Daily Devotions from God's Daily Word http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm Religious/Christian en-us Sun, 17 Oct 2010 22:59:16 -0400 steve@gdwm.org Sun, 17 Oct 2010 22:57:24 -0400 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com Daily Devotions from God's Daily Word Daily Devotions from God's Daily Word. This podcast is an audio reading by Steve Troxel, author of God's Daily Word devotions. Each podcast will include a daily devotion as well as thoughts and updates about the ministry. Steve Troxel Steve Troxel steve@gdwm.org Daily Devotions no no http://www.gdwm.org/images/gdwmlogo144c.jpg http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm PodCast Logo 144 40
Jesus' ministry on earth lasted only three short years, but His message continues to be preached today and has spread to nearly every country and language of the world. When Jesus began His ministry, He knew His time would quickly pass; yet rather than trying to preach to the greatest number of people, Jesus focused the majority of His effort on a small group of twelve men.

Jesus taught His disciples about the Kingdom of God and how they must learn to truly love; "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:35). He taught them about the forgiveness of sin through His sacrificial death, and about their true source of strength: "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you...apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:4,5).

Jesus intensely taught His twelve closest followers with one overriding purpose - He taught so they would be prepared to serve in the Kingdom of God: "Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them...and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you" (Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus provided a model for effective ministry which we ought to follow today.

Ephesians 4:11-12
"It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."

We are all called to be a disciple - a close and intimate follower of Jesus Christ. We are each given different gifts and different ministry opportunities, but the focus of a disciple is always to serve as we build up the body of Christ and love Him with all our heart. We help others become His disciple as we teach them to follow Jesus and provide the necessary tools which prepare them to serve.

We have been blessed in so many ways. By His grace we have been granted the forgiveness of all sin and given a place to worship Him for all eternity. As we better grasp this wonderful truth, we will be filled with an unshakable contentment and peace while we walk in the presence of God. But this blessing must never be selfishly held - it must be shared; "Freely you have received, freely give" (Matthew 10:8).

I pray that every day brings us closer in our relationship with God through the forgiveness and love of His Son Jesus. I pray we minister in our church, our work, our family, and among the friends God places in our path, with love and uncompromising truth. And I pray that each of us looks for ways to build up the body of Christ by preparing God's people to serve.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm A5B34237-69E9-49BD-B292-0413E875A7CF Sun, 17 Oct 2010 22:57:24 -0400
Waiting - this is sure a recurring theme in my life. We are often encouraged to patiently wait for God's direction as well as for His rescue in the midst of our storms. We are reminded that God's timing is always perfect and always with a purpose, and that He is faithful to work in our life according to His perfect plan. But let's be honest, waiting is hard! Even when "we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28), it's still hard!

I've come to understand that God will always make His way clear. But I've also come to understand that His timing almost always requires more patience than what I've been given. When I gave my life to Jesus, He transformed me and gave me His Spirit to dwell within and produce fruit: "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience..." (Galatians 5:22-23). I know I have been given a certain measure of patience, but I sure need more!

Over the last twelve years, it seems that our family has been in a near continual search for God's direction. I believe I was called to ministry work; however, I have never completely understood the extent of this call. I have continued to serve in this internet ministry, but the degree to which I should do things like travel to other countries, publish books, go to school, or commit to church ministry has never been real clear. Our entire family is prepared to follow, but clear direction has been lacking...and so we wait. The result has been that our eyes and thoughts are daily focused on Jesus waiting to see if the cloud will move as it did with the Israelites. And through the process we are learning the importance of patience.

James 5:7-8
"Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near."

Notice that the farmer is waiting for things completely out of His control. He has done the work of plowing the ground and planting the seed; now He must wait for God to produce the crop.

No matter what your circumstances are today, if you have been saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, you can rest assured that He is at your side directing your steps. Sometimes God's direction comes by way of outward events and changes we can see with our eyes, but often His direction comes in the form of inward changes and growth - such as more trust, more love...and more patience. Our "work" is to take each step He reveals and then wait for God to produce the crop as we love Him with all our heart.

Our family deeply appreciates your continued encouragement and prayers. Please continue to pray for the clarity of God's direction and the boldness to follow where He leads. And as He brings us to your mind, please pray for a little more patience.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 524FB742-4397-406B-9B9C-A207E5DEC39D Sun, 17 Oct 2010 16:49:33 -0400
Several of our last messages provided a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the gift of life we have in Jesus Christ. Jesus came to earth to be our necessary and absolutely sufficient sacrifice for sin. His death on the cross and resurrection from the tomb opened the door of grace for an eternally restored relationship with God for all who believe.

Prior to our salvation, the Holy Spirit draws us near by revealing truth to our heart. We are "born again" (John 3:5-7) when we place our trust in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin. At the moment of our new birth, we are changed - made a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17) - by the power of the Holy Spirit; we also become "co-heirs with Christ" in God's Eternal Kingdom (Romans 8:17).

As we begin our walk with Christ, we soon realize we are not who we once were; "the old has gone, the new has come" (2 Corinthians 5:17). The Spirit of God began a change in our heart that will continue all the rest of our days as we are "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29). Some aspects of this change are immediate as the bondage to sin is broken, but other portions of change will take a lifetime.

God has promised that our transformation will one day be complete; "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6). He will continue to shape and mold us - to chip off the rough edges - until we stand before Him and hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Matthew 25:21). On that day, God's glory will be fully revealed in us and we will understand our true identity in Him.

Revelation 2:17
"To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it."

God knows exactly who we are; "I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind" (Jeremiah 17:10). But He also knows exactly who we will become. When we stand before His throne, He will acknowledge our completed transformation by giving us a new name. But as we receive the name, we will also receive full understanding of who we are and how our life has fit into His perfect plan. We will see the purpose of every twist and turn in our path and see what it really means to live in Christ.

Until that day, we must trust Him with all our heart and allow every aspect of our life to bring Him glory and honor. We must seek a consistency with our new identity - with the life God desires us to live. We are not who we once were, nor who we will one day become. Let's live a transformed life with great expectations of the glory to be revealed when we stand in His presence and receive a new name.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D75896B3-A18F-46F8-B3C5-B882E2569456 Sun, 17 Oct 2010 15:38:43 -0400
In the message "The Pain of Separation" we considered the original relationship between God and man. This was the perfect relationship for which we were created; a relationship where we understand our form, sustenance, blessings, and direction as coming from God; a relationship where we walk in His intimate fellowship every moment of every day. We also saw the pain God must have felt when His beloved creation chose to walk away through disobedience - the sin of unbelief.

But praise God that He loves us so much that He immediately began to teach us how to return to His presence. From the faithful sacrifice of Abel to the protection of Noah and his family; from the calling of Abraham to the Law as given through Moses; from the message of repentance by the prophets to "the voice of one calling in the desert, 'Make straight the way for the Lord'" (John 1:23); and finally, from the teaching and sacrifice of Jesus to the exhortation of the apostles. All these point to God calling His children back to the intimate relationship for which we were created.

This first sin carried a punishment which still remains; "just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned" (Romans 5:12). We are all born with an unbelieving heart which must be made clean; "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). The real tragedy of the first sin is not that Adam and Eve were separated from God, but that we are ALL born into a condition of spiritual separation. But God wants us back, today!

Romans 5:8-10
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him! For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through His life!"

All of scripture is written for the purpose of restoring the relationship which sin destroyed; "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:18). The message is clear: return to God! Believe He sent His Son Jesus to die as a sacrifice for the forgiveness of sin and begin to walk in an intimate fellowship of obedience which is consistent with that belief. God sent His Son to die so we could be restored. This is the heart of a loving Father, to call His children home.

The enemy will try to deceive us into believing this relationship is no longer possible, but this is a lie!! Jesus came to restore what the enemy destroyed, and His restoration is made complete by grace through faith. The pain of separation does not need to continue. Let's begin today to trust Him with all our heart and truly experience the joy of restoration.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B4011167-BFA6-42F9-8E3C-EB96B3B22706 Sun, 3 Oct 2010 21:24:08 -0400
When we read the story of creation, we can clearly see how man was created for a blessed and intimate relationship with God. Man was made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and given life with God's own breath (Genesis 2:7). From the very beginning God intended man to live under His blessing and in dominion over creation: "Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground" (Genesis 1:28).

Being in a perfect relationship with the Almighty God meant there were guidelines for living; "You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil" (Genesis 2:16-17). But this relationship also meant there was an unparalleled level of fellowship; "He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name" (Genesis 2:19).

Can you imagine such a relationship of love? Can you imagine being in such intimate fellowship that God actually talked with you about the names of animals? Now, can you imagine the heartache when that relationship was shattered by sin? "When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it" (Genesis 3:6).

In this one act of disobedience, Adam and Eve said, "We do not believe!" For at the core of every sinful action is a heart which does not believe enough to trust that what God says is absolutely true. And the results can be devastating!

Genesis 3:23-24
"So the Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. After He drove the man out, He placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life."

We completely miss what happened in the garden if our picture of God is that of a bearded man on a throne with a judgment calculator who says from a distance, "They didn't follow the rules, send them away." That's not the God of the Bible! God gave life, sustenance, blessings, direction, and fellowship; and yet, the receiver of His gifts trusted and followed a lie. The consequences of the first sin must have broke God's heart; though I don't fully understand what this means.

Our Father still longs for His children to believe and return home. We've been away far too long and He desires for us to come back into His loving arms. And if we would take time for an honest examination, we would find a painful longing that wants only to return and be held close. Let's not wait another moment. Let's begin right now to walk with a consistent belief and end the pain of separation.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 41E1F61D-65D5-4CEF-95C6-F94019B9EEA2 Sun, 3 Oct 2010 20:23:30 -0400
We often consider our need to be set free from the deceptive entanglements of the world. Whether this means the sinful temptations of the flesh, the misguided priorities of selfish ambition, or simply the vast number of trivial activities which consume our time, they all hinder our intimacy with God.

These "hindrances" of the world keep many unbelievers from knowing Jesus and coming to a saving faith in His sacrifice for the forgiveness of sin. They also keep many believers from walking closer with God and glorifying His name. It's no wonder Jesus says, in the strongest terms, that we must crucify the things of the flesh; "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). Following Christ means to be "crucified with Christ" (Galatians 2:20) - a full and complete death of ALL which would pull us away!

But praise God this is not the end of the story. We are not simply called to the glum and dreary dead life so many Christians seem to be living - the life removed from the entanglements of the world but also removed from any and all form of joy. No, we have been called to much more; we have been called to a glorious new birth! We die so we can live in Christ and give Him full control to work in and through our life.

1 Peter 1:3
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

Jesus came for the single purpose of dying on a cross for the forgiveness of our sin. But Jesus was not just crucified and buried...He rose!! His resurrection was God's declaration to the world that Jesus was His Son (Romans 1:4); and it confirmed, with absolute assurance, the complete victory over sin and death. This life of crucifixion and victorious resurrection is the full life to which we have been invited.

We have unquestionably been called to take up our cross and follow Jesus up the hill to die. We must put to death our sinful desires as well as all selfish dreams and ambitions. But we must never remain locked inside a dark and lonely tomb. Though it is often a painful process (Jesus experienced GREAT pain in His death) we must persevere through death to be resurrected into a living hope in Christ; "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said" (Matthew 28:6). We must truly rise and be born again.

Let's begin to walk as a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17), and declare to the world through our joy and peace that we are a child of God. Let's arise with new desires and dreams - those formed in our heart by a loving and gracious Father - and live by the guiding power of His Spirit. Let's praise Him all of our days as we joyfully live the resurrected life.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2A27AC45-81CB-47AB-A809-C9EB7AD92C95 Sun, 3 Oct 2010 19:12:32 -0400
There are going to be days when we just don't feel like being thankful - we wake up and don't seem able to praise. We know we should "rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4); we're trying to learn "the secret of being content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12); and we want to believe that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). But sometimes it's just difficult.

There are many reasons for days like this. We sometimes may lose the eternal perspective of our life and our surroundings. We take our eyes off Jesus and begin to look at the gathering storm (Matthew 14:30). We may become entangled in the weeds and get choked by "the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth" (Matthew 13:22). Or we may simply become tired and weary.

Days like this are to be expected. Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33a) - and our trouble will sometimes strain our relationship with God. But even in the midst of our trouble, we are all being "transformed into His image" (2 Corinthians 3:18). When we place our life in His hands, He begins the process of transformation - a process which WILL continue; "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6). Even though we may sometimes struggle and find ourselves in a dry desert, we are still progressing from what we once were to what we will yet become. God will use these difficult seasons to mold our heart if we will simply continue to trust, love, and praise.

We must NEVER forget that Jesus also said of our troubles; "But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33b). We must continue to grow in our relationship with God until He is so near that we can truly see how He has overcome; and praise Him all day and every day. He desires our praise, and He is, without a doubt, deserving of our praise!

Psalm 113:3
"From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised."

The Psalm writer is stating a simple fact: The Lord IS to be praised! Jesus affirmed this truth when He was riding into Jerusalem and made it clear that He will receive praise with or without our participation. Crowds had begun to praise Him and some of the religious leaders told Jesus to make them stop. But Jesus responded; "I tell you, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out" (Luke 19:40). Either we offer up our praise to the Creator of the Universe, or the rocks will begin to sing!

No matter what our situation is today, let's remember He is worthy of our praise! He has picked us up, cleaned us off, and adopted us into His Family. It is sad and a terrible shame, but we often forget how many reasons we have for being thankful. Let's rise up and use this and every other moment of the day to rejoice with thanksgiving in our heart. Let's not miss another opportunity to praise.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm A3E3BF03-BD4C-4FB5-A397-89FA7A03B100 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 16:37:25 -0400
All over the world, people are asking how to strengthen their relationship with God. Many have wandered from His path and become entangled in the weeds. We never plan to leave God's path and become entangled; rather, it seems we simply take a wrong turn and then drift through small steps of compromise. How does this happen? And once we've drifted, how do we return and guard against drifting once again?

Man first wandered from God's path in the Garden of Eden. The devil deceived Eve and caused her to disobey God's command; Eve ate fruit from the forbidden tree and gave some to her willing husband. As soon as they ate the fruit, they became aware they were naked and covered themselves with leaves.

Genesis 3:8-9
"Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as He was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, 'Where are you?'"

The very first sin caused the delusion that it was possible to hide from God. This delusion continues today! We sit among the weeds and think God doesn't notice - that He doesn't see us in the midst of our sin. But the all-knowing Creator of the Universe knew exactly where Adam was hiding. God wasn't searching through the bushes trying to find His lost creation. No, God was speaking directly to Adam: "Adam, why are you in this condition? Do you even know where you are and how far you have drifted?"

Adam's willful disobedience caused him to tremble as he answered: "I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid" (Genesis 3:10). Adam was lost. Somehow, even in their garden paradise, Adam and Eve had wandered in their relationship with God. The devil had found them alone - not walking with their Father - and began his great deception. Now, sin had caused shame, fear, and separation.

ALL sin has its beginning in our wandering from the presence of God. No one "falls" into sin by a momentary slip; rather, sin is the result of a long slow drift away from intimate fellowship with God. Drifting from His presence causes us to become more susceptible to sin, which continues the cycle of even further separation. Soon, we have become entangled and completely lose sight of His path.

The way back always begins with a humble and repentant heart. We must confess we have strayed, admit our straying as sin, and ask for the strength and guidance to return. God will immediately shine His light, strengthen our steps, and ask us to simply focus on loving Him with all our heart.

Let's return to the presence of God and be determined to never leave. Let's continually examine our life and make sure we're walking right by His side whenever God asks, "Where are you?"

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FA61FF44-C2B7-4604-AAEC-BB7D546F62C8 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 14:44:21 -0400
In the message "Did God Really Say" we saw how the devil began his deception by causing Eve to doubt what God said; "Did God really say, 'You must not eat...'?" (Genesis 3:1). He then said God had lied and was actually keeping Eve from something beneficial; "God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil" (Genesis 3:5).

The devil convinced Eve that disobeying God (in just this one instance) would be the right thing to do. After all, she would become more like God...and that MUST be the proper path to follow.

Genesis 3:6
"When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it."

Eve had seen the fruit before this encounter with the devil, and she already knew it looked good. But God had established a boundary line which, until now, she had never crossed. However, when the devil presented his twisted version of the truth, this line began to shift. Eve became unsure about absolute right and wrong and saw the line as something she could control. She adjusted God's path to aligned with her own desires and, in the process, she violated God's command.

God has shown each of us the boundary line between right and wrong - we KNOW the truth. God's line is not subject to our control, and we are not given the freedom to cross the line depending on our circumstances or perceived benefit.

We are often deceived by simple justifications: "I know this is wrong, but my increased wisdom from this experience will eventually be used to help others." Or, "I know this is wrong, but what else can I do? God surely wants me to eat and pay my bills." Or the common sexual deception; "I know this is wrong, but we really love each other."

It's God's desire that we trust Him with all our heart and follow His path each and every day, without ANY shortcuts or deviations. As we follow His leading, we will face many decisions - many places where the path divides - and we must decide which direction to turn. Fortunately, we can depend on God to NEVER direct us into sin. If a path contains sin, we can be sure it's NOT God's path - not the path we ought to follow!

Let's trust Him to absolutely direct our every step. Let's draw so close to our Heavenly Father that all deception is exposed. Let's walk His path without compromise and refuse to shift, or cross over, His boundary line of truth.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 3D08D713-25F9-4C41-BCE6-59A20D8998C6 Sun, 26 Sep 2010 13:35:31 -0400
The first two chapters of the Bible tell how, "In the beginning God created the Heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). God placed Adam in the Garden of Eden and created Eve as his companion and helper. Life in the garden was good, but it didn't take long for the deception of the devil to really mess things up.

God had given Adam and Eve the freedom to eat from any tree in the garden - any tree except one; "You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die" (Genesis 2:17). God's instructions were clear and His consequences for disobedience severe. But when the devil first confronted Eve, he began by slightly changing God's Word in order to cause doubt.

Genesis 3:1
"He said to the woman, 'Did God really say, "You must not eat from any tree in the garden"?'"

This slight shift from a single tree to ANY tree put Eve immediately on the defensive: "We may eat fruit from the trees in the garden, but God did say, 'You must not eat fruit from the tree that is in the middle of the garden'" (Genesis 3:2-3). The devil continued his attack by giving Eve a different interpretation of God's Word: "You will not surely die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God" (Genesis 3:4-5). Eve clearly knew the truth; but without a firm conviction to obey at all cost, she evaluated the merit of the devil's lie and, being unable to refute his reasoning, gave in to sin.

In the several thousand years since that first confrontation, the tactics of the devil are still pretty much the same. His attack always begins with getting us to shift from the absolute nature of God's Word, causing us to doubt and defend against his deception.

God's Word says: "Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). But the devil says: "Did God really say there is only one way? Surely God wants everyone to go to heaven and will accept many beliefs as long as they are good and sincere." This deception pulls people from God's path every day. Jesus clearly said: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). The one and ONLY way is Jesus!

If we are not firm in our conviction that God's Word is true, we too will become vulnerable to the devil's attacks of doubt and will soon begin to believe his twisted lies. God's Word says our most important "duty" is to "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30). Let's prepare by studying His Word, praying for wisdom to know His truth, and loving Him with our absolute ALL. Let's hold firmly to God's Word and not be even slightly shaken when the enemy asks: Did God really say?

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 5E1BF825-20EC-46D6-AF0B-E48665B8CC9A Sun, 26 Sep 2010 09:18:54 -0400
In the message "More Than Grasshoppers" we considered the spies who were sent into the promised land to evaluate the enemy. We saw that without a proper understanding of God and how we fit into His plan, the enemies in our life will always appear as undefeatable giants.

This sense of walking among the giants causes many of us to struggle with insecurities, low self esteem, and general feelings of inadequacy. While it's true we are called to, "in humility consider others better than ourselves" (Philippians 2:3), we also must walk with a sense of identity, purpose, and worth. And while it's true that in the context of eternity we are "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14), this seemingly insignificant "mist" is dearly loved by the Creator of the Universe.

Our real sense of identity, purpose, and worth, will only be realized as we understand that our value is never attained through the things of this world which all pass away. Our value comes only from our Heavenly Father who has adopted us as His child and made us an heir of His Kingdom!

Romans 8:15-17
"You received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs - heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ."

The eternal inheritance we receive through this adoption makes everything of the world seem extremely insignificant. We are a child of God! This is our identity. While we walk on this earth, we are being "conformed into the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29). This is our purpose. And in our adoption, we are made "co-heirs with Christ." This is our worth!

As this world tries to pull us down, let's remember our Father owns ALL; "Every animal of the forest is Mine, and the cattle on a thousand hills" (Psalm 50:10). He owns it all, created it all, and nothing is beyond His reach. As others try to continually show us our faults and put us down, let's remember that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us - one day we will be made perfect and walk down streets of "pure gold, like transparent glass" (Revelation 21:21).

Let's pull these truths together into a victorious Christian life. Let's hold on very loosely to anything of the world which artificially determines our worth and passionately cling to our worth in Christ; "For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:18). Let's live our life as a "vanishing mist" while remembering we are co-heirs with Jesus in the Kingdom of God. Let's always remember that we are indeed a highly valued mist.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 8957669B-8B3C-4291-AF17-2EF047501331 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 20:57:34 -0400
After Moses led the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery, they were guided by God to the edge of Canaan - the land promised to Abraham. God instructed Moses to send twelve men to explore the land; "See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many" (Numbers 13:18).

The twelve "spies" traveled through the entire length of Canaan and brought back their report. All twelve traveled the same path, but only Joshua and Caleb saw the land and its inhabitants through the promises of God: "The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. If the Lord is pleased with us, He will lead us into that land" (Numbers 14:7-8). The other ten saw great danger and an enemy who was too big to be defeated.

Numbers 13:31-33
"We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are. The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them."

The promised land was truly a land flowing with milk and honey, but it was also a land with many enemies. Joshua and Caleb saw the same enemy as the other ten spies, but they had a much clearer view and understanding of God. They knew if God was on their side, the size and strength of the enemy didn't matter - God would provide the victory.

We often face the same fear as the other ten. God wants us to enter into His promised land, take possession, and reside there for the rest of our days; but there are often enemies which fill us with fear and make us feel small and insignificant. Enemies may come in the form of addictions, choices of entertainment, finances, or worldly priorities. We may even face more tangible enemies who threaten to cause us physical or emotional pain. All these enemies keep us out of the promised land, all appear to be undefeatable giants. But with God on our side, ALL can be overcome!

Without a clear understanding of who we are in Christ, every enemy appears to tower over us; "apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). Apart from Him we ARE but grasshoppers. But when we place our trust in God and allow Him to work through us, our posture before the enemy is greatly strengthened; "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us" (Romans 8:37).

God's land of promise - the contentment of His presence - is waiting for us to enter in and take possession. God did not create us to be fearful insects, but an image of the Most High! Let's know the One who gives us strength and victory in battle. Let's better understand that when God leads, we are much more than grasshoppers!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E2CA27B7-79EF-4448-A727-686C0315E525 Sun, 19 Sep 2010 20:44:42 -0400
A life lived by fully trusting God begins with a simple faith in the forgiveness offered through Jesus. But this simple faith will grow as we apply it to the varied and difficult circumstances which inevitably come our way. Not many of us begin with the faith of Peter; "Lord, if it's You, tell me to come to You on the water" (Matthew 14:28). Rather, we cautiously test the water by trusting God in small areas of our life. But as we see His promises hold true and witness the blessings of walking in obedience, we ought to begin to step with greater confidence and trust Him more and more.

Prior to crossing into the promised land, Moses told the people of Israel: "Do not be afraid, for the Lord goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you" (Deuteronomy 31:6). This is one of the many promises which remain with us today. As we walk with God into the land of promise - the land of contentment and peace - we must learn to truly apply these promises and consistently live by them. He is RIGHT THERE! And He wants us to live with the contentment of knowing He is in control.

But full trust is difficult! Every day we are bombarded with things which attempt to pull us away from God and steal our joy. Though He is walking right beside us, and absolutely nothing catches Him by surprise, we seldom even think of Him during our day. This should not be! If we are truly His child, we are being called to trust Him with ALL and allow Him to live in and through us - this is the life He desires for us to live.

We must continually believe the truth of His Word and allow our faith to mature by taking steps which lead us closer to God - even if our steps of faith seem small. With each new step, we will more clearly see the truth of God's promises. We will begin to see past the visible garbage of this world and begin to gaze with wonder on "Him who is invisible" (Hebrews 11:27). The life of contentment and peace is the life of total commitment and surrender.

Psalm 31:5
"Into Your hands I commit my spirit; redeem me, O Lord, the God of truth."

What part of our life are we holding back from God? If we really believe He created the Universe and sent His Son to die for the forgiveness of our sin so we can spend eternity with Him, isn't it foolish for us to think we can do a better job of controlling ANYTHING? If we trust Him for our eternal destiny, shouldn't we trust Him for the much more common matters of our daily life? Our God is VERY capable and He CAN be trusted!

Though it may not seem as dramatic a step as Peter's, we are all being called out of the boat. We are being called to believe and trust with all our heart. Let's not allow another day to go by without fully committing our body, soul, mind and spirit, our absolute all and EVERY area of our life, into His hands.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 0C662742-A2F6-4558-98BD-A4ECD6472276 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:01:57 -0400
In the messages "Cords of Encouragement" and "Defeated Lions And Bears" we considered our role in the Body, or Family, of Christ. We saw that as we walk together down God's path, we must assume a certain level of responsibility for one another. We must encourage our Brothers and Sisters when they are down and remind one another that God is near, that our trials will soon fade; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today!" (Hebrews 3:13).

But as we encourage, we must do so from a position of Biblical truth. We must continually direct each other toward Christ and the life He calls us to live. It is never true encouragement to simply lend our agreement and "comfort" to a complaining or selfish attitude. This actually keeps someone down and threatens to pull us down in the process. Forgiveness, and victory, is only found in Jesus Christ.

Jesus endured ridicule and humiliation from His accusers, and overwhelming pain on the cross, simply because He dearly loved us. The joy of seeing our restored relationship with the Father allowed Him to persevere through unbelievable hardship. His sacrifice brought us the gift of Salvation. His perseverance should bring us the gift of strength and a renewed hope.

Hebrews 12:3
"Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

There are going to be days when the burden seems extra heavy - days when the attacks come fast and furious and feel like they will never end. It may bring temporary relief for someone to sympathize and confirm the difficulty of our situation, but the only way to truly ease the load is to focus our heart back to Christ and pray to receive His strength; "May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance" (2 Thessalonians 3:5). We must persevere...because He first persevered for us!

There is definitely a place within the Body for compassion and the sharing of one another's sorrows; but when our burdens become seemingly unbearable, we must also encourage one another to simply put one foot in front of the other and boldly continue down His path. His grace and His strength WILL be sufficient! We will not lose heart if we focus on His love. We will persevere and not grow weary if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and consider Him who endured.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 526B6844-0D23-4D9A-953E-1E6349303BA4 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 15:12:25 -0400
In the message "Cords of Encouragement" we saw the importance - even the necessity - of encouraging one another. We have been joined together as the Body of Christ; and for this Body to function properly, we must all be encouraged to draw closer to God, to trust Him more and love Him with all our heart. One of the ways we encourage is in sharing with one another how God's mighty hand has worked in our life. We have so much to be thankful for, but sadly we often simply forget.

In the book of 1 Samuel, we read of young David and the Philistine "Giant" named Goliath. Goliath was much larger than other people of his day; "he was over nine feet tall" (1 Samuel 17:4). For forty days he tormented the Israelites by challenging them to a battle, but no one would accept his challenge.

David was not a soldier but his father sent him to the Israelite camp to deliver bread to his older brothers. When David heard the challenge by Goliath, he told King Saul; "Your servant will go and fight him" (1 Samuel 17:32).

Though David had never been in this type of battle, he had still witnessed the mighty power of God. As a shepherd, David defended the flock when a lion and a bear had come to carry away his sheep. David rescued the sheep by killing the lion and the bear. By witnessing God's hand in these past battles, David gained the necessary confidence to go into battle against Goliath.

1 Samuel 17:36-37
"Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear - this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who delivered me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine."

As we find ourselves battling our own Goliaths, we must remember how God has defended us in the past. And as members together in the Family of God, we must share past victories with one another. God is faithful, and we need to remind one another of this simple truth. Our "Giant" circumstances may seem impossible to resolve, but the God who stood by our side during past battles (and stood by the side of many others) is the same God who stands with us today: "God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.' So we say with confidence, 'The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid'" (Hebrews 13:5-6).

God wants to draw us near and walk with us through each and every battle. This means we must trust He's working all things together for good...even when we can't see the good or understand His timing. Let's be encouraged by God's victories in our past and look for opportunities to share these victories as an encouragement to others. As each of us face our Goliaths today, let's go out with a thankful and trusting heart and always remember the defeated lions and bears.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6913E04A-1CF1-42A2-8277-C1750D6178ED Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:01:02 -0400
In the message "Reconcile With One Another" we saw how it's part of God's plan for us, through repentance and faith in Jesus, to be reconciled with our Heavenly Father, and then to mend and strengthen relationships with others. Not only do our relationships give us opportunities to express our love and gratitude to God, but they can also strengthen our faith and teach us about our weaknesses.

The importance of relationships is not a new concept which arrived with Jesus; rather, it forms the very essence of who we are, "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). God could have created us to be isolated, but He didn't! We were created to actually need one another. Almost three thousand years ago, Solomon wrote of the importance of having encouraging relationships.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken."

As we look at the many believers scattered around the world, we notice the ways we are different as well as the many ways we are the same. We have different colors of skin and styles of clothes, different tastes in food and accents of speech; but we all have similar dreams, and all face the same kinds of trials and temptations. And we ALL need the same Savior!

God has taken a diverse group of people and formed us into the Body of Christ; "Though all its parts are many, they form one body" (1 Corinthians 12:12). But I'm afraid the focus of satisfying our own needs and fulfilling our own desires has left this body crippled and deformed. We must understand that as "one body" we desperately need each other; "If one part suffers, every part suffers with it" (1 Corinthians 12:26).

We will never achieve our full potential in Christ until each member of the body is encouraged and being guided by the Spirit of God. When we see a Brother or Sister who is down, we must do all we can to help them up, dust them off, and point them to the Father. For the sake of our own spiritual health we must return to a deeper understanding and commitment to His Family - this is how we were created!

Let's look with new and excited eyes at the Body of Christ. There are people all around who need encouragement; and there are also those who have the ability to encourage us. Let's identify the strands which God has placed in our life and then spend the necessary time to weave them into something strong and beautiful. Let's strengthen His Body today by building unbreakable cords of encouragement.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 82A389E4-3663-4F18-B895-50ADCFCF7877 Mon, 6 Sep 2010 21:16:01 -0400
Malachi served as a prophet to Israel about four hundred years before the birth of Jesus. He brought a message from God which reminded the people of His love, and rebuked them for their disrespectful worship. But through Malachi, God ended the Old Testament with a prophesy about future restoration.

Malachi 4:5-6
"I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse."

Just over four hundred years later, John the Baptist, "the Elijah who was to come" (Matthew 11:14), began to preach a message of repentance. The purpose of John's ministry was to prepare hearts for the coming of Jesus; "Prepare the way for the Lord" (Matthew 3:3). But according to Malachi, John would also cause the hearts of fathers and children to turn toward one another.

When the spiritual fellowship between man and God was broken, a basic void was formed in man's heart which led to a breakdown in his earthly relationships. The moment we lost the ability to walk in perfect harmony with God, we also became filled with self-importance and pride, and lost the ability to truly love one another; "But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have {true} fellowship with one another" (1 John 1:7). Walking close to God, through faith in Jesus, allows us to walk close with others; "We love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

God created us to be in fellowship with other people - even imperfect, hard to love people. Our quiet and peaceful times of study and prayer are essential for our Christian walk, but some of God's most important truths can only be learned as we stumble through difficult situations with others. Only there can we learn the difficulty of true grace and forgiveness; only there can some of our own deep sin (like pride, jealousy, and anger) be revealed.

Many relationships are filled with past pain - particularly the relationships between husband and wife, and parent and child - but God's Word still stands as truth. He has provided the path to restoration; a path which begins with repentance, requires the cleansing of sinful pride, and leads to true love and forgiveness.

