Missing the Point

Acts 6:9-10

Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called) -- Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.

Thoughts for Today:

In the mid 1800's as the west was settled in our country, families would pack their entire homes on covered wagons and join other groups as they ventured west. These wagon trains would follow well established trails. To this day these trails remain visible, because after years of rain, wind, sun, snow, (freezing and thawing) the tracks were eventually hardened into stone. So much so that a wagon had to be built to certain specifications so it would fit in the width of the track including a high center of gravity to not bottom out.

There is nothing wrong with being in a rut or following a path. After all, like in the western days it can serve a very useful purpose in helping us to reach a destination. The problem is when if we stay in the rut despite having arrived at our destination -- we miss the point of why we do what we're doing. The Jews from our story were like that. They had so long been on the path to the Messiah -- that when He came and went -- they completely missed Him because they were so focused on their own established routines and thought processes.

How do we avoid a similar situation? I think the key is in verse 8, "they could not stand up against his wisdom or the spirit by whom he spoke." Every once in a while, God breaks into our daily routine with a person or a word that shakes us up because it challenges us or is in opposition to the way we are used to doing things. The question is will we pause long enough to listen and adjust?

Questions to Ponder:

Take a break from your routine and consider for a moment: Has God been allowing interruptions to get your attention? When that happens, ask yourself: Do I have the right focus and priorities established? What is the goal? Have I missed Jesus? Am I on the right path? What needs to change?

What Are You Full Of?

Acts 6:8

Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people.

Thoughts for Today:

Stephen was a man who was FULL: Full of faith -- he believed without limits in the promises of the Lord; he was Full of grace -- he received the fulfillment of those promises, he was anointed by the Spirit, and experienced the favor of God; and, as a result, he was Full of power -- by which he was enabled to do great wonders and miracles among the people.

Many times we wonder why God doesn't use us -- it's because of what we're full of. Paul, in Romans 1:29-31 gives us a pretty complete list of what we don't want to be filled by: "They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, quarreling, deceit, and viciousness. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, haughty, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to their parents, foolish, faithless, heartless, ruthless."

Wait a minute, you say, "I haven't murdered anyone." Isn't it funny how we pick the most extreme from the list to argue about? But what about listening to some juicy talk about a colleague at work (gossip); yelling at someone on the freeway who cut you off (quarreling); showing off your new car for the wrong reason (boastful); ignoring the needs of the family down the street (heartless)?

Questions to Ponder:

What do you want to be filled with? The answer for all of us is to be filled like Stephen -- full of God's grace and power. So how do we get there from here? The answer is Jesus -- He has already paid the price (for our sin), there is only one thing we need to do -- have faith (believe) without limits in the promises of the Lord.

Just Like Us, at the Beginning

Acts 11:15-17

[Peter Speaking] "As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit came on them as he had come on us at the beginning. Then I remembered what the Lord had said: 'John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.' So if God gave them the same gift as he gave us, who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could oppose God?"

Thoughts for Today:

I can't help but feel a little envy when I watch someone baptized for the first time -- emerging from the water -- "a new creation in Christ," because I know from my own experience how incredible I felt. The world changed for me -- the colors were a little brighter because I finally saw God in His creation. Over time if we are not careful, that youthful exuberance (newness in Christ) can begin to fade as the trials, tribulations and disappointments of daily life begin to stack up. But it doesn't have to be that way -- we can live in a perpetual state of re-birth. How? By re-living, re-membering, and re-thinking.

1. Peter is re-living his experience by telling his story. If you want to get re-energized, then tell your story to someone else.

2. Peter re-membered what the Lord said. (verse 16: John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.). There is no substitute for memorizing Scripture.

3. Peter was re-thinking his position on the Gentile after he received a "change order" from God (verse 17: "If God gave them the same gift as he gave us... who was I to think that I could oppose God?"). Sometimes we stop growing because we refuse to change an old idea or thought process.

While I think all of these steps are equally important in continuing to live a fresh, new life in Christ each and every day -- it is the last part of verse 17 that gets in our way so often: "Who was I to think that I could oppose God?" When you get new information what do you do with it? Do you throw it out as useless because it doesn't fit with your understanding of how things work? Or, do you instead surrender your understanding to the Lord -- just as you did "at the beginning" of your Christian journey -- when you were an empty vessel waiting to be filled.

Questions to Ponder:

Back when you were a new Christian -- you knew nothing -- you needed to study and be taught God's Word. So it was no surprise to you when you found a thought or behavior that needed to change (after all you were a new believer). But what happened over time? Are you still so teachable? Have you become stuck in your ways? Have you lost any of your "new believer" passion? Have you held onto thoughts or ideas that God has been trying to change? What can you do today to re-energize your journey of Faith with God? What do you need to re-live, re-member, or re-think?

The Definition of Success

Acts 6:7

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Thoughts for Today:

There is a saying that goes, "You can please some of the people some of the time, but you can't please all of the people all of the time." Previously in verse 5, the apostle's "proposal pleased the whole group," however the definition of success is not in whether the whole group is pleased or not (although it's nice when that happens). Rather, the real definition of success is found by the result illustrated in verse 7: "So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly…."

The bottom line is you can't have as your sole criteria what is pleasing to the group. Ultimately success is best measured by healthy church growth (including new believers), and that requires teaching of the word. It's funny how it works: where God's word goes church growth appears -- rapidly. Too often we think programs, slick marketing campaigns, or building projects are what we need to grow. All that's really necessary is to preach and teach God's word. We make it complicated and expensive, but it's really quite simple.

The simplistic beauty of this approach is reflected at the end of verse 7: "…a large number of priests became obedient to the faith." You see even priests who have been highly educated and placed great value in their rituals, can change -- recommit, reconnect, and redirect -- once they are exposed or re-exposed to the power of the gospel.

Questions to Ponder:

Is your ministry area growing or stagnant? Why? No matter what you're doing -- whether it's parking cars or serving food -- the word should always lead. If your ministry area isn't growing ask yourself: Is God's word leading? If God's word was leading, what would be different?

Commissioned for Service

Acts 6:6

They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

Thoughts for Today:

Earlier, we studied a problem with equal distribution of food to widows which the apostles delegated to men within the body of believers "who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom." This is the first recorded practice for the selection and qualifications of deacons (the Greek verb for serving corresponds to the noun, deacon). So what happens next -- in other words: How do you get started in your ministry area? Watch carefully: "They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid hands on them." Notice the sequence: they presented, then they prayed and laid hands. So often we start working before we present or pray. What we need to do is prayerfully present our choices (and/or direction) -- first -- then begin, once we are commissioned for service.

