Simple Instructions

Scripture – 1 Peter 4:5-8: But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to people in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.

Observation – These are simple, clear instructions. Be “clear minded and self-controlled.” Fuzzy thinking is one of Satan’s most effective tools. If I’m too tired or distracted or anxious, I can’t think clearly. And my self-control weakens. “Love each other deeply.” Love is an active word. How can I actively love others in the Body of Christ? “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.” Instead of seeing people as interruptions, welcome them as guests. Remember always, “The end of all things is near.”

Application – I will welcome people today and give them my focused attention. I will go to bed early tonight in order to be clear minded tomorrow.

Prayer – Lord, please keep working on my heart. Adjust my attitudes. Show me how to love deeply and offer hospitality. Thank you for your unending patience with me.

Being Different

Scripture – 1 Peter 4:1-4: Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because one who has suffered in his or her body is done with sin. As a result, such a person will not live the rest of their earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.

Observation – Jesus said, “For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed.” (John 3:20) People often get a little nervous around me when they find out I’m a minister. For some reason they feel a need to watch their language or their behavior. For Christians in the workplace or at school, it’s often different. People tend to give Christians in those settings a hard time – at least for a while. It’s because “they think it strange” that we don’t “plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation.” Because the light of Christ in us reveals what’s missing in them, they try to turn the light off. For in a dark room, I can’t see what needs to be cleaned. Part of my witness is to lovingly keep living as a child of light. To accept abuse, sarcasm, whatever testing may come. And to love people as Christ loves me – knowing that light not only shows what’s wrong, it also reveals the One who can make it right.

Application – I will live faithfully today. I will not give in to temptations to deny Christ by doing things He would not. I will maintain humility in that. For I know my salvation is based on what He’s done for me, and I am no better than anyone else.

Prayer – Give me a humble, loving heart today, Lord. Help me live faithfully as one filled with your light. Thank you so much for what you’ve done. May someone see you through me this day.

God's Amazing Grace

Scripture – 1 Peter 3:17-22: It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive by the Spirit, through whom also he went and preached to the spirits in prison who disobeyed long ago when God waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being built. In it only a few people, eight in all, were saved through water, and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also—not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God’s right hand—with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

Observation – “Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.” Part of the “good” in the good news is that God deals with us, not according to what we deserve, but according to His love. There’s no question in this passage, He is the “righteous” and I am the “unrighteous.” He died on the cross for me. He took my place. I am free from the power of sin because He paid the price for me. How can I take that for granted? There is so much of our faith language we’ve heard over and over, it’s easy to stop hearing it and to forget what Christ has done for us. The fact is, I have eternal life secured only because of what He has done. That is humbling and that is truly amazing!

Application – I will appreciate the new beginning God has given me today – free from guilt and sin. I will live in that freedom as a servant.

Prayer – Lord, I cannot thank you enough for what you’ve done. I live in hope today because you have covered a cost I could never pay. Please keep me looking at you as I move forward in life today. In all humility, I offer myself anew as a living sacrifice for you to use anyway you want. Thank you.

Ready to Answer

Scripture – 1 Peter 3:13-16: Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.

Observation – If there’s one key to Christ-like living, it’s here: “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” I find Christianity is very much an “inside-out” experience. I can control behavior – and that’s a good thing. The growth and change and transformation of who I am takes place on the inside. And as the inside becomes more Christ-like, the outside behavior takes care of itself. A second thing that pops out to me is to “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks…” How clearly can I describe the reason for the hope that I have? And how can I share that with “gentleness and respect?”

Application – I will think through my experience of Christ. I will practice giving my answer. And I will wait for someone to ask, rather than pushing it on him or her.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for coming into my life and for continuing your transforming work. Help me yield more of myself to you today. Give me words to communicate clearly when some asks what and/or why I believe.