Who do we need to reconcile with today? Full restoration requires the cooperation of both parties; but as a child of God, we can now cross the desert and begin to mend what is broken. Jesus died as a sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins in order that we may be reconciled with our Heavenly Father. He crossed ALL the way and completely mended our shattered heart! Let's walk in the light of His love and take the necessary steps to cross over and humbly reconcile with one another.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm DC1B55A6-3956-43C2-A594-909FBD9B8FCA Sat, 4 Sep 2010 08:46:03 -0400
After Jesus had risen from the dead and "was taken up into Heaven" (Luke 24:51), those who believed in Him "joined together constantly in prayer" (Acts 1:14), "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching" (Acts 2:42), and "ate together with glad and sincere hearts" (Acts 2:46). The first believers did naturally what we try to implement in our churches today - they prayed, studied, and fellowshipped. But they had an additional characteristic of their gathering that no amount of programming will ever be able to produce.

Acts 2:43
"Everyone was filled with awe..."

Being "filled with awe" means to have an overwhelming sense of reverent fear, wonder and amazement. This is the same meaning used by Solomon when he wrote: "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). Our understanding of God begins with a reverent fear - an amazed and holy awe - which compels us to our knees in worship.

The early believers knew they were in the midst of God's Hand and were amazed; but today we often become complacent with His wonders. We forget the miracle of, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1); the marvel of, "So God created man in His own image...male and female He created them" (Genesis 1:27), and the incredible wonder of His love: "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

These verses alone should inspire a lifetime of praise - but God has given us much more. He has given His Spirit to guide and comfort; and the entirety of His Word to reveal the fullness of His character and the grandness of His majesty. About sixty years after Jesus returned to Heaven, the Apostle John was given a vision of God's throne room in order to encourage us about the future glory we will one day see.

Revelation 4:2-8
"And there before me was a throne in heaven with someone sitting on it... A rainbow, resembling an emerald, encircled the throne.... Around the throne, were four living creatures.... Day and night they never stop saying: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'"

Understanding the wondrous glory of Heaven can make our daily trials seem much less of a burden!

Let's reflect on the miracles of God's creation, His plan of redemption through Jesus, and the true majesty of His Kingdom. We will begin to experience all God has planned for our life, and the life of our local church, when we return to a true reverence and wonder of our Lord. Our lives can be made whole and our worship complete only as we approach our Heavenly Father with hearts filled with awe.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 26C16401-9D2B-42E6-ABA2-0F5C0B8A5B81 Sat, 4 Sep 2010 06:59:36 -0400
In the middle of a very long list of genealogies, recorded in the book of 1 Chronicles, there are a few short verses about a man named Jabez who was a descendant of Judah. We never read about him again, but it appears Jabez was included in this list because of his bold request...and God's gracious response.

1 Chronicles 4:10
"Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, 'Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.' And God granted his request."

Passages on asking and receiving can be difficult to teach. For example: "How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!" (Matthew 7:11). These passages are full of truth, but those who preach a message of assured prosperity for Christians have abused the scriptures to say God wants everyone to be financially rich and all we must do is ask or repeat a special prayer. Although this type of prosperity teaching receives a wide following, it is far from God's truth.

But God DOES want us to prosper: "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future'" (Jeremiah 29:11). And, He wants us to ask! "You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives" (James 4:2-3). God has a plan to prosper us, but we often do not receive His blessings because we are asking to satisfy our own selfish desires or cover worldly fears.

We also fail to prosper because we don't understand God's definition of prosperity. A Godly prosperity has little to do with finances or possessions, and a great deal to do with peace and contentment. A prosperous life is also one which bears much fruit and completes the work God has asked us to accomplish; "I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do" (John 17:4). How petty (small thinking) to believe that God's prosperity only involves the riches of this world which rust and fade away.

A truly prosperous life begins by drawing and remaining near to the presence of God. Without first abiding in His presence, we won't even know what will allow us to prosper; "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart" (Psalm 37:4). As we draw near to God, He places the desires on our heart which lead to true prosperity - then we must ask. It's in the asking, in the expectation of the answer, and in the process of waiting, that we exercise our faith and prove it to be real.

Let's ask God to increase our territory - to increase our realm of influence in His Kingdom. Let's ask Him to keep us in His protective arms, give us His abundance of peace, and accomplish great things in and through our life. Let's draw near to God and boldly request a prosperous life.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 55073F3E-00B6-481F-9FA2-BFD65AA57337 Sat, 28 Aug 2010 17:46:30 -0400
In the last two messages we've considered the importance of our love relationship with God; how Jesus desires our love much more than any of our works and how we must continue in prayer for our love to grow. ALL we do ought to be driven by love! When we study God's Word, we do so to understand His character, seek His direction, and then to obediently follow where His Word leads; "If you love Me, you will obey what I command" (John 14:15). True love will always express itself in action.

As we continue to study God's Word, we must never stop with the simple accumulation of knowledge. Knowledge by itself will deceive us into a false sense of spirituality. We must never equate an increase of knowledge with an increased closeness to God; "The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know" (1 Corinthians 8:2). Knowing ABOUT God is only the beginning of the journey toward a closer relationship with Him. An intimate understanding is only gained through the loving application of what we know.

James 1:22-25
"Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the Word but does not do what it says is like a man who looks at his face in the mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it - he will be blessed in what he does."

We will never know the true meaning of faith until we step out and put our faith into practice. We cannot possibly know the peace of trusting God to work for the good in all things (Romans 8:28) until we love Him with all our heart, surrender our life, and allow Him to actually begin His work. Without allowing His words to cause action in our life, we become as the godless who are "always learning but never able to acknowledge the truth" (2 Timothy 3:7). Do we really believe His Word is true? True enough to trust and follow?

God has a message for each of us today, a specific truth He wants us to understand and apply. His message may be delivered through something we hear or something we read, but His words will never change our life and draw us closer until we put them into practice. We will never see the wonder of His truth until we apply His truth in our everyday life!

God is calling us today - He is calling us to know Him and walk with Him in love. The study of His Word (His entire Word from cover to cover!) should never cease, but we MUST take the next step. We must study with the great expectation of hearing His direction for our life. Then as we hear His Word, we must embrace it, step out in faith, and do what it says.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E3BD3626-21BC-4C8C-9250-8B9D2B7BFC6F Sat, 28 Aug 2010 16:44:25 -0400
In the message "By Our Love" we saw how Jesus desires for us to mature in our love for our Heavenly Father and for others. But as we continue our walk, we soon discover many decision points where we must choose between two paths...with only one being the path of God. At these critical moments, we must be able to recognize His leading; and if we have not spent time worshiping at His feet and communicating in prayer, we cannot expect to understand or even hear His guidance in our time of greatest need.

Communication is essential for maturing in any relationship. A marriage which lacks communication will slowly begin to drift apart. It's not uncommon for married couples to live together for the majority of their lives and yet feel like strangers because they have failed to spend the time required to really know and understand one another.

Our relationship with God is much the same. When we receive the gift of Salvation through faith in Jesus, we begin a life long relationship of love - a relationship which must be nurtured through fellowship and prayer.

Psalm 5:1-3
"Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my sighing. Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to You I pray. In the morning, O Lord, You hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait in expectation."

David states that the morning is his dedicated time for prayer; his time to be alone with God, to share his heart and expectantly await God's direction. But God has not specified a preferred time. In fact, Paul encourages us to maintain a constant state of communion with God when he says to "pray continuously" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). We ought to strive for communication which is regular and frequent; any time is the right time for prayer; any time is the right time to commune with the one you love!

Prayer must originate from a sincere heart, anything less becomes a ritual of meaningless words. We should be motivated by a desire to strengthen our relationship - to praise Him for His blessings and earnestly ask for His guidance - and to deepen the commitment of our love. We ought to value our time with God above anything else this world has to offer; "One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life" (Psalm 27:4).

Let's make sure our love doesn't fade. Let's set aside time each day to be alone with God - quiet time where we can hear His voice and begin to understand His character. Then, let's continue to commune and fellowship with Him throughout our times of busyness. Let's learn to dwell in His house all the rest of our days by maintaining continual and loving communication.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6D37466A-6C8D-4401-B692-ED2241AC6A10 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 19:06:00 -0400
The Church in Ephesus was established by the Apostle Paul and became one of the most prominent churches in the early days of Christianity. Paul ministered in Ephesus for three years (Acts 19:1-20), and a few years later wrote the church a special letter of encouragement and instruction (the book of Ephesians); "Ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers" (Ephesians 1:15).

The Ephesians were doing most things "right." They had strong programs, an acute awareness of sin, and a work ethic which should characterize any thriving church: "I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for My name, and have not grown weary" (Revelation 2:2-3).

The hard work of the Ephesian church was readily acknowledged; and yet, they had forgotten that "only one thing is {truly} needed" (Luke 10:42). Though they maintained an outward appearance of devotion, and may have actually accomplished many "Kingdom-driven" goals, the once burning love in their heart had begun to fade.

Revelation 2:4
"Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love."

When we first understand the ugliness of our sin, the death our sin deserves, and how Jesus died to make us clean, we cannot help but be filled with thankfulness...and love. But sadly, in our attempt to "mature," we often shift our focus to the "doing" of outward activities and forget the love which once consumed our heart. We may study more, attend more, and serve more (all of which are good), but we have forgotten how to simply be still and worship at His feet.

As we mature in Christ, we must never outgrow our ability to love; "Repent and do the things you did at first" (Revelation 2:5). Dear Lord, forgive us for setting up barriers which keep us from truly loving others. Forgive us for being so busy that we forsake our intimate love for You. And forgive us for trying to work for what You so freely give. Help us to always remember the MOST important!

Let's return to the place of simple devotion - the place of true worship and all-consuming love. There will always be opportunities to express our faith in good works and service to God. These should not be neglected! But as we work hard, resist sin, and possibly endure great hardship, let's remember that what Jesus truly desires is our heart. In the end, when we see Him face to face, He will look deep within and He will know us by our love.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 98F13BE7-B39D-413A-B0F7-EE0659C5D7C8 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 19:04:29 -0400
Like most of the Old Testament prophets, Amos was chosen by God to deliver a message of repentance and judgement; "Seek the Lord and live, or He will sweep through the house of Joseph like a fire" (Amos 5:6). God was calling His people to return, but they had wandered far from His presence and showed no interest in a life of worship. The economy of their day was thriving and the people had few needs which went unfulfilled; they were content and saw little need for God.

Through Amos, God sent a strong warning. Although He promises to answer all who respond to His call, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Joel 2:32), and He promises to be VERY patient, "not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9), God also warns that the opportunity to hear His Word may not always be available.

Amos 8:11-12
"'The days are coming,' declares the Sovereign Lord, 'when I will send a famine through the land - not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. Men will stagger from sea to sea and wander from north to east, searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it.'"

When we hear the Word of God, the door is open and we are in the middle of a God-directed opportunity. At that moment we have the opportunity to respond to the truth and draw closer to our Heavenly Father. But when we reject His Word, we begin to close the door and harden our heart - the opportunity begins to fade: "So, as the Holy Spirit says: 'Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart'" (Hebrews 3:7-8).

We have been blessed to live during this time in history. Yes, we face the unrelenting pressures of an over-indulgent, self-consumed society; but we have also been blessed with a wonderful abundance of the Word of God. In most parts of the world we have the freedom to worship with other believers and full access to truth-filled teaching. In fact, God's Word has become so readily available that many of us take it for granted.

In the midst of our overflowing blessings, we are becoming complacent and no longer treasure His precious gift. But what would happen if His Word was taken away? What would the world be like if no one was allowed to speak or hear the Word of God? What if we searched for His Word and it could not be found?

Our Heavenly Father loves us dearly. He "wants ALL men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:4); and He wants those who believe to be "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29). Our Father continues to call us to know Him with a greater and more intimate love. Let's make the most of this awesome opportunity by receiving the Word of God, in all its forms, with a hungry anticipation, and then by obediently responding to His call. Let's shake off ALL forms of complacency and rejoice that we do not yet live during a famine of hearing.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 79D923C1-B5A2-45D7-AB38-EF0F251B8C16 Sun, 22 Aug 2010 16:35:27 -0400
In the physical world, there is no measurable quantity which defines darkness; dark is simply the absence of light. Therefore, the measure of darkness can only be in reference to the measure of light - less darkness is only achieved through more light.

In the spiritual world, darkness represents the evil of the enemy and light represents the holiness of God. Though neither can be truly measured, the concept is the same: the darkness of evil only exists when there is an absence of the light of holiness. Dark and light cannot exist at the same time; when light is increased, darkness must fade.

1 John 1:5-6
"This is the message we have heard from Him and declare to you: God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with Him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth."

Salvation is by the grace of God through faith in Jesus and not through anything we do (Ephesians 2:8-9). But the purpose of Salvation is to bring glory to God as we walk in intimate fellowship with Jesus - the true and eternal Light. It is not possible to have fellowship with the Light of Christ and still live a life filled with the darkness of sin. Jesus purifies us from all sin (past, present, and future) in the sense of judgment before the Father, but He also illuminates the dark sin in our life and gives us the strength to gradually push it aside.

A life without the Light is in darkness and cannot even recognize true sin. If we attempt to remove sin without first shining the Light, we simply clean the outside but leave a heart which is dark and dead. Some outsides are dirtier than others; but no matter how filthy an outside may appear, we ALL need the Light of Christ in our heart before we can be clean; "First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean" (Matthew 23:26). In an instant the grace of His Light is able to cleanse what no amount of self effort can ever accomplish.

When our own spiritual life becomes "dim," it usually means our time with the Light has begun to suffer - our discipline of prayer and reading His Word has been replaced with competing distractions. Where we once walked with clear vision, we now bump into walls and continually stub our toes. But God desires to light our path once again. He has "saved us and called us to a holy life" (2 Timothy 1:9), to a life filled with Light, a life of bold clarity in Him.

Let's share the true and eternal Light of Jesus Christ at every opportunity and refocus our priorities on the only sure way to restore our vision. Let's commune with Him in prayer and immerse ourselves in His Word. His path will once again be made clear and darkness will surely fade as we increase the Light.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FC482BDC-3495-46E0-BDFA-BAD77624A40F Sun, 22 Aug 2010 14:11:22 -0400
Our life can be a long and sometimes difficult race. We often grow weary and are in great need of rest; but this race is not like any we have ever run. We do not compete against the other runners, nor do we all even run the same course. We run the race marked out by our Heavenly Father; and yet, we ALL must strive toward the same finish line.

Hebrews 12:1-2
"Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith."

Perseverance means "to persist in spite of opposition or discouragement." But the original Greek includes the idea of patience and a determined endurance. We are therefore being told to patiently run the race, and to keep on running with determination and endurance, in spite of opposition or discouragement.

Hindrances to our race can be represented by weeds which try to wrap around our legs and slow us down. This "sin that so easily entangles" can often be difficult to even recognize. We may be running a clear path without a hint of weeds; everything has been going well and we feel immune to the temptations of this world. But without our eyes fixed on Jesus - without our heart fully trusting Him for every step - our path can become covered before we even realize there's a problem.

We must maintain an acute awareness of the condition of our path. Weeds are not acceptable and must be cleared away (the word of God and prayer is an excellent weed killer!). There are no circumstances where weeds add beneficial "flavor" or excitement - they ALWAYS hinder!!

Please remember that our race is a long marathon, not a quick sprint. In order to persevere, we must prepare for many hills and valleys (and weeds) along the way. We must develop a burning desire to one day boldly say; "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith" (2 Timothy 4:7). Jesus endured the cross (finished the race) because of "the joy set before Him" (Hebrews 12:2). And as we keep our eyes on Jesus as our eternal joy, we "will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:3).

No matter what this day may bring, we must persist with our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus until we hear Him say: "Well done, good and faithful servant....Come and share your Master's happiness!" (Matthew 25:23). Some days we may only be able to take small baby steps, but still we must continue and run with the sole purpose of bringing Him glory and honor in ALL we do. Our race can be filled with joy and peace, but we must commit to a life of absolute trust and run with perseverance!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 3CF064C8-AA02-433B-A0EE-27FF753D6F74 Sat, 14 Aug 2010 15:13:53 -0400
During the three short years of Jesus' earthly ministry, He performed many miracles and preached to crowds large and small. But the moment of greatest acceptance came the week before Jesus was crucified as He entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey. A large number had gathered from all over Israel in preparation of the Passover: "They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting 'Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the King of Israel!'" (John 12:13).

Many would view this as the high point of Jesus' ministry. He had gained a great following and the people even hailed Him as the new King of Israel. But Jesus knew this was not His Father's will. Jesus came for a much greater purpose than to be a temporary king; He came for an eternal glory which required His death.

John 12:24
"I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds."

Jesus spoke these words in reference to His sacrifice on the cross which would occur in a few short days, but His message of death was also intended for us today. Obviously He's not saying we should all be physically crucified, but Jesus IS saying we must experience a death; "whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will find it" (Matthew 16:25). Paul explains this even more directly; "Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature" (Colossians 3:5).

Our earthly nature is home to all our sinful desires, but it's also the source of all the ambitions and dreams not formed by God. When we tightly hold to our dreams and are driven (or drive others) by our own ambitions, we choke what God desires to accomplish and never see the full potential of Christ - never see the abundant life God desires us to live.

We have a tendency to dream and make plans, and then spend our time and energy pursuing the dream rather than truly pursuing Christ. Our dream may even appear very Godly - we may strive for a dynamic ministry or children who love and follow God - but until we allow EVERYTHING within us to die and be replaced by the love of God, we will never experience His very best or witness His most beautiful fruit; "and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me" (Galatians 2:20).

Let's allow the plans of Christ to reign absolutely supreme. We were created for so much more than we can imagine! Let's cast off all sin and leave ALL we hold dear at His feet. He will raise up what He desires to use for the glory of His name, but first we must resolve to let it die.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2937D63E-FD83-483F-8439-6AA1E974D4DD Thu, 12 Aug 2010 23:39:01 -0400
In baseball, the team with the most points at the end of the game wins. But if we attempt to apply the plan of baseball to the game of golf, we will lose every time. Golf is played with different rules and requires a different strategy. Needless to say, it's critical to understand the rules and values of the game in which we are competing - we must know the plan for victory!

A rich man came to ask Jesus how to get eternal life. He had been a good citizen, treated others well, and accumulated much wealth; but Jesus gave an unexpected answer: "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in Heaven. Then come, follow Me" (Matthew 19:21). The rich man failed to see the connection and went away very sad.

Matthew 19:30
"But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first."

Jesus came with a message that the plan of life is not as it seems. The first, by the world's standard, does not automatically win. When the clock of life ticks its last, it will not be the one with the biggest bank account, biggest house, or nicest car who will stand victorious - it won't even be the one who pastors the largest church, feeds the most hungry, or tells the most people about Jesus. Rather, it will only be those who do the true work God requires; "The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent" (John 6:29).

Have we completed the work of God? Do we even value this "work"?

When Jesus was asked what is the greatest commandment, He said; "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30). The greatest commandment ought to be our greatest priority and the foundation on which we build our life, our family, and our ministry. Though other things may be enjoyable, important, or even necessary, they must never be allowed to occupy the throne of our life.

Many of us feel like we're falling behind because of our decision to follow Christ. We see others prosper and start to believe we must compromise in order to keep pace...but the rules of the game have changed! God has a different plan - an eternal plan!! The world around us has the wrong uniform, wrong equipment, and wrong play book. The great deceiver would like to fill us with doubt, but we must not be swayed.

No matter how loud the competition yells that we're going the wrong way, we must boldly continue on the path of truth. The final victory has already been won and we are on the winning team! When God gave His Son and told us to believe, He turned the rules of the world system upside down. Let's forever follow our Coach, thank Him for every single breath, and steadily run according to His plan!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4F435D49-B3C6-43E0-A712-41EFB57C3BBB Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:10:17 -0400
During the days of Moses, God established specific laws for sacrifices. God called for animal sacrifices to teach His people the seriousness of sin and to prepare the way for Jesus. God taught that when a sacrifice was offered, it was to be pure and without blemish: "If the offering is a burnt offering from the herd, he is to offer a male without defect. He must present it at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting so that it will be acceptable to the Lord" (Leviticus 1:3).

Approximately 900 years after the sacrificial law was given to Moses, God used the prophet Malachi to call the people back to a true heart of worship. Since the time of Moses, the people of Israel had gone through many highs and lows in their worship and were currently on another downward spiral. The priests had become very casual with the sacrifices - they had lost all sense of reverence and had ceased to offer God their absolute best.

Malachi 1:7-8
"You place defiled food on My altar. But you ask, `How have we defiled You?' By saying that the Lord's table is contemptible. When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong?"

With the perfect and acceptable sacrifice of Jesus, the need for animal sacrifice has ended; "He entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood" (Hebrews 9:12). Through faith in Jesus, our sins are completely forgiven; "By one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy" (Hebrews 10:14). Faith in the sacrifice of Jesus has become our final sacrifice for the forgiveness of sin - we have been perfected by His blood.

However, each of us who have experienced God's mercy and grace are now urged "to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1a). We are to offer this sacrifice not to earn or even maintain our Salvation, but because "this is our spiritual act of worship" (Romans 12:1b). A true understanding of God's grace in granting us eternal life ought to compel us to a life of thanksgiving and sacrificial worship.

But when we leave His presence for the pleasures of this world, we create blemishes on our heart; and when we practice or give approval to sin, we become spiritually crippled and diseased. We must present ourselves to God and allow Him to use us for His glory. He deserves our very best! We should offer ourselves with a pure heart, without selfish ambition or pride, and free of worldly compromise.

God has given us all we have, made us all we are, and is leading us to all we will become. Let's worship and serve Him with the best we have to offer; let's present our lives to Him as an unblemished sacrifice.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D4BB9BE6-34B6-47BA-BA4C-4DAA523EB776 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 23:41:23 -0400
God has always set aside a select group to carry forth His Word and to help guide His people. In the Old Testament times God designated the descendants of Levi to be priests. The priests were to perform the various sacrifices, give instruction regarding God's Law, and be the general interface between God and man. Since the priests were accountable to God for maintaining His standard, this great privilege also carried an enormous responsibility.

Malachi served as a prophet of God approximately 900 years after the Levitical priesthood had been established. The priests had once held a deep reverence for God, but they now ceased to teach the truth and lost all sense of their calling. Through Malachi, God sent the priests a sharp rebuke.

Malachi 2:7-9
"The lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, and from his mouth men should seek instruction - because he is the messenger of the Lord Almighty. But you have turned from the way and by your teaching have caused many to stumble...you have not followed My ways."

In one regard, this speaks directly to those called into Church leadership - those who are given the responsibility for leading a congregation in the way of truth. But it also speaks to ALL who now believe in Jesus Christ and are committed to following His ways. We must not cause others to stumble by failing to follow the ways of God!

When Jesus came to earth and gave Himself as a sacrifice for our sins, a new covenant was established. No longer is there only a select group of priests who have access to God; rather, all believers are now declared "a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God" (1 Peter 2:9).

The primary duty of a priest in the Old Testament was to seek God's will and effectively communicate the truth of God's Word to those placed within his care. And as members of God's New Covenant royal priesthood, we all have this same responsibility - this same privilege! We must seek His will and speak truth to whoever God places in our path. We do not have the option of watching others wander from God. Allowing someone to destroy their life and their intimate relationship with God through a life of unbelief and sin is neither gracious nor loving - it's cruel and irresponsible!

We are never held accountable for the response of others, only for our presentation of the truth. We must now become faithful to our calling. We must become a priest within our family, at our work, among our friends, and even within our church. We must diligently seek His will and not stray. We must learn His truths and live by them...and speak His truth with grace and compassionate love. Let's give thanks for the opportunity to serve and for being allowed to lead others to a closer relationship with our Heavenly Father. Let's praise Him and faithfully accept our privileged responsibility.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 94EA4210-4155-4CB4-9DA2-A817F299D279 Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:50:29 -0400
In the message "Reaping The Whirlwind" we were encouraged not to sow the wind of unbelief, because a life without faith and the saving grace of Jesus will one day reap an eternal whirlwind of fire. The message of sowing and reaping has critical application for the eternal destiny of many around the world. We must guard against those who sow seeds of false teaching which lead away from the true eternal forgiveness of Christ. But this message also has direct application for our daily walk with our Lord.

We know there are times when we face severe trials which have nothing to do with what we have sown. Jesus made this clear when He said: "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33). We live in a sinful world and often reap the consequences for what others have sown; and for these troubles, Jesus wants us to find our comfort in Him: "But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33).

But we must also understand that many of our trials, and the trials of those around us, are often the result of a multitude of small steps taken outside the will of God.

Galatians 6:7
"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows."

It's foolish to think we can continually walk outside God's will and not face consequences down the road. God dearly loves us and is patiently waiting for us to turn our heart to Him...but God cannot be mocked. Continuous deviation from His path can lead to a long and painful time of wandering.

We must learn this lesson and clearly teach it to others: Obedience in the little things is important! There is nothing too small to justify a lack of obedience. "Whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much" (Luke 16:10). We must learn and teach, very early in life, the importance of honesty and truth, the value of submission and respect for authority. The wind of disobedience begins almost imperceptibly small with "innocent" lies and "harmless" acts of disrespect, but over time it grows until the whirlwind of consequences becomes inevitable.

If we are currently reaping a whirlwind which we know has been sown by our own hands, we must repent and seek His forgiveness, love Him and obediently trust Him with ALL our heart, and ask for the strength to endure. The whirlwind will end, but only in God's perfect timing. And if we know we have been sowing the wind of disobedience and yet see God's hand restraining the whirlwind, we also must repent and seek His forgiveness, love Him and obediently trust Him with ALL our heart...and thank Him for His mercy!

Let's honor Him by only sowing that which glorifies His name. Let's closely examine our life and the lives of those within our care, and be absolutely determined to stop sowing the wind.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2A338CE3-907D-4F26-B507-338F63FD0C41 Tue, 3 Aug 2010 21:36:54 -0400
We often consider our need to more fully submit our life to God and the leading of His Spirit - to place our life in His hands and release our "self" control. We desire to be in His perfect will and serve Him with all our heart. But does our desire to serve go so far as to consider ourselves a slave?

Romans 6:20-22
"When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life."

Slavery has many negative connotations; but, in truth, we are all born into slavery...born a slave to sin. The only way to be set free from the mastery of sin and death is to ask for a transfer of ownership and become a slave to God. Our new Master then has the grace and power to shatter the bonds of sin and give us the gift of true freedom. We are never free unto ourselves, never our own master. Many live under the illusion of freedom, but we are either a slave to sin or a slave to God. If we refuse to be directed by God, we will absolutely be directed and controlled by the sinful pulls of the world.

If we are struggling to break the bondage of sin, we must first stop fighting and submit our life to God. Sin is not a battle we can win with our own strength! The only way to be set free is to receive forgiveness through faith in Jesus...and submit. Submission is not just an optional step for the "mature" Christian; rather, it is the essence of a saving faith. A saving faith first understands we cannot save ourselves but must submit to the grace of God. It then continues in submission by daily trusting in His grace to live according to the ways of His Spirit.

Romans 8:5-6
"Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace."

God is sending out His call around the world today. In the stillness of our heart we've heard Him call us to a closer and more intimate relationship - a more consistently submitted life of true devotion and praise. But He is requiring us to make a choice: "Choose this day whom you will serve" (Joshua 24:15). We have been offered freedom from the power of sin and death. Let's fully embrace His gift, submit to the leading of His Spirit, continue to submit at every opportunity, worship Him with all our heart, and forever become...His devoted slave.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 67212A1C-CA13-4608-9795-4DE03CF6820E Mon, 2 Aug 2010 17:23:26 -0400
In the message "Calling God A Liar" we saw how the way we live directly reflects our true belief. If we do not follow His commands and trust His promises, we do not believe His Word and have effectively called God a liar. But as we draw near and give ourselves more fully into His hands, we learn that His promises are not only true, they are better than we imagined.

When Abraham was over eighty years old, God taught him a lesson on trusting His promises. Abraham became frustrated with God because there was no one to inherit his possessions: "You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir" (Genesis 15:3). But God had other plans and made a promise to Abraham.

Genesis 15:4-5
"'This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir.' He took him outside and said, 'Look up at the heavens and count the stars - if indeed you can count them.' Then He said to him, 'So shall your offspring be.'"

Abraham waited many years for God's promise to be fulfilled. Finally, when he was one hundred years old, Isaac was born. And through Isaac came Jacob, and through Jacob came the sons who formed the twelve tribes of Israel. Abraham was looking for someone to inherit his "stuff," but God's promise gave him an entire nation.

God gives many promises to us today, but they all flow from the promise first stated by Jesus; "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). We must not pass lightly over these words, for none of the other promises even apply until we have believed this basic truth.

We cannot move on to the promises of peace and contentment until we trust in the promise of forgiveness through faith in Jesus. When we begin to understand the significance of the gift of eternal life, we will know that nothing the world can offer will EVER compare to the promises of God...and NOTHING else will last. His promise is the only path to true peace. If we could better understand and really believe, perhaps we would spend less time and effort on pursuits which contain no lasting value - perhaps we would have less anxiety about all those things which only God can control.

Jesus shed His blood so we can truly live. His promise is greater than any worldly pleasure and outweighs ALL worldly trials; "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (2 Corinthians 4:17). As we walk through this world, with all its pulls, temptations and near constant turmoil, let's hold tight to His promise and always remember...NOTHING can compare!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 016B76B0-B493-49C2-8DFA-8B9BD1FA53FB Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:47:21 -0400
God desires that we know Him in an intimate and personal relationship. He has therefore revealed Himself and provided a way to know Him through the life and sacrifice of His Son; "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father... Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me?" (John 14:9-10). As we grow in our faith and begin to know Him better, it becomes essential to know the promises of His Word. But it's even more important to believe His promises are true! We may say we believe God's Word is true, but do our actions reflect our belief?

1 John 5:10
"Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made Him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about His Son."

Yes, our old nature sometimes clouds our ability to clearly see the truth; and yes, some of God's truths can be hard to accept and actually put into practice. But, we either believe His words and begin to take steps to apply them in our life, or we do not believe and call God a liar by the way we live.

It may be a difficult process, but we must confront our beliefs and begin to make them real. When we face a trial and don't know which direction to turn, do we believe the words, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6)? Do we really believe that as we trust Him, He will remove the confusion and guide our steps?

When our circumstances seem out of control, do we believe "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28)? Do we really believe that as we continue to love Him, God works for the good in ALL things, regardless of our understanding? And when we feel alone, do we really believe God's promise to always be near; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5).

How about the promise of being content (Philippians 4:12), or being given the peace of Jesus (John 14:27), or the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23); can we really "do everything through Him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13)? Parents, have we given up hope for our children or do we believe, "Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it" (Proverbs 22:6)?

God's Word is true and His promises are real!! Let's praise Him all the rest of our days and let our lives demonstrate we REALLY know and believe. Let's make sure our actions and decisions, fears and anxieties, hopes and dreams, are governed by truth and NOT based on calling God a liar.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 9A4381D5-8D6A-4643-8E72-B3ACD2C2660B Wed, 21 Jul 2010 23:55:13 -0400
In the message "So We May Know" we looked at some indicators of a "born again" life. We saw that such a life should be characterized by love; "we know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers" (1 John 3:14). Although loving others will not save us, John forcefully states that if we are truly saved we will love one another; "whoever does not love does not know God" (1 John 4:8).

It's interesting to note that in the five chapters of 1 John, the word love is used 46 times. If love is this important, we ought to understand what it means.

1 John 3:16-18
"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down His life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

John is saying that Jesus set the example for love and that our love for others is a direct result of the love of God within us. As we love God and surrender our life to Jesus Christ, His love fills us and overflows into the lives of those around us. If love for others is lacking, we must lay down our life and increase our love for God; a truly increased love for God will certainly increase our love for others.

