Christ's Revealing Light

Scripture – Amos 4:10-13: ¹⁰“I sent plagues among you as I did to Egypt. I killed your young men with the sword, along with your captured horses. I filled your nostrils with the stench of your camps, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD. ¹¹“I overthrew some of you as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah. You were like a burning stick snatched from the fire, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD. ¹²“Therefore this is what I will do to you, Israel, and because I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel.” ¹³He who forms the mountains, creates the wind, and reveals his thoughts to man, he who turns dawn to darkness, and treads the high places of the earth—the LORD God Almighty is his name.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God has given His people numerous chances to turn around and return to Him. Yet they have not done that. So now, we come to this ominous command, “Prepare to meet your God, O Israel.” Everything Amos has said so far indicates this will not be a pleasant experience.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) This phrase usually comes up in relation to death. At the same time, it sounds like Israel will be meeting the Lord God Almighty in life. Had the people really missed that they were doing anything wrong? Or had they simply become so used to it they didn’t notice? Was Amos putting his finger on something they had long ignored, but really knew to be true? There are things in my life – mainly attitudes of my heart – that I usually ignore. I will open myself at a deeper level to Christ’s revealing light. I will identify at least one area where I need to turn around. I will make that turn today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I usually know more than I let on. You know that. Give me a deeper honesty within myself. Give me courage and power to turn around and come back to you where I’ve refused to do so. Thank you for the promise of new life.

New Opportunities to Trust God

Scripture – Amos 4:7-9: ⁷“I also withheld rain from you when the harvest was still three months away. I sent rain on one town, but withheld it from another. One field had rain; another had none and dried up. ⁸People staggered from town to town for water but did not get enough to drink, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD. ⁹“Many times I struck your gardens and vineyards, I struck them with blight and mildew. Locusts devoured your fig and olive trees, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God kept trying to get the attention of His people, but they would not return to Him. I wonder what they thought when the drought came along. What went through their minds when they saw it raining in one town but not the next? What did they attribute that to? God is so in control. What kept Israel from seeing that and turning to Him?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) It is so easy to get caught up in trusting my own abilities to handle problems I face. All the while, God is ready to handle them for me. Every obstacle I encounter is an opportunity to trust Christ to provide what I need. How, when or if God sends these things to me I don’t know. I do know He always sends His grace and power. I will lean on Him today and trust Him to see me through whatever comes my way.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you have my attention. Help me keep my focus on you. Keep me moving as you direct today Keep me attentive to your word in my life. Thank you for your grace and power. In you new possibilities abound.

Faith's Outward Focus

Scripture – Amos 4:4-6: ⁴“Go to Bethel and sin; go to Gilgal and sin yet more. Bring your sacrifices every morning, your tithes every three years. ⁵Burn leavened bread as a thank offering and brag about your freewill offerings—boast about them, you Israelites, for this is what you love to do,” declares the Sovereign LORD. ⁶“I gave you empty stomachs in every city and lack of bread in every town, yet you have not returned to me,” declares the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Obviously, the reference to “Bethel” catches my eye. The sin, it seems, refers to the emptiness of the religious rituals of the people. They bring offerings and go through the right motions. But their heart is in the wrong place. They brag about their offerings, using them as a way to glorify themselves. At the same time, there are hungry people in every town receiving no help. And the rich people do not even see them.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) There’s nothing wrong with doing the good “church” things that we do. In fact, there’s a lot of good in them. We worship together as a community of faith. We strengthen our fellowship through potlucks and picnics. We study and grow in our understanding of faith through various classes. We also serve the people in our wider community through a number of avenues – some through the church and others in our individual lives. I will remember faith in Christ has an outward, as well as an inward, focus.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, help me serve you in some simple, practical ways today. In my life, Lord, be glorified. In your church, Lord, be glorified today.

