Members phkrause Posted September 4, 2011 Author Members Posted September 4, 2011 September 4, 2011 Matthew 7:1-29 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 7:1-29: This chapter concludes Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount,” and it includes what is often referred to as the “Golden Rule” (verse 12). Four warnings are given that state the consequences of not following God’s will (verses 13-27). All those who hear Jesus’ teachings are amazed. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 7:12 Do for others what you want them to do for you: this is the meaning of the Law of Moses and of the teachings of the prophets. Today’s Reading 1 Do not judge others, so that God will not judge you, 2 for God will judge you in the same way you judge others, and he will apply to you the same rules you apply to others. 3 Why, then, do you look at the speck in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the log in your own eye? 4 How dare you say to your brother, “Please, let me take that speck out of your eye,” when you have a log in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite! First take the log out of your own eye, and then you will be able to see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye. 6 Do not give what is holy to dogs—they will only turn and attack you. Do not throw your pearls in front of pigs—they will only trample them underfoot. 7 Ask, and you will receive; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks will receive, and anyone who seeks will find, and the door will be opened to those who knock. 9 Would any of you who are fathers give your son a stone when he asks for bread? 10 Or would you give him a snake when he asks for a fish? 11 As bad as you are, you know how to give good things to your children. How much more, then, will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him! 12 Do for others what you want them to do for you: this is the meaning of the Law of Moses and of the teachings of the prophets. 13 Go in through the narrow gate, because the gate to hell is wide and the road that leads to it is easy, and there are many who travel it. 14 But the gate to life is narrow and the way that leads to it is hard, and there are few people who find it. 15 Be on your guard against false prophets; they come to you looking like sheep on the outside, but on the inside they are really like wild wolves. 16 You will know them by what they do. Thorn bushes do not bear grapes, and briers do not bear figs. 17 A healthy tree bears good fruit, but a poor tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a poor tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 And any tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown in the fire. 20 So then, you will know the false prophets by what they do. 21 Not everyone who calls me “Lord, Lord” will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. 22 When the Judgment Day comes, many will say to me, “Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God's message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!” 23 Then I will say to them, “I never knew you. Get away from me, you wicked people!” 24 So then, anyone who hears these words of mine and obeys them is like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain poured down, the rivers flooded over, and the wind blew hard against that house. But it did not fall, because it was built on rock. 26 But anyone who hears these words of mine and does not obey them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain poured down, the rivers flooded over, the wind blew hard against that house, and it fell. And what a terrible fall that was! ” 28 When Jesus finished saying these things, the crowd was amazed at the way he taught. 29 He wasn't like the teachers of the Law; instead, he taught with authority. Reflect Reread verses 7-11. What do you need to ask of God today? Reread verse 12. How does this teaching impact your relationship with others? Jesus warns his followers to avoid the “wide” gate because “the road that leads to it is easy” (verse 13). What is your understanding of this teaching? How can you find the “narrow gate” of life? Which of Jesus’ four warnings (verses 13-27) do you find most challenging? Why? Pray Lord Jesus, you teach with authority. Teach me to ask, seek, and knock in accord with your will. May my actions this day reflect your love as I treat others in ways that mirror life in God’s Kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of physical abuse Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 5, 2011 Author Members Posted September 5, 2011 September 5, 2011 Matthew 12:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 12:1-21: The religious leaders question Jesus about the Sabbath, and Jesus challenges their narrow interpretation of Sabbath observance. Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, and the religious leaders begin to make plans to kill Jesus. The passage concludes with a quote from Isaiah 42:1-4. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 12:7 “The scripture says, ‘It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.’ If you really knew what this means, you would not condemn people who are not guilty; for the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath.” Today’s Reading 1 Not long afterward Jesus was walking through some wheat fields on a Sabbath. His disciples were hungry, so they began to pick heads of wheat and eat the grain. 2 When the Pharisees saw this, they said to Jesus, “Look, it is against our Law for your disciples to do this on the Sabbath!” 3 Jesus answered, “Have you never read what David did that time when he and his men were hungry? 4 He went into the house of God, and he and his men ate the bread offered to God, even though it was against the Law for them to eat it—only the priests were allowed to eat that bread. 5 Or have you not read in the Law of Moses that every Sabbath the priests in the Temple actually break the Sabbath law, yet they are not guilty? 6 I tell you that there is something here greater than the Temple. 7 The scripture says, “It is kindness that I want, not animal sacrifices.” If you really knew what this means, you would not condemn people who are not guilty; 8 for the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath. ” 9 Jesus left that place and went to a synagogue, 10 where there was a man who had a paralyzed hand. Some people were there who wanted to accuse Jesus of doing wrong, so they asked him, “Is it against our Law to heal on the Sabbath?” 11 Jesus answered, “What if one of you has a sheep and it falls into a deep hole on the Sabbath? Will you not take hold of it and lift it out? 12 And a human being is worth much more than a sheep! So then, our Law does allow us to help someone on the Sabbath. ” 13 Then he said to the man with the paralyzed hand, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and it became well again, just like the other one. 14 Then the Pharisees left and made plans to kill Jesus. 15 When Jesus heard about the plot against him, he went away from that place; and large crowds followed him. He healed all the sick 16 and gave them orders not to tell others about him. 17 He did this so as to make come true what God had said through the prophet Isaiah: 18 “Here is my servant, whom I have chosen, the one I love, and with whom I am pleased. I will send my Spirit upon him, and he will announce my judgment to the nations. 19 He will not argue or shout, or make loud speeches in the streets. 20 He will not break off a bent reed, nor put out a flickering lamp. He will persist until he causes justice to triumph, 21 and on him all peoples will put their hope.” Reflect In verse 7 Jesus quotes Hosea 6:6. In stating this, Jesus challenges the way in which the religious leaders interpret Sabbath observance. And Psalm 51:15-16 states: “You do not want sacrifices … you are not pleased with burnt offerings. My sacrifice is a humble spirit, O God.” In what ways can you offer a “sacrifice” of “a humble spirit” and demonstrate “kindness?” What is your response to Jesus’ broader interpretation of Sabbath observance? Reread verses 18-21. What is your understanding of these verses in relation to Jesus? Pray Dearest Jesus, you are Lord of the Sabbath and God’s Servant. Your love and compassion break down walls of narrow interpretations of the Law. Teach me to have a humble spirit and to be open to your teachings that I may be a channel for extending God’s Kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Law enforcement officers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 6, 2011 Author Members Posted September 6, 2011 September 6, 2011 Matthew 12:22-50 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 12:22-50: Jesus heals a man who is blind and unable to speak. This prompts the religious leaders to challenge Jesus’ authority, claiming that his source of power is demonic. They fail to recognize that the Holy Spirit is at work in Jesus to do God’s will. Jesus then issues a series of warnings about evil and Judgment Day. The passage concludes with Jesus offering a definition of what constitutes family in God’s Kingdom. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 12:50 “Whoever does what my Father in heaven wants is my brother, my sister, and my mother.” Today’s Reading 22 Then some people brought to Jesus a man who was blind and could not talk because he had a demon. Jesus healed the man, so that he was able to talk and see. 23 The crowds were all amazed at what Jesus had done. “Could he be the Son of David?” they asked. 24 When the Pharisees heard this, they replied, “He drives out demons only because their ruler Beelzebul gives him power to do so.” 25 Jesus knew what they were thinking, and so he said to them, “Any country that divides itself into groups which fight each other will not last very long. And any town or family that divides itself into groups which fight each other will fall apart. 26 So if one group is fighting another in Satan's kingdom, this means that it is already divided into groups and will soon fall apart! 27 You say that I drive out demons because Beelzebul gives me the power to do so. Well, then, who gives your followers the power to drive them out? What your own followers do proves that you are wrong! 28 No, it is not Beelzebul, but God's Spirit, who gives me the power to drive out demons, which proves that the Kingdom of God has already come upon you. 29 No one can break into a strong man's house and take away his belongings unless he first ties up the strong man; then he can plunder his house. 30 Anyone who is not for me is really against me; anyone who does not help me gather is really scattering. 31 For this reason I tell you: people can be forgiven any sin and any evil thing they say; but whoever says evil things against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. 32 Anyone who says something against the Son of Man can be forgiven; but whoever says something against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven—now or ever. 33 To have good fruit you must have a healthy tree; if you have a poor tree, you will have bad fruit. A tree is known by the kind of fruit it bears. 34 You snakes—how can you say good things when you are evil? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good person brings good things out of a treasure of good things; a bad person brings bad things out of a treasure of bad things. 36 You can be sure that on the Judgment Day you will have to give account of every useless word you have ever spoken. 37 Your words will be used to judge you—to declare you either innocent or guilty. ” 38 Then some teachers of the Law and some Pharisees spoke up. “Teacher,” they said, “we want to see you perform a miracle.” 39 “How evil and godless are the people of this day!” Jesus exclaimed. “You ask me for a miracle? No! The only miracle you will be given is the miracle of the prophet Jonah. 40 In the same way that Jonah spent three days and nights in the big fish, so will the Son of Man spend three days and nights in the depths of the earth. 41 On the Judgment Day the people of Nineveh will stand up and accuse you, because they turned from their sins when they heard Jonah preach; and I tell you that there is something here greater than Jonah! 42 On the Judgment Day the Queen of Sheba will stand up and accuse you, because she traveled all the way from her country to listen to King Solomon's wise teaching; and I assure you that there is something here greater than Solomon! 43 When an evil spirit goes out of a person, it travels over dry country looking for a place to rest. If it can't find one, 44 it says to itself, “I will go back to my house.” So it goes back and finds the house empty, clean, and all fixed up. 45 Then it goes out and brings along seven other spirits even worse than itself, and they come and live there. So when it is all over, that person is in worse shape than at the beginning. This is what will happen to the evil people of this day. ” 46 Jesus was still talking to the people when his mother and brothers arrived. They stood outside, asking to speak with him. 47 So one of the people there said to him, “Look, your mother and brothers are standing outside, and they want to speak with you.” 48 Jesus answered, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “Look! Here are my mother and my brothers! 