Tag: God

Purpose

Old Testament: Deuteronomy 1

Poetry: Job 25

New Testament: Mark 10

This morning I am sitting here preparing for a message at church on the Triumphal Entry. It worked out perfectly that the verses we are using for today’s devotion is from Mark chapter 10:32-34. This set of scriptures focus on Jesus telling his disciples a third time he will die and be resurrected. The disciples are becoming fearful. Because it’s clear that many in the crowd want him dead. And Jesus is moving closer and closer to more dangerous areas.

Based on information given in Matthew, Luke, and John, we know quite a bit happened between Mark chapters 9 and 10. Included in that time frame are an attempt by the Pharisees, chief priests, and temple guards to arrest Jesus (John 7:32–52), an attempt by the Jewish leadership to stone Him (John 8:58–59), yet another attempt to either stone or arrest Him (John 10:22–39), and the decision of the Sanhedrin to figure out a way to kill Him (John 11:45–54). Even Herod Antipas wants to kill Jesus, although vaguely and without much effort. (Luke 13:31). In addition, Jesus tells the Jewish leadership their father is Satan (John 8:44) and some of them counter by claiming Jesus is possessed (John 10:21).

So, it’s no surprise that Jesus’ followers would be afraid as they walk toward Jerusalem. The wording, however, leaves us confused as to who “they”—the fearful followers—are. They may be the Twelve, trailing behind Jesus as is appropriate for disciples. But they may be other disciples following the Twelve. While Jesus had warned the disciples before that He would be killed (Mark 8:31–33; 9:30–32), this is the first time he gives the location. Combining this with the threats that have been building against Jesus, all of Jesus’ followers have reason to be afraid. Jesus, however, continues his movement toward his purpose.

Jesus shows determination, not fear. The night before the crucifixion, resolve will combine with anguish (Mark 14:34–38). Many people wonder why Jesus agonizes over the crucifixion if he knows He will come through it alive and glorified. Certainly, with the knowledge that his sacrifice will be accepted by God and cover the sins of millions – that should give him the courage to walk to Jerusalem. But he knows what is coming (Mark 10:33–34). No sane person would face mocking, spitting, flogging, and death by crucifixion without dread. Even worse than the physical pain, the betrayal by his friend Judas, his friends leaving him. Jesus must watch His Father turn away, abandoning him to the sins of the world (Mark 15:33–39). Jesus knew and understood his purpose. He knew what the father needed from him. And he did not waver from that point.

Do you know your purpose? Do you know the things that God has called you to do? Has God-given you a significant calling? I’m certain he has. Does that make you scared? Are you taking the steps that God has measured out for you? Knowing that it’ll be hard. Knowing people might not understand. But being faithful to a God who loves you and wants to use you for his good purposes. Yes it’s scary but God has called you. God has given you a purpose. You can answer it one of two ways. You can be like the disciples who tried to avoid it, ignore it. Or you can be like Jesus and be obedient, even to death. God is giving you a great purpose, a great meaning and he loves you. You can be sure the God “who has begun a good work in you will be faithful to complete it”. Whatever your purpose is, whatever your job, whatever goal you might have. May you move towards it with the renewed sense of dedication to your heavenly father. I know it’s hard sometimes, but the reward of accomplishing God’s purpose in you is greater than anything you can imagine. “Well done good and faithful servant” are the words we want to hear on that day of Christ’s return. Jesus returns victorious because he was faithful when it was hard. May we be faithful as well.

-Andy Cisneros

Reflection Questions

  1. What was Jesus’ purpose?
  2. Do you know your purpose? Do you know the things that God has called you to do?
  3. Does that make you scared? What can relieve your fear? How can you replace fear with determination?
  4. Are you taking the steps that God has measured out for you?
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Searching Mark 9

Old Testament: Numbers 35 & 36

Poetry: Job 24

New Testament: Mark 9

The past few weeks we have pulled up some devotions from the past 7 years of SeekGrowLove. Today, I chose two, and could have added more. The next several months we will have new devotions to share. But if you are ever curious about a passage and want to read some past devotions you can do a quick search on any passage from the right sidebar on the SeekGrowLove home page. (Hint: put the passage or topic in ” ” marks to pull up the best matches.)