John also makes it clear that a Godly love for others is not simply an emotional "feeling" or gentle and kind words. When we begin to understand God's love for us - when we catch even a glimpse of His mercy and love in giving us His Son - we will be compelled to express our love with meaningful action such as meeting physical needs, readily forgiving when wronged, and showing Godly compassion when others are hurting. God so desired to be with us for all eternity that He gave His Son and loved us all the way to the cross. We are to love others in this same manner, "because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

Our love for God is demonstrated by our real love for others. Jesus made this clear when He said; "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for Me" (Matthew 25:40). We are actually loving and serving God as we love and serve others: "I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited Me in, I needed clothes and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you came to visit Me" (Matthew 25:35-36).

Love must be an integral part of our Christian walk. Love must be directed up; "love the Lord with ALL your heart" (Mark 12:30), and love must be directed out; "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31). Let's love as Jesus loved us! Let's look for ways to love with more than words - let's love with an active love.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B760B0AE-45C7-427C-AE67-04CDCAE2FFD0 Wed, 21 Jul 2010 22:42:31 -0400
In the message "Imperishable Seed" we saw our need to plant a message of truth; "no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). The Word is clear: only those who have been born of the Spirit by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin, will be given eternal life. But something as important as eternity begs another question: How do we know when we have been born again?

1 John 5:11-13
"God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."

John wrote this first letter to define the changes which ought to take place in the life of a Christian. The believers who read John's letter understood that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). They knew "the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). They had been told the importance of turning from their sin; "repent, and turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out" (Acts 3:19), and they clearly understood the significance of Jesus' death on the cross; "God presented Him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in His blood" (Romans 3:25).

The believers knew it was through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus that they were forgiven and transformed by His Spirit; but, though they knew the process, they still wrestled with knowing if they were saved.

John provided several indicators of a life which truly believes in Jesus. He said those who are born again will obey the commands of God (1 John 2:3-5), and will not continue to live in sin (1 John 3:9). He said a born again life is characterized by love: "We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love our brothers. Anyone who does not love remains in death" (1 John 3:14). John also said our love should not just be with words, "but with actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18).

The born again transformation occurs in our heart and spirit, but John was stating that becoming a new creation ought to result in change. We are not the same! And while the growth of many new creations can be painfully slow, over time there ought to be some form of maturity - all healthy creatures grow!

But if the evidence of being born again is missing, please remember that we cannot generate change by trying harder. Self effort never produces eternal life. Rather, we must return to the cross and consider the darkness of our sin and the brilliance of His love; "we love because He first loved us" (1 John 4:9). For only at the cross is there forgiveness and the power to transform. Let's truly receive the forgiveness offered through faith in Jesus and then continue to grow with a victorious assurance that we are born again. Let's trust the truth of His Word, which has been given into our hands so we may know.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 7F055154-B027-477B-8DA4-A9ED7A783F16 Tue, 20 Jul 2010 17:48:09 -0400
In the message "Scatter The Seed" we considered our call to "scatter" God's Word to as many people as possible without becoming preoccupied with the condition of the soil. We also saw how our technique or ability had little to do with yielding a spiritual harvest; all growth is by the grace of God and we must simply be faithful farmers who plant the seed.

However, we are definitely responsible for the type of seed we are planting. The deceptive enemy of this world is very good at helping and encouraging us to plant weeds, and seeds which never bear fruit. It does no good to scatter seed which has no hope of germination and growth.

As we walk out into the field, we must remember that God's message of Salvation is not about a new set of regulations; we are not saved by trying extra hard to live according to God's commandments. His commands are an essential guide for our spiritual walk, but no amount of obedience will ever result in the transformation which identifies us as a child of God. Our effort will never yield eternal life and we hinder the harvest when we spread such a message!

When Jesus was talking with Nicodemus, He said, "no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). He then said this second birth is not of the flesh but of the Spirit. When we believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, God's grace gives us a spiritual birth as a new creation; "The old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Peter wrote to those who already believed in Jesus. They had been "born again" and had become "new creations" in Christ, but they had come under great persecution for their faith. Peter encouraged them (and us) to remember the eternal nature of our second birth.

1 Peter 1:23
"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God."

Our first birth resulted in our physical bodies - praise God! But, one day, these earthly vessels in which we live are guaranteed to run down and stop functioning - we were birthed of a perishable seed. In contrast, our second birth is of a seed which does not perish - a seed which results in eternal life.

We must never settle for a "good" life or allow our message to stop with good morals and "right" living. These are also perishable seeds which will fade away and lead to death. True life which is abundant and eternal is only found by His grace through faith in the forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Let's plant a true message of our need to be born again by ensuring we always scatter imperishable seed.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm BFA53D19-6FC0-4A92-BA46-A1F1C1D9D358 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 14:52:34 -0400
In the message "Plant and Water" we considered our call to join God in His work by planting the seed of His truth and watering with encouragement at every opportunity. We were also reminded to keep our focus on God as we "work" since He is the One Who makes all things grow.

We see this same principle in the parable of the farmer who scatters seed onto four different types of soil.

Luke 8:5-8
"A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds of the air ate it up. Some fell on rock, and when it came up, the plants withered because they had no moisture. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up with it and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up and yielded a crop, a hundred times more than was sown."

Usually, this parable is considered from the aspect of the different types of soil. The farmer represents anyone who plants the seed of God's Word into someone's life, and the different soils represent the different types of people who hear the gospel message. There is encouragement in these verses for us to be well tilled soil, free of weeds and ready to receive the Word of God. However, let's consider this parable from the aspect of the farmer.

In the days of Christ, fields were planted by scattering or throwing out seed over all areas of a field. In this parable, the farmer is never criticized for waste as he throws seed on the path, in the weeds or on the rocks. Planting day had arrived and it was the farmer's job to simply scatter the seed; he was not required to evaluate the soil. And there was no special technique required for planting. As long as the seed was scattered over a wide area, it would reach the good soil and produce a bountiful crop.

We have been sent out as farmers into the fields of this world with God's Word in our hand and written on our heart; "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). As we consider what to do with our seed, we must remember that the condition of the soil should never be our primary focus. God has entrusted us with a life changing message and it's His desire for this message to be "scattered" to all!

There is definitely a time for tilling soil, pulling weeds, and digging out the rocks that hinder our spiritual growth and the growth of those within our care; but in the field which God has placed us today, the time is always right for planting. Let's share His message of love and forgiveness, of Godly unity and peace. A new day has arrived! Regardless of our perception of the soil - regardless whether we believe they are ready - let's pick up our bag, put on our boots, and be determined to scatter the seed!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 337C7BBE-197F-47FF-AF80-578953533452 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:56:24 -0400
In the message "God's Thermal of Encouragement" we saw how God promises to lift up those who hope and trust in Him. His promise does not depend on the difficulty or darkness of our situation. No matter how hopeless our circumstances may appear, His promise remains and we must trust Him with all our heart - He WILL lift us high and send us soaring! We also considered how we are called to provide lifts of encouragement when others are drifting in the valley of despair. We are called to encourage even when we are unable to witness or recognize the results.

The Corinthians believed in Jesus and were encouraged in their faith through the efforts of multiple people. But Paul reminded them that although many may have provided influence and guidance, it was God who did the real work.

1 Corinthians 3:6
"I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow."

I've often pondered the idea of watering without being able to see growth. My grandparents were married for sixty-five years, lived most of their life in a small farm house, and died a few miles from where they were born. In my youth, their love for the Lord was the foundation upon which I could stand when all else was crumbling. God used their faithful and patient watering for many years to soften my rebellious heart and call me to His side. My grandparents died before my life produced much fruit but they diligently continued to water.

When I entered full time ministry God's call on my life was relatively simple: I was to freely cast out the seeds and refreshing water of His Word and trust Him with ALL my heart. This call has never changed. God said His Word "will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" (Isaiah 55:11). I am to plant and water, and trust God to grow exactly all He desires.

I received the following note from the Philippines in response to the message God's Thermal of Encouragement:

"I'm really too busy with my work but God's Daily Word sustains my knowledge about God. It really helps my spirit to incline with the Lord. I do a lot of travelling far from my home church but I feel like I am in a bible study when I read your articles. It's really a big help since I'm so stressed with my job. I need this for my daily decisions in my work and in my personal life; you help me a lot to be in tune with God."

Indeed, God's Word does not return empty! No matter what our current circumstances, we must obediently plant His message and continue to water with encouragement at every opportunity. Many people are walking in a spiritually dry land and we may be the only bit of Jesus they see or hear...or read. Some seeds take a long time to germinate, and some plants can take years to fully mature and bear fruit. Let's minister with our focus always on the glory of God. He will produce the growth in His timing, and according to His perfect plan. Let's join His work by simply, and faithfully, continuing to plant and water.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm CA585807-90D2-434E-998E-7AA8D6D98AE8 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:21:39 -0400
The Apostle Paul had a definite passion to serve God. Even before his conversion on the road to Damascus, Paul strictly observed God's law; "as for legalistic righteousness, faultless" (Philippians 3:6). But after being confronted by Jesus, his focus forever changed; his passion remained, but his every desire now centered around faith in Jesus and the good news of His gospel message.

Philippians 3:10
"I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death."

Paul pursued an intimate relationship with Jesus and sought to be identified with His death and resurrection. He knew the only way to experience the power of Jesus was to live as a new creation whose sinful nature had been crucified with Christ; and as a new creation, he continually desired to know his Creator.

Truly knowing Jesus Christ is much more than simply knowing "about" Him. We can fill our head with every possible biblical fact and still never know Christ. To know Him is to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength; to trust Him regardless of our circumstances, and to draw close to His side in our joy as well as our suffering. Nothing else in life has any real meaning; "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord" (Philippians 3:8a).

Paul's passion for Jesus allowed him to loose his hold of all worldly attachments; "I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ" (Philippians 3:8b). This uncontested supremacy of Jesus allowed Paul to be "content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12). By giving himself fully to knowing Christ, Paul gained true contentment and peace.

We have the same ability to know Christ today. We are also promised the same results! Peace and contentment will NEVER be achieved through more possessions, activities, or relationships - these are ALL temporary and will fade away with time. Our life will only be truly content when we give ourselves to Jesus and love Him without reservation; we will only be filled with His peace as we seek to know Him.

We may never be asked to give up much for the sake of the gospel; but then again, we may be asked to give up everything! Either way, our heart must always hold loosely to the things of this world. Anything which cannot be released has effectively become a god and crowds the throne which MUST be reserved for the King of Kings. Let's reconsider our priorities - where we spend our time and what commands our thoughts and consumes our energy. Let's give ourselves fully to Him and make sure nothing has become more important than knowing Christ.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 0471DDA1-8113-40DF-9769-73DAFABCDA64 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 10:19:56 -0400
Many of us have experienced that low spiritual valley where we thought the sun would never shine again. Some were sent quickly into the valley by a very specific event. Others drifted slowly to the bottom and can't say by what path they arrived. In either case, we wandered in this gloom until something began to lift us to new heights.

Isaiah 40:29-31
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

An eagle seems to fly effortlessly through the air with only an occasional flap of the wings. These great birds are experts at finding areas of rising air called thermals which allow them to soar without using any of their own energy.

God uses spiritual thermals to lift up those who hope and trust in Him. Those who believe the truth of His Word and diligently search for the rising currents through prayer and undeterred worship will be freed from the heavy baggage which prevents upward flight - they will be lifted up by the guidance and strength of His Spirit.

If we find ourselves back in the valley today, we must continue to seek Him with all our heart and trust that our thermal is on the way. He has promised to strengthen us and cause us to soar once again! And if we're currently flying high in our communion with God, we must give praise and honor to our Heavenly Father; but we must also recognize there are many others in the valley who desperately need a lift - many who are searching and feeling overcome with darkness. As we soar, we must understand that we are never called to fly alone.

God has chosen to use people to accomplish much of His work on earth. He could have chosen other methods; "If they {the people} keep quiet, the stones will cry out" (Luke 19:40), but He chose us. We are to "encourage one another daily" (Hebrews 3:13). Why? Because there is a valley full of people waiting and hoping for that rising current to lift them up and set them free. We can be a rising current for others with simple words or acts of encouragement which show them God's love and gently lead them back toward His peace.

We have been adopted into the "Family" of God...and our Family needs each other very much! Let's dedicate ourselves to soaring high by worshipping God in absolutely every area of our life. Let's continue to rise to new heights and always look for others in need of God's thermal of encouragement!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm CD3CF51D-B75B-426A-8F4A-ECEF987FF9ED Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:16:58 -0400
In the message "Remember The Basics" we saw the importance of returning often to the fundamental truths of our faith. We are called to grow and mature, but never to "grow" such that we are led away from the simple and unchanging truth: God loves us so much that He provided a way to restore a right relationship with Him through faith in His Son. Jesus died so we could live! Does this awesome act of love still amaze us, or have we "matured" to more "important" matters?

Matthew 18:3
"And He said: 'I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.'"

When my daughter was four years old, we read about young Samuel. While discussing this story, my daughter showed me the excited faith God calls us to maintain. Perhaps her faith could teach us all.

As a young boy, Samuel was ministering with an old priest named Eli. One night God called to Samuel, but Samuel thought it was Eli's voice. Eli said he didn't call and told Samuel to go back to bed. After God called a few more times, Samuel realized who was calling and answered: "Speak, for Your servant is listening" (1 Samuel 3:10). God then gave Samuel a message - but the message was all about Eli.

My daughter asked, "Why did God speak to Samuel if the message was really to Eli?" We talked about how we must be ready and willing to hear God. I said Eli may have had some problems or distractions in his life which kept him from hearing God, so God spoke His message through a child. I said little kids (like her) can often hear God better than older people (like me).

"But, I don't hear God talk to me," she said, with a little disappointment in her voice. I explained how God doesn't usually speak so we can hear Him with our ears; rather, His Spirit speaks to our heart and we hear Him as we listen to our heart. Her little eyes widened, "Like today when I was going to sit on one of the baby toys - Jesus told my heart I was too big and shouldn't do it so I listened to what He said."

I encouraged her that this is exactly how God speaks to us, we just need to learn how to listen and then obey. My daughter thought for a moment and then slowly shook her head in amazement: "Wow! That's sooooo cool!!"

Heavenly Father, I pray that Your Word never becomes just an interesting collection of stories. You created us, loved us, and will one day call us Home to be with You for all eternity - and Father, that's sooooo cool!! Help us to come into Your presence with a thankful and loving heart. Strengthen our faith every day and allow us to continually look on You and Your wonders with a childlike amazement.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FF5F2405-A9EC-4CAE-8C3E-B81F8E791469 Sun, 18 Jul 2010 18:15:52 -0400
As we continue down God's path of sanctification, "being transformed into His likeness" (2 Corinthians 3:18), moving from milk to solid food (Hebrews 5:12), and growing in grace and "all spiritual wisdom and understanding" (Colossians 1:9), it's wise to return often to the basics of our faith. As we learn more of our Heavenly Father and ponder His "deeper truths," we must never forget that "God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). The truth of all scripture is that God loves us and is inviting us to join Him - to know Him and enjoy Him - for all eternity.

The Apostle Peter understood the importance of fundamentals. He wrote his second letter to warn us against false teaching and to remind us that, as we step out in faith, we have been given all the necessary tools to accomplish what God desires for our life; "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3).

Peter taught that when we place our trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, we receive everything we need to live a victorious life; "so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires" (2 Peter 1:4). The real challenge of our Christian walk is not in acquiring new and "greater" gifts, but in learning how to best utilize what we have already received.

Peter also wanted us to remember that Salvation is not the end of our journey; rather, it's the beginning of a long and wonderful walk which begins in faith and continues by growing ever closer to Christ. Since we have been given such a wonderful gift, we should "make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love" (2 Peter 1:5-7). We must continue to grow such that the end result - the highest quality of our Christian life - is love!

Peter believed these to be fundamental truths, but truths which were necessary to often repeat!

2 Peter 1:12-13
"So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live."

To ensure we don't wander down side paths filled with self-effort and self-importance, or stumble in the world's temptation of corruption and evil desires, we must continually return to the starting point of our faith. We must never forget that God loves us and desires to walk with us each and every day. All that we do must be directed by God and accomplished with the tools He has provided. Let's dig deep at every opportunity, but let's remain lovingly close to His side and always remember the basics.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6BAEAADF-E6AC-4745-B3EE-9E5D60C2C74E Wed, 14 Jul 2010 21:42:47 -0400
When the Apostle Paul met Jesus on the road to Damascus, his life was forever changed. Prior to meeting Jesus, Paul was "breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples" (Acts 9:1). After the encounter with Jesus and being filled with the Holy Spirit, Paul "began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God" (Acts 9:20).

Paul had been given the task of preaching the gospel of God's grace through faith in Jesus; and he would do so for the remainder of his life. But Paul would endured many trials along the way. He faced those who desired to take his life and others who simply refused to listen to his message...but he continued on.

Colossians 1:29
"To this end I labor, struggling with all His energy, which so powerfully works in me."

Paul "labored" and "struggled" with the task he had been given. But rather than rely on his own strength and abilities, Paul learned to labor with the energy of Christ.

The word Paul used for "energy" refers to the active working of God's power. Paul used this same word to describe the power all believers have received from God; "That power is like the working {energy} of His mighty strength, which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at the right hand in the Heavenly realms" (Ephesians 1:19-20).

God has provided a power like the energy which flowed through Jesus and raised Him from the dead. This is a remarkable gift, yet one we seldom use. With His energy we can receive clear direction; we can be focused and accomplish all He desires. Without His energy we may wander from task to task, become exceedingly weary, and never accomplish anything of eternal value.

There will be times of overwhelming adversity when God simply takes charge and directly fights the enemy. But, for the majority of our journey, God directs us to continue struggling in the daily labor of accomplishing His work. Jesus said the burden of this work will be greatly eased as we learn to attach ourselves to Him and walk by His side; "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light" (Matthew 11:30).

We only fail in His work when we fail to trust; "I can do EVERYTHING through Him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). God's path can certainly change direction and become difficult from time to time, but His provision will always be sufficient and it is ALWAYS too soon to quit - we must continue. We can do all things and find great fulfillment as we attach ourselves to Christ and labor with all HIS energy.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 9655941C-D4CC-45E9-BB8A-26EF34E23263 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 11:08:23 -0400
When we become a Child of God, through faith in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, He loves us in spite of our failures - in spite of the way we stumble and sometimes fall. But what type of love do we give in return? Do we have a continual love which remains through good and bad, or do we love only during our "scheduled" times and only when the conditions of our life are favorable for worship?

The prophet Habakkuk ministered during the same general time as Jeremiah, Daniel, and Ezekiel. This was a time when the southern kingdom of Judah was being invaded by Babylon and eventually taken into captivity. There was great wickedness, sorrow, and fear in the land. Habakkuk asked God many of the same questions we might ask today: "How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but You do not listen? Or cry out to you, 'Violence!' but You do not save?" (Habakkuk 1:2).

Habakkuk was frustrated that God appeared slow in answering his prayers and was allowing so much evil to go unpunished. Yet through these many trials, Habakkuk developed a deep and unwavering love.

Habakkuk 3:17-18
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior."

Habakkuk presented his heart-felt and anguished concerns; but regardless of the outcome, his love for God would remain unchanged. Even if every one of his prayers seemed to go unanswered, he was determined to love God with all his heart. This same love was expressed by Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego before they were thrown into the furnace. They knew God could save them, but their love did not depend on being rescued: "But even if He does not {save us}, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up" (Daniel 3:18). They loved God simply because He was God!

We know there will be times when the world around us seems to fall apart - times when our life begins to crumble and the heat of the furnace seems very real. There will also be many times when we just don't understand God's plan or timing. Our path may seem unclear and His timing painfully slow. When this occurs, we must strive for a love that doesn't fade or waver; a love which isn't weakened by heat or torn by the force of the wind; a love which is pure and not conditioned by external circumstances.

Our Heavenly Father is our only true source of comfort and strength; "He alone is my rock and my salvation: He is my fortress, I will never be shaken" (Psalm 62:2). He has given His very best, and we ought to return our very best with a life of unbroken worship. Let's truly rejoice that He is God and faithfully give Him our unconditional love.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 002910E8-628B-48DF-B19B-AA866AC5D48D Sat, 10 Jul 2010 12:07:41 -0400
Seven hundred years before Jesus walked the earth, the prophet Micah wrote words given to him by God; words that tell what God expects from His Children.

Micah 6:8
"He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

God loves us so much that He gave His Son so we may be restored to Him and receive the gift of eternal life (John 3:16). When we begin to understand the fullness of His love and place our complete trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, it's natural to ask: "What do You now require of me Lord?" But as we search the Scripture, we find no additional "requirements" for our Christian walk which are not summed up in the words of Micah.

As we live by faith, we must "act justly" by doing what is fair and right; "Anyone who does not do what is right is not a Child of God" (1 John 3:10). This means we live with integrity and "love your neighbor as yourself" (Mark 12:31).

God requires that we "love mercy" by showing compassion and forgiveness for others; "judgement without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful" (James 2:13). It also means we live with a continual thankfulness for God's mercy toward us. An understanding of God's merciful forgiveness of our sins should compel us to forgive and show mercy to others. Without God's mercy, we would all be lost.

The final requirement is for us to "walk humbly" with our God. The word humble means to place a low value on "self." This is not a very popular concept in our "me-first" generation which seems to reward the individual who is prideful and confident in his own ability. We are trained to achieve, acquire, and rise higher than we believe possible; but God calls us to submit and walk with Christ continually exalted above all else in our life; "He must become greater; I must become less" (John 3:30).

True humility is required for proper worship and thankfulness before God. We did NOTHING to deserve eternal life and yet we have received. We are made worthy and given value without having done anything to earn our Salvation. This heavenly gift ought to produce a never ending stream of praise from our heart and cause us to focus less on ourselves and more on the needs of others.

All we have and ALL we are has been given to us by a loving God who created the Universe and accepted us into His Kingdom through faith in His Son. Let's glorify Him with every step we take; and with each step of faith, let's remember to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm DE5D5E6D-934E-4D90-B788-9776787C0E73 Wed, 7 Jul 2010 17:45:54 -0400
A few years ago I visited a planetarium and remember coming away with a renewed wonder of God's creation. I saw many pictures taken from large telescopes and even many taken from space. The stars are fascinating! I've often looked into the night sky and wondered about God's promise to Abraham: "'Look up at the heavens and count the stars - if indeed you can count them.' Then He said to him, 'So shall your offspring be'" (Genesis 15:5). When Abraham looked into that dark clear sky, you can be sure he saw a LOT of stars.

But as incredible as our night sky appears, the facts of our universe quickly become staggering. During the day we see the sun - which is really just the closest of all the stars. Our sun, though it appears large, is a relatively small star located 93 million miles from Earth. This distance is about the same as traveling around the world 4,000 times. And though this distance is hard to comprehend, the next nearest star is 270,000 time further away. But that's only two of the 200 billion stars in our Milky Way galaxy - a galaxy which takes light 100,000 years to travel from one end to the other!!

But as incredible as our galaxy appears, the Milky Way is but one of billions of other galaxies within the Universe. There are estimated to be as many galaxies in the Universe as there are stars in the Milky Way.

But as incredible as our Universe appears...

Genesis 1:1
"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

Just like that, it was done...and it was good. The Creator spoke and the Universe appeared. He then selected one of the billions of galaxies, one of the billions of stars within the galaxy, and one of the many planets around this star to create a people to call His own. God's plan from before the foundations of the world was to create a family who is adopted "as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will - to the praise of His glorious grace" (Ephesians 1:5-6).

We who believe that Jesus Christ died for the forgiveness of our sin become a testimony of praise to God's glory and grace. In the same way, the immensity of the stars give testimony; "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Psalm 19:1). I can barely understand the distance to our sun, let alone the size of our galaxy or the size of the Universe; and I'll spend a lifetime trying to comprehend the "size" of our God; "The heavens proclaim His righteousness, and all the peoples see His glory" (Psalm 97:6).

If we would look up on a clear night we might see that our perceived status, as well as our varied problems, are all quite small. And we might begin to understand our God to be much, much bigger than we thought. We might even just shake our head, as we try to understand His love, and realize this is all for His glory.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2B5FCAA3-0111-4C52-A094-B77E6D6CB685 Fri, 2 Jul 2010 11:49:28 -0400
Today (Thursday) was the fifth day on the Tohono O'Odham Indian Reservation in southern Arizona with our youth group. It was a great day and we will go back out tomorrow and then begin the two day trip back home on Saturday. I'm so proud of our youth. They have been physically and spiritually challenged and have responded with some awesome growth in their relationship with God. I'm humbled by their desire to live for God and share His love with others. They will certainly have their share of struggles over the next months and years, but I'm so excited about what God is going to do through the lives of these young people.

This is also my last post regarding this missions trip. I will return to the regular devotional messages on Monday. This was the first time I have ever posted this kind of "real time" messages and I pray it has been a blessing.

I'll end this series with a strong exhortation about something which God has placed on my heart over the last several months, confirmed on this missions trip, and shouted with clarity during my quiet time this morning.

James 1:27
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world."

This is another one of those passages which you need to read and allow to sit in your ponder bucket for a time. Does the Bible really mean what it says? Can we truly read this as the Word of God? If so, then I don't see any other way to read this except that the only religion acceptable to God is the one which looks after orphans and widows. In the context of the time of Christ, this means those who are the outcast of society who have no means to care for themselves.

Many people around the world live in communities and attend churches without a large orphan and widow population. But there are also many, many communities around the world where the majority of the population is made up solely of orphans and widows. Though our own immediate community may not have a great need, the call from God remains - we are to care for the orphans and widows. If the need is not apparent in our own community then we must begin to look outside and around the world.

What are we doing to provide care for those in need? And please believe me that the need is huge! Let's begin to evaluate our place of worship, our family and personal priorities, and determine if we are being obedient to the call of God. Let's recommit to being part of a religion which is acceptable and pleasing to God and take some very definite steps to answer His call. This is my last report from the nation of Tohono O'Odham - Day 5.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 8F88CCB0-0498-4DF5-9EAF-C95DD374A4E9 Fri, 2 Jul 2010 09:43:54 -0400
Today (Wednesday) was the fourth day on the Tohono O'Odham Indian Reservation in southern Arizona with our youth group. Our days have now settled into a schedule, though admittedly a schedule with great variations. We get up early for a quiet time of Bible study and prayer, clean up, eat, and head out to the various villages by about 8:00. The Bible camp runs from about 9:00 to 11:00, then back to our lodging facility for lunch and off to a different village for a sports camp from 3:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon. Our evenings are filled with worship and lots of mutual encouragement.

With some of the uncertainties removed, the ministry is allowed to become much more relational. At night we talk (at length) about our day and I'm amazed by how many of our youth are able to name the kids they have been working with, tell specific things about their family, and know how to pray for them. They are excited to return tomorrow and continue their ministry.

In yesterday's message I considered the importance of humility and how the best path toward being humble is to come into the presence of God. But I intentionally skipped over an important point in the main verse.

James 4:5
"Or do you think Scripture says without reason that the spirit He caused to live in us envies intensely?"

Remember that this passage is in the middle of a section on the need for humility and how God opposes the proud, and even how our pride is caused by worldly desires and wrong motives - by envy. Yet, at the same time, this passage says that one of the very things in our spirit which causes us to be prideful is given to us by God. How can this be? More importantly, why might this be?

This entire passage was significant to me because I'm often frustrated by the flaws in my character. It seems like I have the same struggles over and over again. I often say things I regret, or with a tone I regret, and have thoughts which are not pleasing to God. Why is it so difficult to live pure? And then I come to this verse which seems to say that the spirit which God caused to live within me contains flaws, which means these flaws are intentional. So is it possible that we are given a flawed spirit by God; and if so, why?

I believe the why may be answered in the next verse. Our spirit He gave us is flawed, "but He gives us more grace" (James 4:6). The recognition of our flaws brings us to God for more of His grace. Does anyone else see the beauty in this? God is drawing us to Himself though all things, even through our flaws. When we are proud and fail to recognize our flaws we are opposed by God; but when we will admit our flaws, which requires great humility, and draw near to the presence of God, He will give us more of His grace to live a life which brings Him glory.

Thank you God for loving me enough to draw me to Your side, even through my many flaws. This is my report from the nation of Tohono O'Odham - Day 4.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 8467C61E-BBE5-45E0-A32C-6F941B6A9A52 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 14:18:35 -0400
What is it about being hot, tired, and emotionally drained that allows us to hear from God? It's not like you could market the process in a book - Seven Steps to Hearing From God; Step 1, Don't Sleep Right; Step 2, Don't Eat Right; Step 3, Continually Change Your Circumstances; Step 4, Be Frustrated and Challenged Beyond Your Abilities; etc... No, you may not find this in a book, but there is definitely something about being brought to the end of yourself which brings clarity to the plans of God. More on this later.

Today (Tuesday) was the third day on the Tohono O'Odham Indian Reservation in southern Arizona with our youth group. We had an incredible day and God used our youth to bring twelve children to faith in Jesus Christ. It's always difficult to know the level of understanding or the sincerity of the belief, but these twelve children were clearly presented the gospel message and indicated they wanted to place their trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of their sin. All we can do now is trust God for their salvation and do our best to follow up through the rest of the week.

The real blessing of this story is that God used many different individuals in our youth group to lead these children to Christ. This was not a response to one message but individual responses to many different conversations. This means that God moved on the hearts of our youth to give them the desire to share the gospel; He gave them the words to share to properly communicate; and He gave them the boldness to step out and take the initiative when the opportunity was presented. The long term potential of all God did today is staggering.

Back to the clarity of God's plans and being tired. Did I mention that it's now two in the morning and I will wake up in four hours ready for another day of ministry? I'm tempted to stop here but I really want to share something of how God gave me direction during my quiet time today.

The fourth chapter of James begins with reasons why quarrels take place; "Don't they come from your desires that battle within you?" (James 4:1). The chapter continues with an explanation of why these desires are wrong and harmful; "Don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God?" (James 4:4). This explanation if then used to establish the need for the grace of God...and for humility.

James 4:5-6
"The spirit He caused to live in us envies intensely. But He gives us much more grace. That is why Scripture says: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."

In this passage God showed me a great motivation to rid my life of pride. Do I really want to be opposed by God? That would indeed be foolish. Pride is set in opposition to humility - pride could even be defined by the lack of humility. So the best way to rid oneself of pride is to focus on that which makes us humble. And the best way to be brought to a posture of humility is to spend time in the presence of God where we are forced to realize who we truly are, and who we are not. I have nothing which God did not provide - and all I have is so very small compared to the majesty of God. How can I possibly be proud in the presence of God?

So what part of God's plan was clarified? Remain in His presence and receive His grace. This is my report from the nation of Tohono O'Odham - Day 3.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 02C3953A-1720-476F-81F9-4C3E2BAB85C0 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 12:50:07 -0400
Today (Monday) we traveled ninety minutes to the village of Menegers, located right on the US-Mexico border. This village contains about thirty-five homes, no stores, one small Catholic church, and a nice recreation center built with money from the Indian casinos near Tucson. It's odd to see the quality of the recreation center in the middle of such otherwise poor conditions; but it was a huge blessing for us as it made for a natural gathering for ministering to the kids.

We had over thirty kids attend our morning and afternoon camps. We also had several parents who stayed and learned the Bible verse, sang songs about the amazing love of God, worked with a craft project about Jesus as the bread of life, and heard the gospel message presented in a simple yet complete manner. In another message this week I will highlight a family I met who demonstrated such a wonderful joy with life, but today I need to share a little about our youth. And what I need to share is, well...they smell.

2 Corinthians 2:15-16
"For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to the task?"

Youth are an interesting group to try and understand. You pray for them; you teach them; you try to lead by example; and literally years can go by without any significant indication that anything is penetrating to the heart. And then, God allows you to see something amazing, or maybe I should say to smell something wonderful.

I have been allowed to see things in our youth that I didn't know were there. Our youth have been praying together, worshiping together, ministering together, and having special quiet times with the Lord. In the last few days, seeing this has been my biggest blessing. Sure, we are currently in a unique environment which allows for a better spiritual focus; but perhaps if we could find more ways to encourage this same focus, or to allow this focus to come to the surface, more of us would be allowed to see the awesome heart of youth all around the world.