A Visible Difference

Scripture – 1 Peter 3:7-12: Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers. Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”

Observation – A natural human response is to fight back – to “get even” when someone does something against us. One of the defining characteristics of Christian behavior is the refusal to do that. That really sets us apart visibly in the world today. In Christ, I continue to learn and trust His word – paying back “evil with evil or insult with insult” is not how I’m called to be. This is one of the hardest aspects of Christ-likeness for me. For I have learned over the years how to insult people and inflict pain on them in very subtle ways – so they will come away from a conversation hurting, but not sure how that happened. For the most part, I’ve learned to submit that ability to the will of Christ. I have let Him remove nearly all of it.

Application – I will be very careful today to speak and act in ways that demonstrate love and respect for people. I will consciously repay any evil or insult with blessing today, “because to this you were called.”

Prayer – Lord, please take control of my heart and attitude at a deeper level today. Help me see people through your eyes and treat them as you did. And let this become more and more part of who I authentically am.

Submission in Marriage

Scripture – 1 Peter 3:1-6: Wives, in the same way be submissive to your husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to make themselves beautiful. They were submissive to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear.

Observation – This is certainly unpopular truth in today’s world. I can’t change what this says, and I wouldn’t want to. Husbands will be addressed tomorrow. Today, wives are called to be “submissive to your husbands” – in attitude more than behavior. Marriage calls for two people to submit to one another – to serve one another – to grow together in that. There is a mutual trust that one will not abuse the other. Obviously, that trust is sometimes broken. In most marriages, however, it stands. Out of that trust, we are to “do what is right and do not give way to fear.”

Application – I will honor the trust my wife has in me. I will live in such a way that she will not be afraid to be submissive.

Prayer – Lord, marriage is, in many ways, a mystery. Thank you for mine. Please help me be a worthy husband this day. Give my wife a great day, as well. Help us both grow in our mutual commitment to you.

Returning to the Shepherd

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:23-25: When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

Observation – I’ve seen it written that after God sent Adam and Eve away from the Garden of Eden, the rest of the Bible describes how God calls them to return. I’ve heard it suggested that each of us, somewhere deep inside, has a memory of Eden. And the evangelistic call awakens that memory and leads us to return. Peter’s words here present the image of “sheep going astray.” When we come to Christ, we are returning to the “the Shepherd and Overseer of (our) souls.” I can’t explain how all that works. I do know that, in Christ, I have the answer to my deepest needs and questions. Through His cross my sins are covered. And when I stray yet today, He constantly calls me to return.

Application – I will keep my eyes on the Shepherd today. I will appreciate what He’s done and is doing for me.

Prayer – Lord, I live by your grace. I live in your grace. Thank you for calling me to return to you. Thank you for always welcoming me back when I stray. Sometimes, you even come and get me. Forgive me for moving away from you I certainly have nowhere better to go.

The Cost of Faith Today

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:18-22: Slaves, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. For it is commendable if one bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.”

Observation – Our brothers and sisters in the first century church faced persecutions beyond our imagination. The people reading this letter knew such a wave was rapidly advancing toward them. They faced decisions I pray we never have to face. I can only wonder how I would have been in those days. Would I stay faithful? Would I deny? Would I run? There’s no way to know. I do live, however, today. What suffering – what cost – do I endure because of my faith today?

Application – I will address that question today. I’ll keep a log and write down any instances where I “suffer for doing good,” or even when serving Christ interferes with my personal comfort.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for the peaceful, safe society in which I live. You know better than I that I have never really suffered because of my faith. I’ve been inconvenienced at times. But that’s about all. I’m not complaining about that, Lord. I’m just mindful my faith has been tested and refined in other ways. Thank you for that.

Responsible Citizenship

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:13-17: Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among people: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free persons, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the fellowship of believers, fear God, honor the king.

