Thursday, July 26, 2012
Pslams 1:1-6 Personalize It
Lisa, you are happy when you do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit In the seat of scoffers; but your delight, Lisa, is in the law of the Lord, and on his law you mediate day and night. Lisa, you are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield fruit in its season, your leaves will not wither. In all you do, you prosper.
APPLY IT
Make sure to meditate on Gds word day and night.
PRAY IT
Lord, help me to disregard advice from the wicked and avoid/do not be tempted to walk the path that sinners treat or sit in the seat of scoffers. Instead, change my heat and mind to find delight in your law and help me to be obedient to meditating on it day and night. Make me to be like a tree planted by streams of water knowing that I will yield fruit in the season Thank you fro blessing all that I do. Amen.
Pslams 1:1-6
PARAPHRASE IT
Happiness is found in the meditation of Gd’s law, not in the obedience or order of operations of those whom have no law. Those who obey Gd’s law are happy because they’re surrounded by help, compassion, support and their work is never in vain, but always produces something more, plus they never grow weary and are blessed in several ways.
APPLY IT
I need to meditate on Gd’s word day and night look to Him for advice not from sinners or worldly people (TV, movies, radio, some friends). I also need to trust Gd’s word and trust and believe that it can solve any problem I have.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to believe and trust your word. Help me to escape to your word when I have a problem, what I am in need, when I need advice. Help me to believe in the active and relevant power of your word.
Probe Psalms 1:1-6
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S
SIN to confess- In terms of love and attraction and possibly how to gain attention, I tend to believe and am in danger of becoming more like the wicked- from the television.
PROMISE to claim- If I do not do as those on the television, I will be happy. In all I do, I will prosper. If I keep my Christian foundation and meditate on the law of the Lord.
ATTITUDE to change- To take delight in the law of the Lord. To be happy not to be like those on the television.
COMMAND to obey- To meditate on his law day ad night.
EXAMPLE to follow- Kind David? Or a Hasidic Jew?
PRAYER to pray- To not take advice from the wicked, to enjoy the law of the Lord. To guard heat and mind to meditate on the Word.
ERROR to avoid- Taking the advice of the world.
TRUTH to believe- If I hold steady, I will yield fruit, be happy and not perish.
SOMETHING to praise God for- the law. The warning.
APPLY IT
I have got to stop watching film or TV that promote that it’s okay to act on the sin that I particularly struggle with. I’ve got to meditate on the word day ad night meaning, I should schedule and maintain consistency of meditating a time during the day and a time during the night. Trust in God and believe that studying His law, striving to be faithful to Him is not/will not be in vain, but in due season He will make me or gift me with fruit and that everything I do will be blessed.
PRAYER
I want to be consistent with you. I want to study your law and delight in it on a more consistent basis. I need you strength to say no to temping my bad temptation. Prepare me to bear your fruit, make me fruitful and bales all that I do that I may ALLL be for your kingdom.
SIN to confess- In terms of love and attraction and possibly how to gain attention, I tend to believe and am in danger of becoming more like the wicked- from the television.
PROMISE to claim- If I do not do as those on the television, I will be happy. In all I do, I will prosper. If I keep my Christian foundation and meditate on the law of the Lord.
ATTITUDE to change- To take delight in the law of the Lord. To be happy not to be like those on the television.
COMMAND to obey- To meditate on his law day ad night.
EXAMPLE to follow- Kind David? Or a Hasidic Jew?
PRAYER to pray- To not take advice from the wicked, to enjoy the law of the Lord. To guard heat and mind to meditate on the Word.
ERROR to avoid- Taking the advice of the world.
TRUTH to believe- If I hold steady, I will yield fruit, be happy and not perish.
SOMETHING to praise God for- the law. The warning.
APPLY IT
I have got to stop watching film or TV that promote that it’s okay to act on the sin that I particularly struggle with. I’ve got to meditate on the word day ad night meaning, I should schedule and maintain consistency of meditating a time during the day and a time during the night. Trust in God and believe that studying His law, striving to be faithful to Him is not/will not be in vain, but in due season He will make me or gift me with fruit and that everything I do will be blessed.
PRAYER
I want to be consistent with you. I want to study your law and delight in it on a more consistent basis. I need you strength to say no to temping my bad temptation. Prepare me to bear your fruit, make me fruitful and bales all that I do that I may ALLL be for your kingdom.
Picture Psalms 1:1-6
The Image
A truly good joy filled live versus a life that seems fancy and wonderful. Not taking the advice of the world. Sometimes waiting for fruition can seem long or seem like you’re dead, but that’s not true.
APPLY IT
I need to go on the guidance of Gd in how to be successful. I need to keep myself planted in the streams and patiently wait for Gd’s timing of my season. Throughout this waiting I should be praising and thanking the Lord.
PRAYER
Keep me Lord. Guard my mind, Lord. Keep my ears and mind tuned to your voice. Help me to be obedient. Give me a mouth of praise. May I remember you and your truth always. Amen.
A truly good joy filled live versus a life that seems fancy and wonderful. Not taking the advice of the world. Sometimes waiting for fruition can seem long or seem like you’re dead, but that’s not true.
APPLY IT
I need to go on the guidance of Gd in how to be successful. I need to keep myself planted in the streams and patiently wait for Gd’s timing of my season. Throughout this waiting I should be praising and thanking the Lord.
PRAYER
Keep me Lord. Guard my mind, Lord. Keep my ears and mind tuned to your voice. Help me to be obedient. Give me a mouth of praise. May I remember you and your truth always. Amen.
Psalms 1:1-6
PSALMS 1:1-6
PRONOUNCE IT
They-those who delight in the law of the Lord, those who happily do not confirm to this world.
Planted- secure in foundation, rooted, someone decided to place/work on their foundation.