This practice of commissioning through "laying on hands" dates back to Numbers 27:22-23, when Moses was instructed by God to lay his hand upon Joshua to entrust him with the authority to lead the children of Israel into the promised land, "Moses did as the LORD commanded him. He took Joshua, and had him stand before Eleazar the priest, and the whole assembly. Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the LORD instructed through Moses."

In the same way, the apostles "who prayed and laid their hands on them" symbolized the impartation of those gifts necessary to perform the duties to which these men were now entrusted.

Questions to Ponder:

Do you think "laying on hands" has a practical purpose in the modern church? Is it practiced regularly in your church? When someone new enters your ministry area, do you lay hands on them as well?

How Much is Enough?

Acts 5:1-11

Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God." When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. Then the young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. Peter asked her, "Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?" "Yes," sh! e said, "that is the price." Peter said to her, "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also." At that moment she fell down at his feet and died. Then the young men came in and, finding her dead, carried her out and buried her beside her husband. Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events.

Thoughts for Today:

This is one of the most chilling examples of how God deals with hypocrisy and sin within the body of believers. We are shocked by the story as both Ananias and Sapphira are struck dead despite what appears to be a rather high level of giving. It brings to mind the question, "How much is enough?"

I think the key is in verse 4 when Peter poses the question to Ananias, "Didn't it belong to you before it was sold?" The implication is, if the intention is to give -- then whatever you give is sufficient. However, if your intent is not generosity but rather selfish pride or recognition by others -- then the consequences can be rather severe, regardless of the amount of the gift. In other words, don't lie about your generosity. There is nothing wrong with holding back certain amounts from the sale of property -- that was not the sin. Their sin was in the lie or misrepresentation of the sales price.

Throughout the Old Testament are numerous accounts of how God deals with faithlessness, sin, pride, hypocrisy, etc. God is patient but He knows our hearts, and as a loving Father He also knows that discipline -- even severe discipline is sometimes needed. The result of this discipline is summarized in verse 11, "Great fear seized the whole church and all who heard about these events."

Sometimes a new believer doesn't fully understand his responsibility when he accepts Christ and is welcomed into the family of believers. As in an earthly family, we assume and accept a new level of accountability and leadership from the head of our family -- Jesus. This is not a commitment we should take lightly or expect God to take lightly. Thankfully, God only makes such dramatic demonstrations against sin in the body of believers at certain times in church history. If you +or I were struck dead the next time we spoke or did something hypocritical, I doubt we would survive the day. Think about Ananias and Sapphira on Sunday when you sing "All to Jesus, I surrender, all to Him, I freely give….." Boom! Down we'd go. The body of believers would be thinned out really fast.

Hypocrisy like many sins, begins with a lie. It ends as all sin does in death. Maybe not actual death like Ananias and Sapphira, but it kills your witness (does do as I say not as I do work for you?); it kills your joy (in order to justify your own hypocrisy you judge others to make yourself feel better); it kills your peace (if you're living in hypocrisy you must always keep your guard up, constantly fearing someone will discover the real you).

Questions to Ponder:

The land of hypocrisy in not the home any of us would choose to live in (or even visit). Is there any inconsistency in your words versus your life? Are you struggling with your witness, joy or peace? What needs to change?

Giving: What if the Blessing Isn't What I Want?

Acts 4:36-37

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.

Thoughts for Today:

The Lord placed on my heart the need to address this issue of giving from another perspective from our last devotion. When I was growing up I had a cousin Sammy who was my same age. Sammy and I were the best of friends despite the fact he lived in Oklahoma and I lived in Kansas. As Christmas approached the year we were both 12 years old, we decided we were going to be rock stars and therefore needed guitars. We agreed we would both ask for guitars for Christmas, then when we saw each other during summer vacation we would write some songs and play together. As Christmas approached my Mom and Dad asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I explained the plan that Sammy and I had made, therefore the only thing I wanted for Christmas was a guitar.

Christmas morning arrived and I was shocked to see a number of presents under the tree with my name on them (wow I thought, my parents were really generous this year). I quickly passed over all of them until I found the one shaped just the right way -- could this be it? I tore off the wrapping as my heart raced. You can imagine my disappointment when I discovered a toy guitar, with plastic strings "for ages 5 and up." I never even unpackaged the gift.

You might think I was ungrateful. Maybe, but I will admit I was incredibly disappointed. Have you ever felt that way before? I think my experience and reaction to it, is one of the core issues in our relationship with God on the subject of giving: We don't trust Him to give us what we want. In Malachi 3:10, the Lord tells us "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it." Tithing is the only Biblical circumstance in which the Lord tells us He wants us to test Him. If we step out in faith He will "pour out so much blessing that we won't have room for it". My earthly parents had a budget and 3 other children to buy for as well. They had limited resources. God does not. So what is the key to receiving "so much blessing that you won't have room for it"? The answer: "Bring the! whole tithe into the storehouse…"

We so often tithe superficially -- giving whatever is leftover after everything else is paid (what amounts to loose change). That's the opposite of what the Lord instructs. Everything belongs to the Lord; He has given us everything we have -- therefore we need to tithe first ("bring the whole tithe") and spend what's left. If you are not experiencing "so much blessing you don't have room for it" -- the solution to your problem is the amount of your tithe, not the annual return on your retirement account. it is the condition of your heart, not the balance of your credit card bill.

Questions to Ponder:

Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" It comes down to this: Do we believe God will just meet our needs for survival, or He will fill us to the point that we have room for no more? When you believe in that promise, you can tithe in faith -- which is the point. How can you begin to tithe by faith? Do you need to talk with your spouse or family about this? What is your first step?

Who Does It Belong To?

Acts 4:36-37

Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.

Thoughts for Today:

Too often when we think about giving, we start with the idea that something must happen for us first before we can consider helping out someone else: after we get the promotion and raise, after we buy a larger home, remodel the kitchen, get a new sofa, replace the old car, etc. There always seems to be a never ending list of things to do or acquire before the giving begins. This is the exact opposite idea of instruction from the Bible and how things are to work in God's family.

I am sure you are aware that the tithe required by the Old Testament would be the equivalent of 10% of your income (see Leviticus 27, Numbers 18, Deuteronomy 12 and 14). I am also sure that for some of us tithing like that would seem to border on the impossible. It represents too much of a financial burden. Take a moment and figure out how much 10% of your income is -- then make a list of what you would have to give up to tithe appropriately. Now you have honestly answered the question: Why is it so hard to give? The answer: It requires more sacrifice or compromise of our lifestyle than we are willing.