Observation – Frankly, I would rather avoid this passage. Yet the question is always before us: How are we, as Christian people, to live in today’s political environment? In Peter’s day there was a king – the Roman emperor. He was not elected. The people had no say in how he came to that position. In our culture, we elect our leaders. Some of them turn out to be good and effective leaders. Others are not so good. Some look out for the good of the country, state or city. Others obviously are more concerned with serving a political party or some other special interests. The specific king in Peter’s day was a terribly brutal person. Persecutions were heading toward the people receiving this letter – they could see them on the horizon. Yet even in the face of that, the call comes to “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among people.” What are the implications of that for us today? I think a key is in showing “proper respect to everyone.” We can respectfully disagree with our leadership. And sometimes, as the church, we should do just that. The hard thing is knowing when.

Application – I will pray specifically today about how and when to address the various political issues in our world that are affecting innocent people. I have always tried to avoid using the pulpit to air my personal opinions about issues. But in that, I’ve sometimes avoided raising questions we need to face.

Prayer – Lord, help me know what to do – when to speak and when to remain silent. Reveal to me the difference between expressing my opinion and speaking on your behalf in the face of injustice in our country. Give me courage and wisdom to lift up issues for the church to consider. Help us all be effective, responsible citizens in this day and age.

Chosen By God

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:9-12: But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.

Observation – This passage is like a diamond mine with far too many gems to be examined in this limited space. So today, I’ll focus on the fact that we are a “chosen people.” Bethel’s purpose statement begins by acknowledging, “God has called us into existence.” God has always chosen people to make Himself known in the world. From Adam to Noah to Abraham to Moses. In the wilderness, He formed His people into a nation – God’s chosen people. That’s why the nation Israel still exists today – even in the face of what the world today would call impossible odds. Through Christ, we in the church have inherited that title, as well. God has chosen us to continue His mission in the world. He’s called us “out of darkness into his wonderful light.” A big part of our mission is to help other people recognize He’s chosen them, also, and to help them find their way out of the darkness.

Application – I will live with the awareness that God has chosen me to be one of His people. He’s trusting me to help Him build and nurture His kingdom on earth. I will live a good life today – aware that others are watching.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for your grace and forgiveness. Thank you for choosing me to be on your team. Give me what I need today to live a simple, good life – to be a person of whom you can be proud.

Living Stones

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:4-8: As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by people but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame.” Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone, “ and, “A stone that causes people to stumble and a rock that makes them fall.” They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for.

Observation – All of a sudden Peter launches into all this “stone” talk. I wonder if he’s thinking back to the new name Jesus gave him (Matt. 16:18). One of the striking images is that we are “like living stones.” We are not static – like a brick placed as part of a wall that won’t move after that. We “are being built into a spiritual house.” We are adaptable in this on-going business of becoming the church. So Christ, the builder, may have me in one place today and in a new place tomorrow. I may be a brick in the wall one day and a paperweight another. “Living stones” may be used any way the builder chooses. My call is to be open to His ever-changing, ever-expanding plan.

Application – I will serve Christ and His church today, using the gifts He has given. I will be consciously open to any new work or place He has for me.

Prayer – Lord, you know my tendency to tell you how I will serve. Please forgive me for that. Use me as a “living stone” today – ready to move or be moved as you desire.

Tasting the Good Life

Scripture – 1 Peter 2:1-3: Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.

Observation – I have “tasted that the Lord is good.” I know His way is absolutely the best way for me. Several years ago I went on a pretty strict low-fat diet. I had to cut out a few things I enjoyed seating. However, I lost several pounds. I felt better over-all. I even added a little exercise. Then, somehow, little by little, I slid away from all that. Gradually, I forgot the “taste” of that healthier life. I find myself constantly facing a similar dynamic in my life regarding spiritual growth. What do I need to rid myself of today? At what points do I catch myself sliding back? When I give something up, what does God give me to fill the void? And will I accept that. Spiritual growth is an adventure – one that never ends – one that’s always filled with new things. It’s also something that happens as I consciously let it happen.