Be the Very Last

In our New Testament passage that we read today is the transfiguration of Jesus. Jesus had just asked them, “Who do you say that I am?” The Jewish people revered Moses and Elijah as great prophets of God. I believe that this vision was a way to show them that Jesus is even more than a great prophet. To the Jewish people God was always associated with the cloud. In Exodus, He was in the cloud that was leading them through the desert; when He talked to Moses, He appeared in a cloud; when the glory of the Lord was in the tabernacle, it was covered in a cloud, and when they dedicated the temple, the glory of God was associated with a cloud. 1 Kings 8:10 says,”When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the Lord.”

The transfiguration is showing them that Jesus is to be more honored than both of these men. Mark 9:7 says, “Then a cloud appeared and covered them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!’”  God is telling them, and in essence telling us, to listen to what Jesus is saying. To take his teachings to heart. Jesus is not trying to lift himself up and tout his own glory. He is trying to glorify the Father, and teach others about the kingdom.  Acts 3:22 reads, “For Moses said, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among your own people; you must listen to everything he tells you.” Yes, they had other prophets but they paled in comparison to the Son of God, and we are told to listen to everything that he tells us. We need to make sure that we are reading and closely following what Jesus was teaching them. Today, there is a “Be Kind” movement.  Jesus started that movement years ago, it’s just now catching on. He said to “Love God, and Love others.” Pretty simple and straight forward. The world would be a much better place if we would all listen to the words that Jesus spoke. But we can’t just listen, we also have to act on the words that he said.

Sometimes we, just like the disciples, have a hard time living what Jesus was teaching. It goes against our natural desires, which is to look out for ourselves. Jesus tells them once again about his impending death and resurrection, and he sees them having a conversation. He asks them, even though he knew, what they were disputing about as they walked to Capernaum. They would not answer him, because they had been arguing over who would be the greatest among them. This story always reminds me of one of my children and their first cousin. When they were together, they always wanted to be first at everything. The first to get their food, the first to finish eating, the first in running, etc. So one day I told them, “In the Bible it says, ‘The first shall be last and the last shall be first.’” Then they both decided they wanted to be last, so they would then be first. They may not have learned the true meaning of these words. Mark 9:35 says “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, ‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” With these simple words, Jesus has given us a fundamental truth. So many of the world’s problems would be solved if we would take these words to heart. If we would try to make others’ lives better instead of making our life better. If we would become the servant of those around us. Jesus typified this when he washed the disciple’s feet. He could have sat down and demanded that someone wash his feet, because he was the Son of God, but instead he showed true leadership by serving them. With his death he was serving all of mankind so that we would have a chance to share in the kingdom when he comes back as the King of Kings.

-Sherry Alcumbrack

(Originally posted October 20, 2020)

A Mountain of Confusion

When I realized later that I had volunteered to write a blog over this chapter I winced. Oh, dear. There is so much confusion out there about the transfiguration. Some say it confirms the “deity” of Christ. Some say it confirms that there is no “soul sleeping” because if there were, then Elijah and Moses could not have been there. I don’t have all of the answers, of course, but I would have a couple rebuttals to each of these assertions.

I don’t see the “deity” of Christ at all for two major reasons. It’s true that Jesus is transfigured and is shown in a new and powerful way on that mountain. He is glorified, radiant and shining, and wearing shockingly white clothing all of the sudden.  However,

  1. Peter had just previously acknowledged who Jesus was. In Mark 8:29 Peter says, “You are the Christ.” The Matthew account of this has Peter saying more, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” (Matt. 16:16) It seems very unlikely that Peter, James, and John thought Jesus was God.
  2. Then there is the cloud and the voice out of the cloud saying, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” (Mark 9:7) They didn’t think Jesus was in the cloud. And the voice in the cloud did not say, “This Jesus is also your Father in heaven.”

I still don’t have a problem believing in “soul sleep” either. I believe Elijah and Moses were resting in peace (RIP) and were awakened for this transfiguration.

  1. We are told in Deuteronomy 34 that Moses died and was buried. And we see at the end of Hebrews 11 that Moses, and many others including Elijah, have not received what was promised yet “so that apart from us they would not be made perfect.”
  2. In 1 Samuel 28 we see that Samuel was “disturbed” after dying and being buried because Saul wanted to chat with him. In that chapter we see that he came “up out of the earth.” There is no mention of his soul floating down from heaven to meet his body coming out of the earth. And he would need his soul to have a conversation with Samuel. Just as Elijah and Moses appeared with bodies and souls.