How did we get this attitude about tithing? How did our finances get so tight that we live paycheck to paycheck? There are lots of answers, but I think it all revolves around one central theme and that is: We think it all belongs to us. In other words, "It's mine, I earned it and I alone decide how to spend it." This is true for the financial liberal as well as the conservative. The only difference is how it's spent: either on consumer purchases or investment and retirement accounts. The bottom line is this -- the liberal and conservative are both in error in God's sight.

In Matthew 19:16-24, Jesus was approached by a rich young man who asked what he must do to enter the Kingdom of God. Jesus answered, "sell all that you have, give it to the poor and follow me." Jesus wasn't asking for 10%, He was asking for everything. You see, Jesus saw this young man's problem wasn't following the Law, it was allowing his possessions to possess him. Jesus goes on to say in verse 24, "it is easier for a camel to enter through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."

History tells us that in Jerusalem all commerce would stop at sunset or on the Sabbath because the gates allowing camels and caravans to enter the city were closed. One gate was left open for foot traffic to enter the city and that was the "Needle Gate" (which was actually a gate within the main entrance gate). A camel could fit through this gate if it was first unpacked (it's burden removed), and it crawled through on it's knees. This is a great picture for me. It tells me that if I am not careful, I can let my financial burdens (house, car, college tuition, etc) rob me of experiencing the joy of giving. So how do we free ourselves? We give what we have to God -- we follow Joseph's (Barnabas') example -- we take what we have and we put it at the foot of the cross for Jesus to do with it what He wills.

Questions to Ponder:

Those of us living in the United States are rich by the world's standard, so whether you live in an apartment or a mansion, drive a 10 year old car or a new top-of-the-line model -- You are the "rich young man" Jesus was speaking to and about. Ask yourself: who owns your television, health club membership, Starbucks card, or paycheck? What or who is the Lord of your life? Is it your possessions, or Jesus? God is the creator of the universe; if He wants to do something He doesn't need our money to do it. What He's after is our hearts. If we truly trust Jesus -- give Him our paychecks -- and let Him decide how to spend it. What is your next step in giving? Is it to see everything you have as God's? Is it to begin giving regularly? It is to trust God with the first 10%, and learn to live on the rest? What is it for you?

Giving from Excess or First Fruits?

Acts 4:32-37

All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all. There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need. Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.

Thoughts for Today:

A pastor from the Bay Area of California recently led a mission trip to Africa. As the bus approached the village, their guide gave them some last minute instruction, "Now whatever you do don't pity these people or approach them as if they are poor. Everyone in the world is poor by American standards but you will find these people to be some of the happiest people on earth."

The pastor found this last statement a little hard to believe as the villagers lived on the African plain with no running water or bathrooms. Their homes were made of cow dung and had dirt floors. While they were there it started to rain, so you can imagine the smell and the mud. Despite all of this, the guide was right -- these people were truly happy.

As the Pastor walked around the village he noticed a man wearing a coat identical to one worn by a young man in his party. When he saw the young man without it, he said "Hey, what happened to your coat?" The young man answered, "I gave it to that guy over there." The pastor replied, "But if it rains again, you'll need it!" "So will he," replied the young man.

By the time the young man got on the bus to return to their hotel, he was dressed like a villager because he had traded every article of his clothing for something worn by a villager. His shirt was tattered; his pants were too short; and his shoes were worn out and two sizes too big.

Questions to Ponder:

All too often as we read our text about the first century church, or hear a sermon on giving, we look down the aisle at the guy with the Rolex or the woman with the big diamond ring, and we think, "Yes Pastor, they should be giving more." But what about you? Are you giving clothes to the Goodwill that you don't want and you'll never use or are you giving the clothes off your back? Are you giving out of first fruits as the Bible instructs, or out of excess?

What is the Cornerstone of Your Life?

Acts 4:11-13

"He is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the capstone.' Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved." When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.

Thoughts for Today:

The reference Peter makes to "the stone you builders rejected which has become the capstone" refers to Psalm 118:22. Tradition has it that in Solomon's day during the construction of the temple, the engineers called the quarry for the capstone (cornerstone is another translation). They responded saying, "We sent it to you weeks ago." But the builders, not knowing what it was (it didn't fit), rolled it into the Valley of Gehenna -- the place where all the refuse or waste went. They went searching and indeed found it there, this vitally important component of construction -- upon which everything else is based.

In other words, they received something they didn't understand, so they rejected it -- sent it away with all the garbage. But Peter tells us, "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men, by which we must be saved." This man Jesus, the foretold messiah -- like the capstone was thrown away -- yet had great value.

Verse 13 tells us that when the Jewish leaders saw the courage of Peter and John, as well as the scholarly approach to scripture they were astonished -- they took note of the fact these men had been with Jesus. I think those words are worth repeating, "these men had been with Jesus". We too are changed from the inside out when we spend time with Jesus.

Questions to Ponder:

Be honest with yourself, how much time do you spend with Jesus each day? If you are struggling in any area of your life, the solution will start with one-on-one time spent with the Lord. Begin slowly at first, commit to a time and a place, then stay committed. This time you spend with Jesus will become the most valuable part of your day. It will become the "cornerstone" in the construction of your life -- from which everything else is measured, adjusted, and built upon.

What are You Powered By?

Acts 4:5-10

The next day the rulers, elders and teachers of the law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, and so were Caiaphas, John, Alexander and the other men of the high priest's family. They had Peter and John brought before them and began to question them: "By what power or what name did you do this?" Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them: "Rulers and elders of the people! If we are being called to account today for an act of kindness shown to a cripple and are asked how he was healed, then know this, you and all the people of Israel: It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed."

Thoughts for Today:

This first question posed of Peter and John was fully loaded. It had been carefully crafted to end the stir created by these two men. The question, "By what power or what name did you do this?", was founded in the Old Testament scripture of Deuteronomy 13, which says that stoning to death is the punishment for any miracle done in any name other than Jehovah (God). Peter was aware of these consequences yet he forged ahead.

This is amazing to me because it was this same Peter who just a few weeks earlier had denied knowing Jesus to a girl, yet was now speaking boldly to the leaders of the Jewish community -- the same leaders who had crucified Jesus. The difference was whose control he was under -- who was he powered by? In front of the girl he was under his own power (full of fear and doubt), in front of the Jewish leaders he was powered by the Holy Spirit (full of knowledge and courage).

The next time you feel unworthy, think of Peter -- an unschooled ordinary man, a fisherman. The next time you feel you've blown it so badly God would never use you again -- think of Peter who denied Jesus, not once but three times. Yet God sees through our imperfections and finds a way to use us in spite of them -- we just need to remain willing.

