Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The LORD will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one LORD, and his name the only name.”- Zechariah 14:9

Daily Devotion:

Feet of Faith

"By faith Abraham obeyed" (Heb 11:8)

If we trust someone, it becomes easy for us to do what that person bids us to do. The Book of Hebrews presents Abraham as a classic example of this truth. "By faith Abraham obeyed" (Heb 11:8). He trusted God as a "friend." "He was called the friend of God" (Js 2:23b). Jesus came to show us not only the fatherhood of God but also His friendliness. Obedience is such a pleasant and natural thing in homes where parents and children relate to each other as friends! Jesus during His life on earth was friend both of sinners and saints. He was nicknamed, "Friend of Sinners," and He called His disciples His friends. Friendship is basic to trust and confidence.

God's commandments come to us through His Word. We cannot obey them unless we believe them. Adam disobeyed God because he disbelieved what God had told him about the tree of knowledge. Unbelief was the root cause of the disobedience of the Israelites (Heb 3:18,19). It is of course not easy to maintain simple faith on God in this age which substitutes technology for theology. Today is observed as Technology Day in India. Evangelists are building Prayer Towers whereas Educationalists are erecting Technology Towers.

God is not against common sense or logical reasoning. They are very necessary to make right decisions and sound judgment. But everything should be submitted to the Word of God which alone stands unchanging forever. Peter was quite frustrated when after a whole night of toiling and moiling in the sea he caught nothing. Jesus was not a fisherman but a carpenter. When He asked Peter to throw the net into deep waters, the latter would not have found it easy to do so. But when he placed his fishing experience under the words of Jesus, obedience became easy for him. He said, "Nevertheless at Your Word…" (Lk 5:5).

This kind of faith comes by hearing the Word of God again and again. Not just by reading, but by hearing— which means that we realize that it is actually God "speaking" to us whenever we read His Word. Hearing leads to believing, and believing helps obedience (Rom 10:16,17).

Obedience becomes difficult once the heart is hardened by unbelief. The writer of the Epistle to the Hebrews warns us, "Beware, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God" (Heb 3:12). When we realize that the one who calls us to obey is a "living God," we feel like a child relaxing with confidence into the bosom of its mother. No anxiety. No worry.

He who obeys God,trusts God;and he who trusts God,obeys God!(C.H.Spurgeon, 1834-1892)

Prayer:

Prayer for God's Light and Peace

O eternal Lord God, who holdest all souls in life: Give, we beseech thee, to thy whole Church in paradise and on earth thy light and thy peace; and grant that we, following the good examples of those who have served you here and are now at rest, may at the last enter with them into thine unending joy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever— do not abandon the works of your hands.”- Psalm 138:8

Daily Devotion:

A part, yet Apart!

"If one part suffers, every part suffers with it" (1 Cor 12:26)

God takes a serious view of damaged relationships. We earn His displeasure when we fail to reconcile with one another. As long as the sailing is smooth, we tend to be too independent. But when we run aground, we crave for the fellowship of God's people. Times of testing and the hour of trial teach us the importance and preciousness of the help and company of brothers and sisters in Christ (Heb 12:22,23). "A brother is born for adversity" (Prov 17:17). How much Jesus longed for the company of His disciples at the garden of Gethsemane!

The horizontal component of holiness is peace with men. We will miss God's grace if we don't root out from our hearts whatever bitterness we have against others (Heb 12:14,15). We have heard what happened to the cows which were grazing together but were scattered by the evil advice of a jackal. God struck an outstanding singer with leprosy for backbiting. He healed her after she realised her folly (Num 12).

Trials and difficulties soften our hearts, thus making reconciliation easy. Long term enmity has been healed when one of the persons is suddenly and seriously taken ill. Confessing our sins to one another and praying for each other is God's prescription for healing (Js 5:16). God had to cripple Jacob the trickster before crowning him (Gen 32:25-28).

We should restitute matters not only with believers but also unbelievers if we have harmed anyone of them. A guiltfree conscience is like medicine. Good and smooth relationships keep us cheerful. Health and cheerfulness mutually beget each other. Medical science recognizes that emotions such as envy, resentment and hatred are responsible for the majority of sicknesses.

We expect deliverance from troubles or lifting of the rod of correction the moment we repent and pray. But this does not happen always. Hence the exhortation: "Strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed" (Heb 12:12,13). God did not drive out all the enemies of Israel "immediately," but left them for two reasons: One, to teach the children of Israel warfare, and second, to test their obedience (Judg 2: 21;3:4). God's delays are for our good. Psalms 6,13,38,56,70,88, and 143 are excellent prayers of David for deliverance from his troubles and enemies. But God did not send him instant deliverance in every case.

Prayer:

Loving Father, put away All the wrong I’ve done today; Make me sorry, true, and good; Make me love thee as I should; Make me feel by day and night I am ever in thy sight. Heavenly Father, hear my prayer, Take thy child into thy care; Let thy angels pure and bright Watch around me through the night. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”- 2 Peter 3:9

Daily Devotion:

Why Oil?

"The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well;the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven" (Js 5:15)

In James 5: 14 we read about anointing the sick with oil and praying for them. Many quote this verse and sell "anointed oil" in bottles. Sincere Christians want to know what the Bible has to say about this.