Streams-several of nutrition, surrounded by nutrition.
Yield- give way to its season
Season- when the tree is ready or simply the fact that there are seasons times to bare fruit and times to gain nutrition to grow fruit.
Leaves-when not withering means they never have a winter moment.
All-everything
Do- they are does not merely hearers
Prosper-grow
APPLY IT
I don’t think I delight in the law of the Lord. I love the Lord, but I don’t think I delight in His law. Like a planted tree, with a stable foundation with access to several streams of nutrition, that is what I need. IU need to choose who I will worship, become rooted in the Lord’s word, not just by the Bible, but also something to listen to, to watch, to go to, people, music, video, etc. I need to be doing something so that it/I can prosper and I need to realize that I have season in which I just won’t be yielding and that has got to be okay.
PRAYER
Plant me in your word dear Lord, may I be active in growing in you by constantly being near streams. Once again, change me to be a doer of your word, I need to be a doer, but I don’t know what to do. Please give me a clear direction of what I am to do, where I should do it, and to whom. I want to yield fruit when my season comes Lord, help me to yield a bountiful fruit season for your glory and may I be happy to give you all the glory.
PRONOUNCE IT
They-those who delight in the law of the Lord, those who happily do not confirm to this world.
Planted- secure in foundation, rooted, someone decided to place/work on their foundation.
Streams-several of nutrition, surrounded by nutrition.
Yield- give way to its season
Season- when the tree is ready or simply the fact that there are seasons times to bare fruit and times to gain nutrition to grow fruit.
Leaves-when not withering means they never have a winter moment.
All-everything
Do- they are does not merely hearers
Prosper-grow
APPLY IT
I don’t think I delight in the law of the Lord. I love the Lord, but I don’t think I delight in His law. Like a planted tree, with a stable foundation with access to several streams of nutrition, that is what I need. IU need to choose who I will worship, become rooted in the Lord’s word, not just by the Bible, but also something to listen to, to watch, to go to, people, music, video, etc. I need to be doing something so that it/I can prosper and I need to realize that I have season in which I just won’t be yielding and that has got to be okay.
PRAYER
Plant me in your word dear Lord, may I be active in growing in you by constantly being near streams. Once again, change me to be a doer of your word, I need to be a doer, but I don’t know what to do. Please give me a clear direction of what I am to do, where I should do it, and to whom. I want to yield fruit when my season comes Lord, help me to yield a bountiful fruit season for your glory and may I be happy to give you all the glory.
Philippians 4:19 "He Will Provide"
Philippians 4:19
My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
EMPHASIS
My Gd will meet all of Lisa’s needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Lisa’s Gd will meet all of Lisa’s needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
Realize He even fulfills the needs of those who are in disbelief. Makes me realize the difference between what I need and what I want AND how much in quantity I am in a request for wants and not needs.
PRAY IT
Thank you Gd for meeting all my needs according to your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Lord, help me to remember not to limit your power or glorious riches, but to truly understand and practice the fact that no need n size or quantity is too much for your to meet. Thank you Lord. Amen.
My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
EMPHASIS
My Gd will meet all of Lisa’s needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Lisa’s Gd will meet all of Lisa’s needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
Realize He even fulfills the needs of those who are in disbelief. Makes me realize the difference between what I need and what I want AND how much in quantity I am in a request for wants and not needs.
PRAY IT
Thank you Gd for meeting all my needs according to your glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Lord, help me to remember not to limit your power or glorious riches, but to truly understand and practice the fact that no need n size or quantity is too much for your to meet. Thank you Lord. Amen.
Philippians 4:13 "I Can"
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Can- I can do it, but it’s up to me to do it.
Strengthens- builds up, to make firm
PERSONALIZE IT
Lisa can do all things through Christ who strengthens her. Lisa, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
APPLY IT
Tightrope guy pushed to the limit, how? Through Christ. I need to reach beyond my “potential” and truly strive for bigger and better because I can do it through Christ who strengthens me.
PRAY IT
Lord, thank you for making the impossible possible. Thank you for strengthening me to do all the things you would have me to do. Help me to remember and give glory to you for giving me the strength to do anything and everything I acknowledge your power, your strength, I praise you Lord, in Jesus name, Amen.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Can- I can do it, but it’s up to me to do it.
Strengthens- builds up, to make firm
PERSONALIZE IT
Lisa can do all things through Christ who strengthens her. Lisa, you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
APPLY IT
Tightrope guy pushed to the limit, how? Through Christ. I need to reach beyond my “potential” and truly strive for bigger and better because I can do it through Christ who strengthens me.
PRAY IT
Lord, thank you for making the impossible possible. Thank you for strengthening me to do all the things you would have me to do. Help me to remember and give glory to you for giving me the strength to do anything and everything I acknowledge your power, your strength, I praise you Lord, in Jesus name, Amen.
Philippians 4:6-7 "Do Not Worry"
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
What is the difference between petition and prayer?
EMPHASIS
Present- not demand
Peace- antonym of anxious without anxiety there is no peace.
Will guard- protect, defend because it is a war.
Christ- the child sent to save
PERSONALIZE IT
Do not be anxious about anything Lisa, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God, Lisa. And the peace, Lisa, of God, which transcends all of your understanding will guard your heart, Lisa, and your mind, Lisa, in Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
I know to pray about certain things, especially with things like anxiety, but sometimes I pray and still worry, I still allow myself to be consumed with anxiety.
PRAY IT
Lord, help me to bring all things to you in prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, presenting my request to you, instead of living in anxiety about the issue/situation. Help me to accept, trust you and allow your peace, which surpasses all understanding to guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
What is the difference between petition and prayer?
EMPHASIS
Present- not demand
Peace- antonym of anxious without anxiety there is no peace.
Will guard- protect, defend because it is a war.