Questions to Ponder:

Are you willing or have you given up? Have you talked yourself out of any useful purpose in the kingdom? There are only two things you need to do to get back to grace -- confess your sin and ask God to fill you with the Holy Spirit. You will then have all the power, knowledge, and courage you need to accomplish any endeavor

Preparing to be Heard

Acts 4:1-4

The priests and the captain of the temple guard and the Sadducees came up to Peter and John while they were speaking to the people. They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. They seized Peter and John, and because it was evening, they put them in jail until the next day. But many who heard the message believed, and the number of men grew to about five thousand.

Thoughts for Today:

The leaders of the Jewish community had a pretty significant problem on their hands. Peter and John continued to talk to the people, they couldn't keep them quiet, and the people were beginning to listen, so they put them in jail until the next day.

Witnessing is like that. It seems as if we're making no progress. Our words are falling on deaf ears. We have nothing but opposition, disagreement, and argumentative people. To make matters worse, we're put in jail, even if only figuratively -- in the present day it might be a new policy at work prohibiting religious discussions.

Whatever the circumstances, it can feel like you are making no progress at sharing the message. The encouragement for me is in Verse 4, "but many who heard the message believed". Despite the fact that Peter and John were now in jail -- many who had heard believed.

In our story, the people's hearts were prepared to hear by witnessing the healing of a man crippled since birth, someone they had all seen or known about. It wasn't as if these people had never heard about Jesus, His claims, or the claims of His followers. The difference was the circumstance -- before their eyes the cripple was healed -- the example or demonstration of Jesus power.

Questions to Ponder:

What is the example or power that is evident in your life? Think carefully about that. If you are having a problem with getting people to listen to you about Jesus, then it could be He is not evident in your life? You are the witness, is your life convincing?

Listening to Inherit the Promise

Acts 3:21-26

[Peter continues to speak] "He must remain in heaven until the time comes for God to restore everything, as he promised long ago through his holy prophets. For Moses said, 'The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you. Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people.' Indeed, all the prophets from Samuel on, as many as have spoken, have foretold these days. And you are heirs of the prophets and of the covenant God made with your fathers. He said to Abraham, 'Through your offspring all peoples on earth will be blessed.' When God raised up his servant, he sent him first to you to bless you by turning each of you from your wicked ways."

Thoughts for Today:

Peter is preaching on the porch of the temple, referencing Genesis, Deuteronomy, and 1 Samuel. How is it possible that Peter can speak with such force, confidence and clarity? He was certainly empowered by the Spirit, but he also knew the Scriptures and had paid careful attention to what Jesus said and did. In these verses, Peter is providing his listeners with an Old Testament prophecy road map to Jesus, the Messiah.

What do you think Moses meant when he said, "You must listen to everything he tells you," and "Anyone who does not listen to him will be completely cut off from among his people"? Jesus gives us the answer to these questions in John 15:5-6 when He says, "I am the vine, you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned."

Peter is telling his audience that Jesus is the fulfillment of the promise, He is Abraham's "seed" or "offspring" through which "all people on earth will be blessed." Peter's message is simple: all scripture was fulfilled in Jesus -- so you better pay attention to what He said. That promise and instruction extends to you and me.

Questions to Ponder:

Are you guilty of listening to some things in Scripture, yet disagreeing with or ignoring other Scripture? What needs to change? Are you paying careful attention? How can you pay more careful attention?

The Time of Refreshing

Acts 3:17-20

Now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders. But this is how God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, saying that his Christ would suffer. Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you --even Jesus.

Thoughts for Today:

Here is the sequence Peter gives us: repentance, a turn toward God, sin is forgiven and forgotten (wiped out) -- then a time of "refreshing" occurs. This same pattern was repeated every forty years or so throughout Israel's history. For example, the people turned away from God (idol worship, etc.); they then were oppressed and suffered at the hands of an enemy; they cried out and turned towards God and away from sin; God forgave them and raised up a leader; they were victorious over their oppressor; following the victory came the blessing (peace and prosperity) or the "refreshing" -- the living within God's will and intention for their lives. Unfortunately, about one generation later they were back to their evil ways.

How much like this are we? We are blessed, then we begin to ignore God and get caught up in the world -- things really start to go wrong, then we cry out to God -- repent -- and turn back to God. It's silly but that is the story of my life as well. I am so grateful that we have the God of second chances (third, fourth, fifth, sixth, etc. as well), because I seem to need a lot of them.

The question is: How do you stay constantly refreshed? In Exodus 16 the Israelites grumbled against God because they had no bread or meat to eat, so the Lord gave them manna and quail for their nourishment. Again in Exodus 17 they complained because they had no water to drink -- God brought forth water from a rock. Jesus, referring to this example of the Israelites total dependence on the Lord for their physical survival tells us in John 6:35, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never go thirsty."

It is Jesus who now provides us with this nourishment or refreshing. He is not only the "bread of life" He is also referred to as "The Word." We are refreshed when we spend time with Jesus -- in study of the Bible (The Word) and in prayer. When we drift off course and we become sick, depressed and angry, it's because we are not being fed the proper food.

Questions to Ponder:

Where does your nourishment come from? Does it come from television, magazines, friends, news media? Or does it come from Jesus? Who do you spend your time with? What can you do today to reverse that trend?

How Does Someone Get Healed?

Acts 3:13-16

[Peter speaking] "The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of our fathers, has glorified his servant Jesus. You handed him over to be killed, and you disowned him before Pilate, though he had decided to let him go. You disowned the Holy and Righteous One and asked that a murderer be released to you. You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead. We are witnesses of this. By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see."

Thoughts for Today:

We could probably spend weeks or even months studying and trying to understand healing (whether physical, emotional or circumstantial), and still not be completely sure how or why it happens. Most of us have prayed at one time or another for someone to be healed with mixed results. So what does Peter say about healing? "By faith in the name of Jesus... It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him ."

In Biblical times a name was an expression of the essence of a person -- it expressed their character and nature. Peter gives us a few of Jesus' names in this passage: "Servant," "Holy and Righteous One," and "Author of Life." What do these names tell you about Jesus' nature? About His character?

"Servant" tells us He is there to help us in our time of need. "Holy and Righteous One" tells us He is in control, His timing is always perfect, He will always make the right decision, and it is His choice (if, when and how to heal). "Author of Life" tells us He has the ability and power to do what He desires.