Scented oils were used in the Old Testament times to symbolize gladness (Psa 45:7; 104:15), and were avoided in times of mourning (2 Sam 12:20; Isa 61:3). Guests were anointed with perfumed oils as a mark of special hounour (Lk 7:36-38,46). Anointing with soothing oils was also part of medical treatment in Biblical times (Isa 1:6; Jer 8:22). The disciples of Christ continued this Jewish practice when they went on their healing mission (Mk 6:13). The Epistle of James, which was primarily addressed "to the twelve tribes" of Israel (Js 1:1), recommends the use of oil for the sick (Js 5:14). The Greek word "aleipho" used in such instances always indicated a literal rubbing. Also the Greek word for "oil" here is "elaion" which means olive oil. Therefore we are to understand that James was prescribing both prayer and medical treatment for the sick believers.

However, oil in the Bible is also a symbol of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit (Zech 4:2-6). Prophets, priests and kings were anointed with oil when they were consecrated. Therefore the use of oil, while ministering to the sick, as a point of contact to encourage faith is not objectionable. It may symbolize the healing virtue to flow from Christ the Head to the sick organs of His Body (Psa 133:2). But it is not the oil that is to be anointed, blessed or prayed for. That is close to idolatry. Under the New Covenant God does not anoint or sanctify objects. The anointing will descend only on people (Acts 2:17).

The primary responsibility of ministering healing to believers lies with the local "elders of the Church" (Js 5:14). It must be further followed up by believers praying for "one another" (v16). Healing evangelists should not urge Christians to immediately write to them or phone-call them for prayer, but encourage the Christians and the pastors to develop the healing ministry in the local context. Returning to this Biblical procedure will put an end to malpractices and exploitations in the use of the "gifts of healings" God has graciously placed in the Church.

"The Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings!" (Mal 4:2)

Prayer:

Put Courage Into My Heart

Lord, put courage into my heart, and take away all that may hinder me serving you. Free my tongue to proclaim your goodness, that all may understand me. Give me friends to advise and help me, that by working together our efforts may bear abundant fruit. And, above all, let me constantly remember that all my actions are in vain unless they are guided by your hand.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.”- 2 Thessalonians 3:3

Daily Devotion:

Not "I" but "C"

"I count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things" (Phil 3:8)

Self-denial is not cheap. Jesus challenged His followers to count the cost. What Jesus actually wanted was to deepen the commitment of His followers (Lk 14:27-33). Those who kept going after Him just for blessings and miracles would be terribly disappointed.

As disciples of Christ we are called to deny ourselves of even certain legitimate rights and enjoyments of life (1 Cor 7:29-31). While listing out the signs of the endtimes, Paul says, "Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money…" (2 Tim 3:1,2). It's foolish to wait for a

calamity to strike us and force us to loosen our grip on riches. Jesus became poor voluntarily. Self-denial is the supreme spiritual exercise.

Self-denial was reflected in everything Jesus chose to do—
Jesus denied Himself of the perfect beauty and splendor of His deity and became "sin" for us (2 Cor 5:21). He refused to yield to the pressure of temptations to show off His power (Mt 4:3-11). He forewent the basic comforts in life and went forth without a place to lay His head (Mt 8:20). Unmindful of His time to sleep or sup, He ministered to ignorant teachers and ignominious thirsters (Jn 3&4). He refused to be influenced by the filial love of His own family members in the matters of the Kingdom of God (Mt 12:46-50). He laid aside the prestige of His lordship in order to wash the feet of His disciples (Jn 13:3-5). He refused to pray to the Father

for the release of battalions of angels to fight for Him (Mt 26:53,54). He directed sympathizers to weep for themselves and their children (Lk 23:27,28). He refused a pain-killer drink while agonizing on the Cross (Mt 27:34). He denied Himself of the Throne and became a "sacrifice" on the Altar (Eph 5:2). This is self-denial…Shall we follow Him?

All that we have is not for us to enjoy. All that we earn is not for us to expend. "Whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple," said Jesus (Lk 14:33). Here lies our problem. We attempt what Jesus pointed out as impossible. Mother Teresa's belongings were a Bible, a rosary, two sarees and a suitcase — that's all!

In full and glad surrender I give myself to Thee,
Thine utterly and only and evermore to be.
Reign over me, Lord Jesus; oh, make my heart Thy throne;
It shall be Thine, dear Saviour, it shall be Thine alone!

Prayer:

Prayer for Trust in God

O Lord, my God, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness,give us the sense of Your presence,Your love, and Your strength.Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love and strengthening power,so that nothing may frighten or worry us,for, living close to You,we shall see Your hand,Your purpose, Your will through all things.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

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

Daily Devotion:

Backsliding from Backsliding!

"It is not My heavenly Father's will that anyone should perish" (Mt 18:14)

Backsliding has become too common in the Church. Backsliding is never sudden; it is always in stages. There are two types of backsliding—one from which recovery is possible and the other for which under normal circumstances there is no remedy.

The first type can be explained by three conditions. First of all, there may be the loss of first love for God (Rev 2:4,5), and fervour in spiritual matters. Another condition is the loss of personal holiness and loss of victory over sin. Recovery from these two conditions is possible. James 5:19,20, "If anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone turns him back, let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins." Yet another state of backsliding is loss of sound faith and being led into strange doctrines. Apostle Paul calls this a spiritual "cancer" (2 Tim 2:17). By the mercy of God, this is also curable through the diligent ministry of a Bible teacher. When he would teach patiently, "God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will" (2 Tim 2:24-26).

