Teaching Notes

See, the former things have taken place, and new things I declare; before they spring into being I announce them to you." - Isaiah 42:9

Old things are passed, All things are new. Many people make New Year resolutions. This is when individuals look at their lives and think about the things they should have changed or that need to be changed and they want to make a resolution to do things better.

Often times these resolutions are forgotten a few months into the new year. This year let us do something different. The former things, which means those things that have happened before are gone. That means the good and the bad. We cannot re-live yesterday.

If you make wrong choices in 2008, thank God for keeping you to come upon the opportunity to make better ones. If you made good choices in 2008 be thankful for God's wisdom and your obedience to follow. Now you stand on the brink of a new year. You cannot re do the past, but you can make a decision right now to look forward to what God wants to do in your life for 2009.

If you were an average student in 2008, prepare to be an excellent student 2009. If you were an excellent student in 2008 seek God's help in becoming even better than you were before. If you read your Bible some in 2008, then commit to reading it more in 2009.

What is the point? The point is this, do not spend your time worry about what has happened before because you cannot change it. Do not spend your time resting on what you have accomplished in the past. You cannot move forward on what has already been done, you have to commit to doing more so that you can grow.

As we end this year I challenge you not to make a new years resolution that will soon fade away, but to making a commitment to God's plan for your life. Those former things are done. Now God wants to show you what he has ahead for you. He is the only one that can help you accomplish the challenges for 2009.

As you pray for God's direction in this upcoming year, I suggest some topics for you to pray for:

1. Pray for God's wisdom - so that you can understand the will of God.

2. Pray for God's direction - so that you can know what things God would want you to do.

3. Pray for God's strength - so that you can accomplish those things God shows you he is requiring from you.

Ask God for his help so that you can read your word as you should, pray more and follow his direction for your life.

May God bless you as we enter into 2009. What mark do you want to leave in 2009?

Teaching Notes

Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep. - Psalm 127:3

Christmas Presents to Christ. This scripture tells us that God says children are the best gift of God to family. Children are a gift just as Christ the child was the greatest gift to the world. This week we will pray as we present our gifts back to Christ. What gift is that? If God says that as children you are a gift to your family then you are the gift we present to Christ.

MONDAY

Lord today I am thankful that you say I am important to you. You formed me and created me for a great purpose. You created me first as a gift to my parents and now you want me to become a gift to the world around me. Help me to let you have the access to my life so that you can make me into the great gift to be given back to you.

TUESDAY

Lord today help me to accept my need for you. I need you as my savior, as my Lord and as my guide. I cannot become all that I was meant to be without you. I need you to be able to stand in this world so that I can become what you have designed me to be. Help me present myself to you completely. My gift to you this Christmas is myself. I give you me.

WEDNESDAY

Lord today as we draw closer to Christmas help me to understand the need for me to draw closer to you. I need you above everything else. No matter how much is going on around me I need to always see you. Help me this year to have eyes that do not lose focus of you even in the midst of the busy world around me. Help me to keep my eyes on you. As I do so, help me to also help others to see you. As they see you in me, this will help them to also see you. Help me in this next year to be more of a reflection of Christ so that those that are around me can see your effect in my life.

THURSDAY

This is Christmas day, the day we celebrate the birth of Christ. Help me to celebrate the birth, death and resurrection of Christ daily. Help this to be always before me and not just once a year. Help me to find new joy in these events so that I can share it with others.

FRIDAY

I want to be more of what God has called me to be. I am thankful for being created as a gift to my family. Help me to bring joy to the lives of those that I come in contact with. Help them those that cross my path to feel that I am truly a gift, a gift from God. God have complete control of my life so that I can be presented to Christ as a true gift. God you gave your Son for me help me to give myself for your Son.

Teaching Notes

The Road to Christmas

Luke 1:26-38

MONDAY

26-28 In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to the Galilean village of Nazareth to a virgin engaged to be married to a man descended from David. His name was Joseph, and the virgin's name, Mary. Upon entering, Gabriel greeted her: Good morning! You're beautiful with God's beauty, Beautiful inside and out! God be with you. - Luke 1:26-28

Last week we studied about the childless couple concieving a child in their old age.  Now we turn to the virgin that will concieve.  We are already looking at the miracles that God can do.  So we turn from Elizabeth who is in her sixth month of pregnancy to her cousin Mary.  The scripture tells us that Mary is a virgin that is engaged to be married to Joseph.  When Mary enters into the room an angel greets her.

Thought for the day: What do you think the greeting meant? In the KJV is states Mary is "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women". What this greeting signifies is Mary has been honored above all women because she has been chosen to carry the Son of God.  The favor on her life is because of the great purpose she has been chosen to carry out. 

What can be learned from this piece of scripture is that God has a special calling on all our lives.  There will come a time when God will reveal to you what he has purposed for your life. You may be surprises at the encounter.  You may not have even been expecting any thing to happen and then one day you have an encounter with God that calls you to hear God's purpose on your life. Are you ready to hear God's purpose for your life?

Prayer: Lord, you have ordained a purpose for me from the womb.  When you formed me you knew what you desired for my life.  Help me to see clearly that you have a purpose on my life.  Help me to see it and accept it so that you can fulfill all that you purpose in me.

TUESDAY
29-33 She was thoroughly shaken, wondering what was behind a greeting like that. But the angel assured her, "Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a surprise for you: You will become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus. He will be great, be called 'Son of the Highest.' The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David; He will rule Jacob's house forever— no end, ever, to his kingdom." - Luke 1:29-33

Mary was shaken to hear the greeting from the angel.  The angel said to Mary not to be afraid because God has something special for her.  The angel then reveals to Mary what will take place in her life.  he tells her that she will become the mother to the savior.

Thought for the Day: What do you think Mary must have felt after hearing such a greeting?  When we read tomorrows lesson we will understand what she thought.  But for right now, if you were confronted with something unthinkable you would probably wonder at the message.  Mary surely must have thought why would God choose me for this special assignment?

Mary probably did like many of us would, she wonder at the greatness of what was said.  We would probably think this could not be true, surely there must be a mistake. That is what we would do and currently do when we are faced with some things that are amazing.  God has a purpose for each of us and sometimes we cannot believe he would want us to accomplish the things he reveals to us.  Surely he could not want me to be a preacher, or a teacher or a pastor or some other thing.  Yet we can know like Mary did that if God calls you to do something he was not mistaken about who he wanted to do it, he was sure he wanted you to do it.

Prayer: Lord help me to accept the wonderful assignment you have for me.  I cannot even believe you would call me to do such wonderful things, but I will trust that if you called me to do something you will help me to accomplish it.

 
 
WEDNESDAY
34 Mary said to the angel, "But how? I've never slept with a man." - Luke 1:34
 
Today we see what Mary's response was to the angel.  She could not believe it and wonder how could she have a baby when she was a virgin. 
 