What I would like to know is what Elijah and Moses were talking to Jesus about! And another thing that I find interesting is that Peter, James, and John seemed to recognize Elijah and Moses right away. It doesn’t look like Jesus introduced them. I suppose this is how it will be in the kingdom. 

– Melissa New

(Originally posted July 29, 2019 for SeekGrowLove)

Reflection Questions

  1. What do you find most helpful in Mark 9?
  2. If you were writing the devotion today what would you write about?
  3. How does what you find in Scripture impact or change how you live your life today?
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What is It Really Worth?

Old Testament: Numbers 33 & 34

Poetry: Job 23

New Testament: Mark 8

What is the most you have ever paid for something? What is the most you have ever gotten from selling something? We value our things and we value our money. It seems that prices keep going up and up on everything that we need. Yet when we sell something it seems the price is never quite as high as we would like it to be. When we buy or sell we must ask ourselves, “What is this really worth to me?” That question will help us decide if we want to buy or sell at the price offered.

Jesus asks His followers to place value on what may be the single most valuable thing we have, our life and the choices we make in it. In Mark 8:31 Jesus teaches that He, “must suffer many things and be rejected … and be killed, and after three days rise again.” In the verses that follow He tells Peter that Peter had not set his mind on God’s interests, but his own. Then Jesus tells us, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” (Mark 8:34) Jesus is saying that we must place a value on being His follower. We must also place a value on following our own desires. We must decide which is of greater value to us. If our desires win and we choose to seek the things of this life and avoid the suffering of following Jesus it is a steep price to pay. Jesus says, “whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.” (Mark 8:35) Proverbs puts it this way, “There is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” (Proverbs 14:12, Proverbs 16:25)

I leave you with the 2 questions that Jesus asked His disciples in verses 36 and 37, “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

-Bill Dunn

(originally posted May 10, 2017 for SGL)

Reflection Questions

  1. What did Jesus call Peter when he called him out for having in mind the things of men instead of the things of God? How often do you find yourself in the same mindset? How can we work at being more intentionally focused on the things/interests of God?
  2. Who have you seen deny themself, take up their cross and follow Jesus? What did it look like? What does it look like when you deny yourself and take up your cross to follow Jesus?
  3. What might it look like for you to “lose your life” for Jesus and the gospel?
  4. Is there anything more valuable to you than your soul? Are your life choices and daily decisions aligning with what you say you value most?
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To Wash or Not to Wash

Old Testament: Numbers 31 & 32

Poetry: Job 22

New Testament: Mark 7

To wash or not to wash – that was the question the Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus: Why don’t your disciples wash their hands before they eat? Good question, most of us would agree it’s a good thing to wash your hands before you eat, and when you return from the marketplace, and several other times of the day. This Jewish delegation (comparable to today’s church leaders) were very curious about Jesus and his followers. They had traveled all the way from Jerusalem to Galilee (approximately 70 miles over rough terrain, most likely walking for 2 or more days) to check out this Jesus. They had heard about his many miracles and teachings, and had probably been around long enough to witness some as well. They were watching him closely to decide what they were going to do with this man. And then they saw a problem they could attack: Jesus’ disciples didn’t wash before they ate. It is interesting that Matthew says “your disciples”, Mark says, “some of your disciples”, but it does not say that Jesus didn’t wash – so it doesn’t appear the Pharisees could personally attack Jesus for his own uncleanliness – but what of his disciples? They asked Jesus, “Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They don’t wash their hands before they eat!” (Matthew 15:2 – even with exclamation!)

Jesus quickly flipped the question around – “And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? (Matthew 15:3). And then he gave an example of how they enticed people to break God’s law which said to honor their parents. It appears they were encouraging people to give large showy gifts to God even when it meant they no longer had the means to provide for their aging parents. Jesus shows how the Pharisees had majored in the most minor issues (like pointing out someone’s dirty hands) and left the most important things neglected.

I think of my daycare children and all the potty-training and hand-washing I have taught over the years. I can certainly attest that hand-washing is very important. However, supremely more important is that child’s love for God and others. Imagine a child who is a beast all day long. Fighting with the other children, biting, ripping toys out of their playmates’ hands, yelling at authority, and screaming during lunch time prayer. But, they washed their hands very well before coming to the table. When I give a report to the parents at the end of the day how foolish it would be for me to congratulate them on a child who follows well the rules of man and has clean hands to eat.