Christ- the child sent to save
PERSONALIZE IT
Do not be anxious about anything Lisa, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God, Lisa. And the peace, Lisa, of God, which transcends all of your understanding will guard your heart, Lisa, and your mind, Lisa, in Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
I know to pray about certain things, especially with things like anxiety, but sometimes I pray and still worry, I still allow myself to be consumed with anxiety.
PRAY IT
Lord, help me to bring all things to you in prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, presenting my request to you, instead of living in anxiety about the issue/situation. Help me to accept, trust you and allow your peace, which surpasses all understanding to guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Philippians 3:12 "Take Hold of the Promise"
Philippians 3:12
…I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
PERSONALIZE IT
Lisa presses on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of her.
APPLY IT
I press on to take hold of the kingdom for which Christ Jesus took hold of me? I don’t understand this passage at all, I have no idea what it is talking about.
…I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.
PERSONALIZE IT
Lisa presses on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of her.
APPLY IT
I press on to take hold of the kingdom for which Christ Jesus took hold of me? I don’t understand this passage at all, I have no idea what it is talking about.
Philippians 2:13 "God is Working"
Philippians 2:13
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
PERSONALIZE IT
For Gd is working in you, Lisa, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.
APPLY IT
Taking comfort that He is working and changing my desires and giving me the power to be a doer of whatever it is that pleases Him; to do the will of Gd.
EMPHASIS
For God is working IN you, giving you the DESIRE and the POWER to DO what pleases him.
IN- this reminds me of the “your body is a temple for the Holy Spirit”. It is inside of me.
DESIRE- “you are tempted by your own desires of what is in your heart”. Gd is working us on giving us or putting Godly desires in our hearts.
POWER- more than just the ability, more than just strength.
DO- not just hear or think, but to DO. We are doers of the word.
HIM- what HIS will is, not mine, not yours.
PRAY IT
Dear God, thank you for working in me, and not abandoning me. Thank you for changing me from the inside and giving me the Holy desire and the power to do your will for my life. I pray I fulfill your desire and please you. I pray I utilize the power given to me by you to DO what IS pleasing to you, and not to me nor man. Amen.
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.
PERSONALIZE IT
For Gd is working in you, Lisa, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.
APPLY IT
Taking comfort that He is working and changing my desires and giving me the power to be a doer of whatever it is that pleases Him; to do the will of Gd.
EMPHASIS
For God is working IN you, giving you the DESIRE and the POWER to DO what pleases him.
IN- this reminds me of the “your body is a temple for the Holy Spirit”. It is inside of me.
DESIRE- “you are tempted by your own desires of what is in your heart”. Gd is working us on giving us or putting Godly desires in our hearts.
POWER- more than just the ability, more than just strength.
DO- not just hear or think, but to DO. We are doers of the word.
HIM- what HIS will is, not mine, not yours.
PRAY IT
Dear God, thank you for working in me, and not abandoning me. Thank you for changing me from the inside and giving me the Holy desire and the power to do your will for my life. I pray I fulfill your desire and please you. I pray I utilize the power given to me by you to DO what IS pleasing to you, and not to me nor man. Amen.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Philippians 1:27 Behaviour
PERSONALIZE Philippians 1:27
Whatever happens, Lisa, conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Lisa, whatever happens, conduct yourself, Lisa, in a manner with of the gospel of Christ.
APPLY
Maybe sometimes I'm too sarcastic. Or maybe I'm too irritated and I get silent irritated. Or maybe it's about what could happen in the future. How I act when I party. Even though I haven't partied in a years, I'm sure opportunities will come where I will be tempted to not act in a manner worth of the gospel. Maybe this passage is encouraging me to gain more patience, or check my sexual behaviour.
PRAY
Lord, help me to conduct myself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ in any and all situations. Help me to remember this and please give me a conviction of this in those situation where I need to remember this scripture most.
Whatever happens, Lisa, conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Lisa, whatever happens, conduct yourself, Lisa, in a manner with of the gospel of Christ.
APPLY
Maybe sometimes I'm too sarcastic. Or maybe I'm too irritated and I get silent irritated. Or maybe it's about what could happen in the future. How I act when I party. Even though I haven't partied in a years, I'm sure opportunities will come where I will be tempted to not act in a manner worth of the gospel. Maybe this passage is encouraging me to gain more patience, or check my sexual behaviour.
PRAY
Lord, help me to conduct myself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ in any and all situations. Help me to remember this and please give me a conviction of this in those situation where I need to remember this scripture most.
Philippians 1:6 He is Working
PERSONALIZE Philippians 1:6
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you, Lisa, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
This helps me to release a little bit of tension when I fall back to an old sin. I know I haven't been abandoned, nor have I been chucked. Instead, this scripture tells me that theLORD will finish the good work in me.
PRAY
Dear Lord, help me to remain confident that you who began a good work in me, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you, Lisa, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
APPLY IT
This helps me to release a little bit of tension when I fall back to an old sin. I know I haven't been abandoned, nor have I been chucked. Instead, this scripture tells me that the
PRAY
Dear Lord, help me to remain confident that you who began a good work in me, will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
James 5:19-20 Brothers Keeper
My brother, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner form the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
PARAPHRASE
If your fellow Christian begins to become distracted or confused or in doubt about the absolute truth of Gd and His word, someone should go get them and bring them back to the Word, CHrist, church, etc. But, if you don't, whoever does go get them and turn them from their destructive path of sin, will save them from death and will be covered of a multitude of their sins and his own.