Application – I will keep growing today. I will nurture that craving for “pure spiritual milk.” I will continue speaking well of people in the church.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for the assurance of salvation. I grow deeper in faith, not to achieve that, but to know you better and to be a better servant. Use me this day any way you want. Keep the “taste” of your new life fresh in my heart.

The Simple Call

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:22-25: Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers and sisters, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For, “All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever.” And this is the word that was preached to you.

Observation – The simple call has been with us from the beginning – we are to love one another. Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) We all know how easy it is to talk about other people in the church – sometimes even complaining about them. How does that fit with loving one another “deeply, from the heart.” The fact is, love is something I can give or withhold. Sometimes I resist giving it. And quite simply, that is not being obedient to the truth.

Application – I will not speak disparagingly about any member of the church for the next three days. I will discipline myself and monitor my language, if not my heart.

Prayer – Lord, I cannot do that without you. Please keep working on my heart. And help me open myself to letting you do that work. For you only have the best in mind for me.

The Basic Good News

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:17-21: Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear. For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect. He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

Observation – These verses are filled with self-evident truth. God “judges each person’s work impartially.” He plays favorites with no one. That’s part of His perfection. We have been redeemed “from the empty way of life” handed down to us through the world – life that does nothing more than fill the time between birth and death. We have fullness of life in Christ. For the price of our redemption was “the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” His death on the cross was undeserved and freely embraced as a gift to us. Through Christ we “believe in God” – we have faith and hope that transcends life in this world. These verses really capture the basic gospel – the good news for us all.

Application – I will live today undaunted by the demon of discouragement that tries to convince me life is meaningless. I will live in faith and hope – hope fueled by the one God raised from the dead.

Prayer – “Thank you, Lord, for saving my soul. Thank you, Lord, for making me whole. Thank you, Lord, for giving to me thy great salvation – so rich and free.” May the words of this song lead me into worship this morning, Lord. May the reality of your gift life me above all else this day.

Preparing Our Minds

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:13-16: Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”

Observation – “Prepare your minds for actions.” What an interesting command! When I’m getting ready for something, I often spend some time in prayer. I’ll gather whatever materials I need. I might do some other physical preparation. But I don’t spend much, if any, time in mental preparation – certainly not as Peter describes here. To be self-controlled – presumably to concentrate on the task or situation ahead. To re-focus on the hope in which we live. To avoid conforming to the desires of my human nature – especially recognizing when those desires are trying to push their way in. To be “holy in all you do.” The essence of being “holy” is to be set apart for God’s service. What are the implications for doing that in “all” I do?

Application – I will stop and take time to prepare my mind before going into the office today. I will follow Peter’s outline in doing that.

Prayer – Lord, teach me and/or make me holy today. Give that servant attitude – that outward perspective – so I don’t run everything through my “me first” filter.

A Chain of Faithful People

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:10-12: Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

Observation – What an intriguing thought – the prophets of old had the Spirit of Christ in them. As I recall from the first chapter of John, He was in on everything from the beginning. So in all those Old Testament stories, Christ was present. It was revealed to the prophets that they were serving generations yet to come. That’s true for us today, as well. What we do for people today, not only affects them today, but it affects people yet to be born. The church we know today is the result of faithful actions by people who have served before. And if the Lord tarries in His return, the church two or three generations from now will be affected and shaped by our faithfulness today.

Application – I will be aware today of the long line of faith that’s part of my life. How strong a link will I be in this chain of faithful disciples?

Prayer – Lord, give me strength, courage, wisdom and vision today to serve you and your church – your on-going body in this world. Please keep that longer range perspective in my mind and heart, even as I serve you today.