Likewise, at the end of the day, we will stand before Judge Jesus. Some will expect to be commended. They did a really great job of following the laws of the land or the traditions of the church, they loved their family, excelled in their business and other man-made expectations. They always washed their hands before they ate. They were good people.

But, that is not what will matter. Jesus will be rewarding those who truly love God and love people – not just in their words but in their actions and sacrifices and daily priorities. Did they keep God’s law first, even when society said they should follow man’s law instead? Did they accept God’s son as the only way to salvation, even when the world said there are many different roads to salvation? Did they carry their cross, even when the world mocked and pointed fingers and threw accusations?

Beware of following the wisdom of this world and the traditions of men. It won’t get you where you want to be in the end. Instead, consider carefully God’s way, every time, and walk in it. In what areas of your life would God have you turn your back on the traditions of men and human rules and expectations to instead dive deeper and deeper into His way – love God, love others, accept Jesus, prepare for the Kingdom.

-Marcia Railton

(Originally posted Oct 18, 2020 for SGL)

Reflection Questions

  1. Where have you seen Christians stressing and honoring the traditions of man instead of the commands of God?
  2. Is there anywhere you can see it in yourself?
  3. In what areas of your life would God have you turn your back on the traditions of men and human rules and expectations to instead dive deeper and deeper into His way – love God, love others, accept Jesus, prepare for the Kingdom.
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A Day Evil Triumphs

Old Testament: Numbers 29 & 30

Poetry: Job 21

New Testament: Mark 6

Each day’s new reading through the gospels brings more “favorites” from the life and teachings of Jesus. So it is with today’s – too many great stories to choose what to write about. We will focus today on Herod, his wife (and former sister-in-law) Herodias, her dancing daughter and the head of John the Baptist.

It is a difficult story to stomach. So much evil. Perhaps we have gotten used to questionable leaders or too much violence, and the familiarity of this short passage on Herod and John the Baptist can make it quick to read and pass over. But imagine knowing these people, living amongst them, and hearing of these events for the first time. Imagine sitting down to your morning cup of coffee, opening the newspaper and reading of the events that transpired just last night.

Of course you would have known King Herod was having his birthday party last night – everyone could hear the sounds from his palace. And, yes, the newspaper calls him King Herod, since that is what he loves to be called, even though everyone knows his dad had been the last King Herod (yes, the one responsible for killing all the baby boys of Bethlehem about 30 years ago). In reality, now Herod Antipas was just a “tetrach”, ruling over just one quarter of his father’s territory, all the while being watched over by the real Roman authorities.

Herod had divorced his wife in order to marry his half-brother’s wife, Herodias. The only trouble was this prophet of God known as John the Baptist had been speaking out against this marriage, saying it was unlawful. Unlawful for who? Who’s law was it anyway? God’s? Herod wasn’t one to try to follow all those outdated laws – it was so much easier to just make new laws instead (similar to today’s society which is very good at ignoring God’s law and replacing it with their own).

His wife, Herodias, was not one to stand idly by while a prophet pointed out the sins of her family. Something had to be done. Herod (prompted by his wife) had John arrested, bound and put in prison. But, that wasn’t enough. While Matthew records that Herod wanted to kill John, Mark has a slightly different interpretation of Herod and perhaps digs a little deeper into his motives, relationships and thoughts. Mark says that it was Herodias who, “nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him” (Mark 6:19-20) which I am sure made his wife even more livid.

So, we come to the night of Herod’s birthday party and the entertainment for the evening – Herod’s dancing step-daughter (unnamed in the gospels, but Jewish historian Josephus records her name to be Salome). We aren’t told the details (thankfully), but we can guess that this was not a 5 year old girl performing her latest ballet or tap recital pieces for her father’s dinner guests. Whatever the dance included, it seems likely she was being exploited by her mother and ogled (or worse) by her step-father and all his male guests. These men liked her dance so much Herod thought it fitting to offer this dancing wonder anything she wanted (up to half his kingdom).

That’s a lot for a girl to think on – so she goes running out to get her mother’s advice. Herodias is prepared for this moment and she has no trouble involving her “innocent” daughter in getting what she has been waiting for – the death of John the Baptist, in the most gruesome way she could imagine – his head on a platter for her daughter.