There is a lot in the "name" of Jesus. So what is our part? Faith in His name: faith that He cares; faith in the rightness of His decisions; and faith that He can and will heal.

Questions to Ponder:

Which area of your faith can use some work? Do you doubt He cares about your specific need or situation? Are you at peace if He decides not to heal -- that He is always right? Do you doubt He has the power?

What Do You Cling to?

Acts 3:11-12 while the beggar held on to Peter and John, all the people were astonished and came running to them in the place called Solomon's Colonnade. When Peter saw this, he said to them: "Men of Israel, why does this surprise you? Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?"

Thoughts for Today:

A number of years ago the Lord moved mightily and visibly in my life. It was not hard for me to see the miracle of the Lord's work. It was crystal clear. Like in our passage today, people were amazed by the "before" and "after" pictures. People wanted to give me credit, but I knew it was not me, it was God. Describing the miracle to my Christian friends was easy (they were open to seeing God at work). For many of my non-Christian friends it was not so easy. Their explanation for my success was worldly: hard work, experience from the school of hard knocks, and lot's of good luck. It didn't matter to them that I gave the glory to God; they thought I was just being modest or foolish.

Try to imagine: If the beggar's healing had made today's news headlines -- who would get the credit? How would the world explain his healing? Would God get the credit?

There is a warning given to us in the last sentence of this story: "Why do you stare at us as if by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?" Our own power or our own godliness?

Questions to Ponder:

The crowd's focus was on Peter and John, not on Jesus. We need to watch this as well. When God does a miracle, do I take credit for my own power (ignore God), or do I give God the glory but take credit for my own godliness (as if it was my faith that "allowed" God to perform the miracle)? This is tricky ground. How would you respond? How do you think God wants you to respond?

What I Have, I Give You

Acts 3:6-7

Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk." Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong.

Thoughts for Today:

A few days ago I was talking with a young man who is an alcoholic and had just relapsed after being sober for almost one year. It seems whenever I am confronted with a tragic circumstance such as this, I want to throw myself into it as if I alone -- my words or actions -- can save the person. The net result is, I don't get a vote when it comes time for this man to decide whether to have a drink or not.

Sometimes a person can feel so lost, so alone, and so helpless. They can feel powerless over their own lives. In the beggar's case -- his lameness since birth, or my young friend's case -- his addictive nature. Peter looked into this hopelessness; he spoke with the power of the Spirit, in the name of the one who has authority over all -- "walk"; then took him by the hand and helped him up.

This last action, helping him up, is a test of faith and humility. Faith because you must be absolutely convinced God can and will heal according to His sovereign will; and humility because if He chooses to heal or not heal, it is not because of your great faith or lack of it. I think a lot of miracles don't happen in front of our eyes, because God knows our nature, He knows we are one miracle away from going on the talk show circuit -- to tell everyone about our "great faith," rather than God's awesome power.

Questions to Ponder:

So what do we have that we can give someone who is in great need? Give them Jesus. He is the ultimate "one step" program. I am reminded of Peter's words, "_________ or ________ I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, _________." Fill in the blanks the next time you are working with someone in a desperate situation.

Okay, I'm Looking at You

Acts 3:4b-5

Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them.

Thoughts for Today:

I have always thought this is a bold statement, when Peter says, "Look at us!" What would someone see if they looked at me? I'm not talking about Sunday mornings, but what about Tuesday when I'm late for work? Or at the gas station? Or waiting in line at a department store?

The man gave Peter and John his attention because he expected to get something from them. What would someone in need expect to get from you?

This question was made real to me on a recent Sunday morning (not an entirely fair test as I had on my "Sunday" attitude). I had just parked on the street (to make room for visitors in the parking lot) and was hustling up Ross Parkway (the main thoroughfare on which my church is located) to set up the Men's Ministry Table at church. A woman stopped me and asked if it was okay if she attended church here. You see she was homeless, carrying her possessions on her back, and didn't want other people to feel uncomfortable with her presence.

Later as I reflected on this experience and how I handled it, I was reminded of this scripture: "Look at us (the church, you, and me)." I thought as an extension of Jesus we were probably failing if anyone had to ask if they would be welcome to worship with us. Then I thought about how she perceived me -- did she see pity, arrogance, or impatience? Or did she see love, compassion, kindness, and patience?

Questions to Ponder:

What about you? What do people see when they see you -- the world's burdens -- or Jesus? What would you like them to see? What is in your heart and dominating your thoughts?

What do visitors see when they come to your church? Help them find a warm and welcoming congregation filled with people willing to share the Gospel. How is your church doing in terms of sharing faith in Christ? Have you introduced your pastor to the League's Pocket Powered Church program?

Seeing the Real Need

Acts 3:1-4a

One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer--at three in the afternoon. Now a man crippled from birth was being carried to the temple gate called Beautiful, where he was put every day to beg from those going into the temple courts. When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for money. Peter looked straight at him, as did John.

Thoughts for Today:

It's sometimes hard for us to look at people in need. We don't want to embarrass them by paying too much attention. Our society has taught us to not look. A person confined to a wheelchair since birth once wrote about how she felt invisible. She longed for a warm smile, or a friendly nod. She asked that we allow our children to touch her wheelchair and touch her -- to not treat her as if she had a communicable disease. Her wheelchair and her deformity were not her choices. She wanted us to know, there was a real living person inside the shell we saw, who had the need to be loved and accepted, as well as to love others.

Questions to Ponder:

When we see someone in need do we reach in our pocket for some loose change and run the other way, or do we look straight at him or her and see the real person hidden inside? Be honest with yourself, how do you feel around people who are not like you -- in wheelchairs, deformed, homeless, alcoholic/addict, or mentally retarded? Are you willing to really look at that person? Are you afraid of what you might see?

What are you expecting?

 Acts 2: 42-47

They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. Every day they co...ntinued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.

Thoughts for Today:

What part of this description of the first century church bothers you the most? Is it the devotion part of it? What about selling possessions and goods -- then giving to anyone who has a need? How about going to church every day? Then, there's having people over for dinner and going to other peoples homes -- and doing it with a glad and sincere heart. Which of these would be the hardest for you to do? Why? Your answer will reveal a lot about you.

To a large degree our priorities (what's important to us) are defined by our expectations. I watched a movie the other night about a woman who thought she only had a month to live. So she quit her job, liquidated her retirement account, and went traveling. Those were her priorities. The first century church thought Jesus' return was imminent. They were living as if that could happen any day at any minute.

Questions to Ponder:

How would your life be different today if you thought Jesus was coming back tomorrow or next month? How would your priorities change based upon your expectations? How would you reorder your priorities?