Thought for the Day: Mary wondered how can I have a baby when I have not been with a man.  If we look at this one verse we can see how Mary is looking at the situation.  She is looking at it from the natural.  What I mean by that is she is looking at how one naturally has a baby.  Since she knows she has never been with anyone she cannot see how this thing will come to be.  This is a reminder for us that sometimes we are limited by our vision.  We cannot see in the "natural" how God will work something out.  This is how we are often discouraged about the things we believe God wants us to do.  We do not see how it can happen so we begin to believe it cannot happen. Yet we must learn to say, there is nothing impossible with God.
 
Prayer: Lord help me today not to look at this journey from what I "see".  Help me to walk by faith and not by my sight.  Help me to trust you to accomplish those things you have already ordained in my life.  Help me to trust you even if those around me do not seem to see what you are showing me.  Help me today to know it is not by natural means but by your power.
 
 
THURSDAY
35 The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, the power of the Highest hover over you; Therefore, the child you bring to birth will be called Holy, Son of God.  - Luke 1:35
 
Today, the angel answers Mary's question of how this will come to be.  The angel tells Mary it will be by the Spirit of God.
 
Thought for the Day: The angel let's Mary know this thing that will happen will not be a "natural" thing but a "super natural" thing.  In other words this reminds us that those things God has told us he will do, we cannot look for them to transpire by natural means.  For example, maybe God has shown you that he wants you to go to college and accomplish something.  We get excited for a moment until we think about how it will be accomplished.  We think what "man" or person is going to help me accomplish this?  I don't have anyone that will help me so it will not come to be.  Yet, God wants you to remember this thing he wants to accomplish in your life is not by natural means but by his Spirit.  What he says will happen, he surely can bring it to be.
 
Prayer: Lord today I ask you to help me to have faith in what you can do, even those things that seem impossible to me.  I may not be able to see clearly the path but I trust that you have purpose you want to fulfill in me.  Help me to walk in it and do what you have called me to do.
 

FRIDAY
36-38 "And did you know that your cousin Elizabeth conceived a son, old as she is? Everyone called her barren, and here she is six months pregnant! Nothing, you see, is impossible with God." And Mary said, Yes, I see it all now: I'm the Lord's maid, ready to serve. Let it be with me just as you say. Then the angel left her. - Luke 1:36-38

The angel now tells Mary about Elizabeth.  He tells her that Elizabeth has conceived a Son in her old age.

Thought for the Day: Why do you think the angel told Mary about Elizabeth?  He told her to give her a testimony of what God had already done.  Surely if he could open up the closed womb past child bearing age, he could hand this.  Mary was then moved to make a commitment to the words of the angel.  Mary accepted the assignment and said let it be done unto her.  There is something vitally important for us to understand.  When all the information has been given we stand at a cross road.  We stand at the place of acceptance.  Will you accept your assignment or will you turn away because it seems to hard to bear?  God already knew Mary would accept the assignment.  Did you know whatever God is calling you to do he already knows you can do it.  If you were not able, he would not call you to it.

Today, accept the path that God has set for you.  Accept his perfect plan and do not allow anything to get in your way.  Do not allow doubt to stop you.  Do not think there is no one here to help me, because God is with you and he will accomplish it in his power.  Let nothing or nobody stop you for fulfilling God's purpose.  Say as Mary did, let it be done unto me.

Prayer: Lord today help me to begin to walk fulling in the path you have for me.  Do not allow fears, doubts or anything to stand in my way of being what you have called me to be.  Help me today to say, let your will be done in me. Amen.

Teaching Notes

We come to worship the true king.

MONDAY
During the rule of Herod, King of Judea, there was a priest assigned service in the regiment of Abijah. His name was Zachariah. His wife was descended from the daughters of Aaron. Her name was Elizabeth. Together they lived honorably before God, careful in keeping to the ways of the commandments and enjoying a clear conscience before God. But they were childless because Elizabeth could never conceive, and now they were quite old. - Luke 1:5-7

This scripture sets the tone of the beginning of the book of Luke.  This story starts not with the life of Jesus and his mother Mary, but with Elizabeth and the child that she will have.  This child we will later come to know as John the Baptist.  We see that this couple is old and have never had any children.  We also get a description of their character. They lived honorably before God and kept the commandments.  They stood holy before God, yet they had not had any children.

Thoughts for today: What can we learn from the life of this couple? This couple teaches us that we must be obedient to God even when the things we desire seem to never come.  This couple could have lost hope and refused to trust God because they did not have a child.  Yet, God has another plan and we will see that as we continue this week.  For right now we can take the lesson that we must be willing to have a character that people will say we are upright before the Lord.

Prayer: Lord today help me to be like those in the scripture today. Help me to obey you and live for you even if things do not seem to be going the way I want them to.  Help me to trust that you know what is best for me, so help me trust.

TUESDAY
It so happened that as Zachariah was carrying out his priestly duties before God, working the shift assigned to his regiment, it came his one turn in life to enter the sanctuary of God and burn incense. The congregation was gathered and praying outside the Temple at the hour of the incense offering. Unannounced, an angel of God appeared just to the right of the altar of incense. Zachariah was paralyzed in fear. - Luke 1:8-12

It now fell on Zachariah to carry out the duties before God. This was his first time to do this. It was at this time that he had an encounter with God.

Thought for today: Can you image what it must have been like to have such an encounter? Well we have an idea it says that he was paralyzed with fear.  To be in the presence of God was something unexpected to say the least.  We do not yet have what was said (that will come tomorrow) but we can take away this valuable lesson.  We should always be in the place where we can meet God in the most expected ways.  How do you do that?  You simply do it by going along with the duties that God has ordained for you to do.  When you are trusting God and obeying him, he simply shows up and allows you to be in his presence.

Prayer: Lord today I thank you for your presence being with us.  Thank you for helping me to obey you.  I want to obey you more so that during this Christmas I can come to know you better. 

WEDNESDAY
But the angel reassured him, "Don't fear, Zachariah. Your prayer has been heard. Elizabeth, your wife, will bear a son by you. You are to name him John. You're going to leap like a gazelle for joy, and not only you—many will delight in his birth. He'll achieve great stature with God. "He'll drink neither wine nor beer. He'll be filled with the Holy Spirit from the moment he leaves his mother's womb. He will turn many sons and daughters of Israel back to their God. He will herald God's arrival in the style and strength of Elijah, soften the hearts of parents to children, and kindle devout understanding among hardened skeptics—he'll get the people ready for God." Zachariah said to the angel, "Do you expect me to believe this? I'm an old man and my wife is an old woman."  - Luke 1:13-18

The angel told Zachariah not to be afraid.  He also came to tell him about his wife, Elizabeth.  She would have a child and he tells him what this son will do.  He will be the one that will go before Jesus and prepare the hearts of the people for the coming of Jesus.  Zachariah's response was disbelief.  How could this be since me and my wife are old?