Time For a Change

Scripture – Amos 4:1-3: ¹Hear this word, you cows of Bashan on Mount Samaria, you women who oppress the poor and crush the needy and say to your husbands, “Bring us some drinks!” ²The Sovereign LORD has sworn by his holiness: “The time will surely come when you will be taken away with hooks, the last of you with fishhooks. ³You will each go straight out through breaks in the wall, and you will be cast out toward Harmon,” declares the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) These are pretty pointed words. Amos targets those people living in self-absorbed luxury. Calling women “cows” would have been every bit as offensive then as it would be today. Again, the sin is not that people are wealthy. It’s that they acquire and maintain that wealth at the expense of the poor. The warning is very clear: The time is coming when they will be taken away. Their lifestyle will come to an end. Roles will be totally reversed.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) How do I participate in our current economic/political system that oppresses the poor and keeps people trapped in poverty? How can I act differently so I no longer support that system? How can I change the system? I will keep those questions in front of me. I will answer them. I will listen for Christ’s direction as to how he would have me respond. And I will respond by making at least one change in how I live.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I have ignored this for too long. I am sorry for that. I have lived a life of privilege, and I have taken that privilege for granted. Open my eyes to see the world around me as you do. Give me wisdom to act in ways that will make a difference in the systems of our culture. Move me beyond shallow concern to a lifestyle change.

A Great Lie

Scripture – Amos 3:6-10: ⁶When a trumpet sounds in a city, do not the people tremble? When disaster comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it? ⁷Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. ⁸The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken—who can but prophesy? ⁹Proclaim to the fortresses of Ashdod and to the fortresses of Egypt: “Assemble yourselves on the mountains of Samaria; see the great unrest within her and the oppression among her people.” ¹⁰“They do not know how to do right,” declares the LORD, “who hoard plunder and loot in their fortresses.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Amos’ message is directed clearly to those of God’s people who have great material wealth. “They do not know how to do right.” From the perspective of Christ, All I have belongs to God. I am called to manage God’s assets. Some of that is provided to meet my needs. The rest is to be used for His purposes. The problem comes when I begin hoarding what I have – using it for my purposes or not using it at all.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’ve learned I cannot over-emphasize the power of money in my life. It will demand my attention. It will try to intimidate me. It will claim I cannot live without it. I will recognize that as the lie it is. I will focus my attention on Christ and His direction. I will hold on to what I have lightly – ready to let it go.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you are number one in my life. I know I don’t always act like that. Forgive me for those times I give in to the call of money in my life. Lift me above all that today. Show me how you would have me use your stuff. Thanks for trusting me.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Ignoring God

Scripture – Amos 3:1-5: Hear this word the LORD has spoken against you, O people of Israel—against the whole family I brought up out of Egypt: “You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your sins.” Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so? Does a lion roar in the thicket when he has no prey? Does he growl in his den when he has caught nothing? Does a bird fall into a trap on the ground where no snare has been set? Does a trap spring up from the earth when there is nothing to catch?

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God specifically chose Israel to be His people. He formed them, cared for them and taught them. He gave them every opportunity to walk together with Him. Yet they chose to ignore God – to live as spoiled children who think they are entitled to every blessing they receive. An attitude adjustment is definitely needed. Their hearts have drifted away from the one who created them. For that, they will be punished.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) In relation to following Christ, I read once, “We do no better even though we do know better.” I find it awfully easy to take God for granted – to live as though I deserve all He’s placed in my trust. I will keep in mind God’s grace today. I will remember all I have is His.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, please forgive me for ignoring you. Sometimes I act like following you is only a matter of behavior. You have given me life. You have chosen me to follow and serve you. You provide all I could ever need along the way. Take my heart this day. Renew a right Spirit within me. Thanks.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Moving the Grain

Scripture – Amos 2:13-16: “Now then, I will crush you as a cart crushes when loaded with grain. The swift will not escape, the strong will not muster their strength, and the warrior will not save his life. The archer will not stand his ground, the fleet-footed soldier will not get away, and the horseman will not save his life. Even the bravest warriors will flee naked on that day,” declares the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God’s judgment is coming upon Israel. Even our best abilities cannot stand before God. The swift, the strong, the warrior, the archer, the horseman – all will fall short. Amos uses an interesting image to illustrate this. He gives a snapshot of a cart being loaded with so much grain it eventually is crushed by the weight. It’s like people will be crushed by their own affluence. If I try to keep hanging on to what I have, it will eventually destroy me. These are words directed toward God’s people. What word is there for the church today?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I’m often reminded that any financial crunch I feel in life is directly related to the affluent lifestyle I live. If we did not have college or cars or medical care as expenses, we wouldn’t need as much money. At the same time, such is life in this North American culture. And I’m glad we live where we do. I will thank God for all He’s given us in life. I will not let any financial concern distract me from following Christ. I will continue to give from what God provides.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, thank you for providing and entrusting me with so much. As you continue to fill my cart with grain, help me pass it on to others so it doesn’t get over-loaded. Show me your way this day, O Lord.