There is another type of backsliding which is generally irreversible. It is the open denial and rejection of the Person of Christ. The seriousness of this type of backsliding is given in Hebrews 6:4-6. "It is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted the heavenly gift, and have become partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, if they fall away, to renew them again to repentance, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to open shame." The author of Hebrews quotes Esau as an example. "Esau sold his birthright for one morsel of food. For you know that afterward, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it diligently with tears" (Heb 12:16,17). Selling the birthright, in the sight of God, is nothing but rejecting the Messiah. This is the "sin leading to death" (1 Jn 5:16,17). Unless the person who backslid repents, there is no remedy. The fellow-believers should meet with such candidates and talk to them and remove the blocks lovingly and bring them back to the love of Christ.

"Lord, Thou hast here Thine ninetynine, Are they not enough for Thee?"But the Shepherd made answer: "I go to the desert to find My sheep!"(Elizabeth C. Clephane, 1830-1869)

Prayer:

"Two things I ask of you, O LORD;do not refuse me before I die:Keep falsehood and lies far from me;give me neither poverty nor riches,but give me only my daily bread.Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the LORD ?' Or I may become poor and steal,and so dishonor the name of my God. - Proverbs 30:7-9

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”- Psalm 121:7-8

Daily Devotion:

Brother Jesus

"Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers.He says I will declare Your name to My brothers;in the presence of the congregation I will sing Your praises" (Heb 2:11,12)

What a position we have in the family of God because we are saved! We are the brothers of Jesus Christ! We are the children of God! We are the true seed of Abraham! We remember here the words of the resurrected Saviour to Mary: "Go to My brothers and say to them, I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God" (Jn 20:17). Salvation brings us into a state of perfect identification with Jesus Christ in the family of God. Whatever Jesus is to the Father and with the Father, we are because of Salvation.

My sins crucified the Lord Jesus, but the gift of Salvation has made me His own brother. I went astray in my own way, without God and without hope, but the gift of Salvation planted me as a member in God's holy congregation. When I by faith received the gift of Salvation I became the true seed of Abraham, even the Seed of Promise. Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul! What a sacrifice for the sinless, spotless and blameless Son of God to call us His brothers! What a love of the holy and lofty God the Father to call us His children! Oh, what Salvation!

Jesus says, "I will declare!" — His pride. And, "I will sing!" _ His pleasure. Then, "I will put My trust!" — His protection (Heb 2:11-13). Blessed privilege! We can truly confess and rejoice saying, "God is my Father. Jesus is my Brother. The Holy Spirit is my Guide. And so I will not fear!" Not only that, Christ has freed those who were held in slavery all their lifetime by the fear of death (v15). Fear kills joy, but release from fear makes us rejoice. We don't have the fear of death or of the future.

David explains the joy-life in the House of God in Psalm 23:4-6. "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me...You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever." Life here on earth for God's people is a foretaste of life there in Eternity. Because of Jesus and in Jesus we have everything and more than what we need.

Christ Jesus is my All in All, my comfort, and my love;
My life below; and He shall be my joy and crown above! (J. Mason)

Prayer:

Lead Me to Peace

Lead me from death to life,from falsehood to truth.
Lead me from despair to hope,from fear to trust.
Lead me from hate to love,from war to peace.
Let peace fill my heart,my world, my universe.
Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”- Psalm 91:1

Daily Devotion:

Sin of Sins

"Without faith it is impossible to please God" (Heb 11:6a)

The Garden of Eden was a place of hills, plains, and lovely lakes. The blue heavens and the green earth were in perfect harmony. On the graceful shrubs stood colourful flowers, dressed in purple and pink, to greet the first man and woman at every turn of their eye. The lion and the lamb played peacefully around them. The two full-grown babies enjoyed the company of the angelic beings who were their frequent visitors. Above all, they welcomed the coming of their Creator who walked in the garden, in the cool of the day. They lived in perpetual dependence on God and enjoyed perfect bliss. But they could continue in that happy estate only on a condition. The condition that their Creator laid down was this: "Of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat" (Gen 2:18). The tree of knowledge had been made a test of their faith and obedience. It was then that the unwanted intruder came on the scene and asked Eve, "Has God indeed said, You shall not eat of every tree of the garden?" (Gen 3:1). He questioned the very Word of God. Alas! Eve began to distrust God's love and doubt His wisdom. She disbelieved the words of God for whom it was impossible to lie (Heb 6:8) and believed the lie of the liar (Jn 8:44). And the outcome? They became outcasts from the garden of Eden. The first sin of our first parents is failure to believe God's Word. Yes, unbelief is the sin of sins.

Unbelief is the only sin that leads to death (1 Jn 5:16). For any other sin committed by any of us, we can pray for that person, and God will forgive him. But if he keeps refusing to believe on Christ Jesus as his Saviour, however much we may pray for him, he will not be forgiven. "There is no judgment awaiting those who trust Him. But those who do not trust Him have already been judged for not believing in the only Son of God" (Jn 3:18). This truth must be shouted in the ears of those who say there is no God, and all religions are the same, and membership in the Church is good enough for salvation!