Thought for today: What can we learn from Zachariah's doubt? We all have times when something seems to great to be that we doubt it happening.  Haven't you doubted that you might be able to get a good grade in a class or that you would not accomplish something you wanted to do?  Well this is the same thing.  Zachariah doubted because he was looking at what things were.  He was old and so was his wife so they should not be able to have children.  However what seems impossible for you and I is not impossible with God.  So for this season let us have an expectation of the impossible being possible (with God).  Let us begin to seek God for impossible things he want to do in your life.  It might seem impossible to you that you will be able to go to college.  Yet God may be waiting for you to trust in him so that he can make the impossible, possible.

Prayer: Lord there is nothing too hard for you.  There is nothing to great or wonderful that you cannot do.  Help me not to doubt like Zachariah did.  Help me not to look at my situation and think that this is all there is.  Help me to see my life with your vision and no longer with my own.

THURSDAY
But the angel said, "I am Gabriel, the sentinel of God, sent especially to bring you this glad news. But because you won't believe me, you'll be unable to say a word until the day of your son's birth. Every word I've spoken to you will come true on time—God's time." Meanwhile, the congregation waiting for Zachariah was getting restless, wondering what was keeping him so long in the sanctuary. When he came out and couldn't speak, they knew he had seen a vision. He continued speechless and had to use sign language with the people. - Luke 1:19-22

Because of his doubt he was not able to speak.  The angel Gabriel told him he would not be able to speak until the birth of his son.  Gabriel also told him at that time everything spoken would come to be.

Thought for today: Why do you think his mouth was shut up?  Did you know that doubt has a way of "shutting you up"?  It might not be physically but doubt has a way of stopping you from focusing on what God wants you to see.  Sometimes God has to shut us up and allow us to simply see what he can do.  When he does then we can only focus on him and no longer "voice" our doubts releasing them into the air.  In other words God does not want us speaking those doubts over our lives.  What we can learn is God wants us to trust him even when things seem too great for our understanding.  We must trust that he will do things in his time and in his way.

Prayer: Lord shut up my doubts.  Help me to release anything that stands in the way of me being able to trust in you.  If there be any doubt in my heart please remove it.  You have spoken a purpose over my life so help me to reach out and receive it.

FRIDAY
When the course of his priestly assignment was completed, he went back home. It wasn't long before his wife, Elizabeth, conceived. She went off by herself for five months, relishing her pregnancy. "So, this is how God acts to remedy my unfortunate condition!" she said.  - Luke 1:23-25

The scripture says it was not long before Elizabeth conceived.  The promise that God made was going to happen.  Elizabeth's response was this is how God is going to change my life.

Thought for today: Why do you think Elizabeth responded the way she did?  Surely she was old so she may have given up on the hope of every having a child. So when what she thought was never going to happen she must have surely thought, God you are giving me back a hope that I had lost, this is how you are going to release me from this place of lack.  Did you know that we can learn a lesson about not giving up hope in what God can do.  It does not matter how long you think you have had to wait for something, God can still fix it or change it.  You might be struggling in some area and it feels like it will never end.  Yet God wants to remind us that he is able to do even what we think is impossible.  So this week as we reflect on the scripture let us think about how Christ came to offer you and I the opportunity to trust in the wondrous work of God.  It is through Christ that you and I can trust in God to make the impossible, possible.

Prayer: Lord thank you today for placing in me a purpose.  It might seem at times that the purpose will never be fulfilled but there is coming a time if I contiue to trust you, when you will bring that purpose to light.  You will birth in me that which you want.  There is nothing too hard for you.

Teaching Notes

The Road to Christmas

We are now in December. Christmas is everywhere. You can go in the stores and you can find Christmas music playing, trees decorated and the atmosphere of festivity everywhere. Is this really Christmas or something else? Well this week and up until Christmas we will take a different road than the one we see in our modern times. We want to take the road that will lead us to the true meaning of Christmas.


MONDAY
The birth of Jesus took place like this. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. Before they came to the marriage bed, Joseph discovered she was pregnant. (It was by the Holy Spirit, but he didn't know that.) Joseph, chagrined but noble, determined to take care of things quietly so Mary would not be disgraced. - Matthew 1:18-19

Joseph found out that Mary was pregnant and he did not want to disgrace her. Joseph had every right to be upset. The woman he was to marry was having a baby and he knew it was not his. Yet his first concern was not about himself but about Mary. He wanted to keep her save. Mary could have been more than disgraced she could have been stoned because of her apparent sins.


Thought for the day: What lesson does Joseph teach us on our journey toward Christmas? Joseph teaches us that we must be more concerned for others than ourselves. We may have situations or things done to us that are really wrong, but we should not seek to harm others because of it. What sometimes "appears" to be wrong, doesn't have to be. This situation appear to Joseph to be wrong, but it was not it was part of God's plan. And had he reacted differently he may have been out of God's will. This lets us know that even if things do not appear right, we should seek God because he knows all that is behind the scene.


Prayer: Lord help me during this time of the year not to react to things that appear to be wrong. Help me instead seek you and find out what is the right way to handle it.



TUESDAY
While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God's angel spoke in the dream: "Joseph, son of David, don't hesitate to get married. Mary's pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God's Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—'God saves'—because he will save his people from their sins." This would bring the prophet's embryonic sermon to full term: Watch for this—a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son; They will name him Immanuel (Hebrew for "God is with us"). - Matthew 20-23


Yesterday we talked about Joseph having the correct response. This continues that lesson. While Joseph was thinking about what to do, he had a dream where God showed him that this was his doing. He also told Joseph to marry Mary and that the child she was carrying was the Messiah, the savior of the world.

Thought for the day: When we stop and think about what should be done before reacting we give God the opportunity to show us. Joseph shows us that when we wait for direction we will recieve it. For our journey into what Christmas is all about, we need to learn this lesson about waiting on God. Christmas is a time we share with family and friends, however God wants us to take a closer look at what it really means to him. It means you are willing to be like Joseph. Joseph was willing to take some "heat" for God. Can you image what people might have thought about him with a pregnant wife and the child was not his? For us today it reminds us that we will be willing for people to even misunderstand us if it will allow God's perfect plan to be fulfilled in our lives.


Prayer: Lord help me today to wait for you to speak clearly to me. While Joseph was thinking about what to do, you sent your answer. While I wait for you to show me your plan for my life, please send your answer. And when you do, I will walk it that way even if I have to take some heat for it.


WEDNESDAY
Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God's angel commanded in the dream: He married Mary. But he did not consummate the marriage until she had the baby. He named the baby Jesus. - Matthew 1:24-25

When God finished showing Joseph what to do, he then obeyed it. He did just as God told him to.