The Allure of the Easy

Scripture – Amos 2:9-12: “I destroyed the Amorite before them, though he was tall as the cedars and strong as the oaks. I destroyed his fruit above and his roots below. “I brought you up out of Egypt, and I led you forty years in the desert to give you the land of the Amorites. I also raised up prophets from among your sons and Nazirites from among your young men. Is this not true, people of Israel?” declares the LORD. “But you made the Nazirites drink wine and commanded the prophets not to prophesy.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Israel has been part of God’s plan from the beginning. The story of the exodus from Egypt was the foundational image of God’s people at the time of Amos. God formed Israel as His people. He led them to their current homeland. He provided direction for them through the prophets He raised up. But the people would not listen. They even commanded the prophets to be silent.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) There are prophetic voices today that are easy to ignore. They constantly call the church out of her comfortable programs and worship services. They call us to get involved in the messy business of justice and righteousness in the world. I will make myself listen to them. I’m attending a meeting this Friday that should directly address some of this. I will be open to God’s voice in that gathering.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you know how easy it is to take the easy way. I can keep busy all the time with “church” stuff that’s not really making much difference at all. Keep my ears and eyes open for your word – for your mission. Save me from the easy way.

A Message for Us

Scripture – Amos 2:6-8: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Israel, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. They sell the righteous for silver, and the needy for a pair of sandals. They trample on the heads of the poor as upon the dust of the ground and deny justice to the oppressed. Father and son use the same girl and so profane my holy name. They lie down beside every altar on garments taken in pledge. In the house of their god they drink wine taken as fines.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Now it begins. We get to the heart of Amos’ message for Israel. Their sins are great. They demonstrate through their behavior that they have no regard for God. People look out for themselves. The needy and the poor are simply trampled and treated as nothing. The affront to God is obvious.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) The parallels between Israel’s behavior and our culture today are uncomfortably clear. The difference is, of course, Israel was God’s chosen nation. The United States is not. In our culture, the church sounds the message of justice and righteousness. Part of our call is to provide moral leadership for the nation. I will listen for God’s direction for Bethel in this area. I will invite others to join me in that. What is our prophetic role in this day?

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, it’s very clear you have a deep concern for the poor and oppressed. Your concern seems to be more with those of us who let that oppression go on. Help me express that. Empower us to do something about it. Show us your way for this day.

Minding Our Own Business

Scripture – Amos 2:4-5: ⁴This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Judah, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because they have rejected the law of the LORD and have not kept his decrees, because they have been led astray by false gods, the gods their ancestors followed, I will send fire upon Judah that will consume the fortresses of Jerusalem.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Finally, Amos hits close to home. Judah and Israel together were really one kingdom. Together they were God’s chosen people. For various reasons, a split had occurred several generations before Amos. There was a great divide between the two. The people of the northern kingdom, Israel, would have been delighted to hear God’s judgment on their neighbors to the south. As Amos pointed out, Judah had rejected the law of the Lord and had chased after false gods. That was true. And I can almost hear a chorus of “Amen’s” coming from the people of Israel as they hear this word.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) II find it exceptionally easy to point fingers at other churches – other Christians – and point out their flaws. That’s part of my human nature. I will keep my focus on Bethel. How is God calling us to serve? How are we doing in our response to that call? What He has in mind for other churches (and their pastors) is His business. I will avoid comparing us to them.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you have called us to continue your ministry in this world as a community of Christian love. Give us all we need to do that – to respond to your call in all aspects of our collective life. Forgive me for looking at others for comparison and, sometimes, even direction. Keep my vision clearly on you.

