Righteous Acts of the Saints, Monday, December 31, 2012

Today's reading is Revelation 19:6-22:21.  This completes another year of  blessings in the reading of God's Holy Word.

Jesus is:

"KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS" Rev. 19:16b
 

"He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.'  Amen.  Come, Lord Jesus."  Revelation 22:20 

Hope and Judgment, Sunday, December 30, 2012

Today's reading is Revelation 14:1-19:5.

"He said in a loud voice, 'Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come.  Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.'"  Rev. 14:7
 

"'Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty.  Just and true are your ways, King of the ages.'"  Rev. 15:3b
 

"'Yes, Lord God Almighty, true and just are your judgments.'"  Rev. 16:7b 

 

 

 

Sound of Trumpets, Saturday, December 29, 2012

Today's reading is Revelation 8:7-13:18.

"Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say
         'Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our                     God and the authority of his Christ.'"  Revelation 12:10a

 

Lion of the Tribe of Judah, Friday, December 28, 2012

Today's reading is Revelation 4:1-8:6. 

"Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even undner his wings.  Day and night they never stop saying:
          'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'"
Revelation 4:8

Revelation of Jesus Christ, Thursday, December 27, 2012

Today's reading is Revelation 1:1-3:22.  Jesus Christ reveals these words to the apostle John, perhaps around AD 95-96 while he was exiled on Patmos.  The writings are both admonishing and encouraging and are are written to the seven churches in Asia.  These churches are enduring persecution, a situation that exists in many areas today.

"'I am the Alpha and the Omega,' says the Lord God, 'who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.'"  Revelation 1:8

Three Letters, Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Today's reading is the three letters of John. 

"Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.  lEveryone who loves has been born of God and knows God.  Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.  This is how God showed his love among us:  He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him."  I John 4:7-9

Come to Mount Zion, Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Today's reading is Hebrews 10:19-13:25.  The curtain of the temple is torn in two at the time of Christ's death.  The curtain is the body of Christ.  Once offered for us, we are allowed entrance into the presence of God in the Holy of Holies.  I can draw near to God in full assurance of faith, having my heart sprinkled to cleanse me from a guilty conscience.

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."  Hebrews 11:1

Christ's Priesthood, Monday, December 24, 2012

Today's reading is Hebrews 6:13-10:18.  The law made nothing perfect, but Jesus made us perfect.  He lives forever and is constantly interceding for us.  Praise be to His holy name!

"Such a high priest meets our need -- one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens.  Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people.  He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself."  Hebrews 7:26, 27

Sharper than Any Double-Edged Sword, Sunday, December 23, 2012

Today's reading is Hebrews 1:1-6:12.  It is not known who wrote Hebrews, but it is written to Jewish Christians.

"In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe.  The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word.  After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven."  Hebrews 1:1-3

Peter's Prediction, Saturday, December 22, 2012

Today's reading is Peter's second letter.  He warns against false teachers with regard to Jesus' second coming.   Some have become cynical and immoral.  This sin has repeated itself throughout history, and is still a serious problem today.  Peter reminds believers to stimulate themselves to wholesome thinking.  He ends proclaiming God's patience and desire for all to repent.

Redeemed by the Blood, Friday, December 21, 2012

Today's reading is the first letter of Peter written to Gentile Christians.  We are exhorted to steadfastness in suffering.

"And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.  To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen."  I Peter 5:10, 11

Servants of Jesus Christ Speak, Thursday, December 20, 2012

Today's reading is the books of James and Jude.  These books were written by the brothers of Jesus, who came to believe and then serve him, their God and Savior. James speaks of the need for consistency between faith and conduct.  He notes that Abraham's faith and actions worked together.

"To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy -- to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore?  Amen."  Jude 24, 25

A Trustworthy Saying, Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Today's reading is Paul's last letter, II Timothy. 

"All scripture  is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.:  II Timothy 3:16, 17
 

drink offering

Web definitions A libation (Σπονδή spondee in Greek) ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a god or deity. It was common in the religions of... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drink-offering

Letter to Titus, Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Today's reading is Paul's letter to Titus.  Paul writes to "my true son in our common faith".  We are reminded to "avoid foolish controversies".  That is great advice which is not often heeded.