EMPHASIS
one of you- one of the brothers, a member of the congregation, someone who hs already, previously proclaimed to be saved.
wander- develop grey areas, backslide, not to completely reject, but to get a little distracted or confused.
the truth- not a truth, but THE truth
should- someone does need to go beth them
bring- not convince but bring, not stay in contact with but to bring
whoever turns- doesn't have to be a member of their own church, or a really good Christian, but anyone that stops them and turns them around
turns- not blocks, but turns
his- not Gd's way, the devil's temptations, but his, the person's way is not right nor virtuous
way- path, his decision, "I did it my way"
save- rescue
cover- "got him covered"
multitude- a great many, in his wandering he committed many sins
sins- not problems or temptations, but actual sins
AND COVER A MULTITUDE OF SINS- this part is pretty interesting because there is not "his" as in the person that began to wander's sins. It just says cover a multitude of sins, which makes me wonder, does retrieving a lost sheep not only over the sheep's sins, but also the sins of the one who went to retrieve them?
APPLY
I need to be more adamant about bringing back, or correcting fellow Christians. I need to understand they are heading to a real and final negative destination and will die.
PRAYER
Lord, how do I bring a fellow Christian back? How do I make them see their error, the greatness of you, their need for repentance and get them to turn from their destructive path? Ap. D for example. What do I say to her? What scripture to I show her? Amen.
PARAPHRASE
If your fellow Christian begins to become distracted or confused or in doubt about the absolute truth of Gd and His word, someone should go get them and bring them back to the Word, CHrist, church, etc. But, if you don't, whoever does go get them and turn them from their destructive path of sin, will save them from death and will be covered of a multitude of their sins and his own.
EMPHASIS
one of you- one of the brothers, a member of the congregation, someone who hs already, previously proclaimed to be saved.
wander- develop grey areas, backslide, not to completely reject, but to get a little distracted or confused.
the truth- not a truth, but THE truth
should- someone does need to go beth them
bring- not convince but bring, not stay in contact with but to bring
whoever turns- doesn't have to be a member of their own church, or a really good Christian, but anyone that stops them and turns them around
turns- not blocks, but turns
his- not Gd's way, the devil's temptations, but his, the person's way is not right nor virtuous
way- path, his decision, "I did it my way"
save- rescue
cover- "got him covered"
multitude- a great many, in his wandering he committed many sins
sins- not problems or temptations, but actual sins
AND COVER A MULTITUDE OF SINS- this part is pretty interesting because there is not "his" as in the person that began to wander's sins. It just says cover a multitude of sins, which makes me wonder, does retrieving a lost sheep not only over the sheep's sins, but also the sins of the one who went to retrieve them?
APPLY
I need to be more adamant about bringing back, or correcting fellow Christians. I need to understand they are heading to a real and final negative destination and will die.
PRAYER
Lord, how do I bring a fellow Christian back? How do I make them see their error, the greatness of you, their need for repentance and get them to turn from their destructive path? Ap. D for example. What do I say to her? What scripture to I show her? Amen.
James 4:10- Humble
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
PARAPHRASE
Come to the Lord in a spirit of reverence, awe, and respect that He is Gd Almighty, righteous in all His ways with the power to give and take away. If you remember to lower yourself before Him, less of you, more of Him in meekness, then He will lift you up. How can the Lord lift you up if you're already up there?
EMPHASIS
yourselves- do it yourself, not ask make or require the Lord to humble you. But, you humble you.
Lord- do this to/with the Lord, not necessarily other people, but with the Lord.
he- the Lord will fit you up, not other people or your deeds, but he, the Lord.
lift- not give you a hand or boost, but lift you up completely
APPLY
When I go to the Lord, I need to practice the habit of prostration, practice the habit of glorifying Him in my prayer and remember who I'm talking to.
PRAYER
Lord, teach me how to pray, how to talk to you. Teach me to understand that you are my father who I can come to for anything, but you are also Gd, the most holy and righteous. I want to apply respecting you in my prayer, in my life.
PARAPHRASE
Come to the Lord in a spirit of reverence, awe, and respect that He is Gd Almighty, righteous in all His ways with the power to give and take away. If you remember to lower yourself before Him, less of you, more of Him in meekness, then He will lift you up. How can the Lord lift you up if you're already up there?
EMPHASIS
yourselves- do it yourself, not ask make or require the Lord to humble you. But, you humble you.
Lord- do this to/with the Lord, not necessarily other people, but with the Lord.
he- the Lord will fit you up, not other people or your deeds, but he, the Lord.
lift- not give you a hand or boost, but lift you up completely
APPLY
When I go to the Lord, I need to practice the habit of prostration, practice the habit of glorifying Him in my prayer and remember who I'm talking to.
PRAYER
Lord, teach me how to pray, how to talk to you. Teach me to understand that you are my father who I can come to for anything, but you are also Gd, the most holy and righteous. I want to apply respecting you in my prayer, in my life.
James 3:13
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, be deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
PARAPHRASE
You should have wise and understanding people among you. You will know they are wise and understanding because you will easily be able to see it in their life, which is good because of what they've done, already complete. But most importantly they will never boast in saying "my deeds", they will forever be humble in themselves and humble because they know it is the Lord's doing, not their own.
EMPHASIS
You- when I emphasized this, I thought of the fact that I should be surrounding myself with wise and understanding people.
show- do not hide the good, let it shine, shoe it off, not through boasting but it should be shown.
good- you will now because it is good, acceptable, joyful, morally good.
done- not intentions not soon to do but already done and completed.
humility- I don't know or understand this word- modest or low view of ones own importance.
comes- pours out from, alongside
wisdom- sSOlomon, proverbs has whole chapters about wisdom
APPLY
Sometime shwen I do soemthing food or something that was successful, I want people to recognize it an say thank you for good job. I know I'm like this because when they don't recognize me, I get all, why don't they remember me and my hard work?
PRAYER
Lord, may my life be deemed good by you. May I not feel ashamed or apprehensive about the good that you have done. In all thing keep me humble. Please don't tempt me or allow me to be tempted to put myself and allow myself to be put on a pedestal. May everything good that come from me, be only for your glory.