50 Whoever does what my Father in heaven wants is my brother, my sister, and my mother. ” Reflect Verses 22-24 indicate the belief at that time that illness was caused by demons or evil spirits. The crowd that witnesses Jesus’ healing the man is amazed; yet, the religious leaders challenge Jesus’ source of power. How does Jesus respond to the Pharisees? What is Jesus’ source of power? Reread verses 33-37. How do you interpret Jesus’ statement, “A tree is known by the kind of fruit it bears”? If you were to describe yourself as a tree, what would you say and why? What does Jesus say is the basis for belonging to the family of God (verse 50)? Pray Loving Jesus, thank you for welcoming me into God’s Kingdom and for calling me to be a member of your family. May I grow day by day in your grace and be like a tree that bears good fruit, so that all I say and do brings glory to you. Amen. Prayer Concern Children in foster care Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 7, 2011 Author Members Posted September 7, 2011 September 7, 2011 Matthew 13:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 13:1-23: Today we begin reading the first part of chapter 13 which introduces a collection of Jesus’ teachings known as parables. The word parable comes from a Greek term that literally means “to throw alongside.” Jesus often taught by means of parables, using images from everyday life “alongside” the lesson as a way of illustrating or clarifying his message. Today’s reading is the parable of the sower, also known as the parable of the seeds or parable of four kinds of soil. Jesus explains the meaning of the parable and why he uses this literary device. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 13:23 “And the seeds sown in the good soil stand for those who hear the message and understand it: they bear fruit, some as much as one hundred, others sixty, and others thirty.” Today’s Reading 1 That same day Jesus left the house and went to the lakeside, where he sat down to teach. 2 The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it, while the crowd stood on the shore. 3 He used parables to tell them many things. “Once there was a man who went out to sow grain. 4 As he scattered the seed in the field, some of it fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some of it fell on rocky ground, where there was little soil. The seeds soon sprouted, because the soil wasn't deep. 6 But when the sun came up, it burned the young plants; and because the roots had not grown deep enough, the plants soon dried up. 7 Some of the seed fell among thorn bushes, which grew up and choked the plants. 8 But some seeds fell in good soil, and the plants bore grain: some had one hundred grains, others sixty, and others thirty. ” 9 And Jesus concluded, “Listen, then, if you have ears!” 10 Then the disciples came to Jesus and asked him, “Why do you use parables when you talk to the people?” 11 Jesus answered, “The knowledge about the secrets of the Kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12 For the person who has something will be given more, so that he will have more than enough; but the person who has nothing will have taken away from him even the little he has. 13 The reason I use parables in talking to them is that they look, but do not see, and they listen, but do not hear or understand. 14 So the prophecy of Isaiah applies to them: ‘This people will listen and listen, but not understand; they will look and look, but not see, 15 because their minds are dull, and they have stopped up their ears and have closed their eyes. Otherwise, their eyes would see, their ears would hear, their minds would understand, and they would turn to me, says God, and I would heal them.’ 16 As for you, how fortunate you are! Your eyes see and your ears hear. 17 I assure you that many prophets and many of God's people wanted very much to see what you see, but they could not, and to hear what you hear, but they did not. 18 Listen, then, and learn what the parable of the sower means. 19 Those who hear the message about the Kingdom but do not understand it are like the seeds that fell along the path. The Evil One comes and snatches away what was sown in them. 20 The seeds that fell on rocky ground stand for those who receive the message gladly as soon as they hear it. 21 But it does not sink deep into them, and they don't last long. So when trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they give up at once. 22 The seeds that fell among thorn bushes stand for those who hear the message; but the worries about this life and the love for riches choke the message, and they don't bear fruit. 23 And the seeds sown in the good soil stand for those who hear the message and understand it: they bear fruit, some as much as one hundred, others sixty, and others thirty. ” Reflect What is your understanding of the parable of the sower? Who is the sower? Who are the seeds? How can you be like seed “sown in the good soil” and what would you need to do to keep your seed nourished? How is being like seed “sown in the good soil” related to living a life of faith? Pray Lord Jesus, give me ears to listen to you. I confess that sometimes I may be like seed that is sown in an exposed path or rocky ground or a thorn bush. But I want to be like seed that is sown in good soil. Plant the seed of your word in my heart. Teach me to nourish this seed through daily prayer and by studying the Holy Scriptures so that I grow in faith and bear fruit for your Kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Migrant farm workers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 8, 2011 Author Members Posted September 8, 2011 September 8, 2011 Matthew 13:24-58 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 13:24-58: Today we conclude the reading of chapter 13 with more parables in which Jesus compares the Kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed that grows into a large plant, a small amount of yeast that leavens a large batch of dough, a hidden treasure, a fine pearl, and a net filled with all kinds of fish. Jesus also tells a parable about weeds growing among wheat and depicts an image of the final judgment. The reading concludes with Jesus being rejected by the people in his hometown of Nazareth. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 13:43a God’s people will shine like the sun in their Father’s Kingdom. Today’s Reading 24 Jesus told them another parable: “The Kingdom of heaven is like this. A man sowed good seed in his field. 25 One night, when everyone was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat and went away. 26 When the plants grew and the heads of grain began to form, then the weeds showed up. 27 The man's servants came to him and said, “Sir, it was good seed you sowed in your field; where did the weeds come from?” 28 “It was some enemy who did this,” he answered. “Do you want us to go and pull up the weeds?” they asked him. 29 “No,” he answered, ‘because as you gather the weeds you might pull up some of the wheat along with them. 30 Let the wheat and the weeds both grow together until harvest. Then I will tell the harvest workers to pull up the weeds first, tie them in bundles and burn them, and then to gather in the wheat and put it in my barn. ’ ” 31 Jesus told them another parable: “The Kingdom of heaven is like this. A man takes a mustard seed and sows it in his field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it grows up, it is the biggest of all plants. It becomes a tree, so that birds come and make their nests in its branches. ” 33 Jesus told them still another parable: “The Kingdom of heaven is like this. A woman takes some yeast and mixes it with a bushel of flour until the whole batch of dough rises.” 34 Jesus used parables to tell all these things to the crowds; he would not say a thing to them without using a parable. 35 He did this to make come true what the prophet had said, “I will use parables when I speak to them; I will tell them things unknown since the creation of the world.” 36 When Jesus had left the crowd and gone indoors, his disciples came to him and said, “Tell us what the parable about the weeds in the field means.” 37 Jesus answered, “The man who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man; 38 the field is the world; the good seed is the people who belong to the Kingdom; the weeds are the people who belong to the Evil One; 39 and the enemy who sowed the weeds is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvest workers are angels. 40 Just as the weeds are gathered up and burned in the fire, so the same thing will happen at the end of the age: 41 the Son of Man will send out his angels to gather up out of his Kingdom all those who cause people to sin and all others who do evil things, 42 and they will throw them into the fiery furnace, where they will cry and gnash their teeth. 43 Then God's people will shine like the sun in their Father's Kingdom. Listen, then, if you have ears! 44 The Kingdom of heaven is like this. A man happens to find a treasure hidden in a field. He covers it up again, and is so happy that he goes and sells everything he has, and then goes back and buys that field. 45 Also, the Kingdom of heaven is like this. A man is looking for fine pearls, 46 and when he finds one that is unusually fine, he goes and sells everything he has, and buys that pearl. 47 Also, the Kingdom of heaven is like this. Some fishermen throw their net out in the lake and catch all kinds of fish. 48 When the net is full, they pull it to shore and sit down to divide the fish: the good ones go into the buckets, the worthless ones are thrown away. 49 It will be like this at the end of the age: the angels will go out and gather up the evil people from among the good 50 and will throw them into the fiery furnace, where they will cry and gnash their teeth. 51 “Do you understand these things?” Jesus asked them. “Yes,” they answered. 52 So he replied, “This means, then, that every teacher of the Law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of heaven is like a homeowner who takes new and old things out of his storage room.” 53 When Jesus finished telling these parables, he left that place 54 and went back to his hometown. He taught in the synagogue, and those who heard him were amazed. “Where did he get such wisdom?” they asked. And what about his miracles? 55 Isn't he the carpenter's son? Isn't Mary his mother, and aren't James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas his brothers? 56 Aren't all his sisters living here? Where did he get all this? ” 57 And so they rejected him. Jesus said to them, “A prophet is respected everywhere except in his hometown and by his own family.” 58 Because they did not have faith, he did not perform many miracles there. Reflect Yesterday’s reading was about good seed that is planted in good soil. Today’s reading includes a parable about weeds being sown among the good seed. Who sows the weeds? How does Jesus explain this parable? Jesus used several parables to describe the Kingdom of heaven. Choose one and explain what it means. Use an example from your everyday life and complete this sentence: I think the Kingdom of heaven is like . . . Pray Lord Jesus, I want to shine like the sun in your Father’s Kingdom. Nurture my faith so that it grows like a mustard seed and gives glory to you. Teach me to listen for your voice and live according to your will. Amen. Prayer Concern Bakers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 9, 2011 Author Members Posted September 9, 2011 September 9, 2011 Matthew 22:1-22 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 22:1-22: Jesus compares the Kingdom of heaven to a wedding feast. Because the invited guests ignore the invitation, the king instructs his servants to gather people from the streets and bring them to the wedding hall. Certain religious leaders seek to trap Jesus by questioning him about the payment of taxes. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 22:21b So Jesus said to them, “Well, then, pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and pay to God what belongs to God.” Today’s Reading 1 Jesus again used parables in talking to the people. 2 The Kingdom of heaven is like this. Once there was a king who prepared a wedding feast for his son. 3 He sent his servants to tell the invited guests to come to the feast, but they did not want to come. 4 So he sent other servants with this message for the guests: “My feast is ready now; my steers and prize calves have been butchered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast!” 5 But the invited guests paid no attention and went about their business: one went to his farm, another to his store, 6 while others grabbed the servants, beat them, and killed them. 7 The king was very angry; so he sent his soldiers, who killed those murderers and burned down their city. 8 Then he called his servants and said to them, ‘My wedding feast is ready, but the people I invited did not deserve it. 9 Now go to the main streets and invite to the feast as many people as you find. ’ 10 So the servants went out into the streets and gathered all the people they could find, good and bad alike; and the wedding hall was filled with people. 