Save Yourself

Acts 2:40-41

With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, "Save yourselves from this corrupt generation." Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.

Thoughts for Today:

Peter previously told us in verse 38 to "Repent and be baptized," but I think the key is in verse 40 when he says, "Save yourself from this corrupt generation." He's telling us that we have a choice. As a Christian, you are saved, but are you living and experiencing the life God intended for you? Are you allowing this generation to continue to corrupt you?

I think the answer for most of us is "yes." After all it is difficult to live in this world without being corrupted (to one degree or another) by it. But rather than writing down our top ten list of ways we're allowing the world to corrupt us, I believe the Lord is speaking to you right now about one of them. It may not even be number one, but it is one the Lord knows you can deal with.

Questions to Ponder:

What is the one area the Lord is asking you to deal with today? Ask the Lord for help and choose right now to "save yourself from this corrupt generation." How will you start? What Bible verses come to mind? Is there someone you need to be honest with and ask for their help and support? What is your first step? Will you take it now?

Ask the Lord's help by focusing your heart, mind and spirit on His Word to you.

What Shall We Do?

Acts 2:38-39

Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off--for all whom the Lord our God will call."

Thoughts for Today:

The most natural reaction to an encounter with God is asking the question: "What shall we do (previously verse 37)?" I find this response interesting -- after someone is "Cut to the heart," the first thing they want to know is what action they need to take -- "What do I need to do?" Do you have an answer to this question? Peter did, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."

It's really very simple, although it's definitely not easy. Here's the sequence:

1) The Spirit calls (or convicts) us;

2) We respond -- "what shall I do";

3) Then we get the answer "repent and be baptized."

But what does this mean? Repenting is acknowledging you have a problem and you want to change. Baptism is a step of obedience on the pathway of that change.

We as believers have an understanding of these concepts relating to our conversion experience, but what do they mean to us after we've become a Christian? The answer is in definition of the "re" portion of the word "re-pent." "Re" means to do it over, "pent" means to be sorry or regretful over something we've done. So really "pent" is for new believers (the first time they acknowledge they are a sinner and need a savior); "repent" is for we Christians who have "fallen short" (in other words sinned) and need to do it (pent) over again. I don't know about you but I am always re-re-re-repenting!

Questions to Ponder:

In what area of your life has the Spirit spoken to you about today? What do you need to re-repent? Will you take a moment right now and re-repent? If you are having trouble with this, ask the Lord to reveal to you why you are having difficulty letting go and surrendering to Him.

P;ease visit our website www.gloveministry.org

God bless,
Pastor Tom

Cut to the Heart

Acts 2:29-37

[Peter speaking] "Brothers, I can tell you confidently that the patriarch David died and was buried, and his tomb is here to this day. But he was a prophet and knew that God had promised him on oath that he would place one of his descendants on his throne. Seeing what was ahead, he spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to the grave, nor did his body see decay. God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. For David did not ascend to heaven, and yet he said, 'The Lord said to my Lord: 'Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.'' Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to P! eter and the other apostles, "Brothers, what shall we do?"

Thoughts for Today:

Scripture is like that -- it "cuts to the heart" (verse 37). So often I think I'm the one who needs to speak fine and eloquent words to witness effectively, as if my words are the main factor in someone's decision to come to know Christ. I've got news for you -- my words and your words don't matter much.

 If you look at our story, it appears Peter has done a scholarly job of interpreting Scripture as well as prophesy relating to the Messiah. His words are convincing and convicting, so therefore it was Peter who led three thousand people to Christ that day, right? Wrong. Just the opposite is true. Peter was a fisherman; he wasn't a scholar (like Paul); so where did he get the words? Answer: he was fully surrendered to the power of the Spirit. The Word (Scripture) was in him and the Spirit was upon him -- he was simply an instrument.

Questions to Ponder:

2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that "All Scripture is God breathed, and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Do you think a person has to be a believer before Scripture can "cut them to the heart"? The Word of God (Scripture) speaks to everyone no matter who they are or what they profess to believe. Scripture cuts to the heart then begs to answer the next question: "Brothers, what shall we do?"

www.gloveministry.org

Listen Carefully to What I Say

Acts 2:14-21

Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heaven above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.' "

Thoughts for Today:

I taught my five year old daughter Emmy to read. She was really excited before every lesson, but most times she had far too much physical energy to concentrate effectively. So at the beginning of each lesson we talked about concentrating, sitting still, only discussing our lesson, and ignoring all other distractions. Her attention span was limited (usually about 20 to 30 minutes), so we had to go quickly, and when we came to the end of the time limit, it wass usually a waste of energy to go on -- so I learned to close on time. That's what Peter is offering to us in these verses, instructions on how to teach and how to learn.

The first example Peter gives us is to stand up and raise his voice. He did this to get everyone's attention. Correspondingly the initial step of learning is to set aside time for study of the Bible; then place all of your attention and focus on the Word; while making sure to eliminate distractions.

Next, he focused the crowd on his intent and what their benefit might be (understanding), "let me explain this to you." When you study Scripture, focus on understanding and application, don't read it like a novel. Sure there is a story, but behind the story is depth and richness. Take it in small bites, 2-4 verses at a time. When you read these verses, pray and ask how you might apply them in your life today.

Thirdly, the Bible is the Word of God. Don't take anything lightly and as Peter instructs, "listen carefully to what I say." Pay attention to sentence structure and context -- it was written this way for a reason -- God's reason. Finally, look up the cross references -- get a good Bible concordance. Peter models this concept when he tells us, "This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel." If you want to clarify something, find out what the Bible says about itself.

 These are the keys to successful Bible study and understanding. I have one last comment I wanted to repeat based on my experience with Emmy: Set a time limit and finish on time. You will not look forward to your study time (nor will your children and spouse) if it is open ended or goes on and on (you will keep putting it off because you don't have the time). If you've set 20 minutes as your time limit, then say to your wife or husband, "I need 20 minutes of quiet time." Provided you finish on time consistently, setting aside 20 minutes will not be a problem even in the busiest of households. You and your family will all be richly blessed by following Peter's simple steps to a successful study.

Questions to Ponder:

What do you need to do to get started on a daily quiet time? What have been some of the obstacles in the past? Will you give this method a try for one week and see how it works for you? When will you start?

Please visit our website: www.gloveministry.org

God bless,
Pastor Tom

What Does This Mean?

Acts 2:5-13

Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. Utterly amazed, they asked: "Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs-we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, "What does this mean?" Some, however, made fun of them and said, "They have had too much wine."