PARAPHRASE
You should have wise and understanding people among you. You will know they are wise and understanding because you will easily be able to see it in their life, which is good because of what they've done, already complete. But most importantly they will never boast in saying "my deeds", they will forever be humble in themselves and humble because they know it is the Lord's doing, not their own.
EMPHASIS
You- when I emphasized this, I thought of the fact that I should be surrounding myself with wise and understanding people.
show- do not hide the good, let it shine, shoe it off, not through boasting but it should be shown.
good- you will now because it is good, acceptable, joyful, morally good.
done- not intentions not soon to do but already done and completed.
humility- I don't know or understand this word- modest or low view of ones own importance.
comes- pours out from, alongside
wisdom- sSOlomon, proverbs has whole chapters about wisdom
APPLY
Sometime shwen I do soemthing food or something that was successful, I want people to recognize it an say thank you for good job. I know I'm like this because when they don't recognize me, I get all, why don't they remember me and my hard work?
PRAYER
Lord, may my life be deemed good by you. May I not feel ashamed or apprehensive about the good that you have done. In all thing keep me humble. Please don't tempt me or allow me to be tempted to put myself and allow myself to be put on a pedestal. May everything good that come from me, be only for your glory.
James 1:22-25
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but king it- he will be messed in what he does.
PARAPHRASE
Don't just hear the instruction, do what the instructions say. If you listen only and never do, it's pointless. Going to a lecture for lecture sake. A class that's all lecture and not hands on doesn't help information to stick If you be a doer, Gd will bless your doing.
EMPHASIS
listen- implies instruction being given and implies understanding of the instruction; why would someone do?
yourselves- you are not being deceived by Satan, you are not deceiving your brethren, you are deceiving you.
the word- the Bible, Jesus and the Holy Spirit
looks- seeing, identifying, searching
his- deceive yourself
face- the 1st thing people see. you should be easily identifiable as a follower of Christ on 1st appearance.
after- afterwards, after the "training" teaching, searching is over, meaning one should be able to easily recollect.
himself- looking at his own being, not anyone else, how more so he should remember
away- he leaves, he moves away from the "source" should he move, I wonder?
intently- with purpose
perfect law- should be looking at this, not the mirror and not your face
continues- growing within Christ, listen, doing, it's all continuous, it never ends, s, repetition of simply constant growth
do- do the continuous
he- the revelation, conviction, given to him by Gd
heard- the teaching
will- definitely is going to happen
what- must do
does- the doing is blessed, not the listening
APPLY
I don't think I'm a doer. If I am a doer, I don't think I'm doing up to my maximum potential. However, I know a major problem is, I don't know what to do.
PRAYER
Lord, reveal to me how I can do all that my potential would allow me to do. I know and I feel I can do more, but I don't know where or how, please show me.
PARAPHRASE
Don't just hear the instruction, do what the instructions say. If you listen only and never do, it's pointless. Going to a lecture for lecture sake. A class that's all lecture and not hands on doesn't help information to stick If you be a doer, Gd will bless your doing.
EMPHASIS
listen- implies instruction being given and implies understanding of the instruction; why would someone do?
yourselves- you are not being deceived by Satan, you are not deceiving your brethren, you are deceiving you.
the word- the Bible, Jesus and the Holy Spirit
looks- seeing, identifying, searching
his- deceive yourself
face- the 1st thing people see. you should be easily identifiable as a follower of Christ on 1st appearance.
after- afterwards, after the "training" teaching, searching is over, meaning one should be able to easily recollect.
himself- looking at his own being, not anyone else, how more so he should remember
away- he leaves, he moves away from the "source" should he move, I wonder?
intently- with purpose
perfect law- should be looking at this, not the mirror and not your face
continues- growing within Christ, listen, doing, it's all continuous, it never ends, s, repetition of simply constant growth
do- do the continuous
he- the revelation, conviction, given to him by Gd
heard- the teaching
will- definitely is going to happen
what- must do
does- the doing is blessed, not the listening
APPLY
I don't think I'm a doer. If I am a doer, I don't think I'm doing up to my maximum potential. However, I know a major problem is, I don't know what to do.
PRAYER
Lord, reveal to me how I can do all that my potential would allow me to do. I know and I feel I can do more, but I don't know where or how, please show me.
James 1:19-20
My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires.
PARAPHRASE
Remember, everyone needs to listen fully and completely first, then take the time to form the appropriate and fruitful response because it you just allow your flesh to snap back, then your anger prevents you from living the life Gd has planned for you.
APPLY
I noted the slow to become angry. I'm patient, but I'm the kind of patient that is irritated while being patient and then when I'm no longer patient, I'm full on angry. I ned to be completely at peace as I am patient.
PRAYER
Lord, teach me how to express my emotions in an appropriate manner so that I don't end up bottling them up , suppressing them until they overflow in anger. Teach me how to prevent myself from becoming angry.
PARAPHRASE
Remember, everyone needs to listen fully and completely first, then take the time to form the appropriate and fruitful response because it you just allow your flesh to snap back, then your anger prevents you from living the life Gd has planned for you.
APPLY
I noted the slow to become angry. I'm patient, but I'm the kind of patient that is irritated while being patient and then when I'm no longer patient, I'm full on angry. I ned to be completely at peace as I am patient.
PRAYER
Lord, teach me how to express my emotions in an appropriate manner so that I don't end up bottling them up , suppressing them until they overflow in anger. Teach me how to prevent myself from becoming angry.
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work s that you may be mature and complete, not lacking in anything."
PARAPHRASE
Be happy when you are face with a spiritually difficult situation or are tempted because it's an opportunity to increase your faith. FIght back so that your faith may increase. The act of fighting back, itself, needs to happen in order of ryou to gain a backbone, be disciplined, stand firm and be complete.