Thought for Today: This simple statement is important for us as we journey together. We must be willing to obey God in whatever he tells us to do, even if we do not always understand what the complete outcome will be. Joseph followed what God told him even though he does not have the complete lay out of what this will call for from his life. We often do not want to do things unless we know how much effort and sacrifice it will call for us to give. Yet we must be willing to trust God and simply follow.

Prayer: Lord help me to follow you. As I journey on this road to understand what you want me to see through Christmas help me to understand you are showing me the importance of obedience. When I am obedient to you this allows your purpose and plan to be fulfilled in my life and the lives of others. Help me to follow.


THURDSAY
Instructed by the king, they set off. Then the star appeared again, the same star they had seen in the eastern skies. It led them on until it hovered over the place of the child. They could hardly contain themselves: They were in the right place! They had arrived at the right time! They entered the house and saw the child in the arms of Mary, his mother. Overcome, they kneeled and worshiped him. Then they opened their luggage and presented gifts: gold, frankincense, myrrh. - Matthew 2:9-11

The wise men or scholars as this version calls them were seeking to find where Jesus was born. The king Herod heard this and had the wise men brought to him so he could try and find out the information. When he finished talking to the men he told them to come back and tell him where the child was. After this conversation the men set off and found where the child was at that was born.


Thought for Today: King Herod was disturbed because he did not want any other king being honored besides himself. The three men when they went into see king Herod we do not hear of them bowing down and paying honor to him. Yet we see them doing differently to this child that was born. They were overcome with joy and they worshipped him. The brought him gifts. All these gifts point to him being the true king. This is a reminder for us today that we should not allow the ruler of this world to take our affections. The three wise men did not give their praises to the wrong king. They praise the true King. Jesus is the true king. We should not give our praise and our offerings (those things that are important to us) to anyone else but God.

Prayer: Lord help me to give you all the honor that is due you. Help me not allow anything else to be more important than you are in my life. Help me to see the importance of total submission to you. I want to rejoice and find joy in your presence.



FRIDAY
In a dream, they were warned not to report back to Herod. So they worked out another route, left the territory without being seen, and returned to their own country. After the scholars were gone, God's angel showed up again in Joseph's dream and commanded, "Get up. Take the child and his mother and flee to Egypt. Stay until further notice. Herod is on the hunt for this child, and wants to kill him." Joseph obeyed. He got up, took the child and his mother under cover of darkness. They were out of town and well on their way by daylight. They lived in Egypt until Herod's death. This Egyptian exile fulfilled what Hosea had preached: "I called my son out of Egypt." - Matthew 2:12-15


After the wise men saw the child they were warned in a dream not to go back and tell Herod where Jesus was. Herod was angry so he made a decree to have the infants killed from the age of a newborn to about 2 years old. God speaks to Joseph and tells him to take the child and go to Egypt. In Joseph's obedience this action fulfills scripture spoke of by the prophet Hosea that God would call his son from Egypt.


Thought for Today: It seems as we read the scripture that if Jesus was meant to be born why was there so much drama going on around him? Why didn't God make it easier? That is sometimes the same questions we ask about our own lives, why doesn't God make it easier if he wants to fulfill something in us? God does not promise us that life would be without conflict, but what he wants to show us through the life of his son is that even conflicts cannot stop his plan and purpose. Take comfort in this truth. There is not one thing you can face in this life that can stop God's plan for you. Jesus faced all so that you and I could have confidence in his power to help us reach his plan. This week as we journeyed on our way to Christmas we saw that God requires us to obey him even in situations that we do not fully understand. He also showed us that he wants nothing to take his place of honor. He is the true king and we must worship only him. Then he showed us that if we obey him he will protect us and help us to reach his purpose for our lives.

Prayer: Lord you have a plan that is specific for my life. Help me to hear you. Also help me to walk in the way that you have for me so that I can reach and fulfill your purpose for me. It was through this Christmas Gift of Christ that you opened up all that is available to me. Help me offer this gift to someone else.

Teaching Notes

(used from NorthtownChurch Lockin in 2004)

Characteristics of a Christian

MONDAY

Jesus said, "The first in importance is, 'Listen, Israel: The Lord your God is one; so love the Lord God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence and energy.' And here is the second: 'Love others as well as you love yourself.' There is no other commandment that ranks with these."  - Mark 12:29-31

A Christian must love God. This is the very first characteristic of a Christian is that they love God.  This is not a love in words but also in deed.  This means that what God requires is the most important thing to you.  You will not allow anything else to be before your love for God.

Thought for today: How do you show your love for God? The things you do around your friends, can they tell you love God?

Prayer: Lord allow my love for you to show though my actions.  If I say I love you then I must obey you.  Help me to obey you even when it calls for me to do some difficult things.

TUESDAY

Peter and the apostles answered, "It's necessary to obey God rather than men. The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, the One you killed by hanging him on a cross. God set him on high at his side, Prince and Savior, to give Israel the gift of a changed life and sins forgiven. And we are witnesses to these things. The Holy Spirit, whom God gives to those who obey him, corroborates every detail." - Acts 5:29-32

A Christian must obey God. This goes hand in hand with yesterdays lesson.  If we say we love God then it should be evident in our desire to obey him.  When we want to have our own way and refuse to listen to him we do not show the respect and love we should show for our Heavenly Father.  When we obey God even above what people want us to this is what is required of God.

Thought for today: Do I obey God even when I might not look good around my friends?  Do I obey God when it might require me to make a stand that others refuse to make?  What is really most important, obeying God or being well liked and recieved?

Prayer: Lord help me to obey you even above what my friends or others may think.  Help me to make you my focus in everything I do.  I will try to get along as best I can with others but never if it calls for me to disobey you.

WEDNESDAY

"You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend,' and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy.' I'm challenging that. I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that. - Matthew 5:43-47

A Christian will love their enemies and pray for them. Jesus challenged the people to go deeper.  He challenged them to love their enemies and pray for them.  He challenged them to go above a simply hello or greeting them.  He says even sinners can do that.  He challenges them to love those that would abuse them, hate them or even want to harm them.  What a strange request.  We must understand those Jesus spoke to were being asked to love the very people that had destroyed them, kill their people, taken their land.  If he could ask them then to do such a thing, surely he can require the same from us.  As Christians if we are asked to do it, we will be equipped to carry it out.

Thought for today: When was the last time you prayed for someone that had mistreated you?  When was the last time you showed love to someone you did not like?

Prayer: Lord you ask us to be loving even to those that have been our enemies.  This is a hard request but because we love you we will obey you.  We will do as you have requested us to do.  We will show love to others and we will pray that you would have control in their lives.