Herod is in conflicted agony but sees no way out. The execution is ordered and completed. The head is delivered.

Can you imagine the varying emotions of each and every participant and those who will hear of these events.

What are John’s last thoughts?

Does Salome have nightmares? What does she become?

What do Jesus – and his 12 Disciples feel? If this is what comes of the one who prepares the way of the Messiah, what is the future of the Messiah – and of his followers?

Herod will be mentioned just once more in the gospels – when Jesus is arrested, bound and brought before Herod on trial. Jesus remains silent – but quite likely he is remembering Herod and John as well as looking into his future.

Some days it just looks like evil triumphs.

But God is still at work. This is not where the story ends.

Herod will go to war and suffer defeat at the hands of the angry father of his first wife, whom he had divorced to marry Herodias. Later, Herod and Herodias will be sent into exile, where it is recorded Herod dies.

But, that’s not really the end, either.

A resurrection day is coming. A day when John the Baptist will rise from the dead. Can you imagine the reunion he will have with Jesus? I want to see that!

And, a judgment day is coming. Herod and Herodias will appear before the judge. At that time there is only one law that will matter – God’s. And, only one way to salvation – to accept the Lord Jesus Christ.

Some days it looks like evil triumphs – but that’s not how it ends!

-Marcia Railton

(Originally posted Oct 16, 2020 for SeekGrowLove)

Reflection Questions

  1. When have you seen a day it appears evil triumphs? How might God still be at work in that situation?
  2. What is your response when someone tells you that you are wrong or have sinned? Have you ever tried to update God’s laws to fit your wishes and desire?
  3. What thoughts and feelings arise when you think of the coming day of judgment?
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The Answer

Old Testament: Numbers 25 & 26

Poetry: Job 19

New Testament: Mark 4:26-41

A teacher poses a challenging question in his class.  Most students begin to ponder, some begin to turn and whisper, some cross their fingers and hope they are not asked to contribute.  Not a single hand goes in the air.  The teacher repeats the question; this time, he says it in a different way.  It doesn’t help.  Thoughts become more frantic.  Anxiety increases.  Some students begin to avoid eye contact.  At the moment that it seems that the teacher will start combing the class for a response, a lone hand ascends into the air.  It is that kid who knows everything. Thank you, that kid who knows everything! The teacher calls on her, and you are saved from having to answer the question.  All’s right with the world; you now can rest easy.

I have seen this scenario played out many times as both a student and a teacher.   No matter how difficult the question, it seems there is always one person in our lives who is prepared to answer it.  Whether it is at school, in your family, your circles of friends, or your work, there is always that one person (who very well may be you) that you turn to that has the experience, knowledge, or wisdom it takes to figure out life’s most difficult questions.

A passage in today’s text is like “that kid who knows everything.”  It  is the all-encompassing answer that holds God’s key and fundamental truth in which we can fix our hope. It stops us from over-thinking, stifles our anxiety, and helps us to take on, not avoid challenging situations, like:

  • When you are having trouble making sense of the world around you
  • When you feel like your prayers are not being answered
  • When you seek  “the reason” THIS is happening to YOU
  • When you lose someone or something you dearly love
  • When justice cannot be found
  • When we lose our health or happiness
  • When we face many other examples from Job 19:7-20

This is Job’s answer and ours:

Job 19:25-27 – “I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him  with my own eyes—I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!”


It is not resignation.  It is not a cop-out.  It does not mean you stop seeking, studying, or pursuing.  It is the assurance and peace which you can rest in and be guided in while you are waiting.

-Aaron Winner

(Originally posted December 18, 2016)

Reflection Questions

  1. What are some of the hard questions Job was wrestling with? What hard questions do you have?
  2. What was Job’s “that kid who knows everything” answer in Job 19? What is the definition of redeemer? Do you have one – who lives? How do you know?
  3. What is your hope for the future? How does this give you peace today?
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Watch Out for Those Thorns!

Old Testament: Numbers 23 & 24

Poetry: Job 18

New Testament: Mark 4:1-25

It’s getting close to planting time in northern Indiana, so it seems a great time to look again at the Parable of the Sower – one of my favorite parables. And I love how I still find new thoughts and ideas in this teaching from Jesus. I remember how this parable ministered to me when I was a young youth worker experiencing heartache over a youth who had received the word but was going in a different direction. This parable encouraged me. Jesus didn’t expect that every seed we helped to sow would grow into a healthy, whole, fruit-bearing plant. But, he did, and does, expect us to keep sowing the seed. And, we never know which of the seeds we sow will indeed grow, bloom, and produce beautiful, life-giving fruit.