11 The king went in to look at the guests and saw a man who was not wearing wedding clothes. 12 “Friend, how did you get in here without wedding clothes?” the king asked him. But the man said nothing. 13 Then the king told the servants, “Tie him up hand and foot, and throw him outside in the dark. There he will cry and gnash his teeth.” ” 14 And Jesus concluded, “Many are invited, but few are chosen.” 15 The Pharisees went off and made a plan to trap Jesus with questions. 16 Then they sent to him some of their disciples and some members of Herod's party. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you tell the truth. You teach the truth about God's will for people, without worrying about what others think, because you pay no attention to anyone's status. 17 Tell us, then, what do you think? Is it against our Law to pay taxes to the Roman Emperor, or not? ” 18 Jesus, however, was aware of their evil plan, and so he said, “You hypocrites! Why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin for paying the tax! ” They brought him the coin, 20 and he asked them, “Whose face and name are these?” 21 “The Emperor's,” they answered. So Jesus said to them, “Well, then, pay to the Emperor what belongs to the Emperor, and pay to God what belongs to God.” 22 When they heard this, they were amazed; and they left him and went away. Reflect In the parable of the wedding feast, who is the king? Who is the son? What is your understanding of this parable? Verses 11-13 mention a guest who was not properly attired, an indication that the guest failed to honor the king, an offense similar to those who ignored the king’s invitation. In what ways do you honor God? This parable may call to mind the description of the wedding feast of the Lamb as described in Revelation 19:5-10; Revelation 19:9 says, “Happy are those who have been invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.” How do you interpret Jesus’ concluding words in Matthew 22:14, “Many are invited, but few are chosen”? When Jesus challenges the Pharisees who seek to trap him, what does he mean when he says “pay to God what belongs to God”? How does this statement imply loyalty and honor to God? Pray Lord God, there are times when I may fail to honor you and act in ways that are not in accord with your will. Thank you for reaching out to me in love and inviting me to your feast. Teach me to honor you and to reach out to others in love for the sake of your Kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Banquet caterers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 10, 2011 Author Members Posted September 10, 2011 September 10, 2011 Matthew 22:23-46 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 22:23-46: Certain religious leaders continue to challenge Jesus’ authority and question him about rising from death, the greatest commandment in the Law, and about the Messiah. In verses 37 and 39, Jesus quotes from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18). Today’s Scripture: Matthew 22:37, 38 Jesus answered, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and most important commandment.” Today’s Reading 23 That same day some Sadducees came to Jesus and claimed that people will not rise from death. 24 “Teacher,” they said, “Moses said that if a man who has no children dies, his brother must marry the widow so that they can have children who will be considered the dead man's children. 25 Now, there were seven brothers who used to live here. The oldest got married and died without having children, so he left his widow to his brother. 26 The same thing happened to the second brother, to the third, and finally to all seven. 27 Last of all, the woman died. 28 Now, on the day when the dead rise to life, whose wife will she be? All of them had married her. ” 29 Jesus answered them, “How wrong you are! It is because you don't know the Scriptures or God's power. 30 For when the dead rise to life, they will be like the angels in heaven and will not marry. 31 Now, as for the dead rising to life: haven't you ever read what God has told you? He said, 32 “I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” He is the God of the living, not of the dead. ” 33 When the crowds heard this, they were amazed at his teaching. 34 When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they came together, 35 and one of them, a teacher of the Law, tried to trap him with a question. 36 “Teacher,” he asked, “which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus answered, “ “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” 38 This is the greatest and the most important commandment. 39 The second most important commandment is like it: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” 40 The whole Law of Moses and the teachings of the prophets depend on these two commandments. ” 41 When some Pharisees gathered together, Jesus asked them, 42 “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose descendant is he?” “He is David's descendant,” they answered. 43 “Why, then,” Jesus asked, “did the Spirit inspire David to call him “Lord”? David said, 44 ‘The Lord said to my Lord: Sit here at my right side until I put your enemies under your feet.’ 45 If, then, David called him “Lord,” how can the Messiah be David's descendant? ” 46 No one was able to give Jesus any answer, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions. Reflect The Sadducees, unlike the Pharisees, did not believe in resurrection of the dead. What did they ask of Jesus? How did Jesus respond? What questions did the Pharisees ask of Jesus? How did Jesus respond? Do you have any faith-related questions? If so, have you discussed them with anyone? Reread verse 37 and commit it to memory. Why did Jesus say this is “the greatest and most important commandment”? Pray Lord God, I love you with all my heart, soul, and mind. May all I do and say today reflect my love for you and a love for others as you have taught. Guide me in your truth. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Marriage counselors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 14, 2011 Author Members Posted September 14, 2011 September 11, 2011 Matthew 25:1-30 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 25:1-30: Jesus teaches about the Kingdom of heaven by means of two more parables. In chapter 25, Jesus’ teachings focus on how to be ready for God’s coming kingdom. This chapter is a continuation of the eschatological discourse begun in Matthew 24:36-51. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 25:13 And Jesus concluded, “Watch out, then, because you do not know the day or the hour.” Today’s Reading 1 At that time the Kingdom of heaven will be like this. Once there were ten young women who took their oil lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish, and the other five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any extra oil with them, 4 while the wise ones took containers full of oil for their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was late in coming, so they began to nod and fall asleep. 6 It was already midnight when the cry rang out, “Here is the bridegroom! Come and meet him!” 7 The ten young women woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 Then the foolish ones said to the wise ones, “Let us have some of your oil, because our lamps are going out.” 9 “No, indeed,” the wise ones answered, “there is not enough for you and for us. Go to the store and buy some for yourselves.” 10 So the foolish ones went off to buy some oil; and while they were gone, the bridegroom arrived. The five who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast, and the door was closed. 11 Later the others arrived. “Sir, sir! Let us in!” they cried out. 12 “Certainly not! I don't know you,” the bridegroom answered. ” 13 And Jesus concluded, “Watch out, then, because you do not know the day or the hour. 14 At that time the Kingdom of heaven will be like this. Once there was a man who was about to leave home on a trip; he called his servants and put them in charge of his property. 15 He gave to each one according to his ability: to one he gave five thousand gold coins, to another he gave two thousand, and to another he gave one thousand. Then he left on his trip. 16 The servant who had received five thousand coins went at once and invested his money and earned another five thousand. 17 In the same way the servant who had received two thousand coins earned another two thousand. 18 But the servant who had received one thousand coins went off, dug a hole in the ground, and hid his master's money. 19 After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. 20 The servant who had received five thousand coins came in and handed over the other five thousand. “You gave me five thousand coins, sir,” he said. “Look! Here are another five thousand that I have earned.” 21 “Well done, you good and faithful servant!” said his master. “You have been faithful in managing small amounts, so I will put you in charge of large amounts. Come on in and share my happiness!” 22 Then the servant who had been given two thousand coins came in and said, “You gave me two thousand coins, sir. Look! Here are another two thousand that I have earned.” 23 “Well done, you good and faithful servant!” said his master. “You have been faithful in managing small amounts, so I will put you in charge of large amounts. Come on in and share my happiness!” 24 Then the servant who had received one thousand coins came in and said, Sir, I know you are a hard man; you reap harvests where you did not plant, and you gather crops where you did not scatter seed. 25 I was afraid, so I went off and hid your money in the ground. Look! Here is what belongs to you. ’ 26 “You bad and lazy servant!” his master said. ‘You knew, did you, that I reap harvests where I did not plant, and gather crops where I did not scatter seed? 27 Well, then, you should have deposited my money in the bank, and I would have received it all back with interest when I returned. 28 Now, take the money away from him and give it to the one who has ten thousand coins. 29 For to every person who has something, even more will be given, and he will have more than enough; but the person who has nothing, even the little that he has will be taken away from him. 30 As for this useless servant—throw him outside in the darkness; there he will cry and gnash his teeth. ’ Reflect Verses 1-13 highlight the need for watchfulness and readiness. Who is the bridegroom? Describe the actions of the five wise and five foolish young women. What were the consequences of the actions of the foolish women? In the parable of the three servants (verses 14-30), why was the third servant reprimanded? What is your understanding of this parable? Pray Lord Jesus, may your kingdom come here on earth as it is in heaven. As I await your coming, help me to be a good and faithful steward of your blessings and teach me to be ready to welcome and receive you. Amen. Prayer Concern Financial investors Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 14, 2011 Author Members Posted September 14, 2011 September 12, 2011 Matthew 25:31-46 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Matthew 25:31-46: Jesus concludes his final discourse with a description of the judgment that will take place when he returns. All nations will be judged based on how they responded to Jesus’ teachings. Today’s Scripture: Matthew 25:40 The King will reply, ‘I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me!’ Today’s Reading 31 When the Son of Man comes as King and all the angels with him, he will sit on his royal throne, 32 and the people of all the nations will be gathered before him. Then he will divide them into two groups, just as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the righteous people at his right and the others at his left. 34 Then the King will say to the people on his right, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father! Come and possess the kingdom which has been prepared for you ever since the creation of the world. 35 I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink; I was a stranger and you received me in your homes, 36 naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you took care of me, in prison and you visited me. ’ 37 The righteous will then answer him, ‘When, Lord, did we ever see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? 