"X" Marks the Spot

Scripture – Amos 1:11-12: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Edom, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because he pursued his brother with a sword, stifling all compassion, because his anger raged continually and his fury flamed unchecked, I will send fire upon Teman that will consume the fortresses of Bozrah.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) The focus of Amos’ prophecy turns now to Edom – an area southeast of Israel. Edom was another name for Jacob’s brother, Esau. Many generations before Amos, these brothers were at odds with one another. I suspect that’s behind the reference to pursing “his brother with a sword.” The people of Edom may have held an on-going grudge or resentment toward Israel. I also see that Amos has now completed a box of sorts – sending God’s judgments in four different directions to places fairly far away from Israel. Another way to think of it is that Amos has drawn a big “X” and Israel is in the center of it. Still, at this point, people hearing these words would certainly be nodding in agreement as he spoke.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) It’s easy to point fingers at people far away and proclaim God’s judgment on them. I will be very careful about making such statements. For often, what I think is God’s judgment is nothing more than mine.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please keep me honest. If I have an opinion, I will share it as my opinion. If I have your word for the church, I will share that. Give me a discerning spirit to know the difference.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Keeping Promises

Scripture – Amos 1:9-10: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Tyre, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because she sold whole communities of captives to Edom, disregarding a treaty of brotherhood, I will send fire upon the walls of Tyre that will consume her fortresses.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) The word of God for Tyre (a city northwest of Israel) is similar to that given for Gaza. Both sold whole communities of people into slavery. However, in doing that, Tyre disregarded a promise – a “treaty of brotherhood.” I don’t know anything about that treaty. I can only assume promises were made that later were broken. It’s not unlike how the United States treated Native Americans, or how some corporations are treating their retirees.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I make promises lightly. I don’t even think of them as promises. Yet I say I’ll do something, and I end up not doing it. One of the most common for me is to say something like, “I’ll call you next week.” Then the next week comes and goes before I know it, and no call has been made. I have one of those calls pending. I will make it today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, you never fail to keep your promises. I’m sorry for not keeping so many of mine. Teach me to pay attention to what I say – to avoid promising things without thinking. Guide me today as I speak with different people. Help me keep the promise I made last week.

Respecting Others

Scripture – Amos 1:6-8: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Gaza, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because she took captive whole communities and sold them to Edom, I will send fire upon the walls of Gaza that will consume her fortresses. I will destroy the king of Ashdod and the one who holds the scepter in Ashkelon. I will turn my hand against Ekron, till the last of the Philistines is dead,” says the Sovereign LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) In this second prophetic statement, Amos follows the same formula as in the first: “For three sins…even for four, I will not turn back my wrath.” Then he describes the sin of that area. Here he points to Gaza – a city to the southwest of Israel. They apparently made a practice of capturing whole communities of people and selling them into slavery. They had little regard for the effects their decisions had in the lives of other people.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Today we see it more and more – decisions made in a board room aimed at pleasing investors result in the disruption of thousands of families of everyday workers. It seems clear to me God doesn’t like that. We are called to treat all people well. I will be intentional about how I treat the people I see today. I will give them respect and honor. I will be aware of how my actions may affect their lives.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, please give me good eyes and an open heart today. Help me see the people I encounter. Show me their faces. Fill me with your love and understanding as I speak with them. Thank you for your grace in my life.

Powerful Words

Scripture – Amos 1:3-5: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Damascus, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because she threshed Gilead with sledges having iron teeth, I will send fire upon the house of Hazael that will consume the fortresses of Ben-Hadad. I will break down the gate of Damascus; I will destroy the king who is in the Valley of Aven and the one who holds the scepter in Beth Eden. The people of Aram will go into exile to Kir,” says the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Amos’ first prophetic word points to God’s punishment coming to the citizens and leaders of Damascus – an area to the north of Israel. While the image of threshing Gilead is not real clear to me, it seems to indicate some kind of brutal treatment and/or excessive force. Because of that, God will act in some specific ways. What’s evident is these are powerful words coming from a shepherd of Tekoa (1:1).