The only condition God lays for us to be forgiven and accepted into His family is that we must believe on His Son. Anything else is secondary. Without faith, it is impossible to please God! "Dear God, in these days when thousands go astray from faith, help me not to believe the lies of the devil but trust in the finished work of Christ only, and walk in faith obeying the simple truths of Your holy Word!"

Unbelief shuts the door of Heaven and opens the gates of hell! - Dr. Billy Graham (1918- )

Prayer:

Lord, help me to rest a while in the cooling shade of your presence. Slow down my restless heart and fill me with gentle compassion for all your people. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”- Ephesians 6:4

Daily Devotion:

Milk `n' Meat

"My eyes stay open through the watches of the night" (Psa 119:148)

The Bible is both "milk" and "meat." For beginners it is milk, and for the grown-ups and the mature it is meat (Heb 5:12-14). Chewing of meat takes longer time than drinking milk. As we grow in our Christian life, we must allot more and more time for Bible meditation. We will come across several Bible difficulties and tough questions. Bible Dictionaries explain the cultural background against which each book of the Bible was written.

If only we know how much time the Bible translators take to translate a single portion of the Scripture, we will not consider Bible meditation as an extra-curricular activity! What a privilege to have the entire Bible in our mother tongue, that too in so many versions! There are still over 1000 languages without a single line of the Scripture translated into them. This generation is enviably blessed with abundance of Study Bibles and study aids. I could not afford to buy a single Study Bible during the first eight years (1962-1970) of my spiritual life as a student in the College. Oh, how I prayed for one with my campus prayermates!

God granted the desire of my heart in 1970 when my father-in-law presented me a Dake's Annotated Reference Bible when I got engaged to Lilian. It took Finnis Jennings Dake (1902-1987) about 100,000 hours during a span of 43 years to produce this Study Bible. Today, I own dozens of Study Bibles. I handle them with reverence because, as a Bible teacher, I can understand what it would take for the authors of Study Bibles to complete such works. It's good to buy Study Bibles but do we set aside time to study them?

New versions of the Bible are a stupendous asset to people like us who have not studied Hebrew and Greek. No one translation is absolutely perfect or totally faulty. Each has its strengths and defects. Don't be dominated by sentimentality and get closed to other versions. Take time to read your daily portions in one or two other versions. You will be thrilled at the fresh insights and understanding you receive! Let the King James Version addicts who are averse to other translations remember that the KJV is not "the first version of the English Bible" but a revision of dozen versions. Several Indian vernacular editions of the Bible are also being updated and they are welcome.

For most of us Sunday is the only holiday. Sunday afternoons after a siesta may be set aside for rigorous study of the Scriptures through study aids. Try and see!

Prayer: Psalm 133

How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity!
It is like precious oil poured on the head,running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard,down upon the collar of his robes.
It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing,even life forevermore.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“Sing to God, sing praise to his name, extol him who rides on the clouds — his name is the LORD— and rejoice before him. A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling.”- Psalm 68:4-5

Daily Devotion:

Thy will be Done!

"Show me Your ways, O Lord…My hope is in You all day long" (Psa 25:4,5)

Under the New Covenant, God through His Spirit puts His laws in our mind and writes them on our hearts (Heb 8:10). In other words, at new birth He gives us the potential ability to understand His mind. But the truth always remains that God's thoughts are higher than ours as the heavens are higher than the earth (Isa 55:8,9).

Waiting on God to know His mind is comparable to a servant looking to his master for orders and instructions. This is pictorially illustrated in Psalm 123:2, "As the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God." Nothing else should interest us if our attention before God is to be undivided. To hear from Above, it is necessary we stop our ears to the voices from around. Directions for the first missionary movement were received while a team of five prophets-cum-teachers was waiting on God with fasting and prayer (Acts 13:1-4).

We miss God's will at critical situations just because we don't withdraw ourselves for a while to wait on Him. The beheading of John the Baptist was not an ordinary news to Jesus. John was both a family member and a fellow worker to Jesus. "As soon as Jesus heard the news, He went off by Himself in a boat to remote area to be alone" (Mt 14:13). When He heard that His friend Lazarus was sick, He waited a while to know His Father's mind in the matter. The four days of delay paved way not only to perform a resurrection miracle but also prepared a pulpit for Jesus to teach precious truths on resurrection (Jn 11).

When we are at crossroads, and there are more than one option, waiting on God is indispensable. Deciding between good and bad is easier than choosing between good and better. Only God knows which is best for us. He alone knows the end from the beginning (Isa 46:10). Eliezer made a trip to Mesopotamia to hunt for a bride for Isaac. When he saw Rebekah who was exquisitely beautiful and exceptionally helpful, he was quite excited. However he "remained silent so as to know whether the Lord had prospered his trip or not" (Gen 24:21). Interestingly, during that time, the groom was also waiting on God by spending time in meditation out in the fields (v 63). What a lesson for parents and youngsters!

Hold Thou my hand! so weak I am, and helpless,
I dare not take one step without Thy aid;
Hold Thou my hand! for then, O loving Saviour,
No dread of ill shall make my soul afraid! (Grace J. Frances)

Prayer:

My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty;I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have stilled and quieted my soul;like a weaned child with its mother, like a weaned child is my soul within me. O Israel, put your hope in the LORD both now and forevermore.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him;”- Psalm 103:13

Daily Devotion:

Again and Aloud!