Yes, I need to tell you that our youth smell. And that smell is a sweet aroma to God, and to me the fragrance of life! This is my report from the nation of Tohono O'Odham - Day 2.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6E1FC3C2-D80F-4D2A-AC7C-3BD64F59696E Tue, 29 Jun 2010 12:09:06 -0400
All this week I will be writing and sending messages from southern Arizona - the town of Sells in the heart of the Tohono O'Odham Indian reservation. I am helping lead a group of twenty-eight 7th to 12th grade kids from our church. We will be splitting into smaller groups and traveling each day to various villages on the reservation to do a children's Bible camp in the morning and a sports camp in the afternoon. I pray that the sharing of some of my experiences will be a blessing.

Today (Sunday) was mostly involved with preparation for the week. Preparation involved things like traveling to the villages and inviting kids to the activities, and meeting parents so they are comfortable with allowing their kids to attend. But probably a more important part of the preparation was in preparing our hearts for the week - for what God will do in the villages and what He will do in our own lives. Please pray for our young people and my ability to lead.

This morning, in my own preparation time, I was reminded of the need to seek God each and every moment - even when I'm not sure of the destination. One of the key points of my study was, "The fully faithful relinquish the privilege of expecting answers." The emphasis of our walk ought to be on the moment by moment love of God and praising Him with each step rather than requiring God to reveal the entire path of our journey. This was exactly what I needed to receive today!

I have a terrible tendency to want to know God's long term plan - the specifics for my life. I'm ready to follow! But I desperately want to know where I'm going; or rather, where I will be going at some point down the road. Today, in the quiet of the Arizona desert, I was reminded that the only part of God's plan that I really need to be concerned with is the one which is occurring right now - and that part of God's plan always seems to be clear.

Colossians 3:2-3
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God."

My life is now hidden with Christ in God. Jesus surely knows where we are going...and that ought to be good enough. I will trust Him to lead, focus on obediently following moment by moment by moment, and praise Him ALL along the way. I'm sure I will forget, but right now His message is clear. And that's worth a good Praise God!

I look forward with great expectations to what God will do this week. This is my report from the nation of Tohono O'Odham - Day 1.

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6B0A7963-8B68-4FDC-B7CB-CB19993C0D9D Sun, 27 Jun 2010 16:13:45 -0400
As I look back through the Scriptural account of history, I can see how God sent His Son to be born in a manger, grow and live among us, and die for our sins upon a cross. I can clearly see how the sacrifice of Jesus allows us, through faith, to enter into God's presence. I can even see the purpose of His humble birth as a permanent example of humility and service. But what I don't think I'll ever fully understand is why. Oh, sure, I know the reason is love; "For God so loved the world that He gave..." (John 3:16), but I seriously doubt I'll ever understand the amount of love required to sacrifice so much - the amount of love He had (and has)...for me!

Paul wrote his letter to the Romans with the intent of setting foundational beliefs for the church. In this letter, Paul presented the greatest amount of teaching found anywhere in the Bible. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Paul wrote on topics ranging from sin and judgment, to faith and salvation; from the purpose of the Law and life through the Spirit, to the sovereignty of God and the future of Israel. But toward the end of the letter, Paul paused and wrote a short prayer of praise and glory.

Romans 11:33-36
"Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay Him? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen."

We almost get the feeling that Paul had reviewed the first portion of his letter and just couldn't continue writing without praising the Lord. Paul had wrestled through many difficult issues and learned a most valuable lesson: God is God...and sometimes this simple truth defies understanding.

God has a perfect plan where every piece fits neatly together; but there are MANY connections which our finite minds fail to comprehend. I almost never see the purpose of my trials until long after they have past. I get impatient and frustrated with God's timing - I want to know His plan, now! And yet, I know His love for me gave everything; "He humbled Himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8). I may not fully understand this love, but the little I know is enough to create a desire to live a life of devotion and faith. One day, I will stand before His throne and all His mysteries will be perfectly revealed. Until then I will simply continue to worship and trust.

We may never fully understand, but I pray we are all drawn a little closer today. If you have never experienced His love, I pray that you will release your heart into His care. If you're feeling unloved by the world, I pray you will look to Him and see a Father who gave His Son so He could hold you for all eternity. He is an unsearchable God who has poured out, for you, an unsearchable love.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2A92F884-A414-49E2-AAB0-B7E45B384426 Sun, 27 Jun 2010 15:45:10 -0400
In the message "Stay Off The Roof" we saw how seemingly innocent beginnings can have disastrous results when we entertain even the slightest area of temptation. This becomes even more critical in marriage when the result of temptation can cause great pain to the one given to us as a gift from God.

By the middle of the sixth day, God had created the sun, moon and stars; the land, sky, and water; the fish, birds, plants and animals; and when He looked at His creation, "God saw that it was good" (Genesis 1:25). But God's creation was not yet complete; "Then God said, 'let us make man in our image'" (Genesis 1:26), and out of the dust of the ground, God breathed life into man and put him in the Garden of Eden, "to work it and take care of it" (Genesis 2:15).

As God watched man go about his work, He saw that something was not right. Some have suggested that man looked a little sad; others have joked that man was making a big mess and kept wandering around, lost and confused. Whatever the cause, God looked at His latest creation and said:

Genesis 2:18
"It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

Adam needed more than someone to help him with his chores; he needed someone to make him complete! So God formed woman, not from the ground but from a rib taken from Adam's side; "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh" (Genesis 2:23).

If God gives us someone as a special gift to make us whole, they ought to be cherished and protected for a lifetime; "For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh" (Genesis 2:24). Like pieces of a puzzle that fit neatly together, a God-ordained marriage joins and completes by making two become one.

It's sad how quickly we forget these basic truths. We continue to place our individual desires ahead of the union created by God. We "toy" with temptations without regard to the potential devastation. The result is often a civil war with years of spiritual bloodshed and an eventual ripping apart of what God has joined. We must stop this downward spiral before it even begins.

To the MANY singles, I pray that God would give you encouragement and strength; I pray He would be the true Helper I know you desperately need. To those who are married or planning to marry, I pray we would now and forevermore see our spouse as a true gift from God given to make us whole. I pray we would forever thank Him for joining us together and commit to the protection of the union. I pray we would always remember that when God provides our most suitable helper (and completer), the two become one flesh.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 390D28AD-B98E-475E-857A-E656992AFEF5 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:11:53 -0400
King David gave in to temptation with Bathsheba and then tried to cover up his sin with lies and murder. How could someone described by God as, "A man after My own heart" (Acts 13:22), make such a bad error in judgment? Sin is rarely the result of a single poor choice. Most often, the actual sin is caused by a long drift away from the presence of God and several specific decisions made outside His will.

2 Samuel 11:1
"In the spring, at the time when kings go off to war, David sent Joab out with the king's men and the whole Israelite army. They destroyed the Ammonites and besieged Rabbah. But David remained in Jerusalem."

David had become complacent about his duties as King. When the rest of his men were off at war, David stayed home with not much to do. He could have spent time drawing closer to God with prayer and study of the Word, but apparently David allowed himself to become quite restless.

2 Samuel 11:2
"One evening David got up from his bed and walked around on the roof of the palace. From the roof he saw a woman bathing. The woman was very beautiful."

David walked on the roof and (much to his surprise?) he saw a naked woman in a bathtub! Remember that David built this palace - he knew every detail of the architecture. He knew exactly where the bath houses were and knew the preferred times of bathing! "But each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin" (James 1:14-15).

David's sin began long before he climbed into bed with Bathsheba. It began with letting down his guard of self-discipline and wandering from God; it then continued by entering an area of compromise - an area where he was enticed.

We must all recognize our "roof" where we become susceptible to temptation: "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). Many times, our way out of temptation is simply to not visit the place where we know temptation resides - to not allow temptation to even germinate in our heart.

Is there a restlessness which is causing us to drift from God? Are we spending time and energy on activities, in places or conversations (physical or virtual), which we know are not honoring to God? Let's remain in His presences and ask God to open our eyes to the vulnerable areas of our life; let's commit to walk the path of purity and stay off the roof!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 5F608A54-1079-4475-87DA-756F713D2A54 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:06:24 -0400
When Isaac was sixty years old, his wife Rebecca gave birth to twin sons. Esau was born first, followed immediately by Jacob; "with his hand grasping Esau's heal" (Genesis 25:26). Esau grew to be a skillful hunter while Jacob stayed more around the tents with his mother.

In the days of Esau and Jacob, the firstborn son was given a special honor called the birthright. The child having the birthright received a double portion of the family inheritance as well as the eventual privilege of family leadership. The birthright could be traded, but all future birthright blessings were then lost.

Genesis 25:29-32
"Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. He said to Jacob, 'Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I'm famished!' Jacob replied, 'First sell me your birthright.' 'Look, I am about to die,' Esau said. 'What good is the birthright to me?'"

Esau was a young man who lived "in the moment" and traded his birthright for a bowl of stew. He placed much greater value on immediate gratification than on future blessings; and he exaggerated his immediate need in order to justify the future loss. The mighty hunter may have been hungry - maybe even VERY hungry - but he certainly was not about to die.

Esau's decision to let go of his birthright was based on the temporary needs he could see and feel. His focus on the immediate caused him to lose the blessings which were greater and long lasting, but unseen. Jacob would later steal Esau's final blessing from their father, but Easu freely gave away his birthright because he never understood its true value.

Similar trades are being made today. We just don't understand (or believe) the value of blessings. When a child leaves home in rebellion, they trade the blessing of an honoring relationship with their parents for perceived pleasures of immediate freedom. When a spouse pursues a relationship outside of marriage, they trade the blessing of a God-honoring union for perceived pleasures of the flesh. And when we fail to "wait upon the Lord" with decisions, we have allowed our impatience to trade away the blessing of walking in God's perfect will. We may spend a lifetime understanding the value of this blessing!

So what bowl of stew are we trading for today? God has promised a blessing for those who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior, for those who trust in Him for the forgiveness of sin and walk daily in His light. He has promised to set us free to live a life of true peace, purpose and contentment, and an eternal glory in His presence when we die. ALL worldly pleasures will one day fade away; "For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:18). Let's devote our lives to worship and obediently follow wherever He leads. Let's keep our eyes on the eternal and NEVER trade the blessing.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm A22F4910-DA0B-4393-B2B2-0C6FFDE0DE3B Tue, 22 Jun 2010 15:09:23 -0400
Ice will turn to water at a temperature just above zero degrees centigrade. We might consider the water to be consumed as it turns to steam at one hundred degrees centigrade. Wood must be heated to a much higher temperature before it's consumed, and metal must be heated even more. I wonder how much heat is required to finally consume the works of my flesh and burn away my selfishness and pride.

Hebrews 12:28-29
"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire."

When we begin to understand the Kingdom we've inherited through Christ, we dare not enter His sanctuary with anything but pure praise and worship. Whatever else we attempt to bring is born in our flesh with a spirit of pride. If we say, "Look at what I've brought You, my Lord!" He will simply burn it to ash. We might protest, "But God, look at all I've done for You!" and the heat will be turned up until all we hold is consumed.

Is our greatest ambition to impact the world for Christ? Is our motivation to be significant in the eyes of God or become a major player in the advancement of His Kingdom? Beware! Though these sound good and have the appearance of being pleasing to God, they are conceived in pride and will be consumed.

We truly can bring Him NOTHING of worth except a pure heart; "All our righteous acts are like filthy rags" (Isaiah 64:6). Our greatest desire (our ONLY desire) must be to praise and worship the King through all we think, say, and do. All our striving to be obedient and produce good works - all of our "Godly" motivation and ambition - must flow simply as a direct outpouring of our worship.

If we are still trying to conquer something for Christ, we have not yet fully submitted to His leading nor found complete rest in His strength. Jesus came with all knowledge and power, and yet He walked with absolute surrender and submission; "the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what My Father has commanded Me" (John 14:31).

This is a daily challenge, one of the more subtle battles between the Spirit and the flesh. While we must strive, we must also remember that God does not need anything we produce. True fruit which pleases our Heavenly Father comes only as we "remain in the vine" (John 15:4), and love Him with all our heart.

The same fire that will one day burn all our righteous acts can be used today to cleanse our heart. Let's come into His presence and worship with pure reverence and awe. Let's allow every selfish desire and every fiber of pride to be burned away in His consuming fire.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm C81B6172-4575-4F65-97EE-8949777FC1D5 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:38:34 -0400
In the message "Paid in Full" we considered the sacrifice of Jesus as the payment for our sin. His sacrifice on the cross occurred during the Jewish Passover, a yearly time of celebration and remembrance ever since God led the nation of Israel out of Egypt.

The traditional Jewish Passover meal, or Seder, is designed to direct one's heart back to the praise and honor of God. One of the traditional Passover songs is called Dayenu, a Hebrew word meaning "it would have been enough." Each verse of this song recounts one of God's blessings and states if this was all God had done, it would have been enough - Dayenu!

If God had only led His people out of Egypt - Dayenu! But He did more! If He had only parted the sea - Dayenu! But He did more! If He had only fed them in the wilderness - Dayenu! But He did more! If He had only given His Holy Word - Dayenu! The Christian Jews add a final verse to this song which reminds them of how God saw a sinful people and yet loved them enough to give His Son.

Romans 5:6
"At just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly."

I'm often grieved by the lack of thankfulness in the world...and in my own heart. I'm saddened by those who do not know God and fail to see His loving hand in all creation. I'm saddened by the Jewish people who have all the history of God's love but, as a group, have lost their deep reverence and worship. But mostly I'm saddened by Christians who place their trust in the sacrifice of Jesus, and yet live their life with an attitude which says: What have You done for me lately? God, You must not care about me because my job no longer satisfies, or my finances are a mess, or I'm unhappy in my relationship.

Can we even begin to understand how this must sound to God? When we were still powerless - when we were dead in our sin - God sent His Son to die so we could live! We live because of His love, yet we complain and grumble because of trivial fluff. Shame on us! Shame on me!! If everything were stripped away and all we had was Jesus, would He really be enough? And if He is enough, don't we then already have ALL we need?

Through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus, we are given the ability to stand and live in the presence of a Holy God - His death and resurrection is completely sufficient! But He did even more! He gave us His Spirit to strengthen us and guide us in His truth, and He gave us His peace which surpasses all human understanding. Let's remember the blessings we've already been given. God looked down and sent His One and Only Son - Dayenu! Jesus is Enough!!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1A080E29-A3F8-4547-9E04-FBE28CC9BEFE Thu, 10 Jun 2010 19:15:10 -0400
In the message "He is Risen" we were encouraged to live as though we know Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. Please don't skim past this encouragement because you think all Christians know this simple fact. The challenge is not in knowing the correct answer, but in living consistent with the answer in terms of thankfulness and perseverance - in living a life of hope and power. The following courtroom drama helps us understand the implications of a risen Lord.

The prosecution is aggressively presenting the case against us. There's a parade of witnesses and a multitude of accusations flung our way. Our head hangs low. We sadly realize that no objection can be raised; every charge against us is true. Our heart sinks as the prosecution confidently concludes his case; he has demanded the maximum penalty - death!

Our defense attorney has sat silently through the entire proceeding, but now He rises. His white robe glides across the floor as He moves between us and the Judge. Stretching out His arms, He reveals deep scars on both His wrists. He looks into the eyes of the Judge and says: "Father, while they were in the midst of their crimes, I died so they may live." Without a moment of hesitation, the gavel sounds and the Judge declares: "Not Guilty!"

The verdict in God's courtroom is not dependent on the balance of good versus bad. There is no amount of good deeds and moral living that will ever cancel the charge against us; "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). And there is only one sentence we truly deserve; "For the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).

But God has provided an Advocate, whom He has already approved by His resurrection, and who now stands ready to walk by our side; "We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One" (1 John 2:1). This Advocate has only one requirement in order to present our case.

Romans 10:9
"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."

Believing in our heart means much more than simply knowing the story. It means a belief which pumps through every part of our body and gives us life! It means understanding that without Him we have no life!!

We need not live in fear! We can "approach the throne of grace with confidence" (Hebrews 4:16), because the verdict has already been determined; "there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). When we believe, we are free to truly live because our debt has been paid in full!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 138AB0FF-A458-49D1-9D19-5B7146909187 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:55:06 -0400
On the night before He was crucified, Jesus, while in great anguish, showed the human side of His nature and asked if there was another way for God's plan to be accomplished; "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from Me" (Matthew 26:39a). Though He knew He would be physically, emotionally, and Spiritually tormented, nailed to a cross and hung until dead, He gave His life into the hands of the Father; "Yet, not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39b). And as sure as Jesus knew God's plan was for Him to die, He also knew He would rise again; "And on the third day He will be raised to life" (Matthew 17:23).

On the third day after Jesus was crucified, Mary Magdalene and her friends saw the empty tomb and immediately ran to tell the disciples; "But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense" (Luke 24:11). Even after Peter saw the empty tomb for himself, he was perplexed; "He went away, wondering to himself what had happened" (Luke 24:12).

The disciples had walked with Jesus and listened to Him teach about this day but they still did not understand. It wasn't until Jesus personally appeared to the disciples that the events began to make sense; "Then He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures" (Luke 24:45).

In an instant, everything fit into place. They finally understood how all the Old Testament scripture pointed to the coming of Jesus and how He would be sacrificed for the forgiveness of our sins. They saw the predictions of His death - and of His resurrection. They finally saw Him as much more than a good teacher, much more than even a mighty king. His resurrection meant He was the Savior, the one and only Son of God!

Romans 1:4
"And who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord."

The resurrection was God's declaration to the world: "This is My Son!" The resurrection lets us know that "with God ALL things are possible" (Matthew 19:26), and it gives us the assurance that every one of His promises will come to pass; if Christ is truly risen, how can any trials of this world possibly lead to defeat?

True belief in the resurrection should fill us with awe and overwhelm us with a sense of peace and thankfulness. He died and rose again so we could live an abundant life and worship Him for all eternity. Let's place our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins and live in the promise and power of His resurrection. Let's pray for our mind to be fully opened to His truth and for our life to be lived as though we KNOW He is risen!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 22D76494-E7CB-4884-ABBB-0D47E9D0C3EA Wed, 9 Jun 2010 15:47:14 -0400
In the message "God's Plumb Line" we were encouraged to build our lives upon the absolute and unwavering standard of God's Word. His Word is truth and holds the answer to every problem we will ever confront. If we search for answers and prayerfully reflect on the truth of God's Word - if we indeed consider His Word as absolute and unchanging, and apply it directly into our life - we will find the solutions have been available long before we were born.

Hebrews 4:12-13
"For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."

Without changing in content or meaning, the Word of God adapts to every situation. If we maintain the habit of reading and reflective study, we will find new insights in what appear to be the peeling back of multiple layers of understanding. But it is actually us who are being peeled back and laid bare by the ever present truths of His Word.

The passage, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5), will have a much different meaning after we've obediently followed God for several years. Each time adversity strikes and doubts arise, we will find an ever deeper calling in the phrase "with ALL your heart." And though we walk with Him for all the rest of our days, we may never fully appreciate the words; "God demonstrated His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). How our lives would change if we could ever fully understand His love!

We do not truly "dig deeper" into the Word; rather, the Word digs deeper into us! Scriptural truths are not revealed until our hunger is so great that we are willing to place our life on the table and allow the sword of truth to cut deep inside. Do we really desire to know God, His Word, and His Spirit? Do we really want to understand the depth of God's love and the implications of His justice? Then be advised: even necessary and beneficial surgery can be painful. When our chest is opened, the condition of our heart is revealed; and that which is dark and displeasing must be cut away and burned.

But fear not! Our Heavenly Father is a skilled surgeon who can make our heart new and prepared to yield to His Spirit. The solution to our most complex problems is always found in His presence, and He has given His Word to show us how to draw near. Our lives are in need of some divine surgery today! Let's allow our heart to be cut by the truth - to be exposed and purified by the Living Word.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm AEE97242-9F9D-45A1-88AF-D8F96E799250 Fri, 28 May 2010 12:08:39 -0400
Amos was a shepherd when God called him to preach to the northern kingdom of Israel. For more than one hundred and fifty years, the northern kingdom had worshipped by their own set of rules and even began to worship other gods. Amos was sent to reveal their sin and call the people to repentance. He warned they must return to God with all their heart or face certain judgment.

Amos 7:7-8
"This is what He showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall that had been built true to plumb, with a plumb line in His hand. Then the Lord said, 'Look, I am setting a plumb line among my people Israel; I will spare them no longer.'"

Building a wall seems relatively easy: stack one brick on top of another until the proper height and width is achieved. But without a reference line, it's nearly impossible to determine when the wall is straight. Without a true standard as a guide, our well-intended efforts produce a jagged mess which will soon crumble and fall. Plumb lines have been used in the building process for thousands of years as a stable reference, a true standard. A plumb line is simply a string with a weight on one end which will hang straight because of the unchanging pull of gravity.

God used a plumb line to show that the people of Israel had once been true, but now they were building their lives without a reference. God had established clear guidelines and preserved them within His Word. He was now bringing judgments according to His unchanging standard; "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line" (Isaiah 28:17).

The people did not listen to Amos' plea. They continued to live outside God's will and were guided by their own evil desires. God's judgment came thirty years after the end of Amos' ministry as He allowed the Assyrian army to march through the northern kingdom and bring complete destruction in 722 BC.

God is making the same call to us today. We cannot continue to build using the world's system of values as our reference. This is a standard in constant change, sinking deeper and deeper into the slimy pit. We may try to justify our actions by remaining slightly "above" the standard of the world, but as this standard continues to sink, we will continue to follow it down. This should NOT be our chosen path!!

Our lives need an unchanging reference to call us back when we stray. This reference must be the Word of God which calls us to a life of absolute pure devotion. When we build on the foundation of Christ and determine to love Him with ALL our heart, His Word ensures we will rise tall and not be found leaning to the left or right. Let's build a life which is true and does not waver. Let's live by His Word and build according to God's plumb line.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 09A6C8A2-9A08-4BCD-A1ED-65663C262159 Fri, 28 May 2010 11:24:51 -0400
In the last few messages, we have been encouraged to share the message of truth with whoever God places in our path. We saw the need to reach people where they are, "to the weak I became weak" (1 Corinthians 9:22), and the need to share without self-righteous condemnation. But we also saw the need to share His truth without compromise as we lift up the name of Jesus Christ.

The Word of God teaches there is only one way to Heaven: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" (John 14:6). Salvation is a gift of grace given to those who place their faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin - there is no other way! And although relatively few will actually travel the narrow road that leads to life, the road is available to ALL who will come; "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (Romans 10:13).

It's God's desire for everyone to call on His name; "not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9)...but not everyone will. Some have hardened their heart through continued rejection and willful disobedience, and now refuse to repent and receive the truth. Others simply never hear the Good News.

Romans 10:14-15
"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?"

Only God is able to draw someone near and lead them to repentance, and only the Holy Spirit can transform someone's heart into a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17). But God has chosen to give His children the responsibility of sharing His message of forgiveness and truth with the world; "As You sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world" (John 17:18).

In order for the message of Salvation to truly reach the world, we who know the truth must accept our commission to be "sent." We must be determined to share the gospel message whenever and wherever He directs; "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). This may mean in another country, but it may also mean in our own backyard - or in our own family as we love them and demonstrate the true peace of Jesus.

Let's faithfully pick up the torch today. We have been given everything we need (2 Peter 1:3), we do not lack any Spiritual gift (1 Corinthians 1:7), and we have been declared ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). The world is waiting to hear! Let's BOLDLY go forth with His Word, and with an assurance that we have been sent!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm AF593FD8-1F86-476F-B030-E4469938AE10 Fri, 28 May 2010 10:30:53 -0400
In the message "Preach The Word" we were strongly encouraged to share a message of truth which is uncompromising and aligned with the Word of God. We cannot continue to trust in the messages of the world, or in the teaching of the "religious," when their words are not supported by Biblical Truth!

Toward the end of a passage we call "The Sermon on the Mount," Jesus gave a strong warning: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it" (Matthew 7:13-14). Our message must always lead down the "narrow road" and toward the "narrow gate" of Salvation. If it does, it is truth and honoring to God; if it does not, it is full of deceit and grieves our Heavenly Father.

Of course, the most important aspect of a true message is the name of Jesus. If our message does not include the sacrifice of Jesus as our necessary AND sufficient path to forgiveness and eternal life, then we do not carry a message of truth. Without Jesus there is no Christian faith - there is no eternal hope.

Philippians 2:9-11
"Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in Heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord."

God exalted (lifted up) Jesus to the highest place in Heaven. Have we exalted Him to the highest place in our own life? Before we have any chance of communicating a message of truth with the world, we must have a message of truth residing in our heart. Have we truly accepted His forgiveness which only comes through faith, or are we still trying to earn our way, chasing after false messengers, and traveling down the broad road of destruction? Do we love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30), or are we still just getting acquainted from a distance?

What about our place of worship? God has an important role for the local church and desires each of us to be in fellowship with other believers. But if our church does not lift up the name of Jesus Christ, it becomes little more than a social club leading an entire flock of lost sheep down the broad road away from the gate. God forbid!

Let's exalt Jesus to the highest place in our life, in our home, and in our church. Let's love Him with all our heart and take active steps to draw closer to His presence. Let's show the world that eternal life is only through faith in the name which is above all other names - the name of Jesus.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 9DDD5525-3651-427B-8F8F-D299DE3C7FC4 Fri, 28 May 2010 10:03:14 -0400
In the message "By All Possible Means" we ended with an encouragement that "we each have a message to share - a message which can encourage and be used to draw others to faith in Jesus." We were then exhorted to "begin to share this message with ALL." But as we boldly go out and begin to minister to others, we must ensure we are ministering according to truth.

Paul's second letter to Timothy was the last of his writings. Written while in prison and awaiting a certain death, Paul used this letter to give some final encouragement to a young preacher.

2 Timothy 4:1-2
"I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction."

Paul knew his time of ministry had come to an end; and with his last words, he told Timothy to carefully "Preach the Word." Timothy had been taught the true Word of God, but Paul warned that people would not accept this truth; "Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear" (2 Timothy 4:3).

There have always been those who distort the Gospel message - always those who remove the sufficiency of the Cross or the necessity of a repentant heart. The world rewards those who dilute the truth of Christ with the philosophy of man and his methods of success. Unfortunately, false teachers will continue to abound and will always have an audience.

But we must refuse to compromise! We have been given the Word of God - a message of truth which can change the world. And while this message is a wonderful blessing, it also carries an incredible responsibility. We are called to know this message and apply its principles of forgiveness, grace, and love as we live a life devoted to holiness, thanksgiving, and praise. We then must share this message of absolute truth with others at every opportunity.

Our time here is very, very short. We are "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14). Some of us may vanish in a few days, others not for many years - but we will ALL vanish. What remains in the end will ONLY be that which is done according to truth and for the glory of God...so let's make the most of every moment!

Let's focus more of our time and effort on the treasures which last for eternity and demonstrate the love of Christ. Let's remain aligned to His Word and continue to apply the truth we have received, sharing with others without shame or compromise. Let's accept the charge today to stand firm and Preach the Word!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm C60679CD-9EC3-4609-9104-C9272BC0C72E Mon, 24 May 2010 17:59:02 -0400
The Apostle Paul was a pillar of strength who saw the ways of God more clearly than any other individual. He had a unique boldness in his message because he had received the gospel directly from God: "The gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ" (Galatians 1:11-12).

There is no doubt that Paul had a special blessing from God: "This man {Paul} is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel" (Acts 9:15). But if Paul would have remained attached to this highly favored position of strength and superior knowledge, his ministry would have been severely limited.

1 Corinthians 9:22
"To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some."

Paul was so devoted to preaching the Gospel that he could humbly minister to anyone! He was determined to reach every person God placed in his path - even if this meant lowering himself and becoming weak.

We must be careful to understand that weakness does not mean we engage in sin! God NEVER asks us to violate His commands in order to accomplish His will; we never need to sin in order to reach someone with the gospel. Rather, becoming weak means showing compassion without regard to a person's status; it means having the "strength" to walk beside the weak, who may be living in terrible sin, and minister the love of Jesus without condemnation. Godly weakness means showing grace to others because we understand the grace we've been given.

As we minister to the lost - as we touch those without Christ - our message must focus on His saving grace. Without Jesus we are ALL lost and on our way to an eternal damnation; "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). We must never forget this basic truth. We must never let our position in Christ cloud the message of the cross. We have been saved and set free; "He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness" (Colossians 1:13). But now that we are free, we need to understand that the world around us is in desperate need of this same gracious Savior.

We each have a message to share - a message which can encourage and be used to draw others to faith in Jesus. Let's begin to share this message with ALL. Let's begin to step outside our select and "comfortable" group - outside the group we relate to and claim to understand. The Good News of Jesus is a precious life-saving gift! Let's begin to share this gift with ALL - by ALL possible means.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 41C447BF-A281-4BDB-AFC6-9F8F34E692AF Mon, 24 May 2010 11:26:26 -0400
In the message "God's Perfect Will" we saw that God's will is for us to live a life of thanksgiving and prayer, a life of contentment and peace independent of circumstances. It is also "God's will that you should be sanctified {set apart, made holy}; that you should avoid sexual immorality" (1 Thessalonians 4:3). These are general aspects of God's will, given to every one of His Children. His specific direction will come as we obediently align our life with His general will...and wait.

We live in a generation where waiting is viewed as a waste of time, but learning to wait is how we grow: "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31 KJV).

This is a powerful and encouraging passage: if we wait on the Lord, we will be strengthened, soar like the eagles, and not grow weary. But what does it really mean to wait? We were not called to "take up the cross of Salvation" so we can then live our lives sitting on the couch. Rather, as believers in Jesus Christ, we have been invited to a wonderful lifetime journey - a journey which is sometimes difficult, but one always filled with adventure and purpose.

1 Timothy 6:11-12
"But you, man of God, flee from all this {evil}, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses."

Notice all the words of action: flee, pursue, fight, take hold. This is definitely a call to actively move forward in our journey of faith; a call to move toward a life as God intended it to be lived!

So do we wait, or do we fight and take hold? Do we rest and hope in the Lord, or do we flee and pursue? The answer is a simple but absolute yes! We are called to a life of action - to a life where we "bear much fruit" (John 15:8) - but we must learn to "act" while waiting and trusting God for every result. We must give Him all our effort while remaining "in the vine" (John 15:4), and allowing the life of Christ to flow through us and produce the fruit.

This means we are to boldly share the gospel message, but then to wait on God for the harvest of belief. It means we are to seek opportunities and diligently prepare for service, but then continue to listen for God to reveal His desired path. It means we are to be agents of Godly change in the world, but then patiently trust His timing and rest in His strength.

God calls us to a faith of complete trust; a faith which produces both action and patience. Let's take hold and fight the good fight of faith as we learn to actively wait.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B01C1490-7FD9-4A28-BD3A-DD0E1BE650B9 Mon, 24 May 2010 09:54:47 -0400
Much of our Christian walk seems to involve searching for God's will. We search for His perfect will for our job, home, school, church, and relationships; and we're often frustrated because God seems silent regarding the details of our life. But God is not silent! His Word reveals much of His will, and a large portion of His will for our life today is the same as for every past generation.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

We often gloss over such passages, thinking we already understand and ought to search for "deeper" truths. But in God's plan for us to be "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29), there is no greater challenge to our faith. Do we really believe God is in control and can be trusted? Does the attitude of our heart reflect such a belief?

Our Heavenly Father desires us to live each moment with a thankful heart, full of joy - regardless of our circumstances. Why? Because this reveals our trust in a loving God. He wants us to continually commune with Him in prayer and refuse to leave His presence to pursue concerns or pleasures of the world. This portion of God's will has been clearly revealed!

But some are facing situations which make following God's will very difficult. They see absolutely no reason for rejoicing and can't understand how God can be directing their path. How is it possible to remain by His side when being pressed down from all directions and when the pulls of the world seem relentless?

We must begin by viewing our life from an eternal perspective rather than the temporary nature of the world; "The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever" (1 John 2:17). All our trials will soon be gone (do we really believe this?). God is in control and, in the end, ALL will glorify His name; "In all things God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). As we trust and love Him with all our heart, He works ALL things for the good - no matter how bad our situation may appear or how difficult it may be to understand His plan. He IS in control! This level of trust is what Paul referred to as "the secret of being content" (Philippians 4:12).

