Author Archives: famtree2014

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July 16, 2013

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God's Promises, Salvation: A New You

THIS LIFE’S JUST A PRELUDE

I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. [John 11:25-26 (NLT)]

In the overture to an opera, we hear bits of the musical themes but don’t get to experience the richness of the entire score, or the amazing voices, libretto, scenery, costumes, and dancing. Our life here is much like a musical introduction; it’s just a short prelude to eternity. Once we realize our days on earth are only the overture, it’s easier to understand why we don’t have everything we want here and now. It is only after death that we will experience the real fullness of life.

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July 15, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Obedience

NO EXCUSES

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. [Philippians 1:27a (NIV)]

We’re told “whatever” happens we’re to conduct ourselves in a way that honors Christ. In God’s eyes, there is never an excuse for bad behavior!

Father in heaven, may we always be worthy of the title “Christian.”

 

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July 14, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Thanks & Praise

GRATITUDE IS AN ATTITUDE

Always thank God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. [Ephesians 5:20 (GW)]

Gratitude is an attitude; it has little or nothing to do with external circumstances. The following words of Matthew Henry, a 17th century preacher, are a perfect example of applying Ephesians 5:20 to one’s life. He managed to write this after being robbed and beaten:

Let me be thankful first because I was never robbed before; second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life; third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth, because it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.

Lord, give me a grateful heart for all things in all circumstances.

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July 13, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Temptation & Sin

WHAT HAVE WE LEFT UNDONE?

Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it. [James 4:17 (NLT)]

Forgive us, Lord, when we turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to the needs of others. Keep us mindful that we sin not only by taking action but also by failing to take it; not only by speaking but also by failing to speak up. Don’t allow us to ignore what should be noticed. Keep nudging us, Lord, when we fail to do what is right.

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July 11, 2013

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God's Plan, Trusting God

BEYOND OUR SCOPE OF UNDERSTANDING

Just as you don’t know how the breath of life enters into the limbs of a child within its mother’s womb, you also don’t understand how God, who made everything, works. [Ecclesiastes 11:5 (GW)]

Even if God explained in detail exactly how he works, I think his answer would be way beyond our comprehension. When we ask how and why God makes things happen, perhaps the only answer we need is this: ”Because I am God and I love you.” That’s an answer we all can accept!

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July 10, 2013

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God's Promises

HE IS CONSTANT

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you. [Deuteronomy 31:8 (NLT)]

The people in our lives will come and go and sometimes, unfortunately, they may even disappoint or hurt us. Thank you, God, for being the one constant in our lives: ever present, always available, and ceaseless in your love.

And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. [Matthew 28:20b (NLT)]