Fatherly Advice, Monday, December 17, 2012

Today's reading is the book of I Timothy written by Paul.  Timothy is instructed to love from a pure heart, good conscience and sincere faith.  Jesus gave himself a ransom for all men because he wants all to be saved.  This is a glorious truth!

To Live is Christ and to Die is Gain, Sunday, December 16, 2012

Today's reading is the book of Philippians.  We are admonished to let love abound and discern what is right, be pure and blameless, filled with the fruit of righteousness through Jesus Christ. 

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross."

 

Seal of the Holy Spirit, Saturday, December 15, 2012

Today's reading is Ephesians 1:1-6:24.  This letter is written by Paul and delivered by Tychicus.  It speaks of redemption through Jesus blood and the riches of God's grace.  We are blessed because all things in heaven and earth are together under one head, Jesus Christ.

"And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge. ."
Ephesians 3:17-19a

Paul Speaks to the Colossians, Friday, December 14, 2012

Today's reading is Colossians 1:1-4:8. 

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.  Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.  And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."  Colossians 3:12-14

Voyage to Rome, Thursday, December 13, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 27:1-28:31.  After an extremely dangerous journey, God's grace brings Paul to Rome where is allowed to live in relative freedom (house arrest) for about two years.  During that time he allowed to bring many souls to Jesus Christ.

Felix, Festus and Agrippa, Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 24:1-26:32.  Paul testifies before Governor Felix and Porcius Festus.  After appealing to Caesar, he speaks with Agrippa.

". . .I pray God that not only you but all who are listening to me today may become what I am, except for these chains."

Paul's Arrest and Trial, Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 21:17-13:35.  Paul's assertion that he was directed by revelation from Jesus to take the Gospel to the Gentiles, caused a furious reaction among the Jews.  His assertion of his Roman citizenship to his captors, however, got him an expense-paid trip to Rome.  Interesting how misguided we humans are in our reactions.

Compelled by the Spirit, Monday, December 10, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 20:3b-21:16.  Paul returns to Jerusalem even though the Holy Spirit warns him of prison and hardships waiting for him there.

"I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus."  Acts 21:13b

Reasonable Act of Worship, Sunday, December 9, 2012

Today's reading is Romans 12:1-16:27.  We are told to be joyfully hopeful, suffer with patience, pray faithfully, share generously and practice hospitality lovingly. 

Submit to God's Righteousness, Saturday, December 8, 2012

Today's reading is Romans 9:6-11:36.

"That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved."  Romans 10:9

Righteousness of God, December 6 and 7, 2012

These two readings are from Romans 1:1-8:39. 

"He was delivered over to death for our sin and was raised to life for our justification."  Romans 4:25
 

We have freedom from condemnation, sin, death, and the law through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

"Count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus."  Romans 6:11

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death."  Romans 8:1, 2 

 

Standards of this World, Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Today's reading is II Corinthians 10:1-13:14 and Acts 20:2-3a.  We are instructed to take captive our every thought and make it obedient to Christ.  This is a high calling.  I must focus on my Savior at all times in order to do this.

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  II Cor 12:10
 

Second Letter to the Corinthians, Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Today's reading is II Corinthians 1:1-9:15.  This letter was delivered to the Corinthians by Titus when he was sent to collect the pledge made by them to the needy in Judea.  Paul speaks of the extreme pressure he and Timothy had felt in Asia.  They feared for their lives in order that they would rely on God rather than themselves.

Love is the Greatest Gift, December 2 and 3, 2012

Today's reading is I Corinthians 11:17-16:24 and Acts 19:23-20:1.  Spirituals gifts are distributed differently to different believers.  All parts of the body are honored when one part receives honor.

"Love is patient, love is kind.  It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."  I Cor. 13:4-7

First Corinthians Continues, Saturday, December 1, 2012

Today's reading is I Corinthians 5:1-11:16.  We are admonished to put away malice and wickedness and replace it with sincerity and truth.  It is better to be wronged or cheated than to be in a dispute with a believer.

First Letter to the Corinthians, Friday, November 30, 2012

Today's reading is I Corinthians 1:1-4:21.  Written by Paul approximately A.D. 55-56, this letter urges unity, agreement and no divisions among believers.