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I wonder how Amos felt when he stared preaching. Somehow he had received these words from God. He had been chosen and empowered to proclaim God’s word. Now it was time to deliver. I would be nervous, at best. There are times God gives me a word that I’m afraid to speak. I will listen carefully and speak clearly as He directs today. I will avoid staying silent for fear of what people might think.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, give me your clear word today. Give me what I need to speak that word in whatever setting I find myself. Use me as you would like this day.

Powerful Words

Scripture – Amos 1:3-5: This is what the LORD says: “For three sins of Damascus, even for four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because she threshed Gilead with sledges having iron teeth, I will send fire upon the house of Hazael that will consume the fortresses of Ben-Hadad. I will break down the gate of Damascus; I will destroy the king who is in the Valley of Aven and the one who holds the scepter in Beth Eden. The people of Aram will go into exile to Kir,” says the LORD.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Amos’ first prophetic word points to God’s punishment coming to the citizens and leaders of Damascus – an area to the north of Israel. While the image of threshing Gilead is not real clear to me, it seems to indicate some kind of brutal treatment and/or excessive force. Because of that, God will act in some specific ways. What’s evident is these are powerful words coming from a shepherd of Tekoa (1:1).

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I wonder how Amos felt when he stared preaching. Somehow he had received these words from God. He had been chosen and empowered to proclaim God’s word. Now it was time to deliver. I would be nervous, at best. There are times God gives me a word that I’m afraid to speak. I will listen carefully and speak clearly as He directs today. I will avoid staying silent for fear of what people might think.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, give me your clear word today. Give me what I need to speak that word in whatever setting I find myself. Use me as you would like this day.

The Words of Amos

Scripture – Amos 1:1-3: The words of Amos, one of the shepherds of Tekoa—what he saw concerning Israel two years before the earthquake, when Uzziah was king of Judah and Jeroboam son of Jehoash was king of Israel. He said: “The LORD roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds dry up, and the top of Carmel withers.” This is what the LORD says:

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Amos was one of the Old Testament prophets through whom God spoke to His people. At the time of Amos’ ministry, God’s people had split themselves into two kingdoms – Israel and Judah. Amos was called to speak specifically to Israel. He was a shepherd – one who had no special training in theology or politics. He was an ordinary worker. His authority and voice came from God. God chose him to proclaim, “This is what the Lord says….”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) God continues to use ordinary people in extraordinary ways. I will remember that. God often speaks through minority voices. He uses people the world doesn’t see as great. I will remember God has called me by His grace for His purpose. I will listen for His voice as I experience life and encounter people today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for the faith and trust you have in me. Help me live in a way that demonstrates my trust in you. As this new adventure with Amos begins, keep my heart open to your fresh word for this day and age.

Jehovah Jireh

Scripture – Genesis 22:9-14: When they reached the place God had told him about, Abraham built an altar there and arranged the wood on it. He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the LORD called out to him from heaven, “Abraham! Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. “Do not lay a hand on the boy,” he said. “Do not do anything to him. Now I know that you fear God, because you have not withheld from me your son, your only son.” Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Several years ago I heard someone say, “God asked for Isaac, but He wanted Abraham.” This certainly demonstrated that God had him. I cannot comprehend all that was going on in this scene. I go back to the faith of Isaac. He was old enough to have run away. Unless Abraham knocked him out, Isaac had to cooperate. Abraham’s response to the angel’s call is still as open-ended as at the beginning: “Here I am.” We sing little chorus sometimes at Bethel called, “Jehovah Jireh.” That means, “The Word Will Provide.” It comes from this story.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will remember Abraham as I look at my children today. I will remember his faith. Does God have me at this level? Have I really released them to Him? I’m not sure. I just hope I don’t face a test like this.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I’ll say right now I’ll do whatever you want. You know I’m telling the truth. You also know me. Help me give you more of who I am. Teach me to trust you as Abraham did. You are my Provider.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