There are certainly times when God will give us very specific direction, and this direction may very well call us to get out and change the world; but perhaps He's waiting until we follow His general will for our life. Let's come before Him today with a thankful and loving heart. Let's enter His presence and refuse to be taken away by circumstances which will soon fade. Let's trust Him without compromise and joyfully walk each step by faith according to God's perfect will.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 080D0A7E-242C-4204-B42E-120D1F8AFA59 Thu, 20 May 2010 11:19:14 -0400
Last week I officially graduated from Dallas Theological Seminary. The occasion marked a significant milestone in my journey. As with most portions of my journey, this one was long and jagged. I wanted to quit many times; in fact, I did quit three different times. But in the end I'm glad I went through the process, and I'm glad to be done. The president of the seminary said the graduates had been equipped to be leaders in God's Church, to teach the truth of His Word around the world. If this is true, I ought to be able to state at least a few of the truths I've learned - at least some of what I believe to be essential for those who are called to lead.

The first truth is that there is always more to learn. During my seminary time I continually learned how little I really know. I thought I knew quite a bit about the Bible before I started seminary, but each class taught me there is so much more I do not know. And even after completing my seminary education I leave with an understanding that my education will never end, and it will certainly never be complete. The pursuit of knowing God is a lifetime endeavor: "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!" (Romans 11:33).

The second truth is that as we learn we must always maintain a deep spirit of humility: "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know" (Romans 8:1-2). There are many, many people scattered throughout what we might call our "christian" society (that's christian with a small "c") who think they know something but are really just puffed up to the point where they cannot see where they are going, let alone have any ability to lead others. The unfortunate result is great divisions and lack of unity. Perhaps the first step in bringing unity back to the Body of Christ is a humble recognition that we do not yet know as we ought to know.

The third truth is directly related to the second in that we must learn to embrace the uncertainty and live within the mystery of God. When I entered seminary I was certain about a large number of "truths." After many, many hours of study and many more hours of pondering, I am much less certain. There were seasons where this really bothered me - bothered me a lot! - but I have come to a point where being certain is not the most important thing. I can love God and seek to live as Jesus taught me to live without needing to be certain about many of the details.

Romans 15:5-6
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

There is much more I would like to write but I've run out of space so let me close with this: There is an overriding call in God's Word for the body of Christ to live in unity. If I am to be a leader then I plan to lead with a spirit of unity and with the above list at the head of necessary truths.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 7EFF174E-60D7-4478-88E3-89DA1786FCA9 Thu, 20 May 2010 09:56:45 -0400
In the last two messages, we've seen how Barnabas was an encouragement in the lives of Paul and Mark. We considered how Barnabas must have seen the "Christ-potential" in others and discipled them at critical seasons of their life.

Discipleship involves prayer, teaching, compassion, commitment, and the ability to lead by a Godly example; but there is also an element of discipleship which is extremely active and intentional. When Barnabas saw how Paul was being rejected in Jerusalem, he "took him and brought him to the apostles" (Acts 9:27). When he may have been concerned that Paul was discouraged; "Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Paul" (Acts 11:25). And when Mark was facing rejection and almost certain discouragement for future ministry; "Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus" (Acts 15:39).

Each of these events involved much more than a kind word as Barnabas continued on his own path. They involved evaluating the need, and then making the necessary changes in his own path to help meet the need - they involved being intentional.

There was certainly no better example of how to disciple others than Jesus. During His ministry on earth He was an example to all who saw or heard of Him. He taught large groups and ministered to individuals at every opportunity. But with a specific group of twelve, Jesus gave an extra measure of His time and energy to help them grow closer to God and equip them for future ministry.

Luke 6:12-13
"Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, He called His disciples to Him and chose twelve of them, whom He also designated apostles."

We ought to do more than encourage when it's convenient; more than live a Godly life and hope others will follow. In Jesus, we are given a wonderful example of choosing, through prayer, individuals whom we intentionally lead closer to God. This is clearly His command when Jesus says, "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19).

I wish I could say it's easy to "go and make disciples," but it's not. And I wish I could say I'm good at it, but I'm definitely not! Getting schedules and desires to match up seems to get harder all the time, and the process can often become quite discouraging. And yet, we must not give up. Jesus showed us the way and commanded us to follow - this is the only true plan for discipleship!

Let's continue to lead through the example of a devoted and holy life and encourage those in need at every opportunity. But let's also take the next step and prayerfully identify those who will receive our special attention for an extended period of time. Let's pour ourselves into others and help them grow closer to Jesus through intentional discipleship.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B5F5D062-A84E-4B97-BE6E-F9ED6886B26B Sat, 15 May 2010 23:11:00 -0400
In the message "The Example of Barnabas" we saw how Barnabas played an essential role in Paul's ministry. He boldly introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27), and then searched for Paul when he had fled Jerusalem to his home town of Tarsus (Acts 11:25-26). After taking Paul to Antioch, Barnabas remained with him for several years while they encouraged the church...and each other.

Being an encourager was a way of life for Barnabas. His name was originally Joseph, but prior to even meeting Paul, the apostles had begun to call him "Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement)" (Acts 4:36). Barnabas was able to evaluate other people according to their ability in Christ - an ability determined by His strength and not hindered by past failures. This allowed Barnabas to see great potential where others saw only weakness, and to encourage when others had given up.

Barnabas went with Paul on his first missionary journey where they jointly proclaimed the name of Jesus wherever they went. Another young man, named Mark, began this first missionary journey but then turned back (Acts 13:13). This apparent lack of perseverance bothered Paul so much that when he began his second missionary trip he refused to take Mark along.

Acts 15:37-39
"Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus."

Barnabas saw the Christ-given potential in young Mark and encouraged him as he had done with Paul many years before. As a result, Mark matured in his ministry and faithfully continued in his service to Jesus. He ministered along side the Apostle Peter (1 Peter 5:13), was reunited with Paul (Colossians 4:10, Philemon 24), and later wrote an account of the life of Jesus - the Gospel of Mark.

The early church faced many difficulties - many opportunities for discouragement - but God used Barnabas to strengthen those who had been called to the front lines of battle. We can't all stand up and preach in front of large crowds or travel as missionaries to foreign lands, but we ALL have the ability to encourage those whom God places in our path.

The world is full of people crying out for someone to care for and believe in them. Individual lives can be changed, families can be restored, entire communities and even nations can be turned toward God, if each of us will encourage others to draw closer to our Heavenly Father, to love Him more, and to trust Him with all their heart. Let's share the love of Jesus and effectively minister by seeing others, and then taking action, as a Son of Encouragement.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 5B0A46C8-2501-4D18-A91E-DD16754091E1 Sat, 15 May 2010 22:17:37 -0400
Prior to meeting Jesus on the road to Damascus, Saul (who would later be known as the Apostle Paul) was one of the greatest enemies of Christians: "Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison" (Acts 8:3). But Saul's conversion to Christ was dramatic, and after a few years he tried to join with the believers in Jerusalem. However, with his reputation for hatred toward Christians, the disciples were not willing to accept him.

But one man saw beyond the past mistakes; saw beyond the slimy pit from which he had been removed; saw the grace of Jesus which had worked a miracle in Saul's life - that man was Barnabas! Barnabas believed in Saul, comforted him, and defended him to the other believers.

Acts 9:27
"But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus."

Saul was on fire for Jesus, ready to preach the gospel with the same energy he once used to persecute the church. But after just a short time in Jerusalem, Saul had to flee for his life back to his home in Tarsus. It's not clear what he did for the next several years, but there's no evidence of ministry work until Barnabas, once again, found Saul and provided the necessary encouragement.

Acts 11:25-26
"Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people."

The Apostle Paul went on to have a greater impact in the forming of the early Church and in defining Church doctrine than any other follower of Jesus. But if not for Barnabas, Paul may not have ever preached beyond his own back yard. In the early days of the Church, Barnabas believed the absolute best in people and encouraged them at every opportunity. His encouragement of Paul resulted in more fruit for God's Kingdom than anything else he could have possibly done or imagined.

We all know someone who can use a lift - someone in desperate need of a friend to believe in them - someone in need of a Barnabas! Let's encourage others today by believing in the power of Christ working through their lives; by looking beyond what we can see, to what we know Jesus can do with a life completely devoted to Him. Let's be the spark which reignites the fire in others and helps them return to the great race. Let's look for opportunities to encourage our Brothers and Sisters according to the example of Barnabas.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4AFC2AE5-9534-4817-B1AD-2AA3D4E64D2B Sat, 15 May 2010 10:45:57 -0400
Jeremiah had been a prophet for nearly forty years by the time Jerusalem came under attack by the Babylonians. He had long been proclaiming a message of repentance, but the people continued to ignore his words. Now, the enemy had surrounded Jerusalem and the end was near. In this time of great turmoil, God told Jeremiah to purchase a field from his cousin.

This was a strange request but Jeremiah obediently purchased the field. However, he soon began to question God's reasoning: "See how the siege ramps are built up to take the city? Though the city will be handed over to the Babylonians, You say to me, 'Buy the field'" (Jeremiah 32:24,25). Jeremiah had been a prophet for many years. He had been given the privilege of talking directly with God, but this command just didn't make sense. Why should he purchase a field when the enemy was invading and taking prisoners?

God answered Jeremiah with a simple, yet challenging, question.

Jeremiah 32:27
"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for Me?"

Yes, the enemy had invaded the land and would soon overrun the city of Jerusalem. But God's plan was for the people to one day return: "I will surely gather them from all the lands where I banish them in My furious anger and great wrath; I will bring them back to this place and let them live in safety. They will be My people and I will be their God" (Jeremiah 32:37-38). Jeremiah's field was to be a reminder that God would one day restore His people - a reminder that He could be trusted even in the face of overwhelming circumstances.

We often have a difficult time seeing how all the pieces of God's plan fit together. He leads us down a path and we fail to see the purpose - especially when the enemy begins to attack. We want to fight back, but God says to patiently trust Him and pray. We want to determine a solution and solve the problem, but God says to love Him with all our heart and share His love with others.

The times in which we are most tested and pressed down ought to be the times of greatest growth and closeness with our Heavenly Father. When it seems we have no where else to turn, we ought to rejoice and trust Him even more! Let's put our life firmly in His Hands and submit to His guidance - even when we may not see where we are going or how we will get there. Let's trust His ways and always remember...for God, there is NOTHING too hard!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B33AD68D-C159-478F-A2C9-01D1F68A0ACA Sat, 15 May 2010 10:15:11 -0400
Paul wrote his letter to the Colossians to show that Jesus is sufficient to supply every need of the believer. In the opening verses, Paul wrote that the Colossians had a reputation for great faith in Jesus Christ - their love, hope, and hunger for the Gospel was bearing fruit and had been growing "since the day you heard it and understood God's grace" (Colossians 1:6).

Paul was thankful for their strong faith, but he wanted them to have even more and was committed to praying for their continued growth; "We have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding" (Colossians 1:9).

Paul then explained the purpose of his prayer.

Colossians 1:10-12
"We pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father."

Though God's gracious gift of Salvation is free, the cost is high. We can do nothing to earn or maintain this gift besides believe in His Son; but the faith through which His grace flows is a faith committed to Him without reservation - prepared to follow anywhere He leads and willing to honor Him in all we do.

Paul didn't pray for the details of an honoring life; rather, he prayed for what truly produces change: "the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding." We never please God by focusing on specific activities, we please Him by drawing near and allowing His blessings to flow in and through our life. This is a life which bears fruit and is filled with endurance, patience, and thankfulness.

The God honoring life is available for us today...regardless of our circumstances. But we must draw nearer to our Heavenly Father and hunger for a better understanding of His will. We must long for His presence and continue to grow in love and faith. God has infinitely more to give and will pour His blessings upon those who continue to seek Him with all their heart.

Dear Lord, we pray that You will give us a continued passion for You and an increased hunger for Your Word. We pray that You will strengthen our faith and use our life for Your glory. Heavenly Father, we pray that we will abandon ourselves to You and that You will fill us with the knowledge of Your will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FE4BED64-E830-49C6-B413-A4EF90E182D6 Sat, 15 May 2010 09:55:08 -0400
In the last two messages, we've considered the grace of God in our Salvation as well as in our daily Christian walk. Anytime we add requirements to faith, we have strayed from the true gospel message. We certainly need to be challenged as to what faith really means and how a saving faith will manifest itself in our life, but we must never walk away from Salvation by grace through faith alone.

Galatians 1:6-8
"I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you by the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel - which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are throwing you into confusion and are trying to pervert the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let him be eternally condemned!"

This is a serious call...one we cannot ignore. We are challenged in the strongest of terms to continue walking according to the true gospel.

We usually begin this walk by focusing on our own life. We slowly take our eyes off of what we can do and look more upon what Christ has already done; "He must become greater, I must become less" (John 3:30). But there remains another step we must begin to take. This important step is to recognize that the grace which pulled us out of the slimy pit and set our feet on solid ground (Psalm 40:2) is the same grace which works in the life of others. We know we can do nothing to earn or add to our Salvation, but how often do we place "requirements" on those around us?

How often do we inadvertently create lists of what a true Christian must do? True Christians must dress and talk a certain way, listen to an approved list of music, watch an approved list of movies, and drink only an approved list of beverages. Our churches tend to have lists which can include quality of clothing, length of hair, style of worship music, or involvement in certain "sins" about which the Bible is absolutely silent. Sure there are extremes in every category which are clearly outside the will of God; but there is a wide range which, though it may make us uncomfortable, belongs to the grace of God. Our walk with God begins with His grace and must continue by His grace.

We must all strive to follow Christ in a completely surrendered obedience; but in walking down this path, we must never pull anyone from the true gospel by requiring obedience to our list. We are saved by grace through faith and faith alone - and "we" includes ALL our Brothers and Sisters who have trusted in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin. Let's follow hard in His grace and diligently seek to recognize God's transforming power at work as He continues to pour out His grace in others.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 7239FEE1-49A5-43AA-A753-0D865B79908C Wed, 12 May 2010 11:47:58 -0400
In the message "Strong In His Grace" we considered God's grace in the process of Salvation and saw we can do nothing to earn a right standing in His eyes. Our Heavenly Father freely gave and poured out His love when He sent Jesus; "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

God graciously gave us His Son and said, "Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). We are allowed into an eternal relationship with God because of His grace and are strongly exhorted to live each day knowing our relationship is maintained by the same grace in which it began, not by anything we do or accomplish.

There are many things we are called to do as a Child of God, many ways to serve and honor our Heavenly Father, many ways to be obedient and seek after holiness. But we can NEVER fall into the trap of thinking, even for a moment, that what we do adds to our Salvation by grace. As much as faith in Jesus Christ is absolutely necessary for our Salvation, faith in Jesus Christ is also absolutely sufficient.

Paul delivered this message in many of his letters, but nowhere as strong as in his letter to the Galatian churches. He had preached the message of Salvation by grace, but they had been led into a false teaching which said they must earn their Salvation by first submitting to the Old Testament Law. Paul warned that if we fall into this same trap, "Christ will be of no value to you at all" (Galatians 5:2). There is value in the things we do, but the value is not in the religious activity or product we produce; rather, the value is in the true faith in our heart which ought to motivate ALL we seek to accomplish.

Galatians 5:6
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."

We show our love for God through worship, thanksgiving, prayer, study, obedience, and faithful service; and we acknowledge His saving grace with a humble spirit which does not allow us to become puffed up or feel deserving of our Salvation. We demonstrate our love for others as we refuse to cause harm, in word or deed, refuse to harbor unforgiveness, and actively look for opportunities to serve. And we show an understanding of God's grace as we express our love to others without requiring them to earn our love or even love us in return.

Let's receive His grace with a thankful heart, knowing we bring nothing to the cross besides our sin which He then takes away. Let's trust only in His grace, given to us through faith, and express our faith with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength as we love Him and love one another. Let's begin to live this life like we truly understand His amazing grace.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 74D24AFC-0719-4BB6-AD97-95D211751693 Wed, 12 May 2010 11:09:31 -0400
When we are brought to the point of belief - the point where we see our sin, desire to change, and acknowledge God's Son as our only way to eternal life - we ask, in faith, for Jesus to forgive our sins and be our Savior. At that very moment, the grace of God abounds, His Spirit transforms our heart and He picks us up as His child: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The moment of true Salvation is without question the most significant event in our Christian life. In that moment, we are "born again" (John 3:7) and become a "new creation" in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) through the power of the Holy Spirit; "Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit" (John 3:6). In fact, the moment of Salvation is so significant that even if we seem to stumble through every step past that point, we still have reason to rejoice with every breath - we are children of the King and will spend all eternity in His glorious Kingdom.

Our journey with God can indeed be rocky. As we continue down His path we are to strive for holiness and purposeful worship in our life. We are to diligently seek Him and "learn the secret of being content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12). We must learn to "trust in the Lord with all our heart" (Proverbs 3:5), but we must also remember that "apart from Me {Jesus}, you can do NOTHING" (John 15:5). The reality of this journey is that if we strive for anything in our own strength, we are certainly destined to stumble and fall.

2 Timothy 2:1
"You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus."

This verse means we must continue to trust in His grace and in His grace alone. We did nothing to earn our Salvation, and we can do nothing to maintain our right standing before God - nothing besides belief in His Son; "Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?" (Galatians 3:3).

We are saved by the grace of God and we must continue to live by this same grace: "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught" (Colossians 2:6). Our Heavenly Father will determine our path to holiness, purpose, contentment, and trust - and His grace will equip us with all we need for the journey.

Let's completely trust in the saving grace of Jesus! Let's apply the strength of His grace today in every trial and temptation. Let's live a life of pure and holy devotion by always remaining strong in His grace.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm A2E184B9-A7E4-402B-9E36-1494A9089C33 Wed, 12 May 2010 10:23:59 -0400
We are often reminded of our need to pray and study God's Word. These essential disciplines allow us to abide in the presence of God and "hear" when He calls; they are also necessary for strengthening our faith in order to obediently follow where He leads.

God's Word encourages us that when He calls, He also provides the tools to accomplish our assigned task; "His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). And we are comforted that as we respond, we will never be alone; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). But God's call also carries responsibility. His call says He has made His choice - He has chosen us to take part in His wonderful plan; and, in faith, we must respond.

After delivering many of God's messages to the people of Israel - calling them to repent and return to the worship of the One True God - the prophet Jeremiah became impatient with God's timing: "I would speak with You about Your justice: Why does the way of the wicked prosper? Why do all the faithless live at ease?" (Jeremiah 12:1). Jeremiah complained about how long he had to wait for the wicked to be punished. He was following God and calling others to do the same, but the ungodly seemed to continue living the "good" life. Sounds much like our complaints today. But God's response wasn't what Jeremiah was hoping to receive.

Jeremiah 12:5
"If you have raced with men on foot and they have worn you out, how can you compete with horses? If you stumble in safe country, how will you manage in the thickets by the Jordan?"

God told Jeremiah that the situation in Israel was going to get worse in the coming days, and He asked Jeremiah if he was truly ready for the challenge. Jeremiah had been called to be God's messenger and now was not the time to complain. This was the time to be a soldier and trust with ALL his heart; it was a time to renew his strength and push toward the assigned goal.

Our Heavenly Father dearly loves us and desires an eternity of intimate fellowship. He is a God of great comfort, but He is also our Commanding Officer who challenges us to prepare for the spiritual battles ahead. This world often appears corrupt and unjust, but the conditions of today are preparing us to fight in the trenches of tomorrow. We must trust now more than ever that God chose the right person when He gave us our assignments. He has made His call and promised to provide all the necessary tools at the proper time.

Let's spend more time worshipping at His feet and loving Him with all our heart. Let's rely on His strength and trust His understanding. Let's draw closer to His side and always be prepared to follow.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1803BE0D-BB48-4702-811D-AE3C9F635F73 Wed, 12 May 2010 08:54:45 -0400
King Nebuchadnezzar had made a large statue of gold and commanded that everyone must worship the statue whenever they heard the royal music - they must worship the statue, or face terrible consequences! "Whoever does not fall down and worship will immediately be thrown into a blazing furnace" (Daniel 3:6).

Daniel's friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, were determined to live with an uncompromising faith. They believed God's Word and obeyed His commands: "You shall have no other gods before Me...you shall not bow down to them or worship them" (Exodus 20:3,5). These three young Jewish men took a stand and refused to worship the golden statue. Their devotion to God was greater than their fear of the fire; "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it...But even if He does not, we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up" (Daniel 3:17-18).

Nebuchadnezzar was furious and followed through on his threat: "He ordered the furnace heated seven times hotter than usual and commanded some of the strongest soldiers in his army to tie up Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego and throw them into the blazing furnace" (Daniel 3:19-20). But when Nebuchadnezzar looked inside the furnace, he was amazed by what he saw.

Daniel 3:25
"Look! I see four men walking around in the fire, unbound and unharmed, and the fourth looks like a son of the gods."

As they were facing the fire, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego saw no chance of escape, but they placed their complete trust in God - a trust which would not falter even if they were burned. But rather than being burned by the fire, these three men were freed from their binding ropes and walked with "a son of the gods," who many believe is an Old Testament reference to Jesus Christ! (The KJV renders this verse "...like the Son of God.") In their time of greatest need, God comforted these young men and set them free.

The fires in our life WILL come. The heat will seem intense! But we must not fear, or abandon what we know to be true. Our faith is ALWAYS refined and made stronger by fire; "the testing of your faith develops perseverance" (James 1:3). Fire will always teach us to trust more deeply and worship more sincerely. When we really believe this truth, it will become possible to actually rejoice in the face of fire. We can rejoice because we KNOW He is in complete and absolute control of every area of our life - this is true freedom! Let's walk with a bold faith, knowing our Father is there to comfort and protect us, knowing He will strengthen us and set us free in the fire.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6A19B75B-AB0C-468F-B92C-EF7EE147C483 Tue, 11 May 2010 13:21:51 -0400
In the message "Guard The Good Deposit" we saw the importance of protecting what God places on our heart. He often gives us moments of Divine intimacy as a taste of the life He desires for us - a life of continual passion for God; a life where all our thoughts, words, and deeds become an act of worship.

As these moments fade, we either take definite steps to follow God's call, or we allow our heart to slowly drift away. The nature of this world is to pull us from what God desires and cause us to forget He has even called. So how do we really "guard" what God has given and truly accept His invitation to draw near?

Deuteronomy 11:17-20
"Fix these words of Mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gate."

When God called the children of Israel, He knew they would face the same difficulties we face today: "Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them" (Deuteronomy 11:16). He said the values of the world must never distract from our primary duty to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength" (Deuteronomy 6:5).

God told His chosen people that the best way to remain near to Him was to remain near to His Word through disciplined reading, teaching, discussing, and applying. When our lives are completely immersed in His Word, the "enticements" of the world lose their power and no longer pull us from God's path.

But His desire was never for us to stop with outward disciplines. While disciplines are somewhat useful in themselves, the desired end is always for His Word to be written on our heart and for our thoughts to remain with Him all through our day! Only as He is allowed to truly live through us will our lives become a complete sacrifice of worship.

If this is the life we desire, then we must begin with a disciplined approach to God's Word. We must become immersed in His Word such that His truth becomes a part of every portion of our day. God will soon reward us with a more intimate relationship as His Word becomes written on our heart and our thoughts turn more toward Christ. The world will still try to pull us away, but it will no longer succeed; for we will be walking in His Presence and will have learned how to guard His deposit.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 109C7834-9547-4C87-858E-EC1D763C8A03 Tue, 11 May 2010 12:51:37 -0400
In the messages "Covenant of Worship" and "A Broken Covenant" we were encouraged to make a covenant - which we resolve not to break - to worship God with all our heart for the rest of our days. I pray we accept this challenge and make a decision to commit our lives to Him without any reservation.

When God brings us to this point of greater commitment and surrender, we have a wonderful reason to rejoice; but we also have an obligation to protect and nurture what He has planted in our heart. He has called us to draw closer and spend more time in His presence - to join Him in a more intimate and loving relationship - but the enemy is hard at work trying to destroy the change which has begun.

2 Timothy 1:13-14
"What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you - guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us."

Every so often on our Christian walk, there comes a time of special closeness with God. This closeness may come as the result of a new understanding of His Word where we see His character like never before. It may come during a solitary time of prayer or while worshiping with many other believers; through a powerful speaker or inspirational writing. Each time this occurs, God is depositing a little truth into our life which says: I am the way, draw nearer and follow Me more.

We know when God calls us in this manner. We know His truth! We know He is lighting the only true way, and we honestly desire to follow. But then we're back at work with deadlines to meet, people to see, or kids to feed. Soon, the busyness of our everyday "normal" life has consumed our thoughts, and God's deposit has begun to fade - this should not be!

We must establish disciplines which enable us to hear God's message and then help us keep His message at the forefront of our thoughts all through the day. These disciplines will vary for different people. Some may need to wake up earlier to have a time which is quiet; others may need to change their work habits or the condition of their work environment. But regardless of our hectic pace, we ALL need to simply talk with God more and worship more at His feet. This must become our highest priority.

We cannot allow His gifts to be destroyed or forgotten. We should never allow the frustrations of the past, the pulls of the present or the desires of the future, to steal the gifts entrusted to us today. Let's make the necessary changes and boldly draw near without hesitation. Let's praise Him for His gifts, and, "with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us," guard the good deposit.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4B39E363-E798-49D4-B508-043BE7421AFA Tue, 11 May 2010 12:30:48 -0400
As Jesus was speaking to a Pharisee named Nicodemus, He said, "no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). He then explained being "born again" as a spiritual birth which occurs when we believe; "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). EVERYONE who will spend eternity in the Presence of God must be born of the Spirit - it is impossible to be a Child of God without being "born again."

This spiritual birth is part of the New Covenant through faith in Jesus and was revealed over 500 years before Christ through the prophet Ezekiel; "I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees" (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Paul referred to the spiritual birth as becoming "a new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17), but it is most often referred to simply as being saved; "He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5).

The process of spiritual birth is relatively easy to explain - God reaches down and transforms our heart by the power of His Spirit. However, the exact events which lead to the spiritual birth (and when the birth actually occurs) remain somewhat a mystery. On one hand, God's Word is very simple and clear; "Whoever believes will be saved." But understanding what it means to really believe can be difficult. We can talk about submission, obedience, sacrifice, love, or the basic faith of a child, but these will always fall short of an adequate definition of belief.

Only God can save; only He is fit to judge; and He alone can look into the innermost part of our heart and determine true belief. All we can do is seek Him with all our heart...and trust He will be found.

Matthew 7:7-8
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."

Our Salvation was initiated by God when Jesus came to earth and died as a perfect sacrifice for our sin. He chose us for an intimate and eternal relationship when His Holy Spirit began to call us near. And, if we will but answer the call and begin to seek His face, He will be found. In an instant, which He alone determines according to His perfect timing, He will transform our heart and adopt us as His Child.

We may not be able to explain or even fully understand true belief, but if there is any call of God on our heart we CAN ask, seek, and knock. God never hides nor runs away; "He is not far from each one of us" (Acts 17:27). He is waiting for us to reach out and call on His Name. Today, let's trust He will be found as we give Him all our heart and continue to seek.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 40C3C374-EA00-4793-BBA8-8EF3A45A1934 Tue, 11 May 2010 11:49:31 -0400
In the message "A Covenant of Worship" we were encouraged to make a covenant to love the Lord and worship Him with all our heart. This covenant must be viewed as a pledge or binding agreement which directs all our actions. God gives many examples of covenants in His Word, and no where does He allow for a covenant with half-hearted commitment.

When God brought the Israelites out of Egypt, He made a covenant with them at Mount Sinai. He promised special blessings if they would set themselves apart and worship Him with all their heart. But the people failed to honor their commitment - they worshiped other gods and disregarded His commands.

After several hundred years of willful disobedience, God sent the prophet Hosea to remind the Israelites of the pledge they once made and to reveal their unfaithfulness.

Hosea 6:6-7
"I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. Like Adam, they have broken the covenant - they were unfaithful to Me."

Hosea was able to deliver this message with great passion because he understood the pain of unfaithfulness. God had called Hosea to marry a woman who, though she made a covenant of marriage, left him to live as an adulteress with another man. Hosea could literally cry to his Israelite Brothers of the hurt they were causing God with their spiritual adultery; he fully knew how it felt when the one you love turns away to love another.

The covenant we make with our Heavenly Father must not be taken lightly. He loves us dearly and gave His Son as a sacrifice for our sin. And to those who believe He has given His Spirit, "with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30). God is committed to this covenant and, though He forgives us when we fall short, He expects and deserves commitment in return.

When we turn from sin and believe Jesus to be our Lord and Savior, He promises forgiveness, and we promise to trust and follow where He leads. He promises a clean heart; we promise our heart will always be His. He promises eternity in His presence; we promise to worship Him with every breath!

Have we truly entered into a covenant relationship with the Living God? And if so, are we being faithful to this covenant? Are we seeking His direction, or are we following our own path and our own desires? We must commit to love, honor, cherish...and follow, until the end of this life brings us fully into His presence. Let's remain faithful and true to our promises. Let's renew our commitment to obedience and worship, and refuse to come to the end of this journey with a broken covenant.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FBF90998-781D-4FB8-92C4-17DE1CAC2A44 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:34:56 -0400
In the message "An Unknown God" we were encouraged to live a life of sincere love and faithful service while we worship a God we truly know and adore. But this type of consistent life, where our daily activities match what we profess to believe, does not come easy or initially feel natural. Living such a life requires a firm commitment and a determined perseverance.

King Asa was the great-grandson of Solomon and led the southern kingdom of Judah about 900 years before Christ. He began his reign with ten years of peace because he "did what was right in the eyes of the Lord his God" (2 Chronicles 14:2). Asa took definite action to remove the idols and places of false worship from the country and commanded his people to "seek the Lord and to obey His commands" (2 Chronicles 14:4).

When Judah was invaded by a foreign army, Asa realized he was greatly outnumbered with little hope of victory. As he went into battle, his faith was strengthened while calling on God: "Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on You, and in Your name we have come against this vast army. O Lord, You are our God; do not let man prevail against You" (2 Chronicles 14:11).

After God granted them victory on the battlefield, the people gathered in Jerusalem to solidify their commitment by making a covenant to follow God.

2 Chronicles 15:12,15
"They entered into a covenant to seek the Lord with all their heart and soul. All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and He was found by them."

Every child of God has a deep hunger for a more committed life. Once we have answered God's call and begun our journey with Him, we will not be at peace until His praise fills every area of our life. But this requires we establish priorities which allow us to actually spend time getting to know Him - His ways and His love.

Our Heavenly Father longs for us to abide in His presence; He rejoices when He is found by those who seek Him in a committed life of worship. He even promises to help those who begin down a committed path; "For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him" (2 Chronicles 16:9).

Our time on this earth is very, very short. Let's not waste another day by aimlessly wandering through life, allowing the concerns of this world to choke off our relationship with God. Let's live with purpose and eagerly commit to seek Him with all our heart and soul - to seek Him "wholeheartedly." Let's make the decision today to enter into an eternal covenant of worship.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B0EA10DE-383B-49EC-8994-77B5FE4B231C Fri, 30 Apr 2010 15:08:08 -0400
When Paul was on his second missionary journey he came to the city of Athens which was inhabited by people who loved to worship, and talk about their worship. They worshipped every conceivable god of their day and made sure no god was left out.

Acts 17:22-23
"Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: 'Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you.'"

The people in Athens worshipped gods like Zeus, Hermes, and Diana. And to ensure they did not overlook any god, they also gave their worship to a god they did not know.

Today, many of us go through our life worshipping such gods as Pleasure, Leisure, Entertainment, Security, Power, and Wealth. Then, usually with much less intensity and commitment, we "worship" the Creator of the Universe. But our worship often becomes something we schedule and not something we live. We take part in religious activity, but have no idea how to make the Almighty God an integral part of our everyday life. We attend church services, but never give a thought to actually loving God or asking Him for guidance and direction. We go through the motions of worship, but our hearts are cold and far from the One True God.

We ALL must examine what we believe, and then live a life consistent with that belief. Many people profess belief in God - even the God of the Bible - but have no idea what this belief means or Who they really believe. They believe and then attempt to worship a God they do not know. If Christ died for the forgiveness of our sins, was resurrected, and now sits at the right hand of the Father making intercession on our behalf - if He will one day return and take us to be with Him for all eternity - then He certainly deserves more than our casual worship and the left-overs of our time.