Embracing the Trials of Life

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:6-9: In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

Observation – This is one of those scriptural truths that sometimes I’d rather ignore. To “suffer grief in all kinds of trials” refines and strengthens my faith. There’s no question about that. These trials come in different forms to different people. Always, though, this truth is there. If I keep my focus on serving Christ, my faith becomes more genuine. The hope is that praise, glory and honor would somehow go to Jesus Christ. The simple fact is, trials and troubles are part of life. The way I react to them leaves me stronger or weaker. I always have that choice. That’s part of this on-going process of “receiving the goal of your faith” – whether I like it or not.

Application – I will embrace the trials that come to me today. I will not let them distract me from serving Christ and His church.

Prayer – Lord, please help me do that today. I still find it hard to actually rejoice in my trials. However, I do thank you for the refining work you keep doing in me. Thank you for your love and patience.

A True Gift

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:3-5: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

Observation – Sometimes I stop and let myself appreciate what God has done for me in Christ. I would be well served to do that more often. “He has given us….” What we have in Christ – “a new birth….a living hope….an inheritance…,” He has given us. It’s a true gift for me to accept or reject. It’s nothing I need to pay back. For true gifts have no strings or conditions. Our human nature wants to put some in. But the fact is, we have “an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade” because God, in Christ has given it to us. It’s really that simple.

Application – I will take some time today to sit quietly and meditate on what God has given me in Christ. He has affected my entire life. I will thank Him for that.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for the new birth – the new beginning – you’ve given me. Thank you for the unshakable hope I have and the inheritance that is secure. Thank you for your mercy and power in my life.

Strangers in the World

Scripture – 1 Peter 1:1-2: 1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to God’s elect, strangers in the world, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, 2who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.

Observation – Peter’s description of us includes the phrase “strangers in the world.” There’s an old campfire song that says, “This world is not my home; I’m just a passing through.” What are the implications of living like that – as strangers or temporary residents in this world? I certainly would avoid putting down roots. I would be aware of, but not adopt, the culture of the place I’m visiting. I would look forward to getting back home. Is it reasonable or feasible for us to live that that here?

Application – I’ll pay attention to my perspective today. How deep are my roots in this world? In what ways do live as a “stranger” here, and how have I adapted my faith to the culture around me?

Prayer – Lord, you have called us to obedience as we follow you. That will set us apart in many ways – some subtle and some very visible. Give me wisdom and courage to live as a stranger this day.

Greeting All the Saints

Scripture – Philippians 4:20-23: To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. Greet all the saints in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings. All the saints send you greetings, especially those who belong to Caesar’s household. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Observation – Our chief end in life continues to be glorifying God in whatever we do or say. One aspect of that is being His church in a healthy way. We’re called to “greet all the saints in Christ Jesus.” The church is made up of so many individuals who are so different. In fact, we are so diverse, there’s nowhere else the mix of people we are would come together except in the church.

Application – Today, as we gather from different churches, I will greet people I meet warmly – in the spirit of Christ. We are all part of one body by God’s grace.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for bringing me into your church. Forgive me for overlooking people. Open my eyes and my heart to greet them in your name and spirit this day.

Fragrant Offerings

Scripture – Philippians 4:14-19: Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid again and again when I was in need. Not that I am looking for a gift, but I am looking for what may be credited to your account. I have received full payment and even more; I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Observation – Paul had a closer bond with the Philippian church than with any other. More than the others they truly shared a partnership. They were the only church from whom Paul accepted financial and material gifts. They also shared in his troubles. That’s a powerful image and model of ministry in a local church. There’s give and take. There’s sharing in the ups and downs of life. There’s no need to re-pay gifts – only to accept them as the fragrant offerings they are.

Application – I will receive whatever gifts come my way today with thanksgiving and humility.

Prayer – Lord, help me recognize the gifts you provide and the people through whom you give them. Thank you for the partnership of the Bethel congregation. Thank you for trusting us to continue your ministry together this day.