"They read distinctly from the book of the Law of God,and gave the sense, and helped people to understand" (Neh 8:8)

Family prayertime is either not there or too short in many a Christian home. Not much can be accomplished in a family prayer which hardly lasts for thirty minutes. The time can be divided equally between Bible meditation and prayer. During the restoration ministry of Ezra and Nehemiah, the people were reading the Scriptures from morning six to twelve noon, and then on upto evening six they were confessing their sins and worshipping (Neh 9:3). This is a healthy proportion. The first fifteen minutes in family prayer may be allotted for reading and meditating the Bible. That will make praise and prayer in the remaining time meaningful. The sons and daughters must be encouraged to read portions of the Scriptures aloud. Since this is not practiced in many homes, most of our young people don't know how to follow the punctuation marks in reading aloud. Paul instructed Timothy, "Give attention to reading" (1 Tim 4:13). This actually meant public reading. Jesus was good at it. Folks listened to His reading with rapt attention (Lk 4:16,17,20).

I did not miss a single service in the Anglican Church at Nazareth (South India) where I grew. Two elderly gentlemen used to read the first and the second Scripture lessons. I can never forget their majestic voice with which they read. This part of the service was more appealing to me than the rest. I would read along with them, of course quietly. This was the training for my Scripture reading in pulpit preaching today. Several free Churches have dispensed with this practice of reading Bible lessons. I pity the members, especially the youngsters!

The more we read the Bible the more we would like to read it. There will be times when we may not find Bible reading and meditation interesting. The excitement may not be there. This is when we must be careful. We may be tempted to give up the customary practices of Bible reading until a new desire and enthusiasm springs up. John Bunyan (1628-1688) the author of Pilgrim's Progress testified, "I have sometimes seen more in a line of the Bible than I could well tell how to stand under, and yet at another time the whole Bible has been to me as dry as a stick!" Such dry spells will be common in our interaction with the Scriptures. We must neither decrease the time nor discontinue the routine. We don't know when and from which passage God would speak to us.

Prayer:

Give Us, O Lord, a Steadfast Heart

Give us, O Lord, a steadfast heart, which no unworthy affection may drag downwards; give us an unconquered heart, which no tribulation can wear out; give us an upright heart, which no unworthy purpose may tempt aside. Bestow upon us also, O Lord our God, understanding to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you, and a faithfulness that may finally embrace you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”- Colossians 3:13

Daily Devotion:

Triumph in Trials!

"Teach me, and I will be quiet;show me where I have been wrong" (Job 6:24)

Controlling the tongue when everything is calm and we are composed is easy, and it requires no special effort. But when we are agitated with anger and agonizing in anguish, we speak out what we are not supposed to. Job was careful with his words even though he was crushed in his spirit. He was so humble that he was willing to be corrected if he had erred.

God has no pleasure in our suffering. If we sinful people desire that our children should be happy and healthy, how much more will our heavenly Father desire so for His children! But if suffering is an incomparable means to correct us and teach us His ways, will the Heavenly Father spoil us by sparing that rod?

The testimony of Psalmist David is that of all prophets, patriarchs and people who walked closely with God in their generations. He confessed to God, "The suffering You sent was good for me, for it taught me to pay attention to Your principles… I used to wander off until You disciplined me; but now I closely follow Your Word" (Psa 119:71,67). Our lips may not instantly utter such words when adverse winds blow on us. But if we recollect the outcome of the sufferings of the past, we will stay patient instead of turning bitter. The unknown author of the Epistle to the Hebrews has written for us these timeless words: "No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening _ it is painful! But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way" (Heb 12:11).

We have these days short-term courses and distant education as substitutes for rigorous training and systematic learning in classrooms for long years. Substitutes are invented to save time and enjoy ease. But as for God, He never changes and He is not in a hurry. Times are in His hands. Life's lessons are not learnt overnight. Patience and perseverance are inevitable. No wonder the saints of old called suffering a School!

John Chrysostom (350?-407) was known as the greatest of all Christian preachers. He said, "Your wife irritates you, you worry about your children, your enemies are waiting to catch you out...your colleague acts behind your back...you suffer from poverty, you lose your nearest and dearest...where can you find ointment for your wounds, but in the Bible?"

Prayer:

Show Me the Course

Steer the ship of my life, good Lord, to your quiet harbour, where I can be safe from the storms of sin and conflict. Show me the course I should take. Renew in me the gift of discernment, so that I can always see the right direction in which I should go. And give me the strength and the courage to choose the right course, even when the sea is rough and the waves are high, knowing that through enduring hardship and danger in your name we shall find comfort and peace.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.”- Matthew 7:13-14

Daily Devotion:

Nazareth to Naphtali!

"The Spirit of the Lord is on Me,because He has anointed Me to preach good news to the poor" (Lk 4:18a).

Miracles are rare in meetings where the participants are mostly Christians. On the other hand, healings and miracles are commonplace in outreach programmes for non-Christians. What is the secret?