"For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength."  I Cor. 1:25

II Letter to the Thessalonians and Third Missionary Journey, Thursday, November 29, 2012

Today's reading is II Thessalonians 1:1-3:18 and Acts 18:12-19:22.  Their faith and love is increasing in perseverance.  They are warned that a man is not to eat if he is unwilling to work.

First Letter to the Thessalonians, Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Today's reading is I Thessalonians 1:1-5:28.  The Thessalonians have turned from idol worship and are serving the true and living God.  They are waiting for Jesus second coming.  They were instructed to ". . .be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances. . . ."

Second Missionary Journey, Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 15:36-18:11.  Paul leaves on his second journey with Silas and they are joined by Timothy.  The issue of circumcision for Christians is discussed.

Letter to the Galatians, Monday, November 26, 2012

Today's reading is Galatians 1:1-6:18.  Paul asserts that he received the Gospel by revelation from Jesus Christ.  The fruits of the spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. 

First Missionary Journey, Sunday, November 25, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 13:1-15:35.  Paul and Barnabas leave Antioch.  They appoint elders in the churches as they traveled.

Gentile Converts, Saturday, November 24, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 9:32-12:25.  Peter is summoned by vision to Cornelius and his household, the first Gentile converts.

Saul Becomes Paul, Friday, November 23, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 8:16-9:31.  Following the stoning of Stephen, persecution of believers became widespread and they were scattered over the continent.

Stoning of Stephen, Thursday, November 22, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 6:8-8:1a.  False charges were brought against Stephen by witnesses with conflicting stories.  When Stephen preached the truth to them, they became a howling mob and stoned him to death.  His death was witnessed by Jesus, standing by the throne of God and by Saul standing with the accusers.

Incredible Growth, Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 3:1-6:7.  The apostles were repeatedly arrested by the Sanhedrin, who couldn't decide how to punish them because all the people were praising God for the miraculous healings.  Several times the jealousy of the priests and Sadducees was mentioned.

The Church, Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Today's reading is Acts 1:1-5; 2:1-47.  The book of Acts is written by Luke and covers the first 30 years of the church.  Beginning with Pentecost, the Church flourishes.

He is Risen!, Monday, November 19, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 28:2; Mark 16:1; John 20:1; Luke 24:1; and Acts 1:23-26.  Jesus' resurrection is my hope of eternal life!  Praise God!

Don't You Fear God?, Sunday, November 18, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 27:33-66; Mark 15:23-47; Luke 23:32-56; and John 19:18-42.  Even while in the midst of extreme pain and suffering, Jesus prays for the forgiveness of his executioners.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jesus,_King_of_the_Jews

Trial Before Pilate, Saturday, November 17, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 27:2-32; Mark 15:1-22; Luke 23:3-31; John 18:28-19:17.  The exchange between Jesus and Pilate is so powerful.  Pilate urges Jesus to answer or defend himself, because he, Pilate, has the power of life or death over him.  Jesus reply is perfect.

Kiss of Betrayal, Friday, November 16, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 26:36-27:10; Mark 14:32-52; Luke 22:40-71; and John 18:1-27.  Jesus said that his heart was overwhelmed with sorrow and asked those closest to him to stay and keep watch while he prayed.  http://christiananswers.net/q-eden/edn-t018.html

Final Words, Thursday, November 15, 2012

Today's reading is John 15:1-17:26.  John is the only one of the four Gospels to record these words Jesus shared with his disciples.

The Upper Room, Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Today's reading is Luke 22:14-39; Matthew 26:20-35; Mark 14:17-31; and John 13:1-14:31b.  Jesus is the calm at the center of the storm.  He shares his last words with his apostles.

Thirty Pieces of Silver, Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 26:1-19; Mark 14:1-16; Luke 21:37, 38 and 22:1-13; and John 12:37-50.  The Jews who hated Jesus loved the praises of men.  They had eyes that could not see.

When Will This Happen?, Monday, November 12, 2012

Today's reading is Matthew 24:1-25:46; Mark 13:1-37; and Luke 21:5-33.  No one knows the day or the hour of  Christ's second coming.  We are warned to be ever watchful, faithful servants.