Our Heavenly Father has been calling us back to an intimate fellowship ever since Adam and Eve sinned in the garden; and His message has remained the same: "Enjoy My creation, but give Me ALL your heart." He must be given sole possession, without any competition. The true Creator of the Universe will never accept just being one of our many "gods."

Let's proclaim the absolute and unchanging truth and encourage one another to "wholeheartedly obey the form of teaching to which you were entrusted" (Romans 6:17). Let's resolve to live a consistent life - a life of sincere love and faithful service - a life which no longer worships an unknown God.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 53E9A074-466A-4649-898B-D882E438B5C5 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:41:34 -0400
When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet, the people of Jerusalem had been living in sin for a very long time. It had been 300 years since the kingdom of Israel divided; and, despite God's patient warnings, the people continued to rebel and worship other gods.

God finally told Jeremiah He would no longer endure this continued rejection; "I have withdrawn My blessing, My love and My pity from this people" (Jeremiah 16:5). God also said that because of the many years of rebellion, destruction was now certain; "I will bring an end to the sounds of joy and gladness" (Jeremiah 16:9). He then told Jeremiah how to respond to the inevitable cries and complaints.

Jeremiah 16:10-12
"When you tell these people all this and they ask you, 'Why has the Lord decreed such a great disaster against us? What wrong have we done? What sin have we committed against the Lord our God?' then say to them, 'It is because your fathers forsook Me,' declares the Lord, 'and followed other gods and served and worshiped them. They forsook Me and did not keep My law. But you have behaved more wickedly than your fathers.'"

This is a difficult message. God is characterized by extreme grace and patient love...but He has His limits. He will not tolerate continual disobedience. If we claim to be a child of God we must deal with the very real issue of sin. God hates sin because it causes separation from those He loves.

Continual and unrepented sin causes us to lose the ability to recognize our sin. It becomes a cancer which causes our heart to turn cold and dark, unable to even hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit; "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened" (Romans 1:21). Sin clouds our vision and causes us to drift further and further from God's path.

The people of Jerusalem could no longer recognize their sin - they stood before God in their wickedness and boldly asked: "What wrong have we done?" Today, we are at risk of becoming equally darkened anytime we fail to address the sin which continues to push into our lives. What activities have we begun to tolerate? What behaviors have we begun to accept? What "teachings" from the modern media have we begun to receive? What sin has begun to fill our heart?

If our eyes were truly opened, would we be surprised to see how far we've compromised and strayed? Let's recommit our lives to holiness, purity, worship, and absolute love for God. Let's allow His light to indwell EVERY area of our life. Let's repent of our sin and refuse to live with a darkened heart.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 504089ED-46F2-4651-8C11-2DAD79182B7A Fri, 30 Apr 2010 14:09:42 -0400
In the message "Finish The Race" we were encouraged to "run" toward the finish line; but we were also reminded that God's race takes place within our heart as we learn to trust and love Him more and more. His race is not in what we do but in who we are, and who we are becoming, as we do ALL to bring Him glory and honor. One of the biggest stumbling blocks which keeps us from running a "successful" race is the complacency caused by forgetting what God has already done in our life.

Not everyone's circumstances are what they might prefer, but each of us are on a wonderful journey which began when God sent His Spirit to open our eyes to the truth and called us to be with Him for all eternity through faith in His Son. Our beginning ought to be a clear indication of God's miraculous grace and Guiding Hand. But as we look back on our journey, we recognize some of the miracles which brought us to where we are today; but many miracles we fail to acknowledge or understand...and most we have simply forgotten.

God's children have always had a hard time with recognizing and remembering. The northern kingdom of Israel had been in rebellion for almost two hundred years when God called Hosea to be a prophet. The people had created their own form of worship and had long forgotten how much God loved them and how much He had already done to guide and protect.

Hosea 11:3-4
"It was I {God} who taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by the arms; but they did not realize it was I who healed them. I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love; I lifted the yoke from their neck and bent down to feed them."

In this passage, Ephraim refers to the nation of Israel. God was reminding the people how He provided for all their needs as He led them out of Egyptian slavery, into the promised land of Canaan. But this passage is very applicable to each of us today. Whether we see His Hand or not, God has been at work guiding us in many different ways.

None of us are at our final destination, but each of us are where we are because God loves us dearly and wants to draw us ever closer to Himself. Let's not create our own form of worship where we give Him the leftovers of our heart. He created us, saved us, and brought us to where we are today - He deserves our ALL.

We must turn our eyes back to God and praise Him for His continuous provision and His loving promise to finish the work He has begun in our life; "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (Philippians 1:6). Let's praise Him for His Guiding Hand, and, as we run, let's always remember it was God who taught us to walk.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 5AB8C7F0-667B-4E33-93F6-714DE8189998 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 10:56:39 -0400
Paul was returning to Jerusalem at the end of his third and final missionary journey. By this time in his ministry, Paul had been a Christian for nearly twenty years. Twenty years since Jesus called Paul, "My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel" (Acts 9:15). Twenty years of faithful service, and now... "In every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me" (Acts 20:23).

Paul was returning home, but his life was not going to be easy. He knew there were many trials ahead, but his life had a purpose far beyond his immediate surroundings.

Acts 20:24
"I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me - the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."

It was several more years before Paul wrote; "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (Philippians 4:12); yet here, when facing certain hardship, Paul showed he had already learned the secret. The particular circumstances in Paul's life had become of minor importance. He knew his contentment was not based on current events, but on bringing glory and honor to God. His life had a wonderful purpose even in the face of great adversity and harsh conditions.

We were all created for the same purpose as Paul - we were created to bring glory and honor to God! Our specific tasks may differ and change from time to time, but we each have the same unchanging purpose. Everything we do, say, and think should bring glory and honor to our Heavenly Father!

God's race is run in the deepest part of our heart, not in the flurry of activity. Running well is not defined by doing more; rather, we run a "successful" race as we do every little task we are given with the complete and absolute devotion of our heart.

His race is long and often difficult. There are many distractions which seek to slow us down and even pull us from the track; and at times we may even wonder why we're running. But being a participant in God's eternal race is infinitely more rewarding than standing on the sidelines and simply watching! He has called us to run - and to run well!!

We must run the path God places before us with all the strength He provides, and within the sure and calming protection of His grace. Let's run with the motivation of bringing Him glory and honor by loving Him with ALL our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Let's continue to run well, and with a burning desire to finish the race.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 378B9070-4C75-401B-A22B-2E834558710D Mon, 26 Apr 2010 10:39:50 -0400
On the night before He was crucified, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. The thought of what would take place in the next 24 hours caused Jesus to be deeply troubled; "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death" (Mark 14:34).

Being fully God, Jesus knew exactly what was about to take place and exactly why it had to occur. But being fully Man, the foreknowledge of the rejection, physical pain, and spiritual separation from the Father was nearly unbearable.

Mark 14:36
"'Abba, Father,' He said, 'everything is possible for You. Take this cup from Me. Yet not what I will, but what You will.'"

Jesus cried out and asked for the plan to be changed; and yet, His greater desire was for the Father's will to be done. Earlier in His ministry, Jesus taught us this same principle; "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven'" (Matthew 6:9-10). Even with an absolute understanding of what He must endure, Jesus' sole desire was to glorify the Father by walking the path placed before Him; "I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do" (John 17:4).

This is the example we ought to follow all through our life; we should present ourselves to the Father, fully prepared to serve, and be completely emptied of our own desires. When we have allowed Him to be the only possessor of our heart, He will fill us with His Spirit and accomplish His perfect will through our life. When our life is ordered and directed only by His will, we will receive blessings from above which bring far greater joy than the fulfillment of ANY flesh-directed desire.

This is one of the mysterious "secrets" of the Christian walk. We were created to be in fellowship with God - to glorify Him and enjoy His presence for all eternity. We may spend a lifetime chasing what we believe will bring us a sense of fulfillment, but we will never be truly content until we rest in His arms and submit to His ways.

What cup have we been given to drink? What seemingly unbearable burden have we been given to carry? Have we been asking, even demanding, that the burdens be taken from us, or are we yielding to the Father's will and being determined to glorify Him in all we do? Let's come to His table ready and willing to serve; but let's also come with complete submission to His perfect plan. Only in this can we fulfill the purpose for which we were created. Heavenly Father, we give our life fully into Your hands; let it unfold, not by our plans, goals or desires, but according to Your will.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 929A49C5-359F-4940-83B3-8239C7125B48 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 09:57:49 -0400
In the message "Never Forget" we saw that God's gift of Salvation through faith in Jesus is our greatest blessing - a blessing we must never forget as we tend to become discouraged. In the beginning, "God created man in His own image" (Genesis 1:27). Then, when sin entered the world and man became separated from God, "He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).

This is the greatest love story in all history; "While we were still {lost} sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). He died for you and me, and also for all those other lost sinners scattered around us. Jesus Christ, "who being in very nature God" (Philippians 2:6), was born in a dirty stable; "He made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). He lived His life with the single purpose of dying so that ALL who believe could be eternally restored to the Father; "the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men" (Romans 5:18).

God loves us VERY much! And He doesn't just love those who love Him in return or faithfully serve Him - He loves ALL. We are precious! Yes, He hates sin and will one day judge with an eternal damnation all who fail to believe; but His love - His offer of Salvation - extends to all...even to our noisy neighbor and difficult co-worker, our obnoxious family members and the disrespectful kids who wear "strange" clothes.

God's love is so much a part of who He is, and of who we ought to be, that Jesus commands us by His example: "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34). We are to love as Jesus loved; and as if this was too difficult a concept for our finite minds, we are commanded to love in terms we can all understand.

Galatians 5:14
"The entire law is summed up in a single command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"

God wants us to love others primarily because He loves them and desires His love to be expressed through us! He encouraged this love by creating us with a natural capacity for love. When we are hungry we feed ourself; when we are hurt we care for ourself; and when we are down, we pray to be lifted up. These are natural expressions of self-love - the same love God desires we show to ALL.

Let's evaluate our thoughts, words, and actions in terms of their effect on others. Are we encouraging or adding burdens? Are we building up or tearing down? Are we bringing others closer to Jesus or pushing them further away? Are we as loving to others as we are to ourself? Let's be His hands, feet, and voice of love in the world around us. Let's begin to see others as through His eyes; and remember, we are ALL precious in His sight.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D02C887A-8BFA-4888-A904-3D92CDCCCE51 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 12:07:54 -0400
It had been forty years since Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt. During their years of wandering in the desert, God demonstrated His faithfulness as well as His holiness. Now, as the people were finally ready to cross the Jordan river into the promised land of Canaan, Moses gave one last encouragement.

Deuteronomy 6:10-12
"When the Lord your God brings you into the land He swore to your fathers - a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant - then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery."

We have all lived in the land of slavery - a land where we were controlled by sin. We were born as slaves, but Jesus came to set us free: "Though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free" (Romans 6:17-18).

While we were still lost in our sinful condition, Jesus gave His life as a sacrifice (payment) for our sin; but He also broke the chains which kept us slaves to sin. Though we still struggle, we need not be mastered if we have placed our faith in Jesus and daily submit to the leading of His Spirit. His sacrifice provides a way to be "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17). This IS the victorious life!

Yes we have been set free! But we did nothing to earn this freedom. We did not dig a well of righteousness or plant a field of forgiveness. Our "promised land" of freedom is a gift, given by a loving Father to those who believe.

As we continue on our Christian walk, with its many peaks and valleys, twists and turns, we often forget. We become discouraged over trivial matters which are quickly fading away and forget the gift of eternal life we have been given. We wander in the dry desert of ungrateful hearts and ask, "Where is God?" We forget the joy we once had of abiding in His presence and forget His promise to always be near; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5).

Through God's precious gift, we have an eternity to worship our Heavenly Father. This alone should give us reason to praise His Name with every breath and live a life holy and pleasing to Him. Whether we are currently in a time of crushing trials or unparalleled peace, we must continually remember from where we were rescued. His gift is a blessing we can hardly comprehend! And as we draw near and give Him all of our heart, His grace continues to bless us even more. Let's worship with a thankful heart, glorify His Name in ALL we do, and be careful to never forget.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm C688FF47-9688-4D8F-9265-1F60D2E57825 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:35:47 -0400
Joseph's life was filled with one difficult situation after another. By the time he was a teenager, his brothers had developed an intense hatred toward him which led to an attempt to take his life. But rather than kill him, they sold young Joseph into slavery (Genesis 37). And then, as a slave, Joseph was falsely accused of rape and thrown into jail (Genesis 39).

It's never really explained how Joseph learned to trust God - but he did! He could have become very discouraged when he became a slave, but somehow Joseph adjusted to his circumstances and thrived; "The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered" (Genesis 39:2). When tempted with sexual sin by Potiphar's wife, he kept himself pure because he did not want to "sin against God" (Genesis 39:9). But false accusations still sent him into prison.

Even after spending several years in jail, Joseph continued to place his complete trust in God. When asked to interpret Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph risked his freedom and rightly gave all the glory and praise to God rather than take credit for himself; "I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires" (Genesis 41:16).

Joseph was rewarded with much more than his freedom; he was placed in charge of the entire land of Egypt during a great famine. He was also reunited with his family and able to keep them from certain starvation. Several years later, after their father died, Joseph's brothers came and fearfully asked for his forgiveness. Joseph could have taken great revenge, but he continued to demonstrate his understanding of how God cares for His children.

Genesis 50:19-20
"Joseph said to them, 'Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.'"

When Joseph was sold into slavery, he had no idea of God's awesome plan. He would spend many years in jail before receiving even a hint of God's purpose. But God is ALWAYS at work in the lives of those who love Him. Joseph's life must encourage us to draw near to God during times of hardship - to continue trusting and honoring Him in all we do...no matter what our circumstances!

We all go through "dungeon" seasons when life seems to take unplanned and seemingly "unfair" turns. We all, at times, feel abandoned and alone: "Has God forgotten me? Does He no longer care?" We may not understand why things happen the way they do, but if we will continue to love Him with all our heart and consistently trust Him in and through all our trials, we can be certain (and one day we will truly see) that God is in control and every situation is truly intended for good.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E0D8C66B-7394-422E-943C-478EF30AE175 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 22:43:25 -0400
John the Baptist was born with a single purpose; "to make ready a people prepared to receive the Lord" (Luke 1:17). He was chosen for service before he was conceived and was "filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth" (Luke 1:15). John was so obedient to his calling that Jesus said, "Among those born of women, there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28). But John also knew his position within God's Kingdom...he had come to serve.

John 1:26-27
"'I baptize with water,' John replied, 'but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.'"

John had been given his assignment and was empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish his tasks. He was a servant preparing the way for the King. John was the greatest man ever born; and yet, in his humility, he felt unworthy to even untie the sandals of Christ.

True humility is not simply defined by a low self-image. It is the natural condition of our spirit when we begin to understand who we really are...and Who God really is! John felt unworthy because he had been given a glimpse of the unfathomable greatness and holiness of his Lord. As he stood in the presence of Perfection, there was only one response; "He must become greater, I must become less" (John 3:30).

When we know that Jesus is on the throne, "at God's right hand" (1 Peter 3:22), and that He will reign for all eternity, we begin to see our life in the proper perspective. He is infinitely perfect and worthy of infinite love, worship, and service. We live and breathe purely by His grace; we are but "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14).

Yes, we are a "mist," but we are a mist with a purpose. We have been empowered by the Holy Spirit with the necessary tools to victoriously serve. Though our offering will always be imperfect, and far less than He deserves, it will be pleasing and acceptable if we give Him our ALL, give Him our best, and give from the innermost part of our heart.

Our God is truly above ALL, and He loves us so much that He gave His one and only Son so we could be with Him for all eternity. He calls us to believe in His gift and then serve Him for all the rest of our days. Let's continue to love Him with all our heart, give Him our absolute very best, and daily walk down the path He lays before us. Let's serve obediently, boldly, and victoriously...but let's also lift the Name of Jesus higher and higher and serve with humility.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 753DEBFA-077A-46DE-B96A-CE9028490DBF Wed, 14 Apr 2010 22:37:19 -0400
The messages "Stand Firm in The Gap" and "Never Lose Hope" were quite convicting. So much so that I felt the need to send out a type of confession/recommitment message.

In the messages we saw our call to stand in the gap for those who have breaks in their spiritual walls and are in need of prayer, encouragement, and time. We do this by first strengthening our own walls and then being focused on the needs of others. The messages encouraged us to minister with our eyes firmly fixed on Christ, to persevere for as long as it takes, and to never lose hope. However, it's a sad reality that some ministry efforts last so long, are filled with so many set-backs, and leave us discouraged and wanting to quit.

I haven't written about my daughter Stacey in quite a while, but many have let me know they continue to pray for her. I have material about her posted on our web site (with her permission) but I haven't updated the page for a long time because I'm not really sure what to say. There are so many times I thought she had reached bottom, so many times she has cried out to God for help, and so many times she has returned to a life of bad choices and pain.

Stacey has spent most of this past year either in jail or a rehab facility for addiction problems. Over the past thirteen years her additions have jumped around between drugs, pills, and alcohol. She is currently in jail but she gets out today. But this message is not really about Stacey, it's about me and my shortcomings.

I need to confess that when she was sent to jail in February I pretty much quit - I gave up. I did not write and refused most of her calls. I didn't give up on God's ability to pull her out of the pit, but I gave up on my ability to do anything useful. I even convinced myself I might be causing harm if I continued to encourage. I believe I was wrong and missed the heart of God for how to minister and truly stand in the gap.

During this Easter season, I'm reminded of the need to persevere - to never give up - because God never gave up on me.

Romans 5:8
"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

We all have a long, long history of running away from God. But God never gave up. He never quit! He persevered, loved us, called us, forever longed to be with us; and at just the right time, He died for us!

I have recommitted to standing in the gap for Stacey for as long as it takes. I repent of turning my back and will continue to love on her for the rest of my days. I'm not fully sure what this means but I will seek the guidance of the Spirit of God and trust Him to accomplish the ultimate healing. Let's not place time limits on our commitment to stand in the gap for those who need our encouragement. And let's remember the love and patience of God whenever we are discouraged and wanting to quit.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D47B17AD-350A-4E47-AE8D-68F51C635712 Mon, 5 Apr 2010 00:01:00 -0400
During the time of King Jehoshaphat (approximately 860 B.C.), several armies began to invade the land of Judah. Being greatly outnumbered, Jehoshaphat called for a nation-wide time of fasting and prayer to seek guidance from God: "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).

The king needed to formulate a plan. He was the appointed leader and responsible for the safety of his people. King Jehoshaphat's "plan" was to place the fate of the entire nation into the hands of God. Many see such action as weakness, but it took great strength to recognize he was powerless - even greater strength to know where to turn and Whom to trust!

God answered King Jehoshaphat's cry for help through a Levite named Jahaziel.

2 Chronicles 20:14-15
"Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel...'Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."'"

Knowing that our battles belong to God is great comfort when we face trials which appear much bigger than anything we can handle. But there is more to the story! God didn't tell Jehoshaphat to just sit in his tent while the battle was won. Rather, He gave specific instructions to confidently stand before the enemy.

2 Chronicles 20:16-17
"Tomorrow march down against them...{But} you will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you."

It's inevitable that our life will contain such battles - many are facing overwhelming battles right now. And as with everything we encounter on our Christian walk, battles have a purpose. Many times the purpose of our battle is to understand a fundamental truth: "Apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). Reaching the end of our own strength is the real battle; turning to God and trusting Him for every step of our walk is the real victory!

As we trust Him with all our heart and seek counsel in His presence, He will tell us where to march and where to stand. Let's boldly follow our Lord each and every day and refuse to become discouraged. He is in absolute control...for these ARE God's battles!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm EFE49D8C-AD74-4FBF-80AA-C3E01E21FCE3 Sun, 4 Apr 2010 23:34:46 -0400
In the message "Stand Firm in The Gap" we were encouraged to continue in prayer and minister to the needs of others; to stand in the gap for those who need protection against enemy attacks. We saw our responsibility to stand for as long as necessary. This requires perseverance and complete trust in God. It can be difficult when we continue to "stand" but God appears slow to respond. We can also become extremely discouraged when we think we understand HOW He should respond.

Lazarus had become sick to the point of death, and his sisters were standing in the gap by ministering to his needs. They even sent word to Jesus in hopes that He would help.

John 11:4-6
"When He heard this, Jesus said, 'This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.' Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days."

Jesus did not immediately respond - and during this delay, Lazarus died. Yet this tragedy was for God's glory. When Jesus finally arrived, He raised Lazarus from the dead and taught an important message: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Lazarus and his sisters would have preferred a healing during the early stage of the sickness - but that was not God's plan. His plan included much more than the temporary suffering of one family. His plan was to teach many people, through many generations, to this very day and beyond, that He was the sure way to eternal life. His plan was perfect, with perfect timing.

We are all given opportunities to serve by meeting the needs of others. But as we serve, we must NEVER take our eyes off our Heavenly Father. Our "job" is to stand in the gap and minister how His Spirit directs. It is never our responsibility to "fix" the people or circumstances we have been called to serve. When we will faithfully serve we will find that God actually uses our ministry effort to work on issues in our own life, issues like trust; "Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge" (Psalm 62:8). Our lack of trust is revealed when we give up - when we despair and lose hope.

When our area of service seems out of control - when the need seems to outpace our ability to serve and God seems slow to respond - we must continue to trust Him with all our heart. These times of testing will draw us closer to God as we abandon ALL into His sovereign care. He alone knows His plan, and His plan remains perfect. Let's continue to trust Him and serve as He directs. Let's continue with our eyes fixed on God, and never lose hope!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FD4EFDA0-8DF7-4CB5-864A-30985CC16D21 Sun, 4 Apr 2010 23:10:54 -0400
In the final years of the southern kingdom of Israel, God warned that He was going to use the king of Babylon to discipline the people unless they returned to Him with a heart of worship. But the people failed to repent and the invasion of Jerusalem began.

Ezekiel was a prophet to those taken captive during the Babylonian attacks. Through Ezekiel, God explained why He was allowing Jerusalem to be destroyed. He said the people had rebelled and drifted far; but His anger seemed mostly directed at the leaders who failed to point the way: "{The priests} do not distinguish between the holy and the common; they teach that there is no difference between the unclean and the clean" (Ezekiel 22:26). In addition, God said the prophets were covering up the sins of the priests; "They whitewash their deeds for them by false visions and lying divinations" (Ezekiel 22:28).

God searched, but found no one who was willing to lead the people into a life of pure and holy worship - a life which recognized God as Lord of ALL and prayed without ceasing for His guidance and protection.

Ezekiel 22:30-31
"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger."

As in the days of Ezekiel, spiritual walls are crumbling all around us. We have whitewashed sin in the name of tolerance, and we have lost our passion for holiness and worship in the busyness of materialism and worldly advancement. And tragically, many of our churches are filled with compromise and fail to point the way to truth. The result is many lives filled with spiritual gaps - areas vulnerable to grave attack by the enemy.

We must repair our own walls through repentance, forgiveness, and daily drawing nearer to the presence of God. But we must also look for "gaps" in the walls of those around us and commit to standing firm with prayer, encouragement, and time, until strength returns and walls are repaired. We must be ones who live without compromise and faithfully point the way to true worship and a life which glorifies God in all we do.

We must continue to stand in the gap for as long as it takes the relationship of a friend to be restored, the strength of a pastor to be renewed, the heart of a loved one to be transformed, or the life of a prodigal child to return home. God's words through Ezekiel are harsh; but God didn't give up on the people until the people gave up on each other. It's not too late if we continue to point the way; there is still hope if we will stand firm in the gap.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 968B8532-A9CF-44B3-A7EA-5B218517BB9B Sun, 4 Apr 2010 22:51:09 -0400
Paul's letter to the Philippians is one hundred and four verses filled with encouragement and joy. Paul didn't write this letter to explain deep theology or to deal with any particular sin. Rather, his purpose was to express love for his friends and to encourage them (and us) to live a joy-filled Christian life.

In chapter one, Paul encourages us that God's work in us WILL continue; "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (1:6). In chapter two, we are encouraged to "do everything without complaining or arguing" (2:14).

In chapter three, Paul inspires us to be forward-looking in our walk with Christ; "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal" (3:13-14). Finally, in chapter four, Paul writes some of my personal favorites; "Rejoice in the Lord always!" (4:4); "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (4:12); and, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (4:13).

But buried within these wonderful words of encouragement is probably the most valuable and applicable message for our daily journey with Christ.

Philippians 4:9
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Paul had the gospel message living in him and shining through him every moment of every day. But he never would have learned "the secret" of rejoicing and being content in all situations if he had just learned "about" the gospel. Although it's wise, and very useful, to study and even memorize God's Word, His peace and contentment - His joy - will never be real until we actually apply His Word to our life on a daily basis: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (James 1:22).

We must NEVER be just hearers of the Word who become puffed up with Bible knowledge. We must never preach Biblical truths yet fail to apply these truths in our own life and draw ever closer to our Heavenly Father. Jesus accused many of the Jews around Him of making this same mistake: "You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to Me to have life" (John 5:39-40).

Let's never stop with just loving His Word or His "activities." Let's love HIM with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. And let's express our love by obediently following the leading of His Spirit out into the world, as we take what we daily receive and put it into practice.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 43DC038F-0537-4D1D-88FC-FC6AE9850858 Sun, 4 Apr 2010 22:34:04 -0400
In the message "Arise And Walk" we were reminded that as God answers our prayers He does so in a manner which is "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" (Ephesians 3:20). He answers according to our true need driven by His divine good. This is a difficult concept but God's view of this world, and certainly His view of our life, is much grander than our own; "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:9).

This passage in Isaiah occurs as God is calling people to trust Him in ways they do not understand; "Give ear and come to Me; hear Me, that your soul may live" (Isaiah 55:3). God's path to the greater good - which we must understand is the same as the path to our very best - is the path which follows Him in absolute faith, even when we do not understand.

The story of Jesus and the young rich man gives an example of someone who could not accept this truth. In this story a rich man asked Jesus, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" (Mark 10:17). After first telling the man to obey the commandments related to how he treated others Jesus gave the man a directive which caused him to turn away.

Mark 10:21
"Jesus looked at him and loved him. 'One thing you lack,' He said. 'Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.'"

To understand this story we need to realize that terms like kingdom of God, eternal life, and salvation, do not simply refer to a ticket to heaven - they refer to that and so much more. When asked by the Pharisees about the kingdom of God, Jesus answered, "the kingdom of God is within (or among) you" (Luke 17:21). Eternal life can begin now! The kingdom can begin now! Salvation can begin now! Yes, there is also a future realization, but let's not miss the now. The rich man accepted some of what Jesus said but refused to believe that Jesus truly knew what was best and loved him enough to call him to obedience.

God's very best, His kingdom reality, is available right now. But it's only available through faithfully following His way of truth and not our own. When we choose to walk contrary to God's word we have chosen the path of a fool. God's path is never contrary to His word. God NEVER leads someone to lie, cheat, steal, dishonor, slander, or commit adultery. God will never lead someone to divorce as a road to greater happiness. Choosing such a road is choosing the road of a fool and is guaranteed to miss out on God's best!

Receiving our ticket to heaven might be a one time event, but choosing to live right now in the kingdom of God requires daily choices to live according to the ways of God. So today, and also in the many days to come, we must make the choice. Will we live as a follower or fool?

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1D14F226-02DD-4955-BD34-571214D83A38 Sun, 4 Apr 2010 22:13:36 -0400
To grow as a Christian means to become closer and develop a more intimate relationship with God. This relationship begins when we are born into His family - when we ask Him to forgive our sins through faith in Jesus and begin what is intended to be an eternal communion of love. He desires for us to trust Him in ALL things and pray to Him on all occasions; "In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6).

Jesus promised that our prayers will be heard and answered; "Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete" (John 16:24). But as we lift up our requests, we can sometimes become confused by God's response. We often perceive His answers to be slow in arriving or we're disappointed with His reply; we even begin to doubt if God even hears our prayers.

But we must remember that we have entered into an eternal relationship with the Sovereign Creator of the Universe! Underlying all our prayers must be the firm belief that "in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him" (Romans 8:28). God always has a plan, and His plan is very, very good! We must trust that His answer to our prayers will meet our true need (and fulfill our deepest desire) much better than we could ever imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

A short time after Jesus was crucified, Peter and John were confronted by a crippled man sitting beside the Temple gate begging for money.

Acts 3:6
"Then Peter said, 'Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.'"

Until that day, the crippled man had never walked a single step. In his limited view of the world, the only hope he had for a better life was to be given a little money by those passing by. His request was limited by what he could see and understand - limited by his faith.

Our loving Father always hears our prayers - and He always answers. His answer to prayer is either yes, no, or wait...and sometimes He answers with, "Here my child, I have something much better for you."

God's view of our needs (and His view of the entire world) is much higher and grander than our own. We generally see our need as the solution to some short term problem, but our true need is always to grow by drawing closer and loving Him more. Let's take our eyes off the crutches we think will "fix" our problem and look instead to the One who is calling, to the One who patiently says, "Trust Me and come into My presence as you arise and walk!"

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4338107B-1AC7-4B67-AD46-151D89D30CD4 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 22:39:31 -0400
One day when Jesus was traveling from Galilee to Jerusalem, ten men with leprosy approached Him and called out; "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!" (Luke 17:13). Jesus didn't immediate heal the lepers; rather, He gave them a simple instruction; "Go, show yourselves to the priests" (Luke 17:14).

A leper would only present himself to a priest if he believed the leprosy was gone. The priests had the authority to declare a diseased person ceremonially clean and allow them to return home (Leviticus 14). Therefore, the lepers demonstrated great faith when they followed Jesus' command; "And as they went, they were cleansed" (Luke 17:14). Notice that the lepers had to take action before they were healed - their action was a demonstration of their faith.

Though all ten lepers had been cleansed of their terrible disease, only one returned to give thanks; "He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked Him" (Luke 17:16). Jesus responded with a very convicting question.

Luke 17:17
"Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?'"

I wonder if we really understand the degree to which we have been healed and made clean; "God made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgression" (Ephesians 2:5). We were DEAD, and He made us alive with Christ - that's serious healing!! Our Heavenly Father reached down in love and provided a way for complete restoration when we didn't even have the ability to cry out for help; "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8) - that's serious love!!

His Hand guided us toward healing through His Son and His Hand continues to heal in countless ways on our daily walk. Every time relationships are restored, His hand has healed; when conflicts are resolved, His hand has healed; and when He lovingly welcomes us back after we have wandered from His presence, His hand has healed.

But do we return to thank Him? Or are we as the other nine lepers who go on our way and forget the One to whom we owe our very lives.

The one leper who returned threw himself at Jesus' feet. If we knew how deathly ill we are without Christ and how completely He has healed our soul, we would not only throw ourselves at His feet, but we would remain and refuse to ever leave. Let's live each day in the presence of God and continually come before Him with hearts overflowing with thanksgiving and praise. Let's remember our divine healing and ALWAYS be the one who will return to give thanks.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B0B08307-1A85-4F45-A65A-B0033DC2A569 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 20:27:34 -0400
In the days of the prophet Jeremiah, God's chosen people had turned away to worship other gods. But God longed for His children to return and worship Him as the One True God. The Israelites had been warned for many years and now God used a foreign king as His tool for discipline and instruction.

Jeremiah 27:6
"Now I will hand all your countries over to My servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; I will make even the wild animals subject to him."

God reminded the people that He alone was almighty and in control of world events. But He also revealed their sinful pride as He required them to yield to His discipline in order to survive; "Bow your neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon and you will live" (Jeremiah 27:12). Many chose to die rather than to trust God and submit to His instruction.

Nebuchadnezzar did not even acknowledge God at this point in his life; and yet, God called him "My servant." It was God's plan to use this non-believing foreigner to teach His children some very important (and painful) lessons. God's Hand of discipline is firm, but His Hand is always directed with a loving purpose. Pride was keeping His children away, and it needed to be removed by any tool available.