Today I want to zero in on the seed among the thorns, but first a quick review of the other three types of soil and Jesus’ explanation of each to provide contrast.

Seed 1 – fell along the path – birds came and ate it – as soon as they heard the word Satan (the birds) came and ate it

Seed 2 – fell on rocky places – not much soil – not much root – sprang up quickly – when sun comes up plant is scorched and withers – receive the word with joy – but lasts only a short time – trouble and persecution comes and the plant falls away

Seed 3 – fell among thorns – thorns grew up and choked the plant – plants did not bear grain – hear the word – but worries of this life, deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things comes in – the plant is choked out, making it unfruitful

Seed 4 – fell on good soil – came up and grew and produced a crop, multiplying 30, 60, or even 100 times – hear the word, accept it and produce a crop

It is important to remember that in each of these scenarios the seed is all the same. There is nothing inferior to seed 1, 2 or 3. It is the same as seed 4. It is the perfect word of God being sown into the world. What creates the difference is where in the world it lands. Some people will accept it and do all that is necessary to make it grow in their lives and even produce fruit to give life to others. Some people will not. But, either way, the seed is still good and perfect.

The new thing I saw when I read the parable this time is that the plant from seed 3 that fell among the thorns did not necessarily die. Seed 1 never had a chance at life. Seed 2 enjoyed life for a short time but withered/fell away. I think in my mind I was giving a death sentence to seed 3 already as well. But, that’s not exactly what the Scriptures actually say. Both in the original parable and Jesus’ explanation it says the plant was choked by the thorns – it does not say killed by the thorns – at least not yet.

It is not down and out, yet. It is still alive – it might be sitting in your pew with you at church or it might be your neighbor across the street. It has a pulse. It might be a family member – it might be you. It is not dead, yet. It is alive – but it is not healthy. A healthy plant doesn’t have thorns wrapped around its neck. Jesus tells us the result of being choked by the thorns was that it did not bear grain – it was unfruitful. It is alive – but it is not experiencing the abundant life that Jesus spoke of. It is not producing and displaying the life-giving fruit of the Spirit. It is not reproducing and giving new life to others. It is alive but it isn’t passing along life. It is a sad place to be – whether you are a plant or a Christian.

Who needs a vegetable garden with no vegetables? Or an orchard with no apples? Or a wheat field with no wheat? Or a Christian with no fruit?

What can be done for such a plant? Is there any hope for the plant choked by thorns? I say yes! Cut off the thorns! Sometimes when I am gardening I am not sure what needs to be pruned and what needs to stay. What would kill the plant and what would help it grow healthy? I love that Jesus tells us exactly what the thorns are so we know what to cut out. He tells us the thorns are “the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things” (vs. 19). And if you aren’t cutting them out, be sure that they are choking new life out of you. A worried Christian. A greedy Christian, or a Christian relying on his own bank account. A Christian with other priorities. It is not a healthy place to be. And it certainly doesn’t promote new life.

Examine your plant carefully. Being alive is good. But are you bearing fruit? What does your fruit look like? What does it smell and taste like? Where are you giving new life to others? If you aren’t sure if you are bearing fruit now – what do you want your fruit to look like? What do you need to get rid of first?

What thorns might be creeping up toward your neck? What are you worried about? Do you think your problems are too big for your God? What are you putting your trust in? God or yourself or your job or your paycheck? Do you hoard, are you always striving for the next big toy, is it hard to be generous? Have you bought any of the ‘deceitfulness of wealth’? Is pleasing God the most important thing in your life? Or are there other things you desire more? What have you made the number one priority in your life?

Cut out the thorns so you can have life – and bear fruit – which will in turn give life.

-Marcia Railton

Questions above – and what other questions would you add?

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Surviving a Deadly Plague of Snakes

Numbers 21:9 NIV for SGL

Old Testament: Numbers 21 & 22

Poetry: Job 17

New Testament: Mark 3

In today’s reading, the Israelites needed a spiritual “blood transfusion.” Their sinful and rebellious attitude had shown itself in impatience, complaints about hardships, ingratitude for manna, and a lack of faith in God’s leader, Moses. This faithlessness resulted in a deadly plague of snakes that were killing the people.