38 When did we ever see you a stranger and welcome you in our homes, or naked and clothe you? 39 When did we ever see you sick or in prison, and visit you? ’ 40 The King will reply, “I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me!” 41 Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Away from me, you that are under God's curse! Away to the eternal fire which has been prepared for the Devil and his angels! 42 I was hungry but you would not feed me, thirsty but you would not give me a drink; 43 I was a stranger but you would not welcome me in your homes, naked but you would not clothe me; I was sick and in prison but you would not take care of me. ’ 44 Then they will answer him, “When, Lord, did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and we would not help you?” 45 The King will reply, “I tell you, whenever you refused to help one of these least important ones, you refused to help me.” 46 These, then, will be sent off to eternal punishment, but the righteous will go to eternal life. ” Reflect How does Jesus describe the final judgment? On what basis are the nations divided into two groups “just as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats”? Does this passage have anything to say about how we are to live today? What does it say about showing love to others? How will you show love to others today? Pray Lord Jesus, open my eyes and heart to those who are in need. Help me to reach out with compassion and love to those I may encounter who are in need of food, clothing, shelter, a visit, or a word of encouragement. Teach me to be an instrument of your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Nations experiencing famine Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 14, 2011 Author Members Posted September 14, 2011 September 13, 2011 1 Corinthians 1:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction 1 Corinthians 1:1-17: Paul was probably the first Christian missionary to Corinth, and he founded the church there (see Acts 18:1-18). He begins his letter with words of greeting and thanksgiving and then states that he has received a report concerning dissension among the believers. His appeal is for them to put aside their differences, and he reminds them of their “union with Christ” (verses 2 and 5). Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:9 God is to be trusted, the God who called you to have fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ, our Lord. Today’s Reading 1 From Paul, who was called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Sosthenes— 2 To the church of God which is in Corinth, to all who are called to be God's holy people, who belong to him in union with Christ Jesus, together with all people everywhere who worship our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours: 3 May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. 4 I always give thanks to my God for you because of the grace he has given you through Christ Jesus. 5 For in union with Christ you have become rich in all things, including all speech and all knowledge. 6 The message about Christ has become so firmly established in you 7 that you have not failed to receive a single blessing, as you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. 8 He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be faultless on the Day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is to be trusted, the God who called you to have fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ, our Lord. 10 By the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ I appeal to all of you, my friends, to agree in what you say, so that there will be no divisions among you. Be completely united, with only one thought and one purpose. 11 For some people from Chloe's family have told me quite plainly, my friends, that there are quarrels among you. 12 Let me put it this way: each one of you says something different. One says, “I follow Paul”; another, “I follow Apollos”; another, “I follow Peter”; and another, “I follow Christ.” 13 Christ has been divided into groups! Was it Paul who died on the cross for you? Were you baptized as Paul's disciples? 14 I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius. 15 No one can say, then, that you were baptized as my disciples. ( 16 Oh yes, I also baptized Stephanas and his family; but I can't remember whether I baptized anyone else.) 17 Christ did not send me to baptize. He sent me to tell the Good News, and to tell it without using the language of human wisdom, in order to make sure that Christ's death on the cross is not robbed of its power. Reflect How did Paul learn about quarreling within the Corinthian church (verse 11)? What is his response (verses 12-13)? Paul exhorts the believers to be “completely united, with only one thought and one purpose” (verse 10). What do you think Paul meant by this and why is it important? How does Paul describe his understanding of his mission (verse 17)? Have you ever experienced conflict within your community of faith? If so, how was it resolved? Pray Holy God, your servant Paul reminds us that you have called us to live in union with Christ Jesus; yet, there are still issues that cause division among us. Give us patience and understanding to work through such issues and unite us in thought and purpose. May your will be done, O Lord, so that your name is glorified. Amen. Prayer Concern Congregations experiencing divisiveness Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 17, 2011 Author Members Posted September 17, 2011 September 14, 2011 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction 1 Corinthians 1:18-31: The wisdom and power of God sets up a dichotomy whereby the worldly standards of wisdom and power are rejected. Paul reminds the Corinthians of their own humble social status, and that God chooses what the world looks down on and reverses the social order (see 1 Samuel 2:1-10; Psalm 18:27; Luke 1:51-53; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5-6). Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:30a God has brought you into union with Christ Jesus, and God has made Christ to be our wisdom. Today’s Reading 18 For the message about Christ's death on the cross is nonsense to those who are being lost; but for us who are being saved it is God's power. 19 The scripture says, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and set aside the understanding of the scholars.” 20 So then, where does that leave the wise? or the scholars? or the skillful debaters of this world? God has shown that this world's wisdom is foolishness! 21 For God in his wisdom made it impossible for people to know him by means of their own wisdom. Instead, by means of the so-called “foolish” message we preach, God decided to save those who believe. 22 Jews want miracles for proof, and Greeks look for wisdom. 23 As for us, we proclaim the crucified Christ, a message that is offensive to the Jews and nonsense to the Gentiles; 24 but for those whom God has called, both Jews and Gentiles, this message is Christ, who is the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 For what seems to be God's foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and what seems to be God's weakness is stronger than human strength. 26 Now remember what you were, my friends, when God called you. From the human point of view few of you were wise or powerful or of high social standing. 27 God purposely chose what the world considers nonsense in order to shame the wise, and he chose what the world considers weak in order to shame the powerful. 28 He chose what the world looks down on and despises and thinks is nothing, in order to destroy what the world thinks is important. 29 This means that no one can boast in God's presence. 30 But God has brought you into union with Christ Jesus, and God has made Christ to be our wisdom. By him we are put right with God; we become God's holy people and are set free. 31 So then, as the scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast must boast of what the Lord has done.” Reflect Why does Paul say that Christ’s death on the cross is “God’s power” (verse 18)? What is the “foolish” message that Paul preaches (verse 21) and why does he say it is foolish? To whom is the message foolish? To whom is the message good news? Why does Paul say that Christ is our wisdom (verse 30)? Paul says that “whoever wants to boast must boast of what the Lord has done” (verse 31). What does this mean for you? Pray God of power and wisdom, remind me of all that you have so that I may proclaim the good news of your salvation and boast about your wondrous deeds and gracious love. Keep me humble and faithful so that I glorify you in all I say and do. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who need to hear and understand the Good News of God’s salvation Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 17, 2011 Author Members Posted September 17, 2011 September 15, 2011 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction 1 Corinthians 2:1-16: Paul reminds the Corinthians that, when he first arrived, he did not use eloquent words to preach “God’s secret truth” because the message of Christ’s death on the cross was of paramount importance. Paul contrasts the world’s wisdom with “God’s secret wisdom” and explains the role of the God’s Spirit in revealing God’s truth. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:5 Your faith, then, does not rest on human wisdom but on God’s power. Today’s Reading 1 When I came to you, my friends, to preach God's secret truth, I did not use big words and great learning. 2 For while I was with you, I made up my mind to forget everything except Jesus Christ and especially his death on the cross. 3 So when I came to you, I was weak and trembled all over with fear, 4 and my teaching and message were not delivered with skillful words of human wisdom, but with convincing proof of the power of God's Spirit. 5 Your faith, then, does not rest on human wisdom but on God's power. 6 Yet I do proclaim a message of wisdom to those who are spiritually mature. But it is not the wisdom that belongs to this world or to the powers that rule this world—powers that are losing their power. 7 The wisdom I proclaim is God's secret wisdom, which is hidden from human beings, but which he had already chosen for our glory even before the world was made. 8 None of the rulers of this world knew this wisdom. If they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 However, as the scripture says, “What no one ever saw or heard, what no one ever thought could happen, is the very thing God prepared for those who love him.” 10 But it was to us that God made known his secret by means of his Spirit. The Spirit searches everything, even the hidden depths of God's purposes. 11 It is only our own spirit within us that knows all about us; in the same way, only God's Spirit knows all about God. 12 We have not received this world's spirit; instead, we have received the Spirit sent by God, so that we may know all that God has given us. 13 So then, we do not speak in words taught by human wisdom, but in words taught by the Spirit, as we explain spiritual truths to those who have the Spirit. 14 Whoever does not have the Spirit cannot receive the gifts that come from God's Spirit. Such a person really does not understand them, and they seem to be nonsense, because their value can be judged only on a spiritual basis. 15 Whoever has the Spirit, however, is able to judge the value of everything, but no one is able to judge him. 16 As the scripture says, “Who knows the mind of the Lord? Who is able to give him advice?” Reflect How does Paul describe himself in verses 1-5? What does he say enabled him to deliver his message to the Corinthians? Reread verse 2. Why is Jesus’ death on the cross central to Paul’s message? What is “God’s secret truth” (verse 1) and “God secret wisdom” (verse 7)? Why was this wisdom hidden from the rulers of the world? Is such wisdom still hidden today? What does Paul say about God’s Spirit (verses 10-16)? In what ways has God’s Spirit enlightened your understanding of “God’s secret truth” and “God’s secret wisdom”? Pray Sovereign God, you are the source of all true wisdom. Enlighten me with your Spirit so that I may grow stronger in faith day by day, learning more and more about you and trusting in you and in your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Seminary students Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 17, 2011 Author Members Posted September 17, 2011 September 16, 2011 1 Corinthians 3:1-23 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction 1 Corinthians 3:1-23: Paul admonishes the Corinthians for their quarrelsome behavior, reminding them that they now have God’s Spirit, that Christ is their foundation, and that they should not claim to be wise according to the world’s standards. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:16 Surely you know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you! Today’s Reading 1 As a matter of fact, my friends, I could not talk to you as I talk to people who have the Spirit; I had to talk to you as though you belonged to this world, as children in the Christian faith. 