Being adopted into God's family through the gift of Salvation is a one time event. Through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, we receive His grace and become "a new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17). However, learning to truly live for God and become "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29), is an on-going process which will last all the rest of our days.

There is so much our Heavenly Father desires for us to understand - so many lessons He wants us to learn - and yet, all the lessons seem nearly identical. He desires a continual and intimate fellowship; He wants us to learn to trust Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).

As we open our life to God's teaching, we must allow Him to instruct us using the tools of His choice. His lessons are often taught using the most unlikely messengers and through the worst of circumstances, but His lessons always contain a lasting sweetness.

No matter what we face today, let's look for the lesson God is teaching. Circumstances in our work, home, or even place of worship may often become hot with friction; but these sources of abrasion may very well be the tools God is using to mold us and draw us closer to His side...because He loves us and desires for us to learn to trust and love Him more. Let's praise Him for His continued loving instruction. Let's embrace the shaping process and be thankful for ALL the tools of The Teacher.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 0013B8AF-7793-4406-AEFA-4BCE84B4AA8E Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:49:02 -0400
In the message "Secure In His Presence" we were encouraged to guard against anything which takes away from our complete dependence on our Heavenly Father. We saw how worldly security can sometimes cause us to close our eyes and ears to God's leading. Becoming secure in the world means we are placing our trust in the things of the world. David made this mistake and it cost him dearly.

God described David as "a man after My own heart" (Acts 13:22). David clearly saw God working in his life. When he went to fight Goliath with only stones and a sling, he knew to trust in the strength offered by God; "All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord's" (1 Samuel 17:47). God continued to protect David through his trials with Saul and later led him through many military victories as the king of Israel. But toward the end of his reign, David began to trust the world's definition of power and might.

1 Chronicles 21:1-2
"Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel. So David said to Joab and the commanders of the troops, 'Go and count the Israelites. Then report back to me so that I may know how many there are.'"

God allowed Satan to tempt David because there was still deep rooted pride in David that needed to be revealed. There was nothing inherently wrong with counting the people. When God led the nation of Israel out of Egypt, He told Moses; "Take a census of the whole Israelite community" (Numbers 1:2). But David had become very "self" reliant and had placed his trust in his own strength and abilities. He became focused on his resources - the number of men who were able to fight - rather than keeping his eyes and ears on the true Commander of ALL battles.

David recognized and confessed his sin: "I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg You, take away the guilt" (1 Chronicles 21:8). Though David's sin was forgiven, God still enforced severe consequences; "So the Lord sent a plague on Israel, and seventy thousand men of Israel fell dead" (1 Chronicles 21:14). As the leader of God's chosen people, David was expected to set a clear example of complete trust.

God wants and expects the total devotion of our heart. Devotion will always mean love and worship; but it also must include our sustained and unwavering trust. Our Heavenly Father establishes our path and provides all the necessary strength to achieve the victory He desires. He simply asks that we trust only in Him and continue to follow where He leads. Let's give Him ALL the glory and honor as we keep our eyes forever focused on Christ and guard against the sin of misplaced trust.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 81F929CE-12AC-424A-9C6C-03ADB1D463DE Sun, 28 Mar 2010 19:26:24 -0400
The one hundred and fifty psalms in the Bible were written by several different people; we believe that David wrote many but certainly not all. The psalms were meant to be set to music and sung as a way of extolling the glory of God, but also as a way of expressing the deeply honest emotions which are certain to appear when one submits their life to the leading of God.

The psalms as given in the Bible represent longings, frustration, anger, confession, and praise of the individuals who wrote about three thousand years ago. Perhaps today psalms would sound like this:

A PSALM OF PRAISE

1. O Lord, I will praise you through all of my day;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.

2. I will praise you when I rise;
for you have given me rest and breath.

3. I will praise when I eat my morning meal;
for you have given me time before my family goes their ways.

4. I will praise you when I drive my children to school;
for you have given resources and intellect for them to learn.

5. I will praise you when I work;
for you have given both ability and opportunity to produce.

6. I will praise you when I observe, though all too infrequent,
the beauty of the trees and grass, the river and the park;
for you have given a creation, though fallen, as a reminder of
your majesty and love.

7. I will praise you when I return home;
for you have given comfort and a loving wife.

8. I will praise you when I lay;
for you have given me warmth and peace.

9. Yes, Lord, I will praise you through all of my day;
and I will praise you for all of my days;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.

10. I will praise you in my youth;
for you have given me strength and health and energy.

11. I will praise you in my mid years;
for you have given me family and understanding of your ways.

12. I will praise you in my aging;
for you have given guidance and protected me from selfish gain;

13. Lord, you are my love, my life, my all in all;
I will praise you at the end;
for you have given of yourself so I might live.

14. So I praise you all through my day and for all of my days;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.



A PSALM OF LAMENT

1. Lord, the heavens and hills declare your glory;
but your people wail and cry in despair;
who can blame them for failing to see?

2. Who can blame the mother who fails to see your glory,
when her child is torn from her arms and beat?

3. Who can blame the father who fails to see your glory,
when he is unable to even feed his family?

4. Who can blame the children for failing to see your glory,
when their father leaves and their mothers dies an early, painful death?

5. Who can blame the nations for failing to see your glory,
when corruption, war, and disaster strips away all hope?

6. Who can blame your people for failing to see your glory,
when the stars do shine but evil and heartache reign?

7. Who can blame anyone for failing to see your glory,
when you allow all of this?

8. Oh Lord, return your glory to this land;
what is declared in the heavens declare again among your people.

9. It is not the time for a silent God who withholds direction;
your people are lost and wandering in need of a shepherd.

10. Now is the time for the heavens to shine in the lives of your people,
for your people to be transformed, walk in your ways, and praise your name.

11. Now is the time for your voice to be heard with thunderous clarity,
for the paths to be strained until only one remains.

12. Hear our cry! Why will you not shine? Why will you not thunder and strain?
Who can blame us for failing to see?

13. And yet, Oh Lord, your glory does shine,
and I will trust in you, in you alone, though I fail to see.

From the psalms we learn about a posture of honesty before God. Yes we pray we will one day be able to "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Philippians 4:4), but it is natural for portions of the journey to contain seasons of wrestling where we cry out for understanding. So whether we are in a season of praise or a season of lament, God is there and would love to hear our personal psalms.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 051CDAD9-8555-4B62-944E-60DFA6567874 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:29:04 -0400
Jehoiakim was king of Judah just prior to the first Babylonian invasion in 605 B.C.. He had become comfortable in the security of the palace, and an alliance with the Egyptians made him feel even more protected. But Jehoiakim led the people of Judah further away from God; "he did evil in the eyes of the Lord, just as his fathers had done" (2 Kings 23:37).

God sent the prophet Jeremiah to warn Jehoiakim and the people of Judah that disaster would come if they did not repent; "If you do not listen to Me and follow My law..., then I will make this city an object of cursing among all the nations of the earth" (Jeremiah 26:4,6). But with his every need and desire fulfilled, and every fear removed, Jehoiakim did not see a reason to listen.

Jeremiah 22:21
"I warned you when you felt secure, but you said, 'I will not listen!' This has been your way from your youth; you have not obeyed."

We spend the majority of our lives building security in our job, finances, and relationships. But security within the world system is extremely shallow and deceptive; "Do not store up for yourselves treasures {security} on earth, where moth and rust destroy, where thieves break in and steal" (Matthew 6:19). We ought to be thankful for every one of our earthly blessings, but we should NEVER receive our "security" from the world. Our complete dependence must always remain on our Heavenly Father, and our eyes and ears continually open to His leading.

Our daily walk is made one slow step at a time as we "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). Usually, we are allowed to see only the next step; "Your Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105). We may not know what turns lie ahead, but our true security, peace and comfort, comes from simply knowing we're on His path, not from feeling we control the direction or pace of the journey.

True security begins with faith in Jesus Christ and builds on a pure love which flows from the innermost part of our heart. Even activities such as church attendance, Bible study, or work in various ministries mean nothing without a faith based love; and these well-intended actions become a false spiritual security when they replace the need to abide in the presence of God or daily seek His direction.

Let's not allow our lives to develop a sense of security which shuts out the need for God and the absolute hunger for His presence. Our walk of faith will always require stepping into the unknown where all we have is what He provides. And a loving trust in God is confident that His provision is always enough! Let's lean on Him, love Him, and draw ever closer. Let's seek true security by only being secure in His presence.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FB28EE4D-B322-474A-8820-E3F3CE0ABD01 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:27:04 -0400
Our life in these mortal bodies will always fall short of God's standard. From the moment sin entered the world, we've been unable to satisfy God's requirement of perfection. But, knowing our weakness, God gave His Son as a sacrifice to make perfect those who believe; "By one sacrifice He has made perfect forever those who are being made holy" (Hebrews 10:14). Faith in the sacrifice of Jesus makes us perfect forever - this is the gracious gift of Salvation; "it is by grace you have been saved, through faith" (Ephesians 2:8).

The grace of God makes us perfect the moment we are saved; but, for the rest of our days on this earth, we are in the process of "being made holy." This is why Paul, who freely writes about the gift of grace, can also exhort us to a life free of sin; "Do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires" (Romans 6:12). Paul understood that, though we have become "perfect forever," we have also been called to a high standard of holiness. He therefore refers to his life after Salvation as a race to be won; "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me" (Philippians 3:12-14).

The picture of a well-conditioned athlete straining toward the finish line can be a wonderful motivator. However, when we press and strain toward the wrong goal - or with our own strength - we will soon become fatigued and discouraged. We are in a race, but we must allow Jesus to establish the goal as well as the route to be run. The goal of a Christian life must always be to produce fruit that glorifies God; "This is to My Father's glory, that you bear much fruit" (John 15:8). And the route of fruit production must ALWAYS be through the vine of Christ.

John 15:4-5
"No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing."

We are called to produce fruit by living a life of holiness and bringing glory and honor to God in all we do. However, fruit can only grow if we remain intimately attached to the vine - a branch cannot produce anything by itself! In our own strength we cannot produce holiness or ANYTHING esteemed by God. But when we allow the life of the vine to flow through our veins, we WILL produce a bounty of fruit.

Let's attach firmly to the vine of Jesus Christ and allow Him to flow though every area of our life. Let's live each day in the holy presence of God and produce baskets of fruit for His glory and honor. Let's run to win the race as we press and strain toward the vine.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1A1FDA95-9E40-4C34-A1D5-855837B04F1A Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:31:16 -0400
In the message "Faith to Move Mountains" we saw that, though our faith may appear small, all genuine believers in Jesus Christ have the faith to move any and all mountains which stand between us and a close relationship with our Heavenly Father. HOWEVER...Not all trials represent mountains which must be moved! Many things we view as obstacles are perfectly aligned with God's plan. This can definitely be a difficult and unpopular message!

Our Christian walk never promises freedom from trouble. In fact, Jesus promised us just the opposite; "In this world you will have trouble" (John 16:33a). Fortunately, Jesus immediately followed these words with a message of hope; "But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33b). Though trials may come and remain much longer than we'd like, we can still be set free by abiding in The One who has overcome.

The Apostle Paul had many trials during his ministry: "Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea" (2 Corinthians 11:24-25). But Paul was able to keep his trials in proper perspective by focusing on what was eternally relevant; "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18).

Toward the end of his ministry Paul was arrested for the "offense" of preaching the gospel. While awaiting trial in Rome, Paul spent two years under the guard of a Roman soldier and wrote a wonderful letter of encouragement to the Philippians: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!" (Philippians 4:4). Though he was confined, Paul allowed himself to be used by God to encourage many others toward an increase in their faith.

Philippians 1:14
"Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly."

Every time we experience a trial, the world watches to see the substance of our faith. Often, there is no better witness than to continue to trust and praise in the middle of our own trials. The best way to show that God is real is by making Him real in our own life.

Let's take a new look at our trials. Some are truly mountains which must be moved; but others are simply the chains we must patiently endure for the sake of the gospel. Let's turn what the enemy meant for harm into something which glorifies God. Let's encourage others to draw nearer to a loving Father as we praise Him with all our heart...in spite of our chains.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2D5A5717-F094-402A-ABFD-DA099082A845 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:11:12 -0400
In the message "The Mountain of Faith" we saw the faith of Abraham as God told him to climb the mountain and sacrifice Isaac. But, more importantly, we saw this as a picture of what it means to truly believe. Jesus said, "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16), but true belief clearly implies a willingness to obediently follow.

The gift of eternal life is given to those who have faith in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin. This precious gift is never linked to a specific amount of faith; rather, the only requirement of the gospel is that our faith be genuine. In fact, Jesus stated that a small amount of faith can accomplish more than we can imagine.

Matthew 17:20
"If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

This is amazing! Jesus used the example of a mustard seed because it was the smallest seed known. A few chapters later, He made a similar statement; "If you have faith and do not doubt...you can say to this mountain, 'Go throw yourself into the sea,' and it will be done" (Matthew 21:21). If we are a child of God then we have already been given sufficient faith by Jesus, "the author and perfecter of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2). There is therefore NO obstacle which cannot be cast aside!

Of course, genuine faith also implies an alignment with the will of God. Jesus even said, "He can do only what He sees His Father doing" (John 5:19). This is why we don't see individuals moving physical mountains today - it's not in the will of God. However, it's most definitely in God's will that we move all mountains which threaten to block our path toward Him or hinder His plan for our life.

If we really believe, we ought to be living our life according to His truth and the faith we have been given! Though we may face mountains in our job, relationships, finances, health, kids, or parents; though we may face temptations or addictions which appear impossible to conquer; though we may battle a low self esteem which says we can't, we must believe the Word of God is true! "With God ALL things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). Though we may not understand, we must believe, in faith, that God is infinitely greater than the bounds of our understanding. We are not walking alone and NO problem is beyond His ability to direct.

If we desire to live the full life God intends - the life that honors Him with every move and even every breath - then God's Word must become our foundation. Whatever problems we face, we must fall on our knees with humble submission to His will and seek His face in prayer. Then we must rise up and step forward without doubt, and, in His strength, believe we have been given the faith to move mountains.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 13735137-A0A3-4657-B523-3229414A4B50 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 13:09:10 -0400
In the message "The Mountain of Faith" we were encouraged to believe with a faith which is secure enough to surrender ALL to our Lord and Savior. We saw an example of this faith in Abraham as he was given a son and then told to surrender him as a burnt offering; "Take your son, your only son, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains I will tell you about" (Genesis 22:2).

Without any debate or even apparent doubt, Abraham set out with Isaac and a bundle of wood and began to obediently climb the mountain of faith. What special quality did Abraham have which allowed him to make such a climb? Only one! He believed God; "Abram believed the Lord, and He credited it to him as righteousness" (Genesis 15:6). Clearly, belief is tied directly to trust and obedience. Abraham believed God had a purpose for giving him such a command and he immediately obeyed.

Many of us are longing for clear direction from God. Although we probably pray that His direction doesn't require the sacrifice of Abraham, we're ready to follow and are in a mode of waiting. Waiting can be very frustrating and sometimes cause us to speed up God's timing. But we must continue to patiently seek the Lord, trust there is a purpose in the wait, continue to grow and mature, and be obedient to the things God has already given us to do. His direction will come - and when it does, we must be prepared to follow.

And yet, there is a mature part of Abraham's climb we often overlook. Perhaps if Isaac had been born ten years earlier, Abraham would not have been mature enough to make such a climb. You see, Abraham had learned to ALWAYS keep his eyes on the Lord - always listen for His leading - even after his direction appeared clear.

Genesis 22: 9-11
"He bound his son Isaac and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then he reached out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called out to him from heaven, 'Abraham! Abraham!' 'Here I am,' he replied."

What would have happened if Abraham had become so focused on "the mission" that he failed to listen for the voice of the Lord? Abraham was being obedient to the call of God; but right at the point of absolute obedience, God changed direction; "Do not lay a hand on the boy" (Genesis 22:12).

The call of God is not a one time event; it's an ongoing, moment by moment relationship of love. We are never sent on a mission which leads us away from the presence of the Lord. Rather, we are called to follow, making the journey hand in hand, and step by step. Let's continue to grow ever closer to our Heavenly Father. Let's trust Him more, love Him more, and always, always, always, listen as we climb.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm EE039F7B-EF4B-4BFD-AA9B-D306A4A27EB7 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:30:25 -0500
On the evening before He was crucified, Jesus ate one last meal with His disciples. For three years, the disciples had been instructed by Jesus and witnessed His miracles. He had taught them many lessons about the Kingdom of God...and about His upcoming death: "He will be handed over to the Gentiles. They will mock Him, insult Him, spit on Him, flog Him and kill Him" (Luke 18:32).

Now with less than one day to live, Jesus told His closest companions that one of them would soon betray Him; "The hand of him who is going to betray Me is with Mine on the table" (Luke 22:21). Naturally, the disciples were shocked! But their focus soon turned to trivial matters.

Luke 22:23-24
"They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this. Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest."

These men were eating supper with the Creator of the Universe and witnessing the most awesome events in the history of the world. And yet, in this last day, with only a few remaining hours, their concerns drifted to matters of position and status.

It's tempting to criticize these first disciples: "How could they be so self-consumed?" But then, how often do we make this exact same mistake? With our eternal Home just around the corner, and a Savior who is willing to walk every day by our side, how often do we become absorbed in the non-eternal?

Sure, we have responsibilities and concerns in our daily walk. Our finances or health may look uncertain and require extra effort. The harsh words of others may offend and cause very real pain. But when properly viewed against the backdrop of eternity, each worldly issue must shrink to the near trivial. If we really understood the glory we will one day see and how soon all else will fade away, we would be much less concerned about how things appear in the eyes of the world.

With wonderful hindsight we can say the disciples should have known their time with Jesus was short. They should have seen the events unfolding, taken advantage of every precious moment, and worshipped Him with every breath, every heartbeat, every thought, and every word - but they didn't.

And now, with the foresight given through God's Word and the guidance of His Spirit, we face the same challenge! Our Father has called us into a deep and personal relationship with Himself through faith in His Son - and our time is very, very short (much shorter than we realize). What concerns or passions will consume our time and energy? With all we have been given, what will we now do with this last day?

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E135525C-F038-4C89-A6B7-96AF3D7DEF1D Fri, 12 Mar 2010 00:02:47 -0500
In the message "Guard Against The Yeast" we saw how Jesus warned about allowing even a little hypocrisy to enter our life. When we compromise any area of our beliefs, we are in grave danger of allowing the compromise to spread "through the whole batch of dough" (Galatians 5:9).

In the days of Jeremiah, God warned the people of Jerusalem about the destruction which was coming unless they turned from their evil ways. But the people continued in their sin and refused to listen. God gave them many opportunities to repent, but they had become comfortable in their sin and were unwilling - possibly even unable - to change.

Jeremiah 13:22-23
"And if you ask yourself, 'Why has this happened to me?' - it is because of your many sins. Can the Ethiopian change his skin or the leopard its spots? Neither can you do good who are accustomed to doing evil."

One of the devastating results of sin is that it causes separation from God; and separation causes the defense against temptation to weaken. Unfortunately, a weakened defense makes it easier to continue in sin...causing further separation. The cycle of sin and separation had continued in Jerusalem until sin was viewed as normal behavior. The "yeast" had been mixed into every part of the dough and their conscience had become "seared as with a hot iron" (1 Timothy 4:2).

We need to understand this when ministering to those who are lost. People without Jesus have a difficult (if not impossible) time recognizing their sin. What we may see as sinful, they see as normal behavior which has no need of change. Rather than attempting to correct their specific sins, we must share the love of Christ - His purpose and plan of forgiveness - and help lead them to faith in the Savior. Only Jesus can create true change; only His grace can reveal and remove sin.

However, we must also understand the perils of the sin cycle in our own life. Is there sin which we are beginning to view as "normal" behavior and allowing to hinder the joy of being in His presence? Is our sin forming "spots" which we now call ordinary and acceptable? Remember that sin causes separation which leads to more sin...and greater separation. This cycle must be recognized and stopped!

Although we may have wandered, all hunger for change is the conviction of the Holy Spirit who is calling us to repentance - calling us to respond to the love of Christ and keep our conscience from becoming seared. Let's break the cycle of sin and return to a life which glorifies our Heavenly Father in ALL we do. Let's never become so accustomed to sin that we develop the unchangeable spots of a leopard.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 8D06F608-22CD-4693-B19B-75476B2C3194 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 20:54:48 -0500
When God led the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt, He told them to prepare for a quick departure by making bread without yeast. He gave instructions to remember their departure through the celebration of Passover - also called the Feast of Unleavened Bread. During this celebration there was a seven day period when yeast was not even allowed in the home: "For seven days no yeast is to be found in your houses. And whoever eats anything with yeast in it must be cut off from the community of Israel" (Exodus 12:19).

When God established the various offerings through Moses, yeast became associated with an unworthy sacrifice; "Every grain offering you bring to the Lord must be made without yeast" (Leviticus 2:11).

About 1500 years later, Jesus used the symbolism of yeast to give His disciples an important warning.

Luke 12:1
"Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy."

With this choice of words, Jesus warned that hypocrisy has the ability to contaminate our lives, and therefore the offering we present to God. The Pharisees had an outward appearance of godliness, but their hearts had compromised true worship and become contaminated; "On the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness" (Matthew 23:28). When we examine our own heart, does it match how we appear on the outside? Or have we too become full of hypocrisy?

The symbolism of yeast gives another clear warning; "A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough" (Galatians 5:9). Every day we are tempted to make compromises with the world; compromises which cause us to behave contrary to our professed beliefs. This is hypocrisy and must be avoided at all cost! Each incident seems so small - like only "a little yeast" - but soon the compromises work through all areas of our life.

The only worthy endeavor during our allotted time on earth is to present ourselves, with complete abandonment, as a living sacrifice to God; "this is your spiritual (or reasonable) act of worship" (Romans 12:1). Our Heavenly Father is worthy of our very best...a pure and holy offering.

Let's celebrate our release from the slavery of sin by cleaning our home and removing all spiritual compromise. Let's give our whole heart to God in loving worship and guard against ANYTHING which pulls us away. Let's fight the hypocrisy in our lives and diligently guard against the yeast.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D955248C-2BB3-43D3-A005-567C811EF960 Fri, 5 Mar 2010 09:18:37 -0500
In the message "What We've Seen and Heard" we were encouraged to press in close to the presence of God and share how His truths have been made real in our life. As we continue to walk with our Heavenly Father and better understand His love, we ought to experience a sense of awe which we can't help but share with others.

The complete story of Jesus Christ - which began before the creation of the world and continues for all eternity - is a love story whose central theme is grace; "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God" (Ephesians 2:8). The moment we believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, God lovingly welcomes us into His Family; this is His gift of Salvation! We are adopted into His Family before doing anything deserving of being called His child. This means our Salvation is never something we earn - it is a gift of grace.

Romans 11:6
"And if by grace, then it is no longer by works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace."

If we come before our Heavenly Father thinking we can do ANYTHING which makes us deserving of Salvation, then we do not yet understand His gift of forgiving grace. God's grace is extended to all who believe, but we are called to believe His grace is both absolutely necessary AND completely sufficient.

If we truly believe, our life will produce fruit and we will do good works; "Faith, if not accompanied by action, is dead" (James 2:17). But our good works will never save us - Salvation is a gift. If we truly believe, we will desire to obediently follow; "We know that we have come to know Him if we obey His commands" (1 John 2:3). But our obedience will never save us - Salvation is a gift.

If we've never settled the issue of Salvation, then today is the day to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). We must come before God with empty hands, acknowledge our sin and need for a Savior, and receive the gift of grace offered through Jesus.

As we then continue our walk with Christ we learn to love Him with all our heart and strive to present our very best, bringing Him glory and honor in ALL we do. But while we walk, love, and strive, we must remember that our "best" is not what earns His favor. Our "successes" will not make us more worthy, and our "failures" will not cause us to lose His love. His gift is everything! Let's give Him everything in return as we continue to live each moment of this wondrous journey by trusting in His grace.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm CA8C785F-5F28-4510-8ABE-AB5B27C779F4 Thu, 4 Mar 2010 22:55:30 -0500
How will we respond to those who doubt? What should we say to those with uncertainties, or to those who ask, "Is Jesus really the answer?"

We could begin with how the Bible is the true Word of God: "A collection of 66 books written by many different authors, during a 1500 year time period, and all with the same message." Or, we could discuss the Old Testament prophesies which were fulfilled with Jesus. We could show where Micah said the Savior would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) and where Isaiah stated He would be born of a virgin (Isaiah 7:14).

We could point to Zechariah who prophesied that our King would enter Jerusalem "gentle and riding on a donkey" (Zechariah 9:9), how David said He would be crucified; "they have pierced My hands and My feet" (Psalm 22:16), and how Isaiah said He would die for our sin; "He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors" (Isaiah 53:12).

These are all good truths to share at the appropriate time; but when someone is doubting or searching, it's usually best to follow the example of Jesus. John the Baptist had sent messengers to ask Jesus, "Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?" (Luke 7:19).

Luke 7:21-22
"At that very time Jesus cured many who had diseases, sicknesses and evil spirits, and gave sight to many who were blind. So He replied to the messengers, 'Go back and report to John what you have seen and heard.'"

While it's good to be able to defend our faith, we will never convince anyone to believe by presenting Biblical "facts." The most convincing argument as to the truth of God's Word is to share how we've seen His Word come alive in our own life; how we've seen Jesus calm the seas and rebuke the storms, heal broken lives and answer prayers. We ought to share how we've heard Him call us to test the waters of faith and seen the waters become solid as we stepped; how we've experienced "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). When God's truths become real in our daily life, they cannot be argued against!

If His truths have not yet become absolute and unquestionably real, then I urge you to press VERY close into His presence and allow His light to shine in and through you each and every day. There can be no better preparation for sharing the truth than to live the truth and watch God work in a multitude of ways. Let's prepare to share the gospel; and when the opportunity arises, let's simply report what we've seen and heard.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1EC832B3-0CA2-4443-A723-CB98DCA038DB Thu, 4 Mar 2010 22:27:08 -0500
About 2600 years ago, God taught the prophet Jeremiah what it meant to be a sovereign God. He taught that His plan WOULD be fulfilled - one way or the other. Either His children would submit to His gentle guidance, or He would bring discipline to teach them the need for obedience.

Although God has the ability to directly give us understanding, His usual method is to teach us through His Word and then allow us to see the application and gain wisdom through our experiences. In order to give a clear understanding of His sovereignty, God told Jeremiah to go to the potter's house and wait for His message.

Jeremiah 18:3-6
"So I went down to the potter's house, and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. Then the Word of the Lord came to me: 'Can I not do with you as this potter does?' declares the Lord. 'Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in My hand.'"

Jeremiah understood that God was the Potter and had total control over the shape of the clay. How foolish it would be for the clay to complain or rebel; "Can the pot say of the potter, 'He knows nothing'?" (Isaiah 29:16). The Potter will continue to mold the clay. If the clay begins to harden in its unfinished state, the Potter loves the clay enough to crush it down, sprinkle it with water and begin anew.

The only way for us to become all that God desires is to yield and remain moldable. We have no ability to shape ourselves! The Potter is creating something eternally beautiful - we are being "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29). Oh, if we could only trust that His shaping is so much better than anything we could ever create. How prideful to think we can do better!

There may be times when we have rough edges which must be removed. There may also be times when we need to be crushed down so the shaping process can start over. But we must trust the Potter and believe the results will be worth any pain or discomfort; "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us" (Romans 8:18).

Our Heavenly Father is in complete (and loving) control. Let's daily be filled with His Spirit and commit our lives to His shaping process - a process which undoubtedly will last a lifetime! Let's remain moldable clay and yield to the shaping of the Potter's Hand.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm FD9D7EDB-DF78-4951-9BE4-6FBF0F3097E5 Thu, 4 Mar 2010 19:10:59 -0500
All through the Old Testament, God called the people of Israel to worship Him as the One True God. He spoke through Moses, the priests, and the prophets, but the people continued to turn away. Even after the Babylonians invaded Jerusalem God continued to call His Children to return to Him - to return with ALL their heart!

During the Babylonian captivity, God told Ezekiel to proclaim His Word to all the people of Israel. Ezekiel gave the people several illustrations of how far they had fallen, and how much sorrow their sin was causing for a loving Father. Through Ezekiel, God said the people of Israel were like a helpless newborn baby who had been thrown into an open field; "Then I passed by and saw you kicking about in your blood, and as you lay there in your blood I said to you, 'Live!'" (Ezekiel 16:6).

They had done nothing to deserve His favor, but were chosen to become a great nation, set apart and devoted to God. Without His grace, they would have been as lost as the newborn in the field - but God said "Live!" He picked them up, cleaned them off, loved them, and made them beautiful...but His Children forgot His love and abused His grace.

Ezekiel 16:15-16
"You trusted in your beauty and used your fame to become a prostitute. You lavished your favors on anyone who passed by and your beauty became his...such things should not happen."

The people of Israel forgot all God had done and gave their love to other gods (spiritual prostitution). They used the grace of God for their own benefit and forgot their previous condition: "In all your detestable practices and your prostitution you did not remember the days of your youth, when you were naked and bare, kicking about in your blood" (Ezekiel 16:22).

God loves us so much...and it breaks His heart to see how we abuse His gifts. Without the saving grace of Jesus, each of us are as helpless as the newborn baby. Without Christ, we have no hope of survival: "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). We were lost in our sin until God reached down, picked us up, and said "Live!" Thank You Lord!!

Let's remind ourselves of the miracle of Salvation! Though we have done nothing to deserve God's grace, He reaches down and gives us eternal life - cleansing us of our sins and making us beautiful in His sight. We who believe have been born into God's Family. Let's not abuse His gift by forgetting when we were helpless, "naked and bare." Let's give Him ALL our love and always remember the days of our youth.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2449078E-DAA8-47C2-B089-936B18D36723 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 19:59:34 -0500
We are often encouraged to share the wonders of God's love through the uncompromising truth of His Word. There are so many all around us who are in great need! We live in a lost and dying world full of people who desperately need to know God's plan of forgiveness and restoration. But as we share the truth and minister to others, let's also remember to make the time to personally receive ALL our Father has to offer.

When Jesus asked the Samaritan woman for a drink of water, she thought the request was quite odd since Jesus was clearly a Jew, and Jews did not associate with Samaritans; "How can you ask me for a drink?" (John 4:9). Rather than explain His radical views on social interaction, Jesus took the opportunity to introduce the woman to the gift of God.

John 4:10
"Jesus answered her, 'If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked Him and He would have given you living water.'"

If we only knew! I often imagine a loving Father who has given the greatest gift the world has ever known. We approach and examine the gift. We ask questions and study the gift. We even shake the gift and then proudly display it on our shelf, but we never actually open the gift and receive what's inside. If we only knew! "Every good and perfect gift is from above" (James 1:7). His gifts are perfect; and if we only knew, we would open and receive them with abounding joy!

His gift of living water is still available today. This gift refers to our Salvation by the spiritual transformation of our heart, but it also refers to His on-going gift of a victorious life of peace and contentment; "Everyone who drinks this water {from the well} will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst" (John 4:13-14). His gift of Salvation is free through faith in Jesus Christ, and peace is assured through a humble submission to His will. But we continually rebel and pump from the wells of this world - we drink polluted lies and continually thirst for more.

Approximately 650 years earlier, God gave the same message to the people of Jerusalem: "My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken Me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water" (Jeremiah 2:13). If we only knew! We sit beside a Spring overflowing with the best tasting water imaginable, but we turn away and pump sludge into our broken pots.

God has great plans for each of us - and His plans are much bigger and brighter than anything we can accomplish through our own effort. Let's rediscover the gift of living water and put an end to our thirst! Let's return to the Spring and continue our journey in obedience. Let's drink freely and daily receive His perfect gift.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm C4D542C7-DD39-46E6-B7C8-803D7D853D06 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 19:42:13 -0500
Our world is full of people in deep spiritual need. Most have never placed their trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin and are literally starving right before our eyes. But even many Brothers and Sisters who love the Lord are desperately hungry to know Him more, or they have been wounded and are in need of long term spiritual nourishment.

God's Word tells us to have open eyes and a soft heart such that we can recognize the needs and bring them before our Father in prayer; "In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God" (Philippians 4:6). But then we are told to carefully listen for God's leading and fully expect to be put to work.