THURSDAY

“Pray without ceasing.” - I Thessalonians 5:17

Christians pray. It often amazes me how little we think we need to pray as Christians.  We think if I prayed this morning or the quick prayer over my meal that is enough for today or even for several days.  However one of the most amazing characteristics of a faithful Christian is one that prays.  We must be willing to pray all the time, in all situations and in all circumstances.  We pray when things are good.  We pray when things are bad.  We pray for ourselves.  We pray for others.  We pray.  This is one of our greatest sources to be able to gain power from God and to hear his direction for us (as well as through the reading of his Word.).

Thought for today: Do you pray often?  Do you say a quick prayer and move on or do you pray and then take time to hear God speak back to you?  How important is prayer to you?

Prayer: We want to hear from you today Lord.  We want to know your voice and to know you speaking to us.  Help us to pray without ceasing for all things and for all people.  Help us to become people of prayer.  It does not matter our age or any outward things, you look at our hearts.  Help us to have a heart of prayer.

FRIDAY

“That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;” - Phillippians 2:15

Christians are light. If we are children of God we must reflect God through our lives.  Others must be able to see the Light of Christ in us. We cannot look like the world around us and then try to look like God, it cannot be.  We cannot be darkness and light.  We cannot be holy and unholy.  We cannot be crooked and straight.  We are either one or the other.  God requires his children to reflect who his Son is.  We must be light.  Light dispels darkness and you can see what is truly in a room for instance when you turn the light on.  We then must reflect truth.  We are transparent and people can see that what we say is what we really believe.  We won't say we believe in Jesus but live as though we do not.

Thought for today: How do you reflect the light of Christ around you?  Do others know you are a Christian by your acts or do you have to tell them in order for them to know?  What ways can you reflect Christ more?

Prayer: Lord allow your Holy Spirit to direct me every step of my way.  Help me to be a light not hidden but one that shows to those around me who I belong to.  Help me reflect light so that others will want this relationship that I have with you.  Help me draw people to you.

Teaching Notes

Titus 2

Who Am I?

In my book, Fearfully and Wonderfully Made I ask this question in one of the chapters.  The results of study showed your (teenagers) answers to this question. Some said they wanted to have a college degree (88%).  Some stated a comfortable lifestyle.  Some of the responses were related to spiritual matters. 50% said they wanted to be commited Christians and 46% said they wanted to make a different in the world.  All these are goals you can go for, but it must first start with you understanding who you are from God's perspective.  We will look at Titus 2 to see what we can glean from this chapter.

MONDAY

1-6 Your job is to speak out on the things that make for solid doctrine. Guide older men into lives of temperance, dignity, and wisdom, into healthy faith, love, and endurance. Guide older women into lives of reverence so they end up as neither gossips nor drunks, but models of goodness. By looking at them, the younger women will know how to love their husbands and children, be virtuous and pure, keep a good house, be good wives. We don't want anyone looking down on God's Message because of their behavior. Also, guide the young men to live disciplined lives.

As you read these verse of scripture they are instructions on how all parts of the family of God should behave.  It calls for the older women to help the younger ones how to be virtuous and pure.  It requires young women not to be gossipers but models of what is good and acceptable of God.  So this lets us know that even in our pursuit of careers or jobs we are still expected to have good moral behavior.  This is so others will not look down on the message of God badly because of our behavior or actions.

Prayer - Lord today we seek you to help us have the right behavior, first before you and then before others.  We do not want to hinder the message of Christ because of foolish behavior or actions.  Help us to be an example because as we grow older we then should be examples for those coming behind us. Amen.

TUESDAY

7-8 But mostly, show them all this by doing it yourself, incorruptible in your teaching, your words solid and sane. Then anyone who is dead set against us, when he finds nothing weird or misguided, might eventually come around.

What is interesting about this part of the chapter is the reason why we should have right behavior.  The reason is so that we will not keep others from coming to Christ. It says if anyone is dead set against believers when they find that what you are saying is not misguided by they see the evidence of godly behavior as it is lived out in you, they might come to accept the truth of God.  This does not guarentee it, but it says it is possible if we live right before others.  So we are required to live right before others so we can become more and more like Christ.  That is really how you will find who you are to be.

Prayer - Lord today help my light shine so someone else that may have turned away can see you in my life and want what they see I have.  If that light is not shining as it ought to, then help me so I can become a good witness to others about your goodness and your mercy. Amen.

WEDNESDAY

9-10 Guide slaves into being loyal workers, a bonus to their masters—no back talk, no petty thievery. Then their good character will shine through their actions, adding luster to the teaching of our Savior God.

Well thank God we are not slaves today but the principles can still be applied today. If you are a worker, have a job you are required to have godly character on your job.  That means you don't steal or disrespect your teacher (this is true for school or any other place you find yourself in).  This will show your good character and will add to your witness.  It shows you are one that trust in the teachings of Christ and you walk right before him.  This is what is important if you are to witness to others.  It is more about what you show than what you tell people you know.

Prayer - Lord help us to make good decisions in all areas of our lives; work, school and home.  Help us to be a good godly example so that others will believe that we do seek to live a life worthy of you.  Help us to show others who they can become as we live for you. Amen.

THURSDAY

11-14 God's readiness to give and forgive is now public. Salvation's available for everyone! We're being shown how to turn our backs on a godless, indulgent life, and how to take on a God-filled, God-honoring life. This new life is starting right now, and is whetting our appetites for the glorious day when our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, appears. He offered himself as a sacrifice to free us from a dark, rebellious life into this good, pure life, making us a people he can be proud of, energetic in goodness.

What can you become? Who are you? This scripture tells us if you are a child of God you are forgiven.  It is no longer a secret about the salvation made available to all that seek it.  We have been given the tools to move from a life that is not pleasing to God (one that is more concerned with self than God) to one that is filled with honoring and loving our savior. We can rejoice because what we have now is only a taste of what will come when we see Jesus when he appears.  He offered himself to free us from darkness (this is the darkness on our lives because of sin) and now gives us that which will help us live a good and pure life.  This can make us people God can be proud to call his own.  This is who we can be, a people set aside for God and one that he shows his love upon.

Prayer - Lord today we thank you for loving us enough to help us live in the right way.  Help us to let go of anything that is not pleasing to you.  Help us to be willing to spend time with you.  We do that in our prayer time, in our study of your Word (reading our Bibles) and in our times of worship (both by yourself and with the people of God at church). Amen.

FRIDAY

Today let us take a look back at the scripture and ask ourselves some questions.

1. This scripture was written to Titus from Paul and he tells Titus it is his responsiblity to teach sound doctrine. After reading Monday's scripture, what do you think Paul meant by "solid" or sound doctrine?

2. Paul tells Titus the best way he can teach sound doctrine to those that follow him is by doing it himself.  Why do you think it is important for you to be an example to others about what you say you believe?