2 I had to feed you milk, not solid food, because you were not ready for it. And even now you are not ready for it, 3 because you still live as the people of this world live. When there is jealousy among you and you quarrel with one another, doesn't this prove that you belong to this world, living by its standards? 4 When one of you says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos”—aren't you acting like worldly people? 5 After all, who is Apollos? And who is Paul? We are simply God's servants, by whom you were led to believe. Each one of us does the work which the Lord gave him to do: 6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered the plant, but it was God who made the plant grow. 7 The one who plants and the one who waters really do not matter. It is God who matters, because he makes the plant grow. 8 There is no difference between the one who plants and the one who waters; God will reward each one according to the work each has done. 9 For we are partners working together for God, and you are God's field. You are also God's building. 10 Using the gift that God gave me, I did the work of an expert builder and laid the foundation, and someone else is building on it. But each of you must be careful how you build. 11 For God has already placed Jesus Christ as the one and only foundation, and no other foundation can be laid. 12 Some will use gold or silver or precious stones in building on the foundation; others will use wood or grass or straw. 13 And the quality of each person's work will be seen when the Day of Christ exposes it. For on that Day fire will reveal everyone's work; the fire will test it and show its real quality. 14 If what was built on the foundation survives the fire, the builder will receive a reward. 15 But if your work is burnt up, then you will lose it; but you yourself will be saved, as if you had escaped through the fire. 16 Surely you know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you! 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys God's temple. For God's temple is holy, and you yourselves are his temple. 18 You should not fool yourself. If any of you think that you are wise by this world's standards, you should become a fool, in order to be really wise. 19 For what this world considers to be wisdom is nonsense in God's sight. As the scripture says, “God traps the wise in their cleverness”; 20 and another scripture says, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are worthless.” 21 No one, then, should boast about what human beings can do. Actually everything belongs to you: 22 Paul, Apollos, and Peter; this world, life and death, the present and the future—all these are yours, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. Reflect Paul takes on a parental tone, chiding the Corinthians for their behavior (verses 1-4). Why was this necessary? Referring to himself and to Apollos, Paul describes the role of one who is a servant of God (verses 5-9a); and using the metaphor of a building, Paul describes the different kinds of work in creating community (verses 9b-15). Why does Paul say that Jesus Christ is “the one and only foundation” (verse 11)? In what ways is your community of faith building on this foundation? What does being “God’s temple” (verse 16) mean for you? Pray Holy God, as your temple, your Spirit lives in me. You honor me with such a wonderful gift. By your Spirit, fill me with your wisdom so that I may serve you. Teach me to live in ways that glorify you so that, as your temple, I reflect your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Church architects Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 18, 2011 Author Members Posted September 18, 2011 September 17, 2011 1 Corinthians 4:1-21 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction 1 Corinthians 4:1-21: Like a parent, Paul continues to admonish the Corinthians with words of both love and discipline. He describes the role of an apostle of Christ, what he and his fellow apostles have endured for the sake of the Gospel, and how the world regards them. Today’s Scripture: 1 Corinthians 4:20 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of words but of power. Today’s Reading 1 You should think of us as Christ's servants, who have been put in charge of God's secret truths. 2 The one thing required of such servants is that they be faithful to their master. 3 Now, I am not at all concerned about being judged by you or by any human standard; I don't even pass judgment on myself. 4 My conscience is clear, but that does not prove that I am really innocent. The Lord is the one who passes judgment on me. 5 So you should not pass judgment on anyone before the right time comes. Final judgment must wait until the Lord comes; he will bring to light the dark secrets and expose the hidden purposes of people's minds. And then all will receive from God the praise they deserve. 6 For your sake, my friends, I have applied all this to Apollos and me, using the two of us as an example, so that you may learn what the saying means, “Observe the proper rules.” None of you should be proud of one person and despise another. 7 Who made you superior to others? Didn't God give you everything you have? Well, then, how can you boast, as if what you have were not a gift? 8 Do you already have everything you need? Are you already rich? Have you become kings, even though we are not? Well, I wish you really were kings, so that we could be kings together with you. 9 For it seems to me that God has given the very last place to us apostles, like people condemned to die in public as a spectacle for the whole world of angels and of human beings. 10 For Christ's sake we are fools; but you are wise in union with Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! We are despised, but you are honored! 11 To this very moment we go hungry and thirsty; we are clothed in rags; we are beaten; we wander from place to place; 12 we wear ourselves out with hard work. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are insulted, we answer back with kind words. We are no more than this world's garbage; we are the scum of the earth to this very moment! 14 I write this to you, not because I want to make you feel ashamed, but to instruct you as my own dear children. 15 For even if you have ten thousand guardians in your Christian life, you have only one father. For in your life in union with Christ Jesus I have become your father by bringing the Good News to you. 16 I beg you, then, to follow my example. 17 For this purpose I am sending to you Timothy, who is my own dear and faithful son in the Christian life. He will remind you of the principles which I follow in the new life in union with Christ Jesus and which I teach in all the churches everywhere. 18 Some of you have become proud because you have thought that I would not be coming to visit you. 19 If the Lord is willing, however, I will come to you soon, and then I will find out for myself the power which these proud people have, and not just what they say. 20 For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of words but of power. 21 Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a whip, or in a spirit of love and gentleness? Reflect If you were a member of the Corinthian church, how would react to Paul’s words? Reread verses 14-16 and 21. What does this say to you about the relationship between Paul and the Corinthians and his feelings for them? The phrase “in union with Christ Jesus” is used by Paul six times (1:2; 1:5; 1:30; 4:10; 4:15; 4:17); and he will use it four more times throughout the remainder of the letter. What do you think is the significance of his reminding the Corinthians of this? Is this something we need to be reminded of in our various communities of faith today? Why or why not? Pray Gracious God, I know that at times I act in ways that are not in accord with your will. Thank you for reaching out like a loving parent and disciplining me so that I can be reconciled to you and live in union with Christ Jesus. Thank you for loving me and assuring me that I can always turn to you with a repentant heart and receive your forgiveness. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who serve as mediators to churches experiencing dissension Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 18, 2011 Author Members Posted September 18, 2011 September 18, 2011 James 1:1-27 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction James 1:1-27: Among the New Testament books, the letter of James is considered a type of wisdom literature inasmuch as it contains practical advice on how people are to live. It begins like a letter written to Christians scattered throughout the Roman Empire (1:1), but its primary focus is to encourage moral behavior. In this first chapter, the writer admonishes his readers to ask God for wisdom, remain faithful when faced with trials, control anger, obey God, and control their tongues. Today’s Scripture: James 1:27 What God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world. Today’s Reading 1 From James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ: Greetings to all God's people scattered over the whole world. 2 My friends, consider yourselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come your way, 3 for you know that when your faith succeeds in facing such trials, the result is the ability to endure. 4 Make sure that your endurance carries you all the way without failing, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. 5 But if any of you lack wisdom, you should pray to God, who will give it to you; because God gives generously and graciously to all. 6 But when you pray, you must believe and not doubt at all. Whoever doubts is like a wave in the sea that is driven and blown about by the wind. 7-8 If you are like that, unable to make up your mind and undecided in all you do, you must not think that you will receive anything from the Lord. 9 Those Christians who are poor must be glad when God lifts them up, 10 and the rich Christians must be glad when God brings them down. For the rich will pass away like the flower of a wild plant. 11 The sun rises with its blazing heat and burns the plant; its flower falls off, and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way the rich will be destroyed while they go about their business. 12 Happy are those who remain faithful under trials, because when they succeed in passing such a test, they will receive as their reward the life which God has promised to those who love him. 13 If we are tempted by such trials, we must not say, “This temptation comes from God.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But we are tempted when we are drawn away and trapped by our own evil desires. 15 Then our evil desires conceive and give birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death. 16 Do not be deceived, my dear friends! 17 Every good gift and every perfect present comes from heaven; it comes down from God, the Creator of the heavenly lights, who does not change or cause darkness by turning. 18 By his own will he brought us into being through the word of truth, so that we should have first place among all his creatures. 19 Remember this, my dear friends! Everyone must be quick to listen, but slow to speak and slow to become angry. 20 Human anger does not achieve God's righteous purpose. 21 So get rid of every filthy habit and all wicked conduct. Submit to God and accept the word that he plants in your hearts, which is able to save you. 22 Do not deceive yourselves by just listening to his word; instead, put it into practice. 23 If you listen to the word, but do not put it into practice you are like people who look in a mirror and see themselves as they are. 24 They take a good look at themselves and then go away and at once forget what they look like. 25 But if you look closely into the perfect law that sets people free, and keep on paying attention to it and do not simply listen and then forget it, but put it into practice—you will be blessed by God in what you do. 26 Do any of you think you are religious? If you do not control your tongue, your religion is worthless and you deceive yourself. 27 What God the Father considers to be pure and genuine religion is this: to take care of orphans and widows in their suffering and to keep oneself from being corrupted by the world. Reflect Why does James tell his readers that they should consider themselves fortunate when all kinds of trials come their way (verse 2)? What trials have you faced in your life? How did you handle them? Do you find James’ advice comforting? Why or why not? Why does he encourage his readers to pray for wisdom (verse 5)? Do you find any of the advice James gives to be relevant for your life today? Why or why not? Pray Sovereign God, teach me to seek wisdom from you. Guide my actions this day and keep me strong in faith when facing trials and temptations so that I am not corrupted by the world. Teach me to submit to you and accept the word you are planting in my heart today. Amen. Prayer Concern Widows and orphans Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 21, 2011 Author Members Posted September 21, 2011 September 19, 2011 James 2:1-26 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction James 2:1-26: James warns his readers against making distinctions between the rich and the poor, and he argues that one’s faith is demonstrated by one’s actions. He lifts up Abraham and Rahab as examples of those whose faith and actions worked together. Today’s Scripture: James 2:26 So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead. Today’s Reading 1 My friends, as believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, you must never treat people in different ways according to their outward appearance. 