Emphasis
FACE- you face something means you see it and you're confronting it. You're not running away or have you back turned, you are fighting trying to overcome.
TRIALS-In court, trails are only for a certain amount of time and then the trial is over. So, go through the trial knowing that eventually it is going to end. Now a trial does come before judgement and there will be judgement, but hold on to the trust the at Jesus is your lawyer and He's THE BEST and your father loves you.
KINDS-they will differ win their type or variety. Not the same kind and from different angles to get you.
KNOW-be aware of the word, and the workings of the Lord.
TESTING-checking
FAITH-your flesh isn't being tested, your strength sin't being tested, it's your faith that is being tested.
MUST- it has to be tested or else you won't be complete. You can't be complete.
FINISH- there is an end. it will end.
APPLY IT
There are certain temptation that I've been rasied to believe are sins, but in this current society, it's becoming more accepted thus making it twice as hard for me to avoid the temptation from growing equalling it becoming harder not to entertain the sin and from sinning. And, sometimes I do give up and give in because I'm tired, confused and its a temptation to obviously I desire it (One is tempted by ones own desire and is lured and enticed by it James 1:14).
Prayer
Lord, help me to fight, knowing you are with me, knowing that the fight will end, knowing that I'm not in a fight for the sake of getting beaten up, but I'm in the fight so that I can develop faith, becoming mature and made complete.
PARAPHRASE
Be happy when you are face with a spiritually difficult situation or are tempted because it's an opportunity to increase your faith. FIght back so that your faith may increase. The act of fighting back, itself, needs to happen in order of ryou to gain a backbone, be disciplined, stand firm and be complete.
Emphasis
FACE- you face something means you see it and you're confronting it. You're not running away or have you back turned, you are fighting trying to overcome.
TRIALS-In court, trails are only for a certain amount of time and then the trial is over. So, go through the trial knowing that eventually it is going to end. Now a trial does come before judgement and there will be judgement, but hold on to the trust the at Jesus is your lawyer and He's THE BEST and your father loves you.
KINDS-they will differ win their type or variety. Not the same kind and from different angles to get you.
KNOW-be aware of the word, and the workings of the Lord.
TESTING-checking
FAITH-your flesh isn't being tested, your strength sin't being tested, it's your faith that is being tested.
MUST- it has to be tested or else you won't be complete. You can't be complete.
FINISH- there is an end. it will end.
APPLY IT
There are certain temptation that I've been rasied to believe are sins, but in this current society, it's becoming more accepted thus making it twice as hard for me to avoid the temptation from growing equalling it becoming harder not to entertain the sin and from sinning. And, sometimes I do give up and give in because I'm tired, confused and its a temptation to obviously I desire it (One is tempted by ones own desire and is lured and enticed by it James 1:14).
Prayer
Lord, help me to fight, knowing you are with me, knowing that the fight will end, knowing that I'm not in a fight for the sake of getting beaten up, but I'm in the fight so that I can develop faith, becoming mature and made complete.
16 When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, so that they might go and anoint him. 2 And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3 And they were saying to one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” 4 And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back— it was very large. 5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. 6 And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” 8 And they went out and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
9 [[Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. 11 But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.
Jesus Appears to Two Disciples
12 After these things he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. 13 And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.
The Great Commission
14 Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. 15 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
19 So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.]]
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S.
SIN- unbelief
PROMISE- Proclaim the good new and Jesus will work within you, through sins, confirming your words.
ATTITUDE-needing to see it.
COMMAND- to believe
EXAMPLE- Mary Magdalene and Mary mother of Jesus
PRAYER- to believe
ERROR- unbelief and not spreading the good news
TRUTH- Jesus dead and rose from the dead and then rose into the heavens
Something to Praise- raising Jesus Christ from the grave
POV- Mary M., Mary, Disciples, Peter, Angel
Mary Magdalene- Jesus has risen!!!
Mary- My baby has risen! Thank you Gd. Bless the Lord.
Disciples- What?! We saw him die, you crazy women, NOW LEAVE! We are discussing where to run because people are hunting us down to kill us! What are we to do with our lives now? Do we just go back to work on our father's farms. I don't think I can get my old job back.
Peter- What?! Why did he appear to you and not me?! I was his 2nd hand!
Angel- uh..humans...
I think I relate to the ladies, though I do not feel I would have been afraid to tell people what I'd seen, especially if I were Mary Magdalene, whom people already thought was crazy.
APPLY IT
I should be proclaiming the gospel with the comfort of security that if I do proclaim, Jesus will confirm my words with His healing power.
PRAYER
to believe. to proclaim.
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
9 [[Now when he rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. 11 But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it.
Jesus Appears to Two Disciples
12 After these things he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. 13 And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them.
The Great Commission
14 Afterward he appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at table, and he rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. 15 And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. 16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents with their hands; and if they drink any deadly poison, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
19 So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.]]
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S.
SIN- unbelief
PROMISE- Proclaim the good new and Jesus will work within you, through sins, confirming your words.
ATTITUDE-needing to see it.
COMMAND- to believe
EXAMPLE- Mary Magdalene and Mary mother of Jesus
PRAYER- to believe
ERROR- unbelief and not spreading the good news
TRUTH- Jesus dead and rose from the dead and then rose into the heavens
Something to Praise- raising Jesus Christ from the grave
POV- Mary M., Mary, Disciples, Peter, Angel
Mary Magdalene- Jesus has risen!!!
Mary- My baby has risen! Thank you Gd. Bless the Lord.
Disciples- What?! We saw him die, you crazy women, NOW LEAVE! We are discussing where to run because people are hunting us down to kill us! What are we to do with our lives now? Do we just go back to work on our father's farms. I don't think I can get my old job back.