3. Titus is told how to guide slaves in being right before they masters.  We explained how that can be used for us today.  It can mean anyone in authority over you.  If you have someone over you and you do as the scripture says, what could possible happen?

4. Thursday's lesson talked about how God's offer of salvation is readily available to all.  Why is this important for us as believers to know?

Prayer - Lord, we are thankful for all the wonderful things you give to us.  We are thankful for your Spirit that helps us to be able to do those things you set before us.  Equip us today to live so that we can know who we are and we can also show it to others.  We are children of God. Amen.

Teaching Notes

Praying God's Word

This week I would like for us to do something different.  I want us to pray God's word.  You will find the scripture references within the prayer for each day.   Let us pray together this week...

                                                                                                                              

MONDAY

Lord I thank you today for peace.  ...Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1).  I could not have this peace had you not saved me. Whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, becasue in his forebearance God had passed over the sins that were previously commited, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:25-26). Thank you I am forgiven because of Jesus and because of him I have peace in you. Amen.

TUESDAY

I am set free. There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, wo do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit (Romans 8:1).  Because of Jesus, I do not have to live with guilt or condemnation.  You have set me free from my past sins and mistakes. You love me so much that you also interecede for me. It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34). You love us enough that you not only set us free but that you intercede on our behalf so that we can be victorious in our walk.  Thank you for loving us enough to die for us. Amen.

WEDNESDAY
I am a heir of God's kingdom. If children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorifed together (Romans 8:17). Because of Jesus' sacrifice I have a great inheritance.  I also am given a eternal life with God through Christ. ...He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you (Romas 8:10-11).  Thank you today for eternal life through Jesus Christ and because of it, you have made us heirs to your kingdom.  We praise you forever. Amen.

THURSDAY
I have life. The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.  I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly (John 10:10).  Jesus thank you for giving me more life in this life. This life does not come by any other way than through you. Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Today help me to know you are my true salvation and to live for you completely. Amen.

FRIDAY
I can be forgiven. I have heard about Jesus, yet I have continued to ignore his call to me.  Today is the day I make the decision to live for God. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). You promise me that if I confess to you my sins, you will forgive we no matter what I have done. I now want to live for you and I need your power so that I can live for you completely. I need your Holy Spirit which will enable me to obey you. We have been delivered from the law, having died to what we were held by, so that we should serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter (Romans 7:6), and he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you (John 14:26).  Thank you for salvation through Jesus and for your Holy Spirit to guide me and teach me. Amen.

Teaching Notes

What if you decided you could swim this lake?  Would you simply jump in and start to swim?  No, you would want to know some detail about it.  Why?  Well, you wouldn't want to jump into something unaware and become a victim to it.  We should also think about our walk with Christ as one that we must prepare for.  No this does not mean you and I must do something before we are saved.  It means we must be willing to let go over everything that would stop us from crossing over to the otherside.  We do not want to become victims of the waves and the currents.  We want to do whatever God requires of us so that we can be able to withstand in this walk.

Figure the Cost

Luke 14:25-34 (The Message)

25-27 One day when large groups of people were walking along with him, Jesus turned and told them, "Anyone who comes to me but refuses to let go of father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters—yes, even one's own self!—can't be my disciple. Anyone who won't shoulder his own cross and follow behind me can't be my disciple.

MONDAY

Jesus was walking and he turned and gave thes message to those that were following him.  What he was actually saying to them was if there is anything in your life that is more important tham me, you cannot really be my disciple. He tells them they cannot even put their own desires and wished above him.  Nothing could take the first place in their lives above God. NOTHING!

Question for Today - Do you think Jesus was really saying that you had to hate your family? Or was he really saying that nothing can be above him in your life?

Prayer: Lord help us to be able to let go of anything that is moving you out of the first place in our lives.  Help not to put our own desires above what you desire for your lives.  Help us this day to seek to do things in your way because your ways are perfect.

TUESDAY

28-30"Is there anyone here who, planning to build a new house, doesn't first sit down and figure the cost so you'll know if you can complete it? If you only get the foundation laid and then run out of money, you're going to look pretty foolish. Everyone passing by will poke fun at you: 'He started something he couldn't finish.'

Jesus ask them about someone that builds a house.  If that person decides to build a house they will first see what it will cost them and then make sure they have what is needed so they can accomplish that task.  You would not want to invest your money in building a house to only have the foundation laid and never complete the task.  He says if you do that, when people come past they will make fun of you because they will know you did not count the cost on what it would take to finish your project.  He is comparing this with counting the cost of salvation.  Jesus is not trying to turn people away, but instead have them think about what they are doing so they will finish the course and not stop short because they did not realize what would be needed to go all the way.  This goes back to yesterdays message.  If you are not willing to put everything else behind God, then you will become discouraged and want to stop the process.  You will only get the foundation laid but nothing else.

Question for Today: What do you think it takes to "count the cost"?  What do you need to do to help yourself stay the course on this Christian journey?

Prayer: Lord help us not simply lay the foundation, but help us to build upon it.  Help us to let you come in and set each brick in place.  Lord set each thing in place so that we can be the "house" that your Spirit dwells in.  Help us to stay strong on this journey and not become weary and want to give up.  Keep us because only you are able to.

WEDNESDAY

31-32"Or can you imagine a king going into battle against another king without first deciding whether it is possible with his ten thousand troops to face the twenty thousand troops of the other? And if he decides he can't, won't he send an emissary and work out a truce?

Again, Jesus is showing the importance of thinking about your journey.  He uses the example of a king.  A king would not place himself into a battle he cannot win.  He will see if there is something he can work out so he will not be defeated.  That should also be the mindset of the believers.  We should not walk into this Christian life not prepared to do battle.  We fight not against flesh and blood, but against spirits and powers in high places.  We are in a spiritual battle, even though this world seems not to think so. If you see that you are unable to stand in the battle you should get the help you need. That help comes from God. He will equip you so that you can stand, however it really means you must really take an inventory of yourself and see where you are standing.

Question for Today: What are the areas in your life that need working on?  Are there some areas that if "battle" hit you there you would be defeated?  What can you do to make yourself stronger for the spiritual battles in life?

Prayer: Lord we seek your guidance and strength to help us prepared for the spiritual battles in our lives.  Lord help us so that we do not go into this life unprepared and unfit for it.  Help us to be able to stand.  Gives us the ability to see where we are weak and in need of help. 

THURSDAY

33"Simply put, if you're not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can't be my disciple.

Jesus ends this scripture how he started it.  He say if you are not willing to put everything behind you, both plans (ideas, thoughts, agendas) or people (loved ones, friends, family, associates) you will not be able to be his disciple.  Do you know the reason why?  It will be impossible to be pleasing to God if you are always worried about pleasing others.  It will be impossible to be submitted completely to God's plan when other plans are fighting for first place.  In order to be a disciple of Jesus nothing can be in the first position but him.