An Open Secret

Scripture – Philippians 4:10-13: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

Observation – “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” Paul has been sharing that secret throughout this letter – especially over the past couple days. I know that secret, as well. On my good days, I am content. However, the Evil One loves to stir up discontentment – to keep me always wanting something more. And again, the effect of that is my eyes and heart come away from Christ. I’ve been in need and I’ve had plenty in my life. I’ve found it harder to be content “in plenty,” simply because I could afford the latest and greatest new thing. This is a spiritual discipline – to let myself simply be content.

Application – I will be content today. I will not let envy or jealousy or commercials on TV or sales flyers in the paper take that away.

Prayer – Lord, thank you for sending your Son. Thank you for coming into my life. Please give me your peace and presence this day. Remind me often that I need nothing more than what I have.

A Simple Spiritual Exercise

Scripture – Philippians 4:8-9: Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Observation – How do we train our minds to think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, etc? And what are those things? And what does it mean to “think about such things?” It is easier to dwell on problems and negative things in my life. It’s sort of fun to nurture a bad attitude toward people or situations. Paul’s’ simple guideline to peaceful living continues from yesterday: Take some time to intentionally think about some good, praiseworthy things. That does not deny any of the negative. Problems and concerns will still be around. It does help me remember, those are balanced with positive experiences, as well. Putting this simple spiritual exercise into play will nurture God’s peace within.

Application – I will think about some good things today. In fact, I will consider some problem areas I have and I will intentionally look for good things in them.

Prayer – In you, O Lord, I find peace whether or not I find answers. At the same time, you are the answer. Remind me of that often this day. Thanks.

Words Worth Remembering

Scripture – Philippians 4:4-7: Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Observation – Wow! These verses are so simple and straightforward. They are well worth memorizing and carrying around all the time. “Rejoice…..in the Lord…..always.” Be gentle with people. Why is that so hard? We live in a day when people lose gentleness. It’s not a highly valued quality. Along with that, anxiety seems to be part of normal life theses days. There are so many things to worry about, anxiety can become a controlling, even a defining influence in my life – affecting all kinds of decisions. But the simple instruction is, “present your requests to God.” He knows what I need. He has always provided what I need. He always will. When I take these verses to heart, the peace of God, indeed, guards me at all levels. So simple. Why do I make it so hard?

Application – I will memorize these verses today, and take them to heart. I will let the peace of God be the rule today.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for this simple reminder. As this day unfolds, help me live out these verses. There are so many times anxiety tries to take over. Thank you for your peace. Remind me to choose that this day.

A Higher Cause

Scripture – Philippians 4:1-3: Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends! I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to agree with each other in the Lord. Yes, and I ask you, loyal yokefellow, help these women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.

Observation – What an interesting reference. These two women obviously are not getting along. Yet both have “contended at my side in the cause of the gospel.” I have known strong-willed people in the church who don’t get along. Yet, as here, they are called to rise above personal feelings (and egos?), and unite in service to Christ. Somehow, the people in the congregation are to help them do that. Perhaps that’s where courage comes into play, as we confront one another in love and spur one another on in the higher cause of the gospel.

Application – I will nurture humility today. I will not insist on my way as though it were the “right” way. I will also serve as the “loyal yokefellow” when needed.

Prayer – Lord, grant me a humble and discerning spirit today. Help me know when to confront and when to remain silent. Open my heart, as well, to the comments and ideas of others around me. Thank you for interacting with me in my life. Thank you for your trust in me and in the people of Bethel.

People Are Watching

Scripture – Philippians 3:17-21: Join with others in following my example, brothers and sisters, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you. For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

Observation – Who among us has the nerve to say: “Follow my example. If you have questions about Christian living, watch me and live according to the patterns I model.” Paul mentions that in a few places in his letters. It seems a bit egotistical. At the same time, it takes a fair amount of courage to accept that responsibility. For the truth is, our example is what people see, and it has far more impact on them than our words. So I find myself wondering, if people at Bethel were to follow my example, what would the church be like?

Application – I will be aware of the example I provide today. And I will take note of and learn from the example of others in the church.