Peter- What?! Why did he appear to you and not me?! I was his 2nd hand!
Angel- uh..humans...
I think I relate to the ladies, though I do not feel I would have been afraid to tell people what I'd seen, especially if I were Mary Magdalene, whom people already thought was crazy.
APPLY IT
I should be proclaiming the gospel with the comfort of security that if I do proclaim, Jesus will confirm my words with His healing power.
PRAYER
to believe. to proclaim.
The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ Mark 15:33-39
33 And when the sixth hour[a] had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour.[b] 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35 And some of the bystanders hearing it said, “Behold, he is calling Elijah.” 36 And someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37 And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. 38 And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39 And when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he[c] breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son[d] of God!”
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S
SIN- failing to truly remember and recognize the reality of Jesus, son of Gd.
PROMISE/ATTITUDE- I need to stop taking Jesus lightly, taking Gd lightly
COMMAND/EXAMPLE/PRAYER- Gd forgive is, Gd help us, have mercy PLEASE
ERROR- sacrificing the Son of Gd?! Do I sacrifice Jesus throughout my day, or life? Do I sacrifice him for the sake of something else?
TRUTH- Jesus IS the son of Gd.
SOMETHING to Praise- Thank you for not forsaking Jesus. Thank you for Jesus.
POV- Witnesses, Disciples, Sponge Guy, Centurion
Witness- terror, just terror. What is happening? How is this possible? Why is it pitch black outside at noon, we are going to die? All of us, why? Who do I worship to save my soul?
Disciples- heart wrenching- Did I just dedicate the last 5 years of my life to some guy that's just going to die a humiliating death in public? Grief/Mourn- But, wait, is he calling for Elijah, maybe Elijah will come and the angels and save Jesus and my reputation. Confusion- Why is this happening? I do want to believe Jesus, but he's just dying, why, why is this happening? What is Gd allowing this to happen?
Sponge Guy- Maybe this Jesus should live. Maybe, maybe he didn't do anything wrong. I should give him something to drink, to help, or something.
Centurion- What have we done? This is it. I am quitting my job.
APPLY IT
The reality of Jesus. It's not magic. It's not philosophical. It's not even spiritual. It's real. This is real.
PRAYER
Help me to realize, and remember how real the Bible, the sacrifice of your son is. Please awaken in my soul, your power, your real power to respect it. I need your spirit to understand and live accordingly Be as real today as you were then.
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S
SIN- failing to truly remember and recognize the reality of Jesus, son of Gd.
PROMISE/ATTITUDE- I need to stop taking Jesus lightly, taking Gd lightly
COMMAND/EXAMPLE/PRAYER- Gd forgive is, Gd help us, have mercy PLEASE
ERROR- sacrificing the Son of Gd?! Do I sacrifice Jesus throughout my day, or life? Do I sacrifice him for the sake of something else?
TRUTH- Jesus IS the son of Gd.
SOMETHING to Praise- Thank you for not forsaking Jesus. Thank you for Jesus.
POV- Witnesses, Disciples, Sponge Guy, Centurion
Witness- terror, just terror. What is happening? How is this possible? Why is it pitch black outside at noon, we are going to die? All of us, why? Who do I worship to save my soul?
Disciples- heart wrenching- Did I just dedicate the last 5 years of my life to some guy that's just going to die a humiliating death in public? Grief/Mourn- But, wait, is he calling for Elijah, maybe Elijah will come and the angels and save Jesus and my reputation. Confusion- Why is this happening? I do want to believe Jesus, but he's just dying, why, why is this happening? What is Gd allowing this to happen?
Sponge Guy- Maybe this Jesus should live. Maybe, maybe he didn't do anything wrong. I should give him something to drink, to help, or something.
Centurion- What have we done? This is it. I am quitting my job.
APPLY IT
The reality of Jesus. It's not magic. It's not philosophical. It's not even spiritual. It's real. This is real.
PRAYER
Help me to realize, and remember how real the Bible, the sacrifice of your son is. Please awaken in my soul, your power, your real power to respect it. I need your spirit to understand and live accordingly Be as real today as you were then.
A Woman Anoints Jesus with Perfume Mark 14:3-9
And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper,[a] as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. 4 There were some who said to themselves indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii[b] and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6 But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 7 For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. 8 She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. 9 And truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.”
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S.
Sin/Promise to confess- Jesus does not rebuke those who arrive at "odd" times and or may have been "foolish" with their offering, but accepts it. There are social constraints that we abide by, times in service when it's time to stop worshipping and move on to the lesson, or times when prayer is over. Though if we continue to worship or pray those around us may scoff and be irritated, but Gd will understand and accept.
Attitude to change- to be confident in speaking with the Lord and the Lord's chosen and confidently give what I have. There are times where I feel too dirty to approach a deacon or a pastor in training. There are times pastor asks for 5 dollars from everyone and though 5 dollars is not a lot, sometimes i only have 2, AND it's in change and I feel so ashamed and unable to be obedient or help. This scripture says, change that sorry, pity and dirty like conscience because the Lord knows my heart, just like he knew the heart of the woman in this scene. And he found her gift to be a true sacrifice and good and acceptable and pleasing.
Command to obey- Put the Lord before poor people. There is an appropriate time to put the Lord and your responsibilities to him before those of the people, yes, even people in need.
Example to follow- The woman, who knew was not wanted, knew her sins, but she kept praying, kept approaching, kept seeking the Lord. She kept trying. She didn't give up.
Prayer to pray- Be not ashamed when seeking the Lord and offering what I may consider to be a little thing, but Gd may find acceptable. I need to learn to approach him in my sin. This doesn't mean to go boldly and proud of my sin, but this means to literally take my unclean, roughed up, fresh out of sin self to the alter on my knees. Crying, praying, praying and seeking his forgiveness, seeking the love He promised me.