Question for Today - How do you put Jesus in the first position in your life?  How do you know when you have not put him in the first position in your life?

Prayer: Lord today we want to be totally submitted to your way.  We do not want anything to stand in the way of our worship and service unto you.  Help us release anything that stands in the way, this day we pray.

FRIDAY

34"Salt is excellent. But if the salt goes flat, it's useless, good for nothing.

"Are you listening to this? Really listening?"


The final point is about salt.  Jesus says that salt is excellent.  This means that salt is going to do what it was made to do.  It was meant to be salt.  It has many characteristics that are useful.  To add flavor, to perserve just to name a few. Yet, what if it lost its flavor?  It would no longer be excellent because it could not do what it was made to do.  It is then good for nothing.  The question then is are your really listening?  What Jesus is saying to us today is this, we were made for excellence.  We were made to be like salt.  We are to add flavor to this world, to perserve the truth of God just to name a few.  Yet if we lose our flavor (our ability to do what we were created to do) we are not useful to God.  God created us to worship and honor him.  He created us so that we could show his excellence through us. Yet if we do not allow him first place in our lives we become like useless salt.  God wants us to yield to him so that he can bring about excellence in our lives.
 
Question for Today - What excellence does God want to bring through your life?  Are you allowing him or are you resisting?  Meditate on this lesson from this week to see if God is trying to tell you about something that needs to be changed in you.
 
Prayer: Lord we want you to have total access to our lives so that your perfect and excellent work and show through.  As we go about the rest of this week and weekend help us to see how to be more of what you are calling us to be.  Help us to figure the cost of this journey and then prepare us to complete the task.

Teaching Notes

This big tree sat inside of a beautiful pot.  What would happen if this pot were cracked or not shaped correctly? It would not be useful for this large plant.  The container needs to be useful.  That is the same with us, we need to be shaped so that our vessels are useful to carry whatever the weight is we must carry.

In the Potter's Hand

Jeremiah 18:5-10 (The Message)

5-10 Then God's Message came to me: "Can't I do just as this potter does, people of Israel?" God's Decree! "Watch this potter. In the same way that this potter works his clay, I work on you, people of Israel. At any moment I may decide to pull up a people or a country by the roots and get rid of them. But if they repent of their wicked lives, I will think twice and start over with them. At another time I might decide to plant a people or country, but if they don't cooperate and won't listen to me, I will think again and give up on the plans I had for them.

Jeremiah was a prophet of God. He gave the people of God the messages God sent him to give, even though they did not want to hear them. This chapter begins with one such message. God sends Jeremiah to the potter’s house and there he will show him a message through the working of the potter (verse 2). Jeremiah, being the obedient prophet, goes to the potter’s house to receive the message of the Lord. Once he is there he sees the potter forming a vessel on the wheel. As the potter is forming the vessel, it becomes marred (verse 4). What marred the vessel is not revealed, but it was something unwanted by the potter, so he formed it into a different vessel. The Lord spoke to Jeremiah and said cannot I do with you as this potter (verse 6)?


The first fact Jeremiah is confronted with is that the vessel was marred. What marred the vessel? It could have been a small stone or pebble that made the clay no longer smooth. It could have gotten hard from the air and was no longer easy to mold. It could simply not be shaping up to what the potter had envisioned for it. Whatever it was, the potter did not like what was forming, so he made it into something new.

God was showing Jeremiah a message about the people. The people were marred. They had hardened their hearts and allowed sin to come in and they where no longer easy to mold. But the potter has control of the clay. He can do what he wished to it, to get it to comply with his wishes.

This is the message Jeremiah was to tell the people. God wanted the people to know He is sovereign and has complete control. He can mold nations and kingdoms to do as he wishes. God’s sovereign power would be seen when God used the Babylonian’s to past judgment on his people.

There is another message in the potter’s wheel. The potter had a plan for the vessel but he changed his mind and made it into something else. God spoke to Jeremiah in verse 8, and told him to tell the people if they turn from their evil, I will change my mind on the destruction that I have for you. I will change the vessel. God’s purposes for the vessel was to be one of destruction, but God would change it again into a vessel of honor.

This wonderful God is always seeking to bring his children into a right relationship. We see him give this message again to the children. In Ezekiel 18:21 it reads, “But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statues, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.” Also in Ezekiel 33:11 it reads “Say unto them, as I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways, for why will ye die, O house of Israel?”

God seeks restoration with the people. He takes no pleasure in destroying people. He would rather we turn to him, and He is ready to forgive us. So in verse 11, He sends Jeremiah to the people to give the message of repentance. God tells them he has framed evil against them, but he tells them to turn back to doing right.

The message for people today is that God is sovereign and all are under his power. All have a chance to turn willingly in God’s hand, or choose facing the consequences of disobedience. God was sending the message to his people that if they did not turn, they would face destruction. The potter had control over the vessel. It is true today. God calls his people to be pliable in his hand so that he can mold them into what he plans. All have the choice to repent of their sins and be molded into a vessel of honor by God or refuse and suffer under the mighty hand of God.

Questions to ponder this week

1. What does it mean to be marred?
2. What can "mar" the vessel (pot)?  What then can "mar" us?
3. Who had control of the vessel?
4. Who has control of our vessels?
5. Do we want to be hard clay or soft clay?

Prayer: Lord this week, help me to learn more about myself.  Help me to see if I am moldable in your hands or if I am hard and stubborn.  Help me to be just as you want me to be.  Shape me and mold me to be more in your image.

Teaching Notes

Go be the light to a dark world.  God is seeking who will be willing to light the paths for others?  Will you?  Will you be the light to help someone else see their need for the true light and light giver?

I Will Follow

Matthew 4:18-20 (The Message)

18-20 Walking along the beach of Lake Galilee, Jesus saw two brothers: Simon (later called Peter) and Andrew. They were fishing, throwing their nets into the lake. It was their regular work. Jesus said to them, "Come with me. I'll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I'll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass." They didn't ask questions, but simply dropped their nets and followed.

Note: This is Jesus calling his disciples to come with him.  He addresses Peter and Andrew in this scripture.

Question: Why do you think they followed Jesus?

Answer: We do not know the presence that must have be evident in Jesus, but there was something in him that made them want to go with him.  He called them to come and they left everything to do it. They dropped their nets, which was their livelihood to follow Jesus.  How easily do you think it would be to drop everything that is important to you to follow Jesus?

I can tell you it is not easy.  Yet, that is just what we are all called to do.  We are to drop everything and follow Jesus.  He is waiting to see who will come at his asking. Will you?

Prayer: Lord if you are asking who will come and follow you, today I want to say, I will.  If you say who will go for us, I want to say send me.  Lord help me today to be a true follower of Christ.