2 Suppose a rich man wearing a gold ring and fine clothes comes to your meeting, and a poor man in ragged clothes also comes. 3 If you show more respect to the well-dressed man and say to him, “Have this best seat here,” but say to the poor man, “Stand over there, or sit here on the floor by my feet,” 4 then you are guilty of creating distinctions among yourselves and of making judgments based on evil motives. 5 Listen, my dear friends! God chose the poor people of this world to be rich in faith and to possess the kingdom which he promised to those who love him. 6 But you dishonor the poor! Who are the ones who oppress you and drag you before the judges? The rich! 7 They are the ones who speak evil of that good name which has been given to you. 8 You will be doing the right thing if you obey the law of the Kingdom, which is found in the scripture, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” 9 But if you treat people according to their outward appearance, you are guilty of sin, and the Law condemns you as a lawbreaker. 10 Whoever breaks one commandment is guilty of breaking them all. 11 For the same one who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not commit murder.” Even if you do not commit adultery, you have become a lawbreaker if you commit murder. 12 Speak and act as people who will be judged by the law that sets us free. 13 For God will not show mercy when he judges the person who has not been merciful; but mercy triumphs over judgment. 14 My friends, what good is it for one of you to say that you have faith if your actions do not prove it? Can that faith save you? 15 Suppose there are brothers or sisters who need clothes and don't have enough to eat. 16 What good is there in your saying to them, “God bless you! Keep warm and eat well!”—if you don't give them the necessities of life? 17 So it is with faith: if it is alone and includes no actions, then it is dead. 18 But someone will say, “One person has faith, another has actions.” My answer is, “Show me how anyone can have faith without actions. I will show you my faith by my actions.” 19 Do you believe that there is only one God? Good! The demons also believe—and tremble with fear. 20 You fool! Do you want to be shown that faith without actions is useless? 21 How was our ancestor Abraham put right with God? It was through his actions, when he offered his son Isaac on the altar. 22 Can't you see? His faith and his actions worked together; his faith was made perfect through his actions. 23 And the scripture came true that said, “Abraham believed God, and because of his faith God accepted him as righteous.” And so Abraham was called God's friend. 24 You see, then, that it is by our actions that we are put right with God, and not by our faith alone. 25 It was the same with the prostitute Rahab. She was put right with God through her actions, by welcoming the Israelite spies and helping them to escape by a different road. 26 So then, as the body without the spirit is dead, also faith without actions is dead. Reflect Have you ever witnessed someone being mistreated because of their outward appearance or because they were poor? If so, what did you do? Why does James emphasize linking faith with actions? What did you learn from the examples of Abraham and Rahab? You can read their stories in the Old Testament in Genesis 15:1-6, 22:1-14, and Joshua 2:1-24, 6:22-25. Pray Merciful God, help me to see others through your eyes of love and teach me not to pass judgment on others based on outward appearance. Strengthen my faith and embolden me to act in ways that will advance your Kingdom. Amen. Prayer Concern Those experiencing discrimination Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 21, 2011 Author Members Posted September 21, 2011 September 20, 2011 James 3:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction James 3:1-18: James exhorts his readers to watch what they say, and he uses various images to describe what the tongue is capable of. He then provides a description of two types of wisdom – worldly wisdom that is demonic and wisdom that comes from heaven above that is pure. Today’s Scripture: James 3:10 Words of thanksgiving and cursing pour out from the same mouth. My friends, this should not happen! Today’s Reading 1 My friends, not many of you should become teachers. As you know, we teachers will be judged with greater strictness than others. 2 All of us often make mistakes. But if a person never makes a mistake in what he says, he is perfect and is also able to control his whole being. 3 We put a bit into the mouth of a horse to make it obey us, and we are able to make it go where we want. 4 Or think of a ship: big as it is and driven by such strong winds, it can be steered by a very small rudder, and it goes wherever the pilot wants it to go. 5 So it is with the tongue: small as it is, it can boast about great things. Just think how large a forest can be set on fire by a tiny flame! 6 And the tongue is like a fire. It is a world of wrong, occupying its place in our bodies and spreading evil through our whole being. It sets on fire the entire course of our existence with the fire that comes to it from hell itself. 7 We humans are able to tame and have tamed all other creatures—wild animals and birds, reptiles and fish. 8 But no one has ever been able to tame the tongue. It is evil and uncontrollable, full of deadly poison. 9 We use it to give thanks to our Lord and Father and also to curse other people, who are created in the likeness of God. 10 Words of thanksgiving and cursing pour out from the same mouth. My friends, this should not happen! 11 No spring of water pours out sweet water and bitter water from the same opening. 12 A fig tree, my friends, cannot bear olives; a grapevine cannot bear figs, nor can a salty spring produce sweet water. 13 Are there any of you who are wise and understanding? You are to prove it by your good life, by your good deeds performed with humility and wisdom. 14 But if in your heart you are jealous, bitter, and selfish, don't sin against the truth by boasting of your wisdom. 15 Such wisdom does not come down from heaven; it belongs to the world, it is unspiritual and demonic. 16 Where there is jealousy and selfishness, there is also disorder and every kind of evil. 17 But the wisdom from above is pure first of all; it is also peaceful, gentle, and friendly; it is full of compassion and produces a harvest of good deeds; it is free from prejudice and hypocrisy. 18 And goodness is the harvest that is produced from the seeds the peacemakers plant in peace. Reflect What is your reaction to the way in which James describes the tongue? Is the tongue hard to control? How do you react when someone gossips about another? What is the effect of words that are spoken in love? Here are two sayings that echo James’ teachings: “Gossip is so tasty – how we love to swallow it” (Proverbs 18:8) and “Kind words are like honey – sweet to the taste and good for your health” (Proverbs 16:24). Read also what Jesus says about what comes out of our mouths (Matthew 15:10-20). How does James describe the two types of wisdom (verses 13-18)? Pray Lord God, guard my lips this day from uttering curses and anything that is displeasing to you. May I sing your praises and offer words of thanksgiving, and may I speak only words of love and encouragement to others. Teach me to seek after wisdom that is from above and that is pure, peaceful and gentle. Amen. Prayer Concern Teachers Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 21, 2011 Author Members Posted September 21, 2011 September 21, 2011 James 4:1-17 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction James 4:1-17: James teaches about the source of fights and quarrels, about desiring pleasures, and about humility. He warns his readers about the consequences of criticizing others and boasting. Today’s Scripture: James 4:10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. Today’s Reading 1 Where do all the fights and quarrels among you come from? They come from your desires for pleasure, which are constantly fighting within you. 2 You want things, but you cannot have them, so you are ready to kill; you strongly desire things, but you cannot get them, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have what you want because you do not ask God for it. 3 And when you ask, you do not receive it, because your motives are bad; you ask for things to use for your own pleasures. 4 Unfaithful people! Don't you know that to be the world's friend means to be God's enemy? If you want to be the world's friend, you make yourself God's enemy. 5 Don't think that there is no truth in the scripture that says, “The spirit that God placed in us is filled with fierce desires.” 6 But the grace that God gives is even stronger. As the scripture says, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” 7 So then, submit yourselves to God. Resist the Devil, and he will run away from you. 8 Come near to God, and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners! Purify your hearts, you hypocrites! 9 Be sorrowful, cry, and weep; change your laughter into crying, your joy into gloom! 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. 11 Do not criticize one another, my friends. If you criticize or judge another Christian, you criticize and judge the Law. If you judge the Law, then you are no longer one who obeys the Law, but one who judges it. 12 God is the only lawgiver and judge. He alone can save and destroy. Who do you think you are, to judge someone else? 13 Now listen to me, you that say, “Today or tomorrow we will travel to a certain city, where we will stay a year and go into business and make a lot of money.” 14 You don't even know what your life tomorrow will be! You are like a puff of smoke, which appears for a moment and then disappears. 15 What you should say is this: “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” 16 But now you are proud, and you boast; all such boasting is wrong. 17 So then, if we do not do the good we know we should do, we are guilty of sin. Reflect What does James say about asking for things and why what we might ask of God is not granted (verses 2, 3)? Have you ever experienced what you believed to be unanswered prayer? If so, what was the circumstance? How do you respond to the statement that sometimes God’s answer is “No”? What are your thoughts concerning James’ statement that “to be the world’s friend means to be God’s enemy” (verse 4)? Pray Loving God, teach me to be humble, to put my trust in you, and to ask what is in accord with your will. Strengthen me to resist the devil and draw me near to you. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. Prayer Concern Families who are quarreling Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 23, 2011 Author Members Posted September 23, 2011 September 22, 2011 James 5:1-20 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction James 5:1-20: James issues a warning to the rich and calls attention to workers who are mistreated. He encourages his readers to be patient until the Lord returns and to pray in all circumstances. Today’s Scripture: James 5:16b The prayer of a good person has a powerful effect. Today’s Reading 1 And now, you rich people, listen to me! Weep and wail over the miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches have rotted away, and your clothes have been eaten by moths. 3 Your gold and silver are covered with rust, and this rust will be a witness against you and will eat up your flesh like fire. You have piled up riches in these last days. 4 You have not paid any wages to those who work in your fields. Listen to their complaints! The cries of those who gather in your crops have reached the ears of God, the Lord Almighty. 5 Your life here on earth has been full of luxury and pleasure. You have made yourselves fat for the day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and murdered innocent people, and they do not resist you. 7 Be patient, then, my friends, until the Lord comes. See how patient farmers are as they wait for their land to produce precious crops. They wait patiently for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord's coming is near. 9 Do not complain against one another, my friends, so that God will not judge you. The Judge is near, ready to appear. 10 My friends, remember the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Take them as examples of patient endurance under suffering. 