The Israelites repented and asked Moses to intercede for them. God’s response required them to show their repentance by a simple act of faith. Moses made a bronze serpent and lifted it up on a pole. To be healed, people had to look at the serpent. If they didn’t believe God’s words, they wouldn’t look up and would therefore die. Only through faith could they be saved.

Homeopathic medicine is the practice of curing likes with likes. The patient receives diluted doses of substances that, at full strength, cause the same symptoms the patient already has. This type of medicine is used in many parts of the world, though it remains controversial among medical experts. In this instance, God prescribed a similar remedy for Israel, treating snake bites with a replica of a snake. Going a step further, God undid the effects of the plague through an image of the curse itself.

Today’s story begins with the people grumbling … again. It was the same old story: we’re dying, we’re starving, we don’t like the miraculous food, and we’re sorry we ever left Egypt. But this incident is unique; this time, the people repented.

In past events, Moses had asked God for mercy on behalf of the Israelites, but on this occasion, his prayers were prompted by a recognition of their sin that Israel hadn’t shown before. They realized on their own why the snakes were sent, and they confessed their sin. In that way, this was a spiritual breakthrough for Israel!

If God had followed the formula we’ve seen so far, we might expect Him to demand a sacrifice of some kind, like a lamb without defect. But the Lord told Moses to put a bronze snake, a picture of judgment, on a pole for all to see. He directed the people’s eyes, not to an image of purity, but to a symbol of wrath.

For healing to take place, the people had to close the loop of repentance. They sinned, confessed, and asked for mercy. The last step was to accept God’s remedy by faith and follow His instructions.

We often picture Christ as the perfect sacrifice, and that he is. But He also took upon Himself the shame of sin and the full penalty of wrath. In His conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus compared His upcoming crucifixion to the lifting up of the serpent in the desert. Let’s confess our sins, seek His mercy and turn our eyes to him, who not only gave his life but also received our punishment. Thank Him in word and in deed today.

Andy Cisneros

(Originally posted on March 3, 2020 for SeekGrowLove)

Reflection Questions

  1. What have you most recently complained about? Do you often complain? Is there a problem with complaining and grumbling? How do you think others view your complaining? How do you think God views it?
  2. What role does confession and repentance play in your relationship with God and others? How has God shown His mercy to you when you have repented? Is there anything you need to confess and repent of?
  3. After the Israelites confessed and repented what did they have to do next? What does God expect from us after confession and repentance?
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With all Boldness

Old Testament: Numbers 15 & 16

Poetry: Job 14

New Testament: Acts 28

At the end of the book of Acts we are following Paul in his ministry as he shares his testimony and all he is learning from God with established groups of believers as well as with those who have not yet heard the good news of Jesus Christ. He is told through a prophet that he will be bound by the Jewish leaders and sent to the Gentiles to share his story.  He is accused by the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem, then arrested and imprisoned while the Roman authorities try to figure out which side of the story to believe.  Over the course of Paul’s imprisonment he is moved to various cities and meets with several governors as well as King Agrippa.  Then finally he is sent to Rome.  During each of these transitions, Paul has an opportunity to share the story of his conversion…who he was…who he is and who he will continue to be through God’s grace.  Every time he is questioned he says something like the following phrase from Acts 23:1 “My brothers, I have fulfilled my duty to God in all good conscience to this day.” 

Paul faced so much opposition during this period of time and yet he continued to stand firm in his belief that God had a purpose for him which would be fulfilled no matter what…arrest, false accusations, storms, shipwrecks, imprisonment, isolation, death threats, nothing was going to stop God’s message from being spread.

As the book of Acts closes we are given a chance to witness Paul as he teaches a group of Jewish leaders in Rome. 

Acts 28:23-30

They arranged to meet Paul on a certain day, and came in even larger numbers
to the place where he was staying. He witnessed to them from morning till evening,
explaining about the kingdom of God, and from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets he tried to persuade them about Jesus. 24 Some were convinced by what he said, but others would not believe. 25 They disagreed among themselves and
began to leave after Paul had made this final statement: “The Holy Spirit spoke the truth to your ancestors when he said through Isaiah the prophet:

26
“‘Go to this people and say,
“You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving.”

27
For this people’s heart has become calloused;
they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.’[a]

28 “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles,
and they will listen!” [29] [b]

30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all
who came to see him. 31 He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!