Isaiah has the answer from the mouth of God: "I was found by those who did not ask for Me. But to Israel He says: All day long I have stretched out My hands to a disobedient and contrary people" (Rom 10:20,21). God manifests His gifts and power when He is moved by the needs of the people. Physicians should be where the sick are. Concerning the gifts poured out by Christ thro' His Spirit, David prophesied, "You have received gifts among men, even among the rebellious, that the Lord God might dwell there" (Psa 68:18,19).

Nominal Christians already know that Christ came, died and rose again. What they need is not evangelistic wonders but prophetic warnings! (Mt 12:38,39). Christ is not interested in repeating miracles for stiffnecked and unbelieving Christian communities. How He rebuked the people of Cana, Chorazin and Capernaum for their unrepentant attitude! (Jn 4:46-48; Mt 11:20-24).

Go to regions where Christ is not named. Visit villages to meet downtrodden people. Rush to flood-affected and famine-hit areas and such places where natural calamities have left the people shattered and miserable. Go to hills and jungles where tribals live under superstitious beliefs and fears for centuries. Mission fields present situations which baffle the best of minds. Rush there with your gifts of the "word of wisdom" and "word of knowledge." What's the use of arms and ammunition unless we fight the enemy with them and free the people?

Gifts of the Spirit Seminars which do not propel the participants to the unreached frontiers, where millions are held under the devil's spell, have completely defeated the purpose. There are tribal areas where every other person is demon-possessed. Rally there to cast out devils. Thousands of primitive villagers are dying of diseases without any medical help. Run there to exercise the gifts of healing.

Oftentimes God's primary intent is sacrificed on the altar of man's personal interests. Leaving Nazareth, Jesus worked in the land of Zebulun and Naphtali to give light to the people who were sitting in darkness! (Mt 4:13-16). This is a text which I just love! In June 2004 I was addressing the Christian community in Nazareth, my native town in South India. I gave a missionary challenge to the audience to leave the Christian "Nazareth" for reaching the non-Christians in "Naphtali!"

Prayer:

Seeking Healing From God

O God, the source of all health: So fill my heart with faith in your love, that with calm expectancy I may make room for your power to possess me, and gracefully accept your healing; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights. For the director of music. On my stringed instruments.”- Habakkuk 3:19

Daily Devotion:

Come, let's obey God!

"Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today" (Heb 3:13)

Help and support from fellow believers, friends and family folks make obedience to God easy. We are exhorted in Hebrews 3:13-15, "Encourage one another daily, while it is called `Today'... while it is said: Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts." This passage means that we never outgrow the need for the fellowship of saints as long as we are on earth. When we enter eternity, there will be no "today" because there will be no yesterday or tomorrow! A walk of obedience with God is ultimately the individual's choice and responsibility, but he cannot do it all by himself. Not isolation but integration is the safest road to walk in consistent obedience.

We must not fail to note when exactly God gave Eve to Adam. It was immediately after He commanded Adam about the tree of knowledge (Gen 2:15-18). God said, "It's not good for man to be alone!" Not that he would fall into adultery if he were alone. In fact there was no woman at all at that time! The companionship of Eve was mainly to help Adam to obey God and resist Satan. What an awesome responsibility God has placed on spouses to mutually encourage and exhort one another in their walk of obedience to God! When together they seek to obey God in all matters, relationship between them also becomes smoother. This was the secret of oneness between the old couple Elizabeth and Zacharias (Lk 1:6,59-63).

Sarah helped Abraham obey God. The Bible nowhere says that Abraham left home with Isaac to sacrifice him without telling Sarah! It's a meaningless interpretation of the narrative. While commenting on the faith of Abraham, the writer of Hebrews says, "By faith Sarah ALSO...." (Heb 11:8-11).Children need the help of parents to obey God. King Solomon stresses it in the very beginning of his book of Proverbs. "My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother" (Prov 1:8; 4:1-4). The influence of mummy and granny on Timothy is well known (2 Tim 1:5).

"Leave me alone," is the demand of youth both at home and outside. This puts the devil in an advantageous position to play havoc in their lives. Let them listen to the words of the wisest king ever lived: "Two are better than one... Because, if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up... Better is a poor and wise youth than an old foolish king who will be admonished no more" (Eccl 4:9,10,13).

Prayer:

Prayer for Divine Guidance

Lord God, almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought us in safety to this new day: Preserve us with your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.”- Psalm 90:2,4

Daily Devotion:

Play while you Play!

"If anyone does not know how to manage his own family,how can he take care of God's Church?" (1 Tim 3:5)

The wife does not want a preacher at home but a husband, and the children not a teacher but a father. Spend quality time with the family and be involved in domestic affairs like marketing, gardening, house-cleaning, etc. Let no preacher say, "I am sacrificing my family for the ministry." This is anti-Biblical.

Whether you are in Christian ministry or secular employment, you should maintain this order of priority: first God, second family and third ministry or job. Reversal of this order means serious consequences. Peter cared for his mother-in-law. Jesus handed over the responsibility to His disciple to take care of His mother after His death.

Play indoor or outdoor games with the family. Have regular vacationing. Don't always talk religion but enjoy the jokes of the children. Eat together and have relaxed chats while dining. Don't be a stranger to household chores.If possible take your wife with you for ministry and in any case don't be separated for long. Don't share the defects of your spouse with anyone of the opposite sex you meet in your ministry. "Discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you" (Prov 2:11).