A Fundamental Truth

Scripture – Genesis 22:6-8: Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, “Father?” “Yes, my son?” Abraham replied. “The fire and wood are here,” Isaac said, “but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?” Abraham answered, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son.” And the two of them went on together.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Isaac demonstrates a great deal of faith here, as well. He was not just a little boy. He was big enough to carry a load of wood. He knew how these burnt offerings worked. He had great trust in his father. Meanwhile, Abraham knew what God had called him to do. His answer to Isaac’s question is a fundamental statement of faith: “God himself will provide.” I wonder what that meant to him at that moment.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Abraham still had no idea what was going to happen. At the same time, he trusted God to know what He was doing. So Abraham kept moving toward the place for the offering. I don’t know what this day holds. I will trust God to provide. I expect Him to do some miraculous things today.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, please keep my eyes open for you today. As I go along, guide my journey. Give me the flexibility to serve however you might call. Thank you for your provision. I’m sorry for taking it for granted so often.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

Here I Am

Scripture – Genesis 22:1-5: Some time later God tested Abraham. He said to him, “Abraham!” “Here I am,” he replied. Then God said, “Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about.” Early the next morning Abraham got up and saddled his donkey. He took with him two of his servants and his son Isaac. When he had cut enough wood for the burnt offering, he set out for the place God had told him about. On the third day Abraham looked up and saw the place in the distance. He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This story is filled with powerful lessons of faith and commitment. I think it all begins with Abraham’s open-ended response to God’s call – “Here I am.” I can never be sure where that kind of response will lead. There are many days God leads me down unexpected and sometimes unexplored paths. What’s striking here is Abraham raises no question. He simply does what God tells him to do. Had he matured in his faith to the point where he really trusted God to work things out? After all, he did tell the servants, “We will come back to you.”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I can’t imagine what was going through Abraham’s mind as he saddled the donkey, cut the wood and began the journey. Whatever he thought, he acted as God directed. I will imitate that kind of faith today. I don’t know what Christ has in store for me, but I will be open and I will follow His lead.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, I write these words boldly this morning. Give me boldness as the day unfolds to carry through with this commitment. You are the best way – the only way – I have. Thank you for that.

A Simple Reminder

Scripture – Genesis 21:1-7: Now the LORD was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the LORD did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore him. When his son Isaac was eight days old, Abraham circumcised him, as God commanded him. Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. Sarah said, “God has brought me laughter, and everyone who hears about this will laugh with me.” And she added, “Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Once again, I see this simple reminder that God keeps His promises. His timing is often far different than mine. But His memory is perfect. If He says He’ll do something, it will be done. The name “Isaac” means “he laughs.” So he was a constant reminder to Abraham and Sarah of God’s sense of humor, as well as a reminder of God’s promise.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will remember the promises of God in my life. I will thank Him for those He is keeping right now and for those yet to be accomplished.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you give everything I need and more. Your love and provision for me and my family is overwhelming. Thank you. As you open new doors for me today, I will walk through them boldly as you lead, with laughter in my heart.

A Simple Question

Scripture – Genesis 18:10-15: Now Sarah was listening at the entrance to the tent, which was behind him. Abraham and Sarah were already old and well advanced in years, and Sarah was past the age of childbearing. So Sarah laughed to herself as she thought, “After I am worn out and my master is old, will I now have this pleasure?” Then the LORD said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh and say, ‘Will I really have a child, now that I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the LORD? I will return to you at the appointed time next year and Sarah will have a son.” Sarah was afraid, so she lied and said, “I did not laugh.” But he said, “Yes, you did laugh.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) God makes a powerful statement through this simple question, “Is anything too hard for the Lord?” I often live as though the answer is “Yes.” Like Sarah, I tend to assume there are physical laws of the universe that are unchangeable. Of course she was past the age of childbearing. Of course she could no longer have a child. Everything she knew about life told her that. Yet God’s simple question is asked, and I am reminded to step back and acknowledge the only true answer is “No….nothing is too hard for the Lord.”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Very simply, I will remember that today. Whatever comes along….whatever stretches my faith….I will live as though God can do anything at any time. As I talk with people, pray with and for them, work at my desk, live this day, whatever I do, I will remember.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, thank you again for your simple question. I’m sorry for the times I limit you in my mind and heart. Open me today to new possibilities – to whatever you have planned this day. Remind me that you are the ultimate power. You are the creator of the physical laws, and you can alter them any time you wish. Indeed, nothing is too hard for you.