Teaching Notes

I saw these three vases of flowers sitting on a table in the hallway of the hotel.  I am not sure how many people saw them and took time to admire their beauty.  Many were probably to busy trying to get to their destinations to take time to notice.  However, I believe some saw and maybe even commented on their beauty.  Others may not have commented, but was able to enjoy the area simply because the flowers presence added to the charm.  That is you.  Sometimes people will notice you standing there comment on what you add.  Some may not say anything, but surely if you were not there, you presence would be missed.  Others, well they simply are moving to fast to notice the beautiful flower of you standing there, but keep standing because some one needs to smell your fragrance, it will make their day better.

I Will Follow

Numbers 27:21-23 (The Message)

18-21 God said to Moses, "Take Joshua the son of Nun—the Spirit is in him!— and place your hand on him. Stand him before Eleazar the priest in front of the entire congregation and commission him with everyone watching. Pass your magisterial authority over to him so that the whole congregation of the People of Israel will listen obediently to him. He is to consult with Eleazar the priest who, using the oracle-Urim, will prayerfully advise him in the presence of God. He will command the People of Israel, the entire community, in all their comings and goings."


22-23 Moses followed God's orders. He took Joshua and stood him before Eleazar the priest in front of the entire community. He laid his hands on him and commissioned him, following the procedures God had given Moses.

Notes: It is now time for Moses to turn over the leadership of the Israelites into the hand of Joshua. Joshua has followed Moses' leadership and he is now ready for the new job.

Question: How do we know Joshua is ready for leadership?

Answer: The scripture says that the Spirit of God is in Joshua. The instruction given to Moses is present Joshua before the people and give him your approval as the new leader.  If this happens, the scriptures says others will follow him.  If you want to be a great leader in your life you first have to be like Joshua, willing to follow someone else.  Then you must also be like Moses.  You must be willing to pass on your authority or influence and power to someone behind you.  You must follow, accept and then pass on (and repeat the process) throughout your life. 

The first place to start is with God.  follow him, then accept the positions he has for you.  He will present himself in you amongst the people and then pass on what God has planted in you, to someone else.  And the continue to repeat the process.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be a true follower (disciple) of Christ today.  If there are any areas where I do not follow as I should, help me to turn away from what keeps me away from you.  Help me to turn to you and do as you desire.

Teaching Notes

This is a large chandelier that hangs in the hotel I was recently in.  There were a few of these large lights and they were quite brite.  However, they hung by themselves.  They were not right next to each other.  As I look at this, I think about us.  Sometimes you may be the only "light" in an area but if the many facets of God are evident in you, you will be bright enough to light up the area.  You can be one great light, with many beautiful smaller "lights" sparkling.  Each of those talents and gifts in you add to show us you.

I Will Follow

Numbers 14:23-24 (The Message)

20-23 God said, "I forgive them, honoring your words. But as I live and as the Glory of God fills the whole Earth—not a single person of those who saw my Glory, saw the miracle signs I did in Egypt and the wilderness, and who have tested me over and over and over again, turning a deaf ear to me—not one of them will set eyes on the land I so solemnly promised to their ancestors. No one who has treated me with such repeated contempt will see it.

24 "But my servant Caleb—this is a different story. He has a different spirit; he follows me passionately. I'll bring him into the land that he scouted and his children will inherit it.

Notes: The children of Israel had to wonder in the wilderness for 40 years because of their constant complaining.  They had made it from slavery, but they would never reach the fulfillment because they refused to be obedient to God.  Caleb was different, he would be allowed to see the promise land.

Question: Why was Caleb able to do this?

Answer: He was different, he obeyed God passionately.  This scripture says he follows me passionately.  Did you know that when you follow God with great joy and passion, you will be able to reach those things promised to you?  It is when you mumble, complain and disobey that you may be forgiven, but never truly reach all the potentional of what you could become?  Don't you want to have the fullness of what God has for you?  In order to do that you must make up in your mind like Caleb, no matter if everyone else disobey God around me, I will follow him with my whole heart and reach my God appointed assignments and purpose.

Prayer: God, today we say help us to be like Caleb, sure and passionate about your truth.  Help us to be on fire for your works and your way.  Strengthen us so that we can obey you.

Teaching Notes

This is my mentor, Rev. Cynthia Thomas.  God has appointed her to help me.   She has gone in ways that I have not yet ventured and it is with a humble heart I must listen to her wise counsel.  If you want to follow God and keep his commandments, it is wise to find a good mentor in the Lord that can walk with you and then you must humble yourself to hear what they speak.

I Will Follow

Numbers 9:1-3 (The Message)

1-3 God spoke to Moses in the Wilderness of Sinai in the first month of the second year after leaving Egypt: "Have the People of Israel celebrate Passover at the set time. Celebrate it on schedule, on the evening of the fourteenth day of this month, following all the rules and procedures."

Notes: The Lord gives Moses instructions to the people regarding the Passover celebration.  The people have been free from Egypt and God wants them to honor what he has done for them.

Question: What did the people need to do?

Answer: The people were to celebrate the Passover on a scheduled time and they were to also follow all the rules and procedures.  While we do not have them listed here, it is clear that none of them could be changed because it says all must be followed.

What this teaches us is this, when God delivers you from slavery (sin) you must honor him by keeping his commandments as he instrusts.  You cannot keep some and do not do others.  He expects you to keep them all.  Not by your own works, but because he has equipped you through his Spirit to be able to do it.

Prayer: Lord help us follow you with our whole hearts.  You have saved us from slavery, so help us to do as you have instructed us to do, which is to follow your commandments.

Teaching Notes

Would you willing walk into those trees?  Most of us would say no, we do not know where it leads.  That is how it feels to us when God ask us to follow him, it feels like he is leading us into some thick trees and that can be quite scary.

I Will Follow

Genesis 24:60-62 (The Message)

61 Rebekah and her young maids mounted the camels and followed the man. The servant took Rebekah and set off for home.

Notes: Abraham sent his servant to get a wife for his son Issac.  The servant is now taking Rebekah to met her new husband.

Question: Why do you think Rebekah followed?

Answer: We do not have the complete picture, but in essence Rebekah went because it was evident that she should follow this servant.  She was going to a place she had never been before, to a people she had never seen before, but she was to trust the one leading her to that place.

It is just like us today.  Sometimes some strange things happen that require you to trust God in.  He will ask you to do somethings, go some places they you have never seen before or done before.  It will take you to some places and people you do not know.  It will require you to trust in the one leading you. 

The one leading you today, is God's Spirit.  If you trust in him, he will lead you into all trust.  Won't you let him?

Prayer: Lord, help me today to follow you willingly even in those areas that are strange and seem unfamiliar to me.  Help me to trust you even if I do not have any idea where we are going.  I will trust you, because you will never lead me wrong.