The body is the temple of God and it must be properly maintained (1 Cor 3:16). Eat balanced food and avoid overeating. Timely meal and good rest will give you extra years of service. Do lot of walking and bicycling. Don't get addicted to motorized vehicles. Upto His thirtieth year Jesus was a busy carpenter and during the next three and a half years He did so much of walking and mountain-climbing. He carried His own cross. He kept His body trim and fit. Who has ever been against his own body?

Praise God for comforts but don't be addicted to them. Simple living and high thinking — this should be our watchword. Flee sexual immorality. It is against your own body (1 Cor 6:18). You will lose your anointing and strength. Have a periodical medical check-up and attend to any health problem immediately (1 Tim 5:23). Claim divine health (3 Jn 2).

In the initial years of my Christian life I did not realise the need to eat well and rest well. I was on the run all the time. My dad would often remind me, "How to paint a picture if the wall is not alright?" I have realized the value of this counsel now, though late, and pass it on to young preachers.

Prayer:

For Health of Body and Soul

May God the Father bless you, God the Son heal you, God the Holy Spirit give you strength. May God the holy guard your body, save your soul, and bring you safely to his heavenly country; where he lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all.”- 1 Chronicles 29:11

Daily Devotion:

Bold Voice

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches" - (Rev 3:13)

Precious Child,I want to bring you out of your apprehensions to witness for Christ. You are afraid that people might mock at you. Your throat chokes every time you want to open your mouth to share the Gospel. The fear of ridicule silences you. Don't feel bad about it, My child. This was the problem of the disciples of Jesus also even though they had walked with Him for over three years. Can you imagine how a key figure like Peter could ever deny and disown Christ? Their weakness overpowered their willingness. The problem was solved by My coming. That's why Jesus wouldn't let them go out until they got filled with My power (Acts 1:4). When I came upon them, the cowards became challengers!

Be filled with Me. Don't consider your timidity or boast of your oratory skill. Depend on Me. I will grant you boldness in all situations to speak forth the message of the Cross (Acts 4:31). Your educational qualification is not the criterion. You will see souls saved when you witness to them for Christ in My power (Acts 1:8). I will equip you with My gifts (1 Cor 12:7-10). You can discern spirits. You can drive out demons. You can deliver people from sin and sickness. You can demonstrate My power through signs and wonders. You can denounce evil through prophetic words. You can declare words of faith into hopeless situations. You can demoralize the enemy's agents. You can dethrone wicked powers from governmental seats. You can declutch youth from drugs and deception.

Satan will fight against you tooth and nail when you go proclaiming the Gospel. He will not easily loosen his grip on souls. Just because you go in My power, don't think he will stay silent. He will instigate people to work against you. He will incite them to beat or burn you. I won't promise that no stone pelted at you will hit you, but I will make your face angelic even if you will have to bleed to death. I will keep your spirit sweet and not turn bitter against the persecutors (Acts 6:15; 7:60). You will overflow with My joy (Acts 13:50-52). I will rest on you as the Spirit of Glory (1 Pet 4:14). Take heart!

Gracious Spirit, dwell with me! I myself would gracious be,
And with words that help and heal would Thy life in mine reveal;
And with actions bold and meek would for Christ, my Saviour, speak!
(Thomas T. Lynch, 1818-1871)

Prayer:

Psalm of Comfort

As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, O God.
My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: 'When shall I come and appear before God?'
My tears have been my food day and night, while they say unto me all the day: 'Where is Thy God?'
These things I remember, and pour out my soul within me, how I passed on with the throng, and led them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, a multitude keeping holyday.
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why moanest thou within me? Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise Him for the salvation of His countenance.- Psalms 42: 2-6

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”- Proverbs 15:1

Daily Devotion:

Streams in the Desert

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches" - (Rev 3:6)

My darling Child,I am grieved when I see My people walking around with long faces. Your life on earth will not be without worries but you must learn to live above them (Jn 16:33b). I am the River of Joy. I flow through the Church on earth. Have a bath in My waters. Sit under the trees on the banks. You will be healed of your hurts (Psa 46:4,5; Rev 22:1,2). I am the Wind of Heaven. Enjoy My breeze. Your heaviness will flee. I am the Oil of Gladness. Apply it on your head. You will be relieved of tensions. I will turn your mourning into dancing.

When problems mount up and pains increase, remember you are not alone. I am not just with you, but in you! (Jn 14:17b). I understand your pain more than you feel it, because as God resident in you nothing is hidden from Me. I suffer with you (Isa 63:9). I am your Comforter forever. I will strengthen your weak hands and feeble knees.

Lean on Me, My child, lean on Me! I will heal your broken heart. I will give you beauty for ashes and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness (Isa 61: 1- 3). Eating and drinking and such physical pleasures don't last long. Revel in Me. That's what life in God's Kingdom means (Rom 14:17). I make the joy and peace of Jesus real to you. It's what the world cannot give or understand or take away (Jn 14: 26, 27).Sometimes you may feel lonely and orphaned. You would wonder whether I had left you. Remember, dear child, I don't make shunting trips between Heaven and earth according to My moods and your condition. No, I am always with you whether you feel so or not (Jn 14:16b). If I have to vacate your heart every time you displease Me, I cannot be resident in any saint on earth (Psa 51:11).