Prayer – Lord, give me the courage to offer my life as an example of Christian living. As I follow you today, may my behavior be a positive witness for you – that people would see you reflected through me.

Always Moving Forward

Scripture – Philippians 3:12-16: Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

Observation – On the one hand, we are called to an impossible goal – to be made “perfect” or complete. On the other hand, this goal keeps me constantly looking up and moving forward. I will not give up because I fail at different points. I will continue to “press on toward the goal.” The movement toward perfection is a work Christ is doing in me. My real goal is to let Him continue that work. My work in that process is to “live up to what (I) have already attained.”

Application – I will keep myself open to Christ’s shaping work within me today. I will press on, even when I fall short of perfection.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for your continuing work in me. Thank you for providing a goal worthy of my life’s commitment. Thank you for the hope that one day I will take hold of that for which you have taken hold of me.

Our Top Priority

Scripture – Philippians 3:7-11: But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.

Observation – Christ brings an entirely new order to my life. If I give Him top priority – if I count knowing Him and growing in that relationship as greater than anything else I can attain, He will put all the rest in order for me. They will be as “rubbish” in the sense of having no real value to me. If I need bills paid, He’ll provide the means to cover them. They don’t have to dominate my mind and heart. If I have grief, He will give me all I need to live through it. If I have joy, it will be in the light of His presence rather than just in the current situation. The point is: He is number one in my mind and heart. That’s my goal. In my best moments, that’s my reality.

Application – I will choose one concern today that tries to dominate me and put it under the “surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”

Prayer – Lord, please put my life in order today. Give me a simple trust and faith that you will do that. Lift the eyes of my heart to see you first.

The Reason We Rejoice

Scripture – Philippians 3:1-6: Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord! It is no trouble for me to write the same things to you again, and it is a safeguard for you. Watch out for those dogs, those men who do evil, those mutilators of the flesh. For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh—though I myself have reasons for such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for legalistic righteousness, faultless.

Observation – Paul was an expert in the law. Perhaps he exaggerates a bit in his self-description – looking a little too perfect. At the same time, his point is clear. He has lived the life of legalism and he knows it is not the way to salvation. He has learned to put “no confidence in the flesh.” This was his message all along – our faith and our hope are not grounded in what we do, but in what God has done for us in Christ. Because of that, in any and all circumstances, we “rejoice in the Lord!”

Application – I will live in freedom today. Freedom from a legalistic way of living. Freedom to live as Christ lived.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for lifting me to new life. Your gift of love and life is my reason to rejoice. You have done for me what I could never do for myself. Help me remember that and share that this day.

Honoring Those Who Serve

Scripture – Philippians 2:25-30: But I think it is necessary to send back to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs. For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill. Indeed he was ill, and almost died. But God had mercy on him, and not on him only but also on me, to spare me sorrow upon sorrow. Therefore I am all the more eager to send him, so that when you see him again you may be glad and I may have less anxiety. Welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor men like him, because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me.

Observation – Missionaries are people I easily and often take for granted. I skim reports they write. I may give a quick “Thank you, Lord,” for them. But I seldom take time to appreciate what they do and who they are. They have given up much of what we call “normal life.” They are doing work and serving in places I cannot imagine. And the fact is, I often thank God I have not been called to that kind of service. At the same time, I must be careful that I’m not telling God “No!” before He even calls. In theory, we’re all open to whatever the Lord wants from us. Epaphroditus left his home in Philippi, on behalf of the church, to visit and help Paul. “He almost died for the work of Christ…” And so, we are to honor people like him.

Application – I will read the newsletters of two missionaries today. I will pray for them – including their requests. Next week, I will write them.

Prayer – Thank you, Lord, for those who serve you on our behalf in foreign countries. Please keep me open to your call, as well. For I am committed to going where you call me to go. Give me a discerning and willing spirit as I look to you this day.