Error to avoid- judging the sacrifice and giving of others.
Truth to believe- "She has done what she could"
Something to praise Gd for- Accepting us dirty, broken, depressed, poor, rich, big, small
POV- Disciples, Simon the Leper, Woman, Guests
Disciples- "Who is this lady? Who let her in here? She is filthy and foolish. Look at her crawling on the floor, she must be possessed, on drugs or something. Ew."
Simon the Leper- "Let her in. Let her be healed. Let her do whatever she wants to do for Jesus who healed me of leprosy. He can heal her too!"
Woman- This is a bit embarrassing walking in front of all these men, prominent men at that, but I have no choice. I'm desperate, let them kick me, let them drag me out. I need help, I need love, I am nothing anyway. But if this man is the Messiah, I must do something, this small thing, which is all I have, because I do, I do love the Lord, I'm just so broken, so hurt, and I need Him. I pray He not rebuke me, I pray he not push me, PLEASE Lord allow me near, have mercy on my soul, please accept this offering.
Guests- "What in the world is going on? What kind of dinner party is this? Do they just let anyone up in here? Ooohhhh..Look at that lady."
I relate to Simon and the Woman the most. Simon because anyone that seeks the Lord no matter in what state should come, has the right to come and should not be denied. If they have an offering or an sacrifice, who am I to judge it, deem it not good enough? It should be given to Gd no matter how big or small it is. I also relate to the woman as well because many times I'm embarrassed of people possibly seeing me when I walk up to the alter or watch me pray or tear. I also often times feel my offering or tithe is not a sacrifice or not a good enough sacrifice compared to others. This lady and I differ because she went for it anyway, whereas I guess I am too proud to allow people to see me like that. Too proud to even give what little I have to give. I would try to make an appt. with Jesus, or wait till the dinner was over and after I took a shower. This woman is, well, she is much stronger than I.
APPLY IT
I will give what I have in confidence and I will talk to pastor whenever I feel like it.
Prayer
Help me to seek you first before I jump into helping anyone. Help me to seek you no matter how the world may view at me.Amen.
S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S.
Sin/Promise to confess- Jesus does not rebuke those who arrive at "odd" times and or may have been "foolish" with their offering, but accepts it. There are social constraints that we abide by, times in service when it's time to stop worshipping and move on to the lesson, or times when prayer is over. Though if we continue to worship or pray those around us may scoff and be irritated, but Gd will understand and accept.
Attitude to change- to be confident in speaking with the Lord and the Lord's chosen and confidently give what I have. There are times where I feel too dirty to approach a deacon or a pastor in training. There are times pastor asks for 5 dollars from everyone and though 5 dollars is not a lot, sometimes i only have 2, AND it's in change and I feel so ashamed and unable to be obedient or help. This scripture says, change that sorry, pity and dirty like conscience because the Lord knows my heart, just like he knew the heart of the woman in this scene. And he found her gift to be a true sacrifice and good and acceptable and pleasing.
Command to obey- Put the Lord before poor people. There is an appropriate time to put the Lord and your responsibilities to him before those of the people, yes, even people in need.
Example to follow- The woman, who knew was not wanted, knew her sins, but she kept praying, kept approaching, kept seeking the Lord. She kept trying. She didn't give up.
Prayer to pray- Be not ashamed when seeking the Lord and offering what I may consider to be a little thing, but Gd may find acceptable. I need to learn to approach him in my sin. This doesn't mean to go boldly and proud of my sin, but this means to literally take my unclean, roughed up, fresh out of sin self to the alter on my knees. Crying, praying, praying and seeking his forgiveness, seeking the love He promised me.
Error to avoid- judging the sacrifice and giving of others.
Truth to believe- "She has done what she could"
Something to praise Gd for- Accepting us dirty, broken, depressed, poor, rich, big, small
POV- Disciples, Simon the Leper, Woman, Guests
Disciples- "Who is this lady? Who let her in here? She is filthy and foolish. Look at her crawling on the floor, she must be possessed, on drugs or something. Ew."
Simon the Leper- "Let her in. Let her be healed. Let her do whatever she wants to do for Jesus who healed me of leprosy. He can heal her too!"
Woman- This is a bit embarrassing walking in front of all these men, prominent men at that, but I have no choice. I'm desperate, let them kick me, let them drag me out. I need help, I need love, I am nothing anyway. But if this man is the Messiah, I must do something, this small thing, which is all I have, because I do, I do love the Lord, I'm just so broken, so hurt, and I need Him. I pray He not rebuke me, I pray he not push me, PLEASE Lord allow me near, have mercy on my soul, please accept this offering.
Guests- "What in the world is going on? What kind of dinner party is this? Do they just let anyone up in here? Ooohhhh..Look at that lady."
I relate to Simon and the Woman the most. Simon because anyone that seeks the Lord no matter in what state should come, has the right to come and should not be denied. If they have an offering or an sacrifice, who am I to judge it, deem it not good enough? It should be given to Gd no matter how big or small it is. I also relate to the woman as well because many times I'm embarrassed of people possibly seeing me when I walk up to the alter or watch me pray or tear. I also often times feel my offering or tithe is not a sacrifice or not a good enough sacrifice compared to others. This lady and I differ because she went for it anyway, whereas I guess I am too proud to allow people to see me like that. Too proud to even give what little I have to give. I would try to make an appt. with Jesus, or wait till the dinner was over and after I took a shower. This woman is, well, she is much stronger than I.
APPLY IT
I will give what I have in confidence and I will talk to pastor whenever I feel like it.
Prayer
Help me to seek you first before I jump into helping anyone. Help me to seek you no matter how the world may view at me.Amen.
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