once the people were settled and heard the Law of the Lord read to them, they heard of the feast of booths. This was not practiced for many years, but it was found in the law.

Therefore, the people decided to celebrate the feast of booths. This consisted of living in booths or temporary shelters and focusing on the Lord.

Chapter 9 verse 3 says, "And they stood up in their place and read from the Book of the Law of the Lord their God for a quarter of the day; for another quarter of it they made confession and worshiped the Lord their God."

I think that is a great idea, to take time apart from the everyday routine and spend a quarter of the day reading from the Bible, and another quarter of the day worshiping the Lord!

Today, many people may find this difficult because they are too busy, or any number of excuses. It doesn't have to be a week, but maybe a day. I think it would be great just to set apart a large chunk of time to devote to the Lord! He deserves it!

Day 262

I think it is pretty cool what the series of events is that took place.

After much struggle, the wall to the city was finished, the people returned, and, most importantly, the first thing after everyone is moved in is Ezra reads the law for the people.

This time around, they are making it a point to have a firm foundation in the Lord and are blessing God and worshiping Him.

Not only is the law read, but there are priests going through the people explaining what is being read so the people fully understand. That is even more important.

This shows me that it is so important to have a foundation in the Lord. Also to have a good foundation in God's word. Only then can one stand.

Day 261

There were a few verses that hit me as being very interesting in the reading for today. Nehemiah 6 verses 15 and 16 say, "So the wall was finished...in fifty-two days. And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God."

I think it is so cool that other people saw the work that was done and realized that the Lord was part of it. They saw that their God was with them and "fell greatly in their own esteem." What a way to show the power and presence of the Lord than through the work that one does.

I pray that others will see the work that I do and see the Lord is with me. I also pray that others will realize this and humble themselves before the Lord.

Day 260

Once again it amazes me how the Lord uses anyone to fulfill His plan.

Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the king. He found favor with the king, but was upset because the city of Jerusalem was in ruin. The king saw that Nehemiah was upset and asked what he could do. Nehemiah proposed that the king write letters to command others to let Nehemiah reach Jerusalem, and also to supply Nehemiah with the materials needed to rebuild Jerusalem.

Nehemiah 2 verse 8 says, "And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me."

Nehemiah recognizes that what he is doing is in line with the Lord's will and plan and he also recognizes that probably under normal circumstances the king would have said no. But Nehemiah also recognizes that the hand of the Lord is upon him.

Not only does the Lord use everyday people to do extraordinary things, but He also is capable of so much more! Every day I find out more and more how wonderful the Lord is!

Day 259

I continue to see that all things are possible through the Lord.

Ezra is noted as a man who was "skilled in the Law of Moses." He studied the word of the Lord and ingrained it upon his heart.

Ezra 7 verse 6 says, "...The king granted him all that he asked, for the hand of the Lord his God was on him."

I look for statements like these in the Bible because I like to see what happens when the Lord is with someone, or when the hand of the Lord is on them. Ezra was a scribe who was granted all that he asked from the king! With this, Ezra was able to fulfill the Lord's plan.

I pray that the Lord is with me and has His hand on me. I pray that He equips me with all I need to fulfill His plan.

Day 258

I cannot imagine the shame that Haman must have felt when he was taking Mordecai through the city on a horse proclaiming what a good man Mordecai was.

Haman was intending to ask the king to hang Mordecai, but instead was presented with a question. Esther 6 verse 6 says, "So Haman came in, and the king said to him, 'What should be done to the man whom the king delights to honor?' And Haman said to himself, 'Whom would the king delight to honor more than me?'"

Haman described to the king what I'm sure was his desire of a way to be honored. The king said, "Go and do all that you have described for Mordecai!"...Ouch!

I find quite often that when I start to think I am more than what I am, the Lord humbles me. It is usually something like tripping on my own feet or another embarrassing moment that reminds me that I am not that great. However, I am the Lord's child and I take great comfort in that fact.

Day 257

What a story of Esther. And what words spoken by Mordecai in Chapter 4 verse 14.

Esther was being raised by Mordecai, her uncle, since she did not have a father or mother. Mordecai was one of those who were exiled from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar. Esther was chosen by the king to be his queen in place of Vashti who disobeyed the king.

Esther was a Jew but kept her background a secret. Haman along with the king issued an edict to kill all Jews, young and old.

Mordecai went to Esther for help because she was in a position with the king to find favor. However, it was a risk that could take her life.

But Mordecai says in Chapter 4 verse 14, "And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"

I think this is one of the best lines in the Bible. There were so many events that led up to Esther being queen exactly at the time the edict was issued. Mordecai was wise in seeing that Esther being queen at this particular time was no coincidence.

I have to make sure that my eyes are open in seeing that I am where I am at this particular time for a reason. The Lord has me where I am to complete His plan. I have to make sure that when it is time for me to act, that I see and I act.

I pray that the Lord gives me the insight to see these times and also the courage to act.

Day 256

I believe the Lord has a tough love for those who can handle it.

Zechariah 13 verse 9 says, "And I will put this third into the fire, and refine them as one refines silver, and test them as gold is tested. They will call upon My name and I will answer them. I will say, 'They are My people'; and they will say, 'The Lord is my God.'"

They Lord will put his people into the fire; into trials. And through that, He will refine us; make us pure; make us beautiful. He will test us to the highest standards to ensure we are perfect. We will be the Lord's people and He will be our God!

Through all of life's trials, I remember that the Lord is refining me and making me pure for Him!