Some of those who were listening, heard Paul’s message and their lives were changed.  Others found that they couldn’t believe what Paul was preaching and left.  They heard but didn’t understand, they saw but didn’t allow comprehension. Paul kept right on teaching, preaching and sharing his mess so that God’s message could get through.

Oh to have Paul’s boldness and eloquence!  There are many times that we are provided the opportunity to share our own stories of faith with others and we often let them pass us by.  Are we afraid?  Maybe we don’t think they would be interested, or that we’ll be bothering them if we share.  Or maybe we don’t want to offend anyone…but if we are learning from Paul’s example, we need to be sharing our stories of faith regardless of the personal costs.  God’s message will be heard, don’t you want to be a part of that exciting adventure? I promise it’ll be a good one!

-Joyanne Swanson

(Originally posted for SeekGrowLove on November 8, 2018)

Reflection Questions

  1. What do you admire most about Paul? What do you admire most about how God worked in Paul’s life?
  2. How has God worked in your life? When was the last time you told someone one of your stories of faith (it could be a conversion story, or how God provided or guided)?
  3. Does fear keep you from sharing? What is the worst that could happen if you share a story of faith? What is the worst that could happen if you don’t share? What is the best that could happen if you do share?
  4. If you would like to practice writing out a faith story, leave a comment here, we’d love to hear yours!
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How will your story end?

Old Testament: Numbers 14

Poetry: Job 13

New Testament: Acts 27

One of our readings today has a very good ending. One of our readings today has a very bad ending. The story with the very good ending could have ended very differently and many lives could have been lost at sea, including Paul’s. The story with the very bad ending could have ended very differently and many lives could have been saved including the ten spies who died in a plague and all those over twenty years of age who died in the wilderness.

I won’t retell the stories here. Make sure you read the account of the grumbling Israelites who listened to the ten scared spies instead of the two faithful ones in Numbers 14, and see what the consequences were for their actions and especially their attitudes. It is a powerful chapter that would have a huge devastating effect on the lives of every single Israelite young and old.

And also read the detailed account of Paul’s voyages towards Rome which included hurricane strength storms that went on for days with no sun or stars. Read of God’s promise to Paul in the midst of the storm.

God could have saved all onboard Paul’s ship by simply stopping the storm. But He didn’t. He let them endure the storm that raged for days. Maybe He was building character and perseverance and teaching the other 275 onboard to listen to Paul and Paul’s faithful God. Perhaps He was preparing the Malta islanders to receive all the castaways who would miraculously survive as well as receiving the good news of the God that saves. Maybe he was giving Paul one more great adventure and answer to prayer before arriving in Rome.

God could have sent earthquakes, fire or plagues to instantaneously wipe out the Amalekites and Canaanites so the Israelites wouldn’t need to face opposition and could just march in and take the land God promised to them. But He didn’t. We don’t always get to hear the mind of God and reasons He has for doing it His way, but in this case we do get one interesting reason I wouldn’t have thought of in Deuteronomy 7:21-24.

Do you believe the promises of God? Do you trust Him enough to not grumble against Him when there are obstacles in the way? Do you believe that safety and rest are on the other side of those storm clouds? When you face storms, trials and opposition it is not because God doesn’t care or He is not powerful or smart enough to have avoided the speed bump. Can we trust God knows more than we do and the troubles we face are not too big for Him? We tend to get into pretty big trouble when we decide we know more than God and we want to do it our way instead or we are too scared to go where He guides. Will we listen to the Joshuas, Calebs and Pauls who remind us of God’s promises and His power to provide, when we obey? Or will we grumble against our God in fear of what is in front of us?

How will your story end?

It depends on your view of God and what you do in the storms. Will you believe Him? When the easy way is enticing, when the opposition is scary, when the storm is big, will you remain faithful to God remembering the promises He has given? Will you remember how big and great your God is?

-Marcia Railton

Reflection Questions:

  1. What promises has God given to you? How do they help you when you are scared or unsure of the future?
  2. What obstacles have you encountered on the way? How have you grumbled against the Lord which leads to rebellion?
  3. How can you build your trust in Him so you aren’t tempted to join the masses when they grumble and rebel and try to jump ship but you stand strong with the Joshuas and Calebs and Pauls.
  4. How do you see your story ending?
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