11 We call them happy because they endured. You have heard of Job's patience, and you know how the Lord provided for him in the end. For the Lord is full of mercy and compassion. 12 Above all, my friends, do not use an oath when you make a promise. Do not swear by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Say only “Yes” when you mean yes, and “No” when you mean no, and then you will not come under God's judgment. 13 Are any among you in trouble? They should pray. Are any among you happy? They should sing praises. 14 Are any among you sick? They should send for the church elders, who will pray for them and rub olive oil on them in the name of the Lord. 15 This prayer made in faith will heal the sick; the Lord will restore them to health, and the sins they have committed will be forgiven. 16 So then, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, so that you will be healed. The prayer of a good person has a powerful effect. 17 Elijah was the same kind of person as we are. He prayed earnestly that there would be no rain, and no rain fell on the land for three and a half years. 18 Once again he prayed, and the sky poured out its rain and the earth produced its crops. 19 My friends, if any of you wander away from the truth and another one brings you back again, 20 remember this: whoever turns a sinner back from the wrong way will save that sinner's soul from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins. Reflect James is not warning against riches, but rather against the love of riches that causes people to turn away from God and act in ways that displease God (see 1 Timothy 6:10). Does his warning have any implications for today? What does James say about how we are to act while waiting for the Lord to return? What does he say about prayer? Have you experienced the power of prayer? Reread verses 19-20. What is the importance of bringing back someone who has wandered away from the truth? Pray God of wholeness and healing, help me to pray in all circumstances and to pray in accord with your will. Restore to your loving fold any who may have wandered away from your truth so that they once again may know and experience your love and grace. Amen. Prayer Concern Those who are living in poverty Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 24, 2011 Author Members Posted September 24, 2011 September 23, 2011 Psalm 34 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Psalm 34: The psalm opens with a hymn of praise and thanksgiving (verses 1-3) after which the psalmist tells of being saved by God and inviting others to experience the Lord’s goodness. Verses 11-14 reflect the wisdom tradition in biblical literature, providing instruction on how to honor the Lord. The psalm concludes by affirming that good people are in God’s constant care whereas those who do evil will suffer punishment. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 34:9 Honor the LORD, all his people; those who obey him have all they need. Today’s Reading 1 I will always thank the LORD; I will never stop praising him. 2 I will praise him for what he has done; may all who are oppressed listen and be glad! 3 Proclaim with me the LORD's greatness; let us praise his name together! 4 I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me; he freed me from all my fears. 5 The oppressed look to him and are glad; they will never be disappointed. 6 The helpless call to him, and he answers; he saves them from all their troubles. 7 His angel guards those who honor the LORD and rescues them from danger. 8 Find out for yourself how good the LORD is. Happy are those who find safety with him. 9 Honor the LORD, all his people; those who obey him have all they need. 10 Even lions go hungry for lack of food, but those who obey the LORD lack nothing good. 11 Come, my young friends, and listen to me, and I will teach you to honor the LORD. 12 Would you like to enjoy life? Do you want long life and happiness? 13 Then keep from speaking evil and from telling lies. 14 Turn away from evil and do good; strive for peace with all your heart. 15 The LORD watches over the righteous and listens to their cries; 16 but he opposes those who do evil, so that when they die, they are soon forgotten. 17 The righteous call to the LORD, and he listens; he rescues them from all their troubles. 18 The LORD is near to those who are discouraged; he saves those who have lost all hope. 19 Good people suffer many troubles, but the LORD saves them from them all; 20 the LORD preserves them completely; not one of their bones is broken. 21 Evil will kill the wicked; those who hate the righteous will be punished. 22 The LORD will save his people; those who go to him for protection will be spared. Reflect Whereas the reading for today uses the word “honor” in verses 7, 9, and 11, some translations use the term “fear.” While to “fear” the LORD can mean fear or dread as that word is understood with regard to a human emotion, the term also means showing awe and honor and having respect and reverence for the LORD as it relates to acquiring knowledge of God (Proverbs 2:5) and keeping the law and commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). In what ways do you “fear” or “honor” God? How will you show your reverence for God today? Where do you turn to learn more about God? How is your knowledge of God growing? Pray Awesome God, you are the source of true wisdom and knowledge. Teach me day by day so that I might grow in your wisdom, learn more about you, and always honor you in all I say and do. Amen. Prayer Concern Students Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 24, 2011 Author Members Posted September 24, 2011 September 24, 2011 Psalm 37 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Psalm 37: This psalm addresses the age-old question of why bad things happen to good people while evil people prosper. The psalmist indicates that he is old (verse 25), and it appears he has probably witnessed much in his lifetime. Despite the prevalence of evil, the psalmist exhorts his readers/listeners to trust in the Lord. Today’s Scripture: Psalm 37:23 The LORD guides us in the way we should go and protects those who please him. Today’s Reading 1 Don't be worried on account of the wicked; don't be jealous of those who do wrong. 2 They will soon disappear like grass that dries up; they will die like plants that wither. 3 Trust in the LORD and do good; live in the land and be safe. 4 Seek your happiness in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desire. 5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you; 6 he will make your righteousness shine like the noonday sun. 7 Be patient and wait for the LORD to act; don't be worried about those who prosper or those who succeed in their evil plans. 8 Don't give in to worry or anger; it only leads to trouble. 9 Those who trust in the LORD will possess the land, but the wicked will be driven out. 10 Soon the wicked will disappear; you may look for them, but you won't find them; 11 but the humble will possess the land and enjoy prosperity and peace. 12 The wicked plot against good people and glare at them with hate. 13 But the Lord laughs at wicked people, because he knows they will soon be destroyed. 14 The wicked draw their swords and bend their bows to kill the poor and needy, to slaughter those who do what is right; 15 but they will be killed by their own swords, and their bows will be smashed. 16 The little that a good person owns is worth more than the wealth of all the wicked, 17 because the LORD will take away the strength of the wicked, but protect those who are good. 18 The LORD takes care of those who obey him, and the land will be theirs forever. 19 They will not suffer when times are bad; they will have enough in time of famine. 20 But the wicked will die; the enemies of the LORD will vanish like wild flowers; they will disappear like smoke. 21 The wicked borrow and never pay back, but good people are generous with their gifts. 22 Those who are blessed by the LORD will possess the land, but those who are cursed by him will be driven out. 23 The LORD guides us in the way we should go and protects those who please him. 24 If they fall, they will not stay down, because the LORD will help them up. 25 I am old now; I have lived a long time, but I have never seen good people abandoned by the LORD or their children begging for food. 26 At all times they give freely and lend to others, and their children are a blessing. 27 Turn away from evil and do good, and your descendants will always live in the land; 28 for the LORD loves what is right and does not abandon his faithful people. He protects them forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be driven out. 29 The righteous will possess the land and live in it forever. 30 The words of good people are wise, and they are always fair. 31 They keep the law of their God in their hearts and never depart from it. 32 Wicked people watch good people and try to kill them; 33 but the LORD will not abandon them to their enemy's power or let them be condemned when they are on trial. 34 Put your hope in the LORD and obey his commands; he will honor you by giving you the land, and you will see the wicked driven out. 35 I once knew someone wicked who was a tyrant; he towered over everyone like a cedar of Lebanon; 36 but later I passed by, and he wasn't there; I looked for him, but couldn't find him. 37 Notice good people, observe the righteous; peaceful people have descendants, 38 but sinners are completely destroyed, and their descendants are wiped out. 39 The LORD saves the righteous and protects them in times of trouble. 40 He helps them and rescues them; he saves them from the wicked, because they go to him for protection. Reflect The psalmist begins in an imperative tone, instructing his readers/listeners not to be worried on account of the wicked and not to be jealous of those who do wrong (verse 1). After you have read this entire psalm, can you agree with that statement? Why or why not? Verse 13 states that “the Lord laughs at wicked people.” How does that verse strike you? Given the situation in our world today, do you find this psalm comforting or encouraging? Why or why not? You may wish to compare this psalm with Jesus’ parable of the wheat and the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43), the assigned reading earlier this month on September 8. Pray God of mercy and love, sometimes my faith is shaken when I witness evil in the world today and question why such acts happen. But I know, God, that you are always in control and that you see everything. You promise never to abandon those who put their faith and trust in you. Teach me to be patient and to wait upon you, trusting in your love. Amen. Prayer Concern Victims of terrorism and acts of war Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 25, 2011 Author Members Posted September 25, 2011 September 25, 2011 Proverbs 8:1-36 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Proverbs 8:1-36: For the next five days, we will be reading chapters from the book of Proverbs, a collection of moral teachings in the form of wise sayings, many of which are attributed to King Solomon, who succeeded his father David as Israel’s third king. The sayings affirm that wisdom comes from God. Chapter 8 invites everyone to respond to Wisdom’s invitation and to follow her instructions and search for knowledge. Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 8:11 “I am Wisdom, I am better than jewels; nothing you want can compare with me.” Today’s Reading 1 Listen! Wisdom is calling out. Reason is making herself heard. 2 On the hilltops near the road and at the crossroads she stands. 3 At the entrance to the city, beside the gates, she calls: 4 “I appeal to all of you; I call to everyone on earth. 5 Are you immature? Learn to be mature. Are you foolish? Learn to have sense. 6 Listen to my excellent words; all I tell you is right. 7 What I say is the truth; lies are hateful to me. 8 Everything I say is true; nothing is false or misleading. 9 To those with insight, it is all clear; to the well-informed, it is all plain. 10 Choose my instruction instead of silver; choose knowledge rather than the finest gold. 11 I am Wisdom, I am better than jewels; nothing you want can compare with me. 12 I am Wisdom, and I have insight; I have knowledge and sound judgment. 13 To honor the LORD is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil ways and false words. 14 I make plans and carry them out. I have understanding, and I am strong. 15 I help kings to govern and rulers to make good laws. 16 Every ruler on earth governs with my help, officials and nobles alike. 17 I love those who love me; whoever looks for me can find me. 18 I have riches and honor to give, prosperity and success. 19 What you get from me is better than the finest gold, better than the purest silver. 20 I walk the way of righteousness; I follow the paths of justice, 21 giving wealth to those who love me, filling their houses with treasures. 