What's the Rush?

Scripture – Genesis 18:6-10: So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah. “Quick,” he said, “get three seahs of fine flour and knead it and bake some bread.” Then he ran to the herd and selected a choice, tender calf and gave it to a servant, who hurried to prepare it. He then brought some curds and milk and the calf that had been prepared, and set these before (the three men). While they ate, he stood near them under a tree. “Where is your wife Sarah?” they asked him. “There, in the tent,” he said. Then the LORD said, “I will surely return to you about this time next year, and Sarah your wife will have a son.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) All at once Abraham starts rushing around. He hurried into the tent. “Quick,” he said to Sarah. He ran to the herd. It seems odd that he hurried through all this when it would obviously take a fair amount of time to do the baking and cooking. I do that quite often. I’ll be running a few minutes behind, so I start rushing. I start doing normal things real fast, as thought I can make up the time. More often than not, that’s when I start dropping things and spilling things, and I end up taking even more time. I don’t save any time all, but I do succeed in getting myself stressed out. And all the while, we have no indication these three travelers are in any hurry at all. So what’s the rush?

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will slow down today, and avoid getting stressed out. I’ll trust God to have all the time He needs. In that trust, so will I.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you, Lord, for your living word. I never expected to see this lesson and reminder from this passage today. But then, that’s what makes your Bible so interesting and sometimes so much fun to read. Thank you for the ways you continue to interact in my life. Help me relax and move a bit slower today. Thanks again.

God's Unlimited Power

Scripture – Genesis 17:15-19: God also said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you are no longer to call her Sarai; her name will be Sarah. I will bless her and will surely give you a son by her. I will bless her so that she will be the mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her.” Abraham fell facedown; he laughed and said to himself, “Will a son be born to a man a hundred years old? Will Sarah bear a child at the age of ninety?” And Abraham said to God, “If only Ishmael might live under your blessing!” Then God said, “Yes, but your wife Sarah will bear you a son, and you will call him Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Here God gets even more specific and clear. Fist, Sarai is given a new name – Sarah. (Why or what it means, I don’t know. I will look into that later today.) Then a new specific promise is given: Sarah will conceive and give birth to a son. Through that child God will carry on Abraham’s line, as He promised. In response, Abraham fell down and laughed. I think I would have, too.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) There have been times I have laughed at what God has done. Sometimes He does things that seem so crazy, I just shake my head and smile. (On my good days, I also remember to give Him thanks.) I’m learning one basic lesson. Nothing is impossible for God. I put limits on myself that He can overcome at any time. I will open myself to His amazing power today. As I sense Christ leading me to something I don’t think I can do, I will push ahead and lean into my fear. I will trust Christ to give me what I need to do what He wants.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lift me above my limits today, Lord. You are able to do anything. Give me boldness and strength to let you work through me this day in any way you choose.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

God's On-Going Presence

Scripture – Genesis 17:7-10: I will establish my covenant as an everlasting covenant between me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you. The whole land of Canaan, where you are now an alien, I will give as an everlasting possession to you and your descendants after you; and I will be their God.” Then God said to Abraham, “As for you, you must keep my covenant, you and your descendants after you for the generations to come. This is my covenant with you and your descendants after you, the covenant you are to keep: Every male among you shall be circumcised.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This really is part of our story – we who follow Christ today. As Paul points out in Galatians 3:29, “And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to the promise.” And so, God’s covenant with Abraham is also with us. He continues to be our God – as faithful to us as He was to Abraham.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will keep that in mind today. The same God who spoke with Abraham is alive and still speaking today. I will live in that truth. Sometimes I act like He’s not around – like these Old Testament stories are fairy tales. I will remember today that He is the same. He’s just as involved in my life as He was in Abraham’s.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Thank you for your on-going presence, Lord – in my life and in the life of humankind. Remind me that you are always here. Empower me to live in covenant with you – to live in a way that will make you proud.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting this Sunday morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.