Thoughts for Today:

To this day, whenever the Holy Spirit makes His presence known, we describe our experience with words such as "utterly amazed," "bewildered," "perplexed," etc. When the crowd heard the disciples' speaking in tongues, some thought it was gibberish others were amazed they were speaking in their native language.

This reminds me of a story I read recently. There was a church conference held at the Lake Arrowhead Resort. The custom at the resort is whenever the conference room is open, the bar is too, even if it is not in use. During one of the sessions the bartender was quietly cleaning glasses in the back of the room, when a man stood up and began to speak in tongues -- words that no one understood. The moderator thanked the man and appropriately asked him to sit down as there was no one present who could interpret his words. Following the meeting the bartender who was from Iraq, came forward with tears streaming down his face and asked who the man was who had spoken of the great mysteries of God and the messiah in his native language. The man was saved that evening.

The Holy Spirit is like that -- nonsense to some ("They have had too much wine"), amazing to others. What is your response when the Holy Spirit speaks to you? Is it nonsense you ignore or do you go with it? The disciples went with it -- they gave themselves over to the power of the Spirit in faith. They didn't try to understand it first. This is the mistake we make in our dealings with the Spirit -- we try to understand and process logically first. You will never experience the full power of the Spirit unless you release control.

Questions to Ponder:

Is the Lord asking you to do something right now that seems a little illogical? Maybe it's to call someone you haven't talked to in a while; attend a gathering; help a stranded motorist; ask someone who looks lost if you can help with directions; etc. It can be and will be the most ordinary of circumstances that will yield the most amazing results -- because God is constantly at work, and when you answer His call you come to know His voice.

Please visit our website www.gloveministry.org

God bless
Pastor Tom

Fueled by the Spirit

Acts 2:1-4

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Thoughts for Today:

What an incredible experience that must have been -- to actually see tongues of flame resting on each of them as they were filled with the Holy Spirit. Many of us feel that access to that kind of power is no longer available. In fact we can sometimes feel our faith becoming dry and lifeless, as if the energy we once had for service has left us. Yet the Holy Spirit is available to you today as He has always been, waiting for you to ask for His presence and power. This example has been given to us throughout the Bible -- in both the Old and New Testaments.

One story that comes to mind, involves the Old Testament prophet, Ezekiel (37:1-14) who was given a vision in which the Lord instructed him to prophesy to a valley full of bones.

"So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them."

The bones came together, but there was no life -- they rattled together. The same is true for us when we try to work for the Lord in our own power without the Holy Spirit's power or enabling -- there's no life in us either. Verse 9 continues,

"Then he said to me, "Prophesy to the breath; prophesy, son of man, and say to it, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says: Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe into these slain, that they may live.' "So I prophesied as he commanded me, and breath entered them; they came to life and stood up on their feet a vast army."

The Bible often uses the words "wind" or "breath" to indicate the presence of the Holy Spirit. It is this breath of God, His Holy Spirit that comes upon us and into us -- powers and empowers us for service. The key to our receiving this power is obedience. In verse 10, Ezekiel says, "So I prophesied as he commanded me." In other words, he obeyed. In Acts 1:12, the Apostles returned to Jerusalem and waited in the upper room as Jesus had commanded (Acts 1:4). They were obedient as well.

If you are feeling spiritually dry, or maybe you're just going through the motions of Christian life without any significant purpose or direction, then it's time to ask God through His Spirit to reveal to you in what area of your life you need to obey. Ask God's Holy Spirit to fill you as you are obedient and empowered to humbly serve Him.

Questions to Ponder:

God's work in our life as well as usefulness in the kingdom is typically interrupted when we fail to obey a God directive. What was the last thing God told you to do or change that you haven't quite finished?

Please visit our website at www.gloveministry.com

God bless,
Pastor Tom

Waiting on the Spirit

Acts 1:23-26

So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs." Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Thoughts for Today:

In Acts 1: 4-5 Jesus tells the disciples to remain in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit. He goes on to tell them they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them, and they will be His witnesses to the ends of the earth.

 While the disciples were waiting on the Spirit, Peter stood up and suggested the 12th Apostle position should be filled. Personally, I think this was a mistake on his part. "Wait a minute," you say, "Didn't you just point out the positive attributes of Peter's leadership?" Yes I did, however, I believe God intended the 12th Apostle to be Paul. Matthias (the one chosen by the Apostles) is never mentioned again. Yet we all know the tremendous influence of Paul in the New Testament.

 Think about how comical this must appear from the Lord's perspective. The apostles (led by Peter) decide the 12th position is empty and therefore it needs to be filled (appropriately reasoned). The only problem is - it is they who chose the two men; cast lots; then declare it must be the Lord's will. Clearly, the Lord had a different man in mind that wasn't offered as an option. How often are we guilty of asking the Lord, "Should I go here or there?" What if the Lord's intent for my life is neither of those two choices? So what's my point? My main point is: When the Lord tells you to wait, you should wait on all decisions, not just the major ones. My secondary point is: No matter how badly we mess up when we're trying to "help" the Lord, He is always in control.

Questions to Ponder:

What thing have you messed up recently by rushing a decision and either not consulting the Lord or not waiting? How would your decision have changed had you been more patient?

 Even if you are suffering from the consequences of bad decisions, know that the Lord will never turn away from His decision to love you forever.

Did you ask permission?

Acts 9:21-22

"All those who heard him were astonished and asked, 'Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?' Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ."
Thoughts for Today:

Saul was like one of those guys from an old western movie who wore a black hat -- he was easily identifiable as one of the bad guys. Yet here he was doing just the opposite of what he had come to Damascus to do. Saul was now "proving that Jesus is the Christ" (rather than persecuting Christians), and he was getting stronger and more convincing the longer he spoke. Everyone was really confused -- Saul was just not the same person.

We know the Jews living in Damascus were baffled and astonished because Saul had so completely and radically changed his message -- I wonder how those closest to him felt. I wonder if they sat down with him and tried to talk some sense into him; tried to get him to understand the consequences of his change; how his position at work or church was going to be affected (he was a Pharisee); or how his family would feel. I don't think Saul talked to his employer or his family before he embarked on his new ministry, and I don't think they gave him their permission before he started. What kind of courage and conviction would it take for you to completely reverse your previous positions, words, and life work as Saul did? How would your friends and family react?

Questions to Ponder:

Do you need someone else's permission to change? Would Saul have been as effective in his ministry if he sought other people's approval before he began? Did Saul allow his past to determine or dictate his future? Do you? What relationship, attitude or previous behavior do you need to change? Where can you begin today?