22 The LORD created me first of all, the first of his works, long ago. 23 I was made in the very beginning, at the first, before the world began. 24 I was born before the oceans, when there were no springs of water. 25 I was born before the mountains, before the hills were set in place, 26 before God made the earth and its fields or even the first handful of soil. 27 I was there when he set the sky in place, when he stretched the horizon across the ocean, 28 when he placed the clouds in the sky, when he opened the springs of the ocean 29 and ordered the waters of the sea to rise no further than he said. I was there when he laid the earth's foundations. 30 I was beside him like an architect, I was his daily source of joy, always happy in his presence— 31 happy with the world and pleased with the human race. 32 Now, young people, listen to me. Do as I say, and you will be happy. 33 Listen to what you are taught. Be wise; do not neglect it. 34 Those who listen to me will be happy— those who stay at my door every day, waiting at the entrance to my home. 35 Those who find me find life, and the LORD will be pleased with them. 36 Those who do not find me hurt themselves; anyone who hates me loves death. ” Reflect Wisdom is personified as a woman (verses 1-3) and as being present with God at the beginning of creation (verses 22-31). What was her role? Reread verses 11-21. How does Wisdom describe herself? What does she do? According to verses 32-36, what is the value of following Wisdom’s advice? Pray All-wise God, open my ears to hear and give me the desire to respond to Wisdom’s invitation to seek after your will and the true knowledge that comes from you. Such knowledge is truly more precious than silver or gold. Amen. Prayer Concern First-year students attending colleges or universities who are adjusting to campus life Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 27, 2011 Author Members Posted September 27, 2011 September 26, 2011 Proverbs 9:1-18 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Proverbs 9:1-18: Both Wisdom and Stupidity call out, extending invitations for passers-by to partake of what each offers. Wisdom exhorts her listeners to follow the way of knowledge; following Stupidity’s ways will lead to death. Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 9:10 To be wise you must first have reverence for the LORD. If you know the Holy One, you have understanding. Today’s Reading 1 Wisdom has built her house and made seven columns for it. 2 She has had an animal killed for a feast, mixed spices in the wine, and set the table. 3 She has sent her servant women to call out from the highest place in town: 4 “Come in, ignorant people!” And to the foolish she says, 5 “Come, eat my food and drink the wine that I have mixed. 6 Leave the company of ignorant people, and live. Follow the way of knowledge. ” 7 If you correct conceited people, you will only be insulted. If you reprimand evil people, you will only get hurt. 8 Never correct conceited people; they will hate you for it. But if you correct the wise, they will respect you. 9 Anything you say to the wise will make them wiser. Whatever you tell the righteous will add to their knowledge. 10 To be wise you must first have reverence for the LORD. If you know the Holy One, you have understanding. 11 Wisdom will add years to your life. 12 You are the one who will profit if you have wisdom, and if you reject it, you are the one who will suffer. 13 Stupidity is like a loud, ignorant, shameless woman. 14 She sits at the door of her house or on a seat in the highest part of town, 15 and calls out to people passing by, who are minding their own business: 16 “Come in, ignorant people!” To the foolish she says, 17 “Stolen water is sweeter. Stolen bread tastes better.” 18 Her victims do not know that the people die who go to her house, that those who have already entered are now deep in the world of the dead. Reflect Today’s passage begins with Wisdom preparing a feast. What do her “food and drink” represent? What does she offer? What advice does she give? What does Stupidity offer? What is the fate of her victims? What, in today’s terms, would constitute “stolen water” and “stolen bread”? Have you ever been tempted by what Wisdom calls “foolish” or “ignorant” people? What can you do to avoid such temptations? Pray Lord God, remind me that true wisdom begins with having reverence for you. Grant me that understanding that comes from knowing you, the Holy One. Help me not to ignore or abandon Wisdom’s call, and guard me from worldly distractions that attempt to lure me away from your truth and the good that you desire for me. Amen. Prayer Concern Students who are facing temptations that could jeopardize their courses of study Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 27, 2011 Author Members Posted September 27, 2011 September 27, 2011 Proverbs 10:1-32 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Proverbs 10:1-32: Today’s reading is part of a collection of sayings attributed to King Solomon. This chapter reads more like statements of truth rather than instructions to be followed, with an emphasis on the ways good people will be blessed. Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 10:23 It is foolish to enjoy doing wrong. Intelligent people take pleasure in wisdom. Today’s Reading 1 These are Solomon's proverbs: Wise children make their fathers proud of them; foolish ones bring their mothers grief. 2 Wealth you get by dishonesty will do you no good, but honesty can save your life. 3 The LORD will not let good people go hungry, but he will keep the wicked from getting what they want. 4 Being lazy will make you poor, but hard work will make you rich. 5 A sensible person gathers the crops when they are ready; it is a disgrace to sleep through the time of harvest. 6 Good people will receive blessings. The words of the wicked hide a violent nature. 7 Good people will be remembered as a blessing, but the wicked will soon be forgotten. 8 Sensible people accept good advice. People who talk foolishly will come to ruin. 9 Honest people are safe and secure, but the dishonest will be caught. 10 Someone who holds back the truth causes trouble, but one who openly criticizes works for peace. 11 A good person's words are a fountain of life, but a wicked person's words hide a violent nature. 12 Hate stirs up trouble, but love forgives all offenses. 13 Intelligent people talk sense, but stupid people need to be punished. 14 The wise get all the knowledge they can, but when fools speak, trouble is not far off. 15 Wealth protects the rich; poverty destroys the poor. 16 The reward for doing good is life, but sin leads only to more sin. 17 People who listen when they are corrected will live, but those who will not admit that they are wrong are in danger. 18 Anyone who hides hatred is a liar. Anyone who spreads gossip is a fool. 19 The more you talk, the more likely you are to sin. If you are wise, you will keep quiet. 20 A good person's words are like pure silver; a wicked person's ideas are worthless. 21 A good person's words will benefit many people, but you can kill yourself with stupidity. 22 It is the LORD's blessing that makes you wealthy. Hard work can make you no richer. 23 It is foolish to enjoy doing wrong. Intelligent people take pleasure in wisdom. 24 The righteous get what they want, but the wicked will get what they fear most. 25 Storms come, and the wicked are blown away, but honest people are always safe. 26 Never get a lazy person to do something for you; he will be as irritating as vinegar on your teeth or smoke in your eyes. 27 Obey the LORD, and you will live longer. The wicked die before their time. 28 The hopes of good people lead to joy, but wicked people can look forward to nothing. 29 The LORD protects honest people, but destroys those who do wrong. 30 Righteous people will always have security, but the wicked will not survive in the land. 31 Righteous people speak wisdom, but the tongue that speaks evil will be stopped. 32 Righteous people know the kind thing to say, but the wicked are always saying things that hurt. Reflect Each verse is written in two parts, a literary style known as parallelism. In these verses, the second part contrasts the first and expresses the opposite. In other chapters, there are proverbs written in this style, but the second part will echo or be in agreement with the first (example: Proverbs 16:17). What is your overall reaction to these sayings? Do any of them ring true for you? Why or why not? You may wish to compare Proverbs 10 with Psalm 37, the assigned reading a few days ago on September 24. Is there anything they have in common? Pray Dear God, I yearn to do what pleases you, but sometimes I fall short. Yet you continue to love and bless me. Daily I need to be reconciled and restored to you. Forgive my shortcomings and, as you have blessed me, teach me to be a blessing to others through my words and actions. Amen. Prayer Concern The unemployed Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
Members phkrause Posted September 28, 2011 Author Members Posted September 28, 2011 September 28, 2011 Proverbs 12:1-28 (Good News Translation) God’s Word Goes Forth: Grow in God’s Wisdom Introduction Proverbs 12:1-28: Proverbs 12 continues in the two-part style that appeared in Proverbs 10. Goodness/ righteousness versus wickedness/evil as well as wisdom versus foolishness continue as key themes, along with statements about the impact of words. Today’s Scripture: Proverbs 12:22 The LORD hates liars, but is pleased with those who keep their word. Today’s Reading 1 Any who love knowledge want to be told when they are wrong. It is stupid to hate being corrected. 2 The LORD is pleased with good people, but condemns those who plan evil. 3 Wickedness does not give security, but righteous people stand firm. 4 A good wife is her husband's pride and joy; but a wife who brings shame on her husband is like a cancer in his bones. 5 Honest people will treat you fairly; the wicked only want to deceive you. 6 The words of the wicked are murderous, but the words of the righteous rescue those who are threatened. 7 The wicked meet their downfall and leave no descendants, but the families of the righteous live on. 8 If you are intelligent, you will be praised; if you are stupid, people will look down on you. 9 It is better to be an ordinary person working for a living than to play the part of someone great but go hungry. 10 Good people take care of their animals, but wicked people are cruel to theirs. 11 A hard-working farmer has plenty to eat, but it is stupid to waste time on useless projects. 12 All that wicked people want is to find evil things to do, but the righteous stand firm. 13 The wicked are trapped by their own words, but honest people get themselves out of trouble. 14 Your reward depends on what you say and what you do; you will get what you deserve. 15 Stupid people always think they are right. Wise people listen to advice. 16 When a fool is annoyed, he quickly lets it be known. Smart people will ignore an insult. 17 When you tell the truth, justice is done, but lies lead to injustice. 18 Thoughtless words can wound as deeply as any sword, but wisely spoken words can heal. 19 A lie has a short life, but truth lives on forever. 20 Those who plan evil are in for a rude surprise, but those who work for good will find happiness. 21 Nothing bad happens to righteous people, but the wicked have nothing but trouble. 22 The LORD hates liars, but is pleased with those who keep their word. 23 Smart people keep quiet about what they know, but stupid people advertise their ignorance. 24 Hard work will give you power; being lazy will make you a slave. 25 Worry can rob you of happiness, but kind words will cheer you up. 26 The righteous person is a guide to his friend, but the path of the wicked leads them astray. 27 If you are lazy, you will never get what you are after, but if you work hard, you will get a fortune. 28 Righteousness is the road to life; wickedness is the road to death. Reflect Proverbs 10:32 concluded that chapter with “Righteous people know the kind thing to say, but the wicked are always saying things that hurt.” A number of verses in today’s reading deal with choosing words carefully and telling the truth (verses 17, 18, 19, 22) over against telling lies and speaking in ways that cause harm (6, 13). Have you ever been hurt by the words of another? Have you ever hurt another by something you said? Verse 18 speaks of the healing power of words. Have you ever been comforted or encouraged by someone’s words? What good word can you offer to someone today? Pray Gracious God, your Son Jesus has taught that words that come out of our mouths that are based on evil thoughts cause us to be unclean in your sight. Such words stir up trouble and hurt others. Guard my lips this day so that I speak lovingly and truthfully with words that are kind and offer encouragement and hope. Amen. Prayer Concern Those engaged in political debates Quote phkrause When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan. Proverbs 29;2
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