The Grand Adventure Continues

Scripture – Genesis 17:1-6: When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless. I will confirm my covenant between me and you and will greatly increase your numbers.” Abram fell facedown, and God said to him, “As for me, this is my covenant with you: You will be the father of many nations. No longer will you be called Abram; your name will be Abraham, for I have made you a father of many nations. I will make you very fruitful; I will make nations of you, and kings will come from you.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) At the age of ninety-nine, what did Abram think of his life? He had responded to God’s call. He now had a son through whom he believed God would fulfill His promise. Was he ready to retire? All at once God showed up again and talked as though the promise was still to be worked out. To sort of underline that, God have him a new name. Abram meant “exalted ancestor.” Abraham meant “ancestor of a multitude.” It would seem Abraham’s work was not over yet.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I wonder about retirement. What would that look like? What would I do? And is there a time to retire from discipleship? Abraham was ninety-nine years old and God was still calling him to new experiences. My personal commitment to be a follower of Christ began over forty years ago. It will never end. I get tired sometimes and need a break. At the same time, it’s clear God is calling me to some new areas and styles of ministry. He has some new things for me to do – some new ways to go about being a pastor. As much as I want to drag my feet, I will keep myself ready for that new thing – whatever it may be.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, I will never retire from following you. I’ll do whatever new things you have for me. I’ll let you change me as you wish. We’ll let this grand adventure continue in whatever direction you lead.

Personal Encounters with God

Scripture – Genesis 16:11-16: The angel of the LORD also said to her: “You are now with child and you will have a son. You shall name him Ishmael, for the LORD has heard of your misery. He will be a wild donkey of a man; his hand will be against everyone and everyone’s hand against him, and he will live in hostility toward all his brothers.” She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” That is why the well was called Beer Lahai Roi; it is still there, between Kadesh and Bered. So Hagar bore Abram a son, and Abram gave the name Ishmael to the son she had borne. Abram was eighty-six years old when Hagar bore him Ishmael.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) This must have been a powerful encounter for Hagar. Ishmael means “God hears.” And so as he grew, he would be a constant reminder that God heard her cries for help. She also called God, “the God who sees me.” She would remember that she, an Egyptian slave, was seen by God. After this experience she was able to go back and do what God had planned for her to do.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) These personal encounters with God impact my faith more than anything else. I’ve had many instances when He has clearly demonstrated His presence and His love for me. They remind me I am never out of His sight, nor am I ever left on my own to deal with life. I’ll keep my eyes open today – especially for the small things through which God makes Himself known to me.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord Jesus, thank you for seeing me and knowing me and being an active presence in my life. Help me live today in partnership with you. Remind me you are a living Savior. Keep working in me and through me this day. Show me what you have planned for me, and give me peace to do it.

When God Doesn't Make Sense

Scripture – Genesis 16:5-10: Then Sarai said to Abram, “You are responsible for the wrong I am suffering. I put my servant in your arms, and now that she knows she is pregnant, she despises me. May the LORD judge between you and me.” “Your servant is in your hands,” Abram said. “Do with her whatever you think best.” Then Sarai mistreated Hagar; so she fled from her. The angel of the LORD found Hagar near a spring in the desert; it was the spring that is beside the road to Shur. And he said, “Hagar, servant of Sarai, where have you come from, and where are you going?” “I’m running away from my mistress Sarai,” she answered. Then the angel of the LORD told her, “Go back to your mistress and submit to her.” The angel added, “I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count.”

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Abram must have been quite confused. How was this his fault? Anyway, Hagar ran away. “The angel of the Lord” found her. We are never out of God’s sight. The angel asked her a couple of questions. In response, she knew where she was coming from, but she did not know where she was going. The angel told her to go back, and she was given a promise of her own.

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) Sometimes I want to run way like Hagar. I don’t really have an idea of where I’m going. I just want to get away from some situation. Thankfully, the Lord comes to me and says, “No.” There are times when the Lord’s directions make no sense to me. Hagar was told to go back and submit to the one who was mistreating her. God had plans for her, as well. I will be careful today to listen for Christ’s directions and follow them, whether they make sense to me or not. I will remember, my ideas are often not the best.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Keep my ears and eyes open today, Lord. With all I plan to do, don’t let me shut you out. For I serve only by your grace. Any plans I make are not as important as yours. Give me your priorities today. Show me how to serve.