Hear us, Thou that broodest o'er the watery deep,
Waking all creation from its primal sleep;
Holy Spirit, breathing breath of life divine,
Breathe into our spirits, blending them with Thine.
When the fight is fiercest in the noontide heat,
Bear us, Holy Spirit, to our Saviour's feet,
There to find a refuge till our work is done,
There to fight the battle till the battle's won!(Rev. Godfrey Thring, 1823-1903)

Prayer:

Prayer for the Start of Day

This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus. Amen.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”- Hebrews 9:28

Daily Devotion:

Whiter than White!

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches" - (Rev 2:29)
-
My Child, The inner conflict is between your body and your mind. You are not able to do what you desire, but you keep doing what you hate. I hear your cry, "Who shall deliver me from this wretched condition?" Fear not, I will take care of you. I am the Spirit of Life. I will give you new strength. I will empower you to overcome your sinful desires (Rom 7:22-24). Keep walking with Me. Obey My promptings whether you like them or not. If you resist Me who has actually come to help you, will I not be grieved? If you keep on grieving Me, I may become quiet. It's not good for you, beloved (Gal 5:16).

I am a "holy" Spirit. I want to make you whiter than white. I cannot tolerate anything unclean in you. You are My temple. How can I see My temple being defiled? (1 Cor 6:19). I create in you a love for holiness and a hatred for sin. Keep your conscience sharp and clear. Don't close yourself when I turn My searchlight on you (Rev 2:23). If you run away from Me without hearing My voice, you will become an easy prey to Satan who is roaming about as a ravenous wolf and a roaring lion. If you must chase the devil, you need My backing. I will stand with you only when you stay submitted to Me (Js 4:5,7).

The enemy comes in like a flood, suddenly and overwhelmingly. Don't be scared. Hold your ground. I will lift up a battle flag against him (Isa 59:19b). I will also train your hands and fingers how to wield My sword against the spiritual powers of wickedness (Eph 6:12, 17). The devil has no argument against My Word and Christ's Blood. But don't expect instant victories. The war may be long drawn. The devil will not easily give up. Keep drawing from My plentiful riches and drinking from My perennial rivers lest you get exhausted. It is neither by might nor by power but by Me all battles are won (Zech 4:6).

If you lose a battle don't get discouraged. For My people failure is never final. As long as I am here with you, and the Father and the Son are up there for you, don't quit. Come apart with Me and I will tell you why you failed. You will become more than a conqueror.

Weak and sinful though we be, Jesus' blood can cleanse from sin,
At the fountain full and free, wash and make us pure within:
Holy Spirit, cleansing fire, burn up every base desire! (John H. Yates, 1837-1900)

Prayer:

Grant Us Your Salvation

Show us your mercy, O Lord; And grant us your salvation.Clothe your ministers with righteousness;Let your people sing with joy.Give peace, O Lord, in all the world; For only in you can we live in safety.Lord, keep this nation under your care; And guide us in the way of justice and truth.Let your way be known upon earth;Your saving health among all nations.Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.Create in us clean hearts, O God;And sustain us by your Holy Spirit.

Grow in God's Love Each Morning!

Word Of God:

“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”- Revelation 21: 2-4

Daily Devotion:

Strange Voices!

"He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the Churches" (Rev 2:17)

Dear Child, Your natural mind cannot understand the deep things of God. I will enlighten your mind so you will understand His mysteries. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him. But He reveals them to you through Me. Just as your spirit alone knows what is in you, I only know the things of God, because I am His Spirit. I do not want you miss any of what God has promised you in His Word. My true ministers will not attempt to explain to you those blessings through their brilliance. Rather, they will speak to you under My anointing (1 Cor 2:9-13). When you learn to recognize My voice and My whisper, no one can easily deceive you with false teaching (1 Jn 2: 26, 27).

Don't ever neglect to meditate the Bible. That is the only guiding star in this world of darkness (2 Pet 1: 19). Don't be deceived by strange voices. I also will not speak on My own authority. I will only take from what the Father and the Son have spoken (Jn 16:13; 15:26). Unless you saturate your heart and mind with the written Word, what can I remind you of at crucial situations? (Jn 14: 26). I am gentle as a dove. I won't force Myself on anyone. Unless you invite Me to help you, I will not assist you in your study of the Scriptures (Psa 119:18). If you give Me a free hand, I will transform you stage by stage so you as a child of God will become like the very Son of God whom you meet in the Holy Writ (2 Cor 3:18).

Dear child, I would also like to help you in your battles of life. Ever since we pushed Lucifer out of Heaven, he is outrageously working against us and the entire creation. His main target is those who are redeemed by the blood of Jesus. His kingdom of darkness is in constant collision with Our Kingdom of Light. Ultimate victory is Ours, but the fight will be tough.

You are engaged in a warfare that is both within you and without. I assure you of My help whether it is inner conflict or external battle.

Come, Holy Ghost, for, moved by Thee,The prophets wrote and spoke;
Unlock the truth, Thyself the Key,Unseal the sacred Book!
(Isaac Watts, 1674-1748, the Father of English hymnody)

Prayer:

Prayer for Those In Despair

Send your life-giving Spirit upon those who despair of living,O generous and loving God.If it is your will,let them find rest from their labors that they may have peace. If there is a call they have not heard, open their eyes and ears to know it that they may find the joy of abundant life.Grant them your blessing this day and every day.
Amen.