Please visit our website at www.gloveminidtry.org

God bless
Pastor Tom

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Acts 1:12-22

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day's walk from the city. When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) and said, "Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus. He was one of our number and shared in this ministry." (With the reward he got for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines s! pilled out. Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they called that field in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood.) "For," said Peter, "it is written in the book of Psalms, 'May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,' and, 'May another take his place of leadership.' Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."

Thoughts for Today:

Peter was chosen by Jesus to lead -- so he led ("In those days, Peter stood up among the believers."). Pay attention to how Peter led: He went back to meeting together; back to prayer; back to Scripture; back to a focus on Jesus; and back to reflecting the pattern and example of Jesus. Quality leadership always starts with a return to basics (core values), before innovation and creativity can be applied effectively (even before problems get addressed or plans are made). Why? Because the "next step" becomes apparent when the focus is on the Lord and not the situation. Notice I didn't say solution. Peter didn't have all the problems worked out -- they must have been overwhelming. Most people look to leaders to fix all the problems. For example, what was Peter going to do about the persecution by the Jews? Form a militia? Peter didn't address that or any of a few hundred other issues. Instead he focused on fellowship and worship; pray! ing together; studying Scripture to gain insight into current events (that's what we're doing right now); and looking at the pattern and example of Jesus. The net result was a clear "next step" -- and that was to fill the empty 12th apostle spot -- simple and effective leadership.

You might say, what what about all the other issues that needed to be addressed? All that other stuff didn't seem to matter much, because this decision was the only one that got recorded for us to look at two thousand years later. I would say Peter listened to the Lord, prioritized, and dealt with the right issue at the right time. The same is true for us in our own lives. Things are coming at us fast and hard -- pressing us for decisions. What do we do?

Questions to Ponder:

What decision is pressing hard on you today? What should you do? The answer is simple, follow Peter's example. The next time you have a problem at home, rather than trying to fix it at that moment try this: Spend time together: turn off the TV, computers, video games, and the phone -- go for a family walk. Pray together: join hands as a family -- take turns -- give thanks and praise God. Open and read the Bible together. Pick a verse, read it and talk about it. Then and only then, ask "What would Jesus do?" Your "next step" will be incredibly clear

Please visit our website at www.gloveministry.org

God bless,
Pastor Tom

Devotion

Acts 1:9-11

After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven."
Thoughts for Today:

A few years ago a woman was killed in a car accident, leaving motherless two small children. It happened in the middle of the afternoon, they're not quite sure how. She lost control of the car and it crossed into on-coming traffic. She was the only fatality. The parents/grandparents are Christians but have never recovered from this loss. You see it was the second child they lost. Their son had died a few years earlier. Their words that ring in my head are these, "This just shouldn't happen. This is not what a loving God would intend. This is not the natural order of things. A parent should never outlive their children."

The disciples must have been feeling this way as well. Jesus was with them; He was taken away (crucified); He returned and spent 40 more days with them; then "poof" He was taken from them again. What were they to think? Everything they thought about how things should be or were going to be was shattered again. They must have been incredibly confused.

So what did they do? They stood there staring into the sky trying to make sense of something they were incapable of understanding. Two thousand years later we still don't understand the full significance of that event, despite the fact we have the remaining New Testament to explain it (as well as countless Bible scholars). So how could they possibly understand it in the middle of the experience?

There are times when I stand still (as the apostles were standing), looking into the sky in amazement or shock -- amazed at a miracle, or shocked by some tragic event. Then God sends someone to me (as in these verses) who says to me, "Why do you stand here looking into the sky?" It's time to get moving, it's time to get doing. So where do we go, what do we do? The answer is the last thing Jesus told you to do. For the disciples that was go to Jerusalem and wait there for the Holy Spirit. I can't answer that question for you. When I'm in shock, I can barely answer it for me: What was the last thing Jesus told me to do? But I do know -- that is what I will do. That's why this book is so appropriately named "Acts." It's what the apostles and others who knew Jesus, did with this knowledge -- they did what Jesus told them to do -- and their lives and the world was transformed.

Questions to Ponder:

What about you? Are you still stuck in tragedy? What was the last thing Jesus told you to do? Are you doing it?

Today's Devotion: You Will be My Witnesses

Acts 1:8:

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

Thoughts for Today:

When Jesus said, "You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth," we tend to think this means we need to go out and speak to everyone about Jesus. Although I firmly believe we need to get out and preach the good news, I think it is an interesting choice of words: "You will be my witnesses" -- in other words, your life, as much as your words, is witness to the world about Jesus.

This is a heady concept: That what I do -- how I live -- matters as much, or more than my words. It is one of the reasons so many people are turned off to Christianity. They don't want to be like us. They don't see any benefit in being a Christian. They don't see any difference between Christians and everyone else.

Questions to Ponder:

What about you? How do people see you? What kind of a witness are you? What kind of a witness do you want to be? What is inconsistent in the witness of your life? Where is there inconsistency between your life and your message?

Please visit our web site at www.gloveministry.org

God bless,
Pastor Tom

Devotion 1

Acts 1:1-7

[Luke the author of Acts writing] In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit." So when they met together, they asked him, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" He said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority."
Thoughts for Today:

Jesus had spent a lot of time with these men, yet they were still confused. They were confused about His life, His ways, His death, His resurrection, His promises, and His kingdom.

I think this is indicated by the disciple's last question of the physical Jesus, "Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?" They didn't fully understand Jesus' message and his purpose. They took His words and translated them into what they thought He "should" be saying or doing according to their interpretation of Bible prophecy. They thought Jesus was talking about a physical kingdom.

Sometimes I think the Lord must be incredibly frustrated with me as well, when I don't "understand." When I take His words or action and change them into what I think He "should" be saying or doing. How did Jesus respond? "It is not for you to know " These words need to be underlined and highlighted in all of our Bibles. When you start to get insistent with the Lord, when you get demanding, or when you think you know better -- remember these words: "It is not for you to know!" I don't need to know everything -- the complete master plan, before I do my part. I think that is why a lot of the time we sit on the sideline and don't do what Jesus instructed. We are confused and don't understand why. The Bible doesn't promise understanding before, during, or even after a project (I'm not talking about understanding Scripture, but understanding the purposes God has for the things He commands). What kind of faith would it take if you always knew the outcome of something before you started?
Questions to Ponder:

Where are you lacking in this area? For me it was writing this devotion and sharing it with you. I'm stepping out in faith. What about you? What has God called you to do that you don't understand and haven't done?

Please visit our web site at www.gloveministry.org

God bless,
Pastor Tom
pastortom@gloveministry.org