One afternoon, a crowd of over 5000 people had gathered to hear Jesus teach; "He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing" (Luke 9:11). The disciples saw it was getting late and would soon be time to eat. They recognized the need of the people, came before Jesus, and "presented their request."

Luke 9:12-13
"Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to Him and said, 'Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.' He replied, 'You give them something to eat.'"

When the disciples approached Jesus, they presented the need...but they also presented their solution. They knew the people were growing hungry, but their solution was to send them elsewhere for food. We often make this same mistake when we limit God by our own vision and understanding. Jesus' solution to this need was to bless the few provisions the disciples could gather and then accomplished His work through their hands; "They all ate and were satisfied" (Luke 9:17).

God never asks us to do something without also providing the necessary tools to accomplish all He desires. We have been empowered by His Spirit and equipped through His Word. Yes, we must continue to pray; but our prayers ought to be with an understanding that God may very well direct US to carry His life-giving food and be a vessel for His healing.

There can be no greater work here on earth than to take part in restoring someone's relationship to our Heavenly Father. Only God can truly heal, but He has invited us to join Him in this awesome work. Let's continue to lift up the many needs to God in prayer, but then let's prepare for His answer - His invitation - which calmly says, "You give them something to eat."

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4A3493C0-3392-49F1-B9FB-95C714230BB9 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 19:14:33 -0500
All I needed was four small bricks to complete the project. Nothing special, just four bricks; and after considering the selection I decided on a charcoal black which cost a little more than the standard red brick. The store was busy with several long lines of shoppers intent on completing projects before the end of the day. I chose a line and waited my turn.

The lines moved slowly and there seemed to be an impatient tension all around. When it came my turn, the clerk quickly computed the price and took my money. As I received my change, I felt something was wrong. And as I stepped toward the door, I knew I had been charged a lower price.

My mind knew a mistake had been made, but my feet kept walking out the door and toward my car. I knew I should have revealed the mistake, but my mind raced into high gear justifying my inaction: "I don't want to make others wait while the correction is made!" "The mistake is small - little more than the cost of a bar of candy." "The profit from my other purchases during the year will certainly make up for this small loss." It's amazing how easy it was to find reasons to keep walking.

Fortunately, my conscience began to counter my rationalization; and by the time I reached my car, that small inner voice was screaming at me to correct the error - and correct it NOW! I walked back into the store, waited in another long line, pointed to the error, and paid the extra money. My conscience hasn't always been so sensitive - and I confess, it's not always so sensitive now - but on this day it was and I praise God!

Acts 24:16
"I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man."

God has created us all with a conscience deep within our soul. At a very young age our conscience helps us maneuver the complex path of right and wrong. And when we place our trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, we are given the Holy Spirit who ignites our conscience and guides us toward the presence of God and a life of holiness.

But when we ignore the prompting of the Holy Spirit, our conscience slowly becomes burned. The burning usually begins small - a little lie, a small deception - but over time, our conscience can become "seared as with a hot iron" (1 Timothy 4:2). Then, when needed in a time of great temptation, there is no "inner voice" to keep us from falling. Our conscience is a precious gift, and it's hard to believe I nearly damaged such a gift in exchange for such a small amount of money.

Is our conscience sensitive to the prompting of the Spirit, or has it developed a hard crust. Let's live so that all areas of our life bring Him glory and honor. In ALL we do, let's listen intently, obey completely, and protect God's wonderful gift as we strive to maintain a clear conscience.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 51B8069E-1934-491A-A161-535FBFCAC0CB Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:34:30 -0500
In the message "Protection of Truth" we saw that loving the truth of God is our protection against the deceptive attacks of the enemy. By knowing the truth, we can recognize the lies of "worldly wisdom," and continue along God's path without painful detours into the weeds. But we must be willing to faithfully apply the truth in all areas of our life and share the truth with others at every opportunity.

Prior to the final invasion of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, God spoke through Jeremiah to warn the people of their coming destruction and their need to repent. Needless to say, this was not a popular message and Jeremiah was not a welcomed prophet. But there were other self-proclaimed prophets who provided a much more comfortable message. These prophets made people feel good by telling them what they wanted to hear - telling them they could continue down their same path without fear. But God warned about falling into their seductive trap of false security.

Jeremiah 23:16-17
"Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord. They keep saying to those who despise Me, 'The Lord says: You will have peace.' And to all who follow the stubbornness of their hearts they say, 'No harm will come to you.'"

The ministry of encouragement is a vital part of our Christian walk. We all face valleys and need encouragers to provide a lift. And since we know there are many others who are walking through valleys today, we should encourage in every way possible; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today!" (Hebrews 3:13).

However, in our zeal to encourage and build up, we must never compromise by presenting a message which falls short of the absolute truth. We must never present an "all is well" message if all is not well. When God's children wander from His path and plant themselves amongst the weeds, there must be someone willing to "gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance" (2 Timothy 2:25).

Our task as an encourager is not always to make others comfortable or to deliver a pleasing message; we are not called to tell people "what their itching ears want to hear" (2 Timothy 4:3). Rather, our task is to "speak the truth in love" (Ephesians 4:15). We never help when we make someone comfortable with sin.

The absolute best encouragement we can give is to help someone have a right relationship with their Heavenly Father through a surrendered faith in Jesus Christ. God's truth can and will set us free (John 8:32)! Let's encourage in every way possible; but let's make certain we always encourage with a message of truth!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm F58AC8B1-1AC9-4F43-8E33-8B2152961D60 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:10:58 -0500
In the message "Wisdom of The World" we saw that "the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight" (1 Corinthians 3:19). But we also saw that the enemy uses the world's wisdom as a very effective weapon. This false wisdom has permeated our society to the point where it's difficult, if not impossible, to avoid being attacked. Yet the attacks can be so subtle we often don't even realize we're hit until we've wandered far from God's path.

Since this is such a powerful and deceptive weapon, we need the ability to recognize the attack and protect against harm. Fortunately, God has provided a sure way for both.

Psalm 40:11
"Do not withhold Your mercy from me, O Lord; may Your love and Your truth always protect me."

In the financial world, there is always concern about counterfeit. Ever since the first currency, there have been those who make and distribute unauthorized money. The absolute best way to recognize these counterfeits is to know the fine details of the real thing. When the truth is fully known, the counterfeit is easily revealed.

God has given an unchanging standard against which all others must be judged. His standard is His Word - and His Word is TRUTH! Jesus taught a message of truth for His entire earthly ministry. Nearly one hundred times in the gospels Jesus began His message with, "I tell you the truth."

Jesus even referred to Himself as the complete manifestation of truth; "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). And if properly applied, the truth will never be a burden: "If you hold to My teaching, you are really My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:31-32).

Paul said in the last days people will be deceived and perish, "because they refused to love the truth and so be saved" (2 Thessalonians 2:10). Notice that our protection is not simply learning about the truth; rather, it requires a love - a passionate desire to know and apply the truth of His Word. We must allow His truth to become entwined in ALL we do, say, and think.

Let's pray that God would reveal His truth more and more every day. Let's commit to learning His truths and applying them as the absolute standard in our life. The enemy will continue to attack with his weapons of deception, but as we remain in Christ and firmly hold to His Word we can be assured we have the protection of truth.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2C6F402A-BBD5-4B76-8847-74E8CD5A3664 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:36:54 -0500
There are many influences which compete for our attention; many different inputs which seek to shape our view of the world and, in turn, direct how we make decisions about our life. There is also an enemy who greatly desires to win this competition. The enemy is battling for the hearts of men, women and children; and he knows if he can win the battle of the mind, the heart will remain his.

Many of the battle lines are easy to recognize. For example, the direct assault from various forms of sexual temptation and drugs claim numerous victims every day. But there are many other plans of the enemy which place hidden mine fields along the path and destroy those who are not careful where they step. Perhaps the best disguised and most effective weapon of the enemy is that of worldly wisdom.

Since the Garden of Eden the enemy has propagated a set of values which sound wise and appealing, but which consistently lead down a path of destruction. His "wisdom" attempts to define happiness and success - tells us we must achieve, push, and obtain in order to succeed and be fulfilled. But if we will come into the presence of God, we will see the world's wisdom for what it truly is...foolishness.

1 Corinthians 3:18-19
"Do not deceive yourselves. If any one of you thinks he is wise by the standards of this age, he should become a "fool" so that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight."

The values of the world are continually promoted in every type of media and from every possible class of people - even sometimes from those who profess faith in Jesus. But these values are lies! They are weapons of the enemy used to pull us away from God...they are foolishness!! And when we choose to live as a captive to world values, we have chosen to live outside of God's perfect plan; "Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God" (James 4:4).

God's plan will always require faith - always require us to be "sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). This often means we must have the faith and courage to stand alone. Though the world may label us a "fool," we must continue (and continue some more) to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5).

We are being called to become a fool to the world, but this is not an easy task. We have been well "educated" in the world system, and now must reshape the way we think; "be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2). This renewal process will take determined, consistent, and intentional prayer and the study of His Word; but God will provide sufficient strength for the process. Let's refuse to live in a cloud of deception. Let's make an uncompromising commitment to God and break free from the wisdom of the world.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 1AAD0809-EF96-426E-871E-EB7E95B10EAF Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:07:23 -0500
Ahithophel was a highly regarded advisor to King David; "Now in those days the advice Ahithophel gave was like that of one who inquires of God" (2 Samuel 16:23). But when David's son, Absalom, rebelled and sought to become the new king, Ahithophel joined with Absalom. Ahithophel had reason to be angry with David; he was the grandfather of Bathsheba and had watched as David violated his granddaughter and then had her husband killed (2 Samuel 11).

In his anger Ahithophel advised Absalom how to defeat David, but God had other plans; "The Lord had determined to frustrate the good advice of Ahithophel in order to bring disaster on Absalom" (2 Samuel 17:14). When Absalom refused to follow his advice, Ahithophel took the rejection very personally.

2 Samuel 17:23
"When Ahithophel saw that his advice had not been followed, he saddled his donkey and set out for his house in his hometown. He put his house in order and then hanged himself."

Ahithophel had once been close to God and was used for many years to give godly direction. But at some point Ahithophel began to take too much ownership of his ministry. He determined his self-worth based on the results of his ministry and began to use his gifts for his own selfish purpose. When his message was no longer trusted and his ministry was not going in the direction he desired, his self-worth fell and he found he had no reason to continue.

God has called each of us to be His messengers and has given us a ministry of sharing the Gospel; "We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us" (2 Corinthians 5:20). Some are called to preach a message of hope to a large congregation. Others have been called to instruct a small group or to encourage just one...but we have all been called!

We are never responsible for the outcome of a ministry, only for the obedience of faithfully delivering His message. God remains in complete control of any and all results: "My Word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" (Isaiah 55:11). As we walk in obedience, His purpose (not ours!) will be accomplished.

We must never lose sight of the One who called us to serve. Our worth is in being a Child of God, not in the praises we receive or in what we can accomplish. We must continue to be obedient messengers who proclaim the Good News, teach the truth, and encourage at every opportunity. And when we become discouraged, we must check our focus and always remember...this is His message and His ministry.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm C254AA73-96E9-43F1-8CEE-54774119CE3E Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:32:44 -0500
During the week before He was crucified, Jesus was asked many questions by the religious leaders. However, their questions were never asked for the purpose of education or to satisfy their true curiosity, they were asked with the intent of finding fault; "The Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap Him in His words" (Matthew 22:15). Jesus answered each of their questions, but then He warned the crowds about the hypocrisy of those who were trying to trap Him.

Matthew 23:5-6
"Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues."

The phylactery was a small box containing scripture, worn on the forehead or arm to fulfill the command of God as given through Moses; "Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads" (Deuteronomy 11:18).

The Pharisees strictly followed God's commands, but they also followed many self-created rules and "enhanced" God's commands to make themselves feel more righteous. Jesus never rebuked them for following rules, but He greatly questioned the motivation of their heart. The Pharisees had forgotten that the purpose of everything they did was to worship God and glorify His name. Instead, they began to focus on their outward appearance as they sought to look holy and obtain the approval of others; "You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self indulgence" (Matthew 23:25).

This problem was definitely not new. Over 700 years earlier, God's children had lost their heart for worship: "These people come near to Me with their mouth and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is made up only of rules taught by men" (Isaiah 29:13).

Unfortunately, this problem is still with us today. We've created a list of rules and religious activities which somehow define our relationship with God. We define our "Godliness" by our church attendance, our acts of service, or even our time spent reading His Word. But all these good and worthwhile actions do not define our relationship - they do not define our love. Our love is, and always has been, defined by the condition of our heart; "Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). All our actions simply flow as an outward expression of the condition of our heart.

EVERYTHING we do must be motivated by a desire to praise and honor our Heavenly Father. Our religious acts mean absolutely nothing if not accompanied by a heart full of love and thanksgiving. Let's become true worshipers who express our love for God in all we do and say! Let's never allow our lives to be driven by the look of holiness.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm DD44ADCA-D375-4C72-A304-879A8E7B06B4 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:34:35 -0500
In the message "To Whom We Sacrifice" we saw how our daily actions reflect our priorities and values, and become, in a very real sense, the sacrifices we place on the altar. Everyday we make many decisions which either draw us closer to God or lead us further away - few decisions are truly neutral.

The Jewish leaders had passed judgement on Jesus; "He is worthy of death!" (Matthew 26:66). But Roman law required a sentence of death to be approved by the Roman Court. Therefore, Jesus was brought before Pontius Pilate, the governor of the region around Jerusalem.

Pilate was in a tough situation. He had talked with Jesus and could find nothing deserving death; "I have examined Him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against Him" (Luke 23:14). But Pilate was also under great pressure to keep peace in the region, so he allowed the people of Jerusalem to make the final decision.

Matthew 27:17
"Which one do you want me to release to you: Barabbas, or Jesus who is called Christ?"

Barabbas was a convicted murderer, Jesus was the Son of God. The people loved Jesus when He was feeding them or healing their sick; but when required to make a decision, the people chose Barabbas: "'What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called Christ?' Pilate asked. They all answered, 'Crucify Him!'" (Matthew 27:21-22).

We take the first crucial step in our Christian walk when we believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins. But as important and significant as this first step is, the purpose of this step is to then begin a lifetime journey of abiding in His presence and living a life which is "holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1). The presence of God is never found through specific prayers or religious activity; rather, the peace of His presence is found only through our moment-by-moment choice to allow Jesus to be Lord of our life and to follow wherever He leads. We must learn to choose each daily step based on what is pleasing to a loving and holy God.

Are we part of the crowd who is easily swayed, or are we willing to stand firm in our faith? Has God become a God of convenience, used only in emergencies, or is He truly LORD of our life? We all face the same decision (many times each day) as the people in front of Pilate: Jesus or Barabbas; the ways of God or the ways of the world; life or death? If we desire a life of closeness with God - a life given as a living sacrifice to bring Him glory and honor - then we must begin to choose wisely. We must boldly face the multitude of daily decisions and be determined to never choose Barabbas.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 41842042-87A7-46AE-A134-0328E9D4998C Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:32:32 -0500
By the time Jeremiah became a prophet, the people of Israel had occupied the land of Canaan for about 800 years. Those years were generally characterized by a continuing rejection of God. Time and again the people turned from God and embraced the gods of the world.

Through Jeremiah God called His people to return and worship Him as the One True God: "Tell them everything I command you; do not omit a word. Perhaps they will listen and each will turn from his evil way" (Jeremiah 26:2-3). His words reflect the heart of a Father longing to be reunited with His children. We can almost feel God's heart breaking as He tells Jeremiah how far His children have fallen.

Jeremiah 19:4-5
"For they have forsaken Me and made this a place of foreign gods; they have burned sacrifices in it to gods that neither they nor their fathers nor the kings of Judah ever knew. They have built the high places of Baal to burn their sons in the fire as offerings to Baal - something I did not command or mention, nor did it enter My mind."

When God led the Israelites out of Egypt, He warned them about following the practices of the local people; "You must not do as they do in the land of Canaan" (Leviticus 18:3). The Canaanite values were evil and in conflict with the way God was calling His children to live. In fact, anytime we seek to follow the path of God, we soon discover the values of the world are always in conflict with the values God calls us to hold.

God's chosen people not only turned their backs, but they even became involved in a local form of "worship" that included sacrificing their own children. It's almost as if God was shaking His head in sad disbelief: "How could they have drifted so far away?" Of course, we must wonder if God is still shaking His head today.

Through faith in Jesus Christ, we have become children of God and can enjoy the blessings of a restored relationship with our Heavenly Father. We have also been given the ability to be blessed through relationships in our family and among our friends. And yet, how often do we sacrifice these blessings to the gods of this world? How often do we follow the practices of the world - with its "rules" for value and importance - and watch as our children are sacrificed in the fire of materialism? How often do we sacrifice loving relationships on the altar of selfish pride or lustful pleasure?

Our Heavenly Father calls us to sacrifice. But His call is to a complete sacrifice of worship to Him; "Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1). This sacrifice involves the continual releasing of our will until we are "poured out as a drink offering" (2 Timothy 4:6). Let's bring Him our very best and worship Him with a pure and complete devotion. Let's evaluate our actions today and carefully consider what, and to whom, we sacrifice.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B76B16D8-EC1C-43D9-8DB9-91B358959E65 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 21:40:00 -0500
In the message "A Divided Kingdom" we saw how Solomon's divided heart - his lack of complete devotion to God - eventually led to the division of the kingdom of Israel. We were then encouraged to continually draw closer to our Heavenly Father and prevent the kingdom of God within us from becoming divided in the sense of rebellion and lack of pure worship.

When we consider our closeness to God, we tend to look at our priorities and schedules. Closeness to our Heavenly Father requires a certain amount of dedicated time. We cannot expect to hear His direction if we don't spend time learning to recognize His voice and make the effort to turn off the competing inputs so we can truly listen. And once we have set aside those times to hear God through prayer, preaching, or reading of His Word we are encouraged in the very strongest of terms to pay close attention to what we hear.

Hebrews 2:1
"We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away."

It will do no good to make adjustments to our schedule - to give God more priority - if we don't become disciplined students of His Word. We can fill our time with good preaching and quality books, but if we don't do as the Bereans who "examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true" (Acts 17:11), we will be easily swayed and subject to spiritual drift. As disciplined students we must maintain an excitement for the things God has done as well as for the promises He has made for our future through every letter of His Word.

God has given us a wonderful gift - a gift without which we could never know Him. Through inspiration of the Holy Spirit working in the lives of many different writers, God has dictated a love letter which calls us into fellowship through Jesus Christ...we call His letter the Bible. In His absolutely authoritative and essential letter, God has revealed the fullness of His character and established a set of unchanging truths. A deep belief and understanding of these truths will push aside fears, erase lingering doubts, and instill a new sense of hope.

We need not allow our kingdom to be divided; we need not drift away. The Spirit has made our hearts receptive and hungry for God's Word. We must now submit to His leading and become as the workman who "correctly handles the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). Let's give Him the total devotion of our heart as we pray, read, and listen to His Word. And as we hear, let's maintain a great excitement and always pay more careful attention.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6A796F1E-6A5C-46FD-92BB-6B15AA661E55 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 21:37:15 -0500
Solomon was the third king of Israel, the son of David and Bathsheba. And although not the eldest son, he was chosen by David to be his successor. As David was about to die, he gave Solomon some final counsel for ruling the kingdom.

1 Kings 2:2-3
"Observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in His ways, and keep His decrees and commands, His laws and requirements, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go."

David knew that Solomon would influence an entire nation - influence it either toward the good...or the bad. This was an awesome responsibility which would require a deep commitment to God.

Solomon initially established a God-centered kingdom; "Solomon showed his love for the Lord by walking according to the statutes of his father David" (1 Kings 3:3). He ruled with great wisdom and spent seven years building a magnificent temple in which God would be worshipped. Yet Solomon failed to demonstrate total commitment to the One True God.

Solomon married many women from the surrounding nations and allowed these wives to turn his heart toward other gods; "His heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God" (1 Kings 11:4). God was greatly angered at Solomon's lack of commitment and rose up enemies who would eventually divide the kingdom and create civil war.

In a sense, every believer in Jesus has been given a kingdom. Jesus said, "the kingdom of God is within you" (Luke 17:21). This kingdom is established when we believe, in faith, that Jesus died for our sins; it is therefore a kingdom of "righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17).

The kingdom we've been given is more precious than ANY other. But, as with Solomon, it's also a kingdom which must be "ruled" with an absolute, undivided love for the Lord; with a commitment to walking in the ways He establishes for our life and worshiping Him with the pure focus of our heart.

If we desire God's kingdom to remain firmly established and at peace in our life, then we must keep our heart completely devoted to Him and guard against the influences which seek to pull us away. Let's not become distracted by the other "gods" of this world. Let's make the necessary adjustments to our priorities and schedules which will allow us the time to continually draw closer to the one true God and prevent a divided kingdom.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6A3453C6-7CB1-4BFD-979D-44B7B8E9731D Wed, 10 Feb 2010 22:01:23 -0500
In the message "Rend Our Heart" we saw how God commands us to recognize our sin and tear our heart in sorrowful repentance as we cry out for His gracious and abundant forgiveness. The instant we first place our complete trust in Jesus we are born of the Spirit and released from the bondage of our sinful nature. Sin may still war within us and sometimes cause us to stumble, but it no longer has dominion and control over our lives - we have been set free!

Jesus often taught of this radical transformation in terms of our need for a clean heart.

Mark 7:20-23
"What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.' For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.'"

Our heart pumps life into all the other parts of our body. If our heart is made clean through the forgiveness of Jesus, the rest of our life will also become clean as His life flows through us; "First clean the inside...and then the outside also will be clean" (Matthew 23:26). But if our heart remains soiled by an unrepentant sinful nature, no amount of outside scrubbing and polishing will ever make us clean.

In the above passage, Jesus presented a list of "evils" for our self evaluation, as an outward test of inward cleanliness. Our lives may be free from the obvious stealing, murder, and adultery; but the rest of the list requires us to look a little deeper. Folly is the lack of good sense. Arrogance is an overbearing confidence. Slander is making false statements against someone. Envy is discontent due to another's good fortune. Lewdness is indecent language or action. Deceit means to conceal the truth. Malice means to cruelly tease, and greed is excessive desire.

A transformed believer in Jesus Christ, one who is "circumcised of the heart" (Romans 2:29), should never be characterize by this type of behavior. As the Spirit of Jesus makes us into a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17) and begins to flow through our life, these old sins ought to slow to a trickle and eventually pass away. Though sin will never completely disappear, it no longer should define who we are.

Is the cleansing power of Jesus flowing into all areas of our life? Or are there still areas we claim as our own? If we desire to offer our lives as "living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God" (Romans 12:1), then we must allow our sacrifice to be completely cleansed - we must place our heart more fully in His hands. Let's come before our Heavenly Father, confess our sins, and allow the transforming forgiveness of Jesus to make us clean from within.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E6167B68-A186-44D3-AEDC-E961A71D00C7 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 21:34:55 -0500
Every prophet in the Bible proclaimed a message which called the people to repentance. From Moses to John the Baptist, Jesus, and the Apostles the message was consistent; "Repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord" (Acts 3:19). Repentance is essential to a restored relationship with our Heavenly Father - essential to Salvation. Repentance is a condition of our heart whereby we recognize our sin and, in desperation and sorrow, turn and cry out in faith to God for help...the help of forgiveness which only comes through Jesus Christ.

Joel 2:12-13
"'Even now,' declares the Lord, 'return to Me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.'"

In the Old Testament times it was common for someone to tear (or rend) their clothes when they were expressing great sorrow. For example, when Jacob thought that Joseph had been killed by wild animals, he "tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days" (Genesis 37:34). When the Israelites were beaten when attacking the city of Ai, Joshua "tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the Lord" (Joshua 7:6).

Tearing your clothes was an outward expression of sorrow. But all through Scripture, God makes it abundantly clear that He looks deep into our heart; "These people come near to Me with their mouth and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is made up only of rules taught by men" (Isaiah 29:13). Jesus referenced this exact passage when He confronted the hypocritical worship of the Pharisees (Matthew 15:7-9).

We must never even hint that repentance involves "right" outward behavior. We have no ability to do right in the eyes of God without receiving, by faith, His gift of Salvation and allowing His Spirit to transform us into a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17). Only through His power can we be set on a path of being "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29) - only in His strength can we ever do "right."

God has more grace to forgive than we can possibly imagine; but our loving Father expects - even demands - true repentance. He's fully aware of the many ways we sin and fall short of His glory; but until we understand how far we have fallen and genuinely desire to change, we will never appreciate His grace in making us clean - never experience His "times of refreshing." Let's seek His forgiveness and walk in closer harmony with our Heavenly Father. Let's confess our sins and, with repentant sorrow, stand before Him today and rend our heart.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 8393418F-0B31-4247-AA19-AFE9ABEEB210 Mon, 8 Feb 2010 21:41:35 -0500
In the message "From A Pure Heart" we saw that God has blessed each of us with gifts, talents, and abilities; and we are to be good stewards by faithfully giving our blessings back to God with a pure heart. But what determines a pure heart?

When Jesus saw the widow offer her two small coins, He said she had given "out of her poverty" (Mark 12:44). It required great humility to offer those coins, a true lack of self importance. She knew her coins had no real value, but with a deep devotion for God and a strong desire to obediently serve she gave what she had. The widow offered her gift with a pure heart!

We are all called to this type of pure giving - a giving motivated by love and "valued" by obedience. Our gifts to God may appear big or small in our eyes and in the eyes of the world, but when lovingly given in response to His leading, every gift is received as a sweet and fragrant offering.

As we give back to the Lord by ministering to the needs of others, we often find actual "results" fall far below expectations. To keep from being discouraged, we must always remember that our true offering is in our obedience and love. Our offering must never be judged by the outward appearance of results.

This truth is even more crucial when the results of ministry begin to exceed our expectations. The great danger of "success" in any ministry effort is the tendency to shift our focus to what WE have accomplished and given with OUR abilities. But again, our offering must NEVER be judged by the outward appearance of results!

1 Corinthians 4:7
"For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not?"

God deserves the glory for ALL the results. He gave us our ability as well as the opportunity to minister and give. We fall into sinful pride anytime we forget the One who has provided all; "Your boasting is not good. Don't you know that a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough?" (1 Corinthians 5:6). We must always maintain a sense of poverty as we give back and minister to the Lord. We can give nothing of real value - indeed, we are very poor! Yet, we continue to give our all and love Him with all our heart.

Let's give praise and glory to the Potter who continues to shape and mold us into a vessel of great beauty. Let's guard against every attempt to place a value, large or small, on what we offer our Heavenly Father. And, with a spirit of humility, let's continue to abundantly give out of our poverty.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 49FF64D0-F2C3-41B6-BA30-724BCACD0BEA Tue, 2 Feb 2010 15:35:24 -0500
As Jesus watched people place their offering into the temple treasury, He noticed a poor widow who put in two coins valued at less than a penny.

Mark 12:43-44
"Calling His disciples to Him, Jesus said, 'I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on.'"

This passage gives us a wonderful example of faith and how God must be the Lord of our finances - but the real message actually goes much deeper.

We have all been blessed in so many ways; and we are called to be good stewards, or managers, of all our blessings. As a good steward, we must present all we possess back to our Heavenly Father as an offering of love. Yes, this relates to our financial resources, but it also means we are to offer our gifts, abilities, talents, and time back to God through service and ministry to others. God created us (the complete package of who we are) for a purpose. We will need to spend good quality time with God to fully understand our purpose, but we can be absolutely sure that God has NOT blessed us so we can advance our own selfish agenda!

Every one of our blessings, no matter how small, are given so we can bless God in return. We often hold back from ministry opportunities because we feel our "offering" is insignificant. We feel inadequate to serve or unworthy to make a true contribution to the work of God's Kingdom; but God is never concerned with the magnitude of a gift. He is, and always has been, concerned and blessed by the condition of our heart: "Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams" (1 Samuel 15:22). How we give is much more important than what we give.

God does not need our money, time, ability, or anything we accomplish or produce. But He loves us dearly and desires to receive the complete love and devotion which is given with our offering. Jesus was blessed by a widow who gave from her heart, even though the actual gift carried very little earthly value.

If we want our service or ministry to have significance in the eyes of God, we must focus on the One to whom we are giving rather than on the value of the gift in the eyes of man. With our eyes focused, we must then give with all the love in our heart. If our heart is pure in the giving, God will receive our offering as a true blessing. There are no worthless or insignificant gifts when the gift is given from a pure heart.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2DE711A3-F628-431D-98E1-2C76EA67E8CA Mon, 1 Feb 2010 20:19:59 -0500
Jeremiah warned the people of Jerusalem for many years that they must repent or be destroyed. He often warned with direct words from God: "I am preparing a disaster for you and devising a plan against you. So turn from your evil ways" (Jeremiah 18:11). It's hard to imagine a more direct warning.

But the people of Jerusalem ignored God's warning and failed to repent. And once the attacks on Jerusalem began, the promised destruction would not be stopped; "I will hand all Judah over to the king of Babylon, who will carry them away to Babylon or put them to the sword" (Jeremiah 20:4).

The righteousness of God requires that sinful hearts be punished. But the mercy of God always provides a path for those who place their trust in Him. This path may contain some painful consequences; but as we continue to trust, it will always lead us closer to His side. Jerusalem would be destroyed, but God provided one final opportunity for His chosen people to live.

Jeremiah 21:8-9
"I am setting before you the way of life and the way of death. Whoever stays in this city will die by the sword, famine or plague. But whoever goes out and surrenders to the Babylonians who are besieging you will live; he will escape with his life."

The people of Jerusalem felt secure in their city. They had weapons, strong walls, and a location which was hard to attack. Their worldly nature told them to remain in the safety of their "created" security, but God said the only way to survive was to trust Him and surrender.

Jesus used similar words when teaching the disciples; "For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will find it" (Matthew 16:25).

Though we are trusting in the sacrifice of Jesus for our eternal forgiveness, are we living in complete surrender for our daily walk? Have we lost our life, in the sense of our control, agenda, and even dreams, for the sake of our faith? Our flesh wants to place trust in what we can touch and feel - in what we can create and control - but Jesus says the only way to truly live is to surrender ALL into His hands. His promise is that if we release all we think we hold, we will find a life more abundant and fulfilling than any we could imagine!

We may not understand how all this works, but the truth remains and the truth will set us free! (John 8:32). God has a wonderful plan for our life - a plan which will bring fulfillment and peace - but it's a plan which requires surrender; and often this surrender will require us to trust Him in an area filled with great uncertainty and fear. Let's begin today to place EVERYTHING in the loving control of His hands. Let's begin a new life as we completely surrender and live!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 2AC0A84E-4071-4BDB-910E-0C4C842D0EE5 Mon, 1 Feb 2010 18:35:44 -0500
In the message "Debt of Love" we saw that God loved us long before we ever knew Him, and loved us far more than we deserved; "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). Our Heavenly Father sent His Son to die for the forgiveness of our sins "that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). And He sent His Spirit to comfort, guide, and strengthen us all the rest of our days.

God's love has created a debt we can never fully repay, but it's a debt of love we now honor by loving others; "Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another" (Romans 13:8). As we reach out to those around us, we are actually reaching up and loving our Heavenly Father; "He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people" (Hebrews 6:10). We know we should love one another, but what is the proper expression of our love?

Jesus had gathered with His disciples for what would be their last meal together. While they were eating in the upper room, Jesus "showed them the full extent of His love" (John 13:1).

John 13:4-5
"He got up from the meal, took off His outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him."

In this, His clear demonstration of love, the Creator of the Universe lowered Himself to the position of a common house servant and washed the feet of His disciples. His example of love was completely void of pride or selfish motives. There was no agenda in His actions other than to pour out pure love. Only moments later Jesus told His disciples; "As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34).

Jesus was able to love with true humility and self-sacrifice because He was absolutely secure in His Heavenly relationship; "Jesus knew He had come from God and was returning to God" (John 13:3). Jesus knew who He was and where He was going; His self-esteem was independent of feedback from the world - independent of any appreciation He may have received in return. Jesus was sent to love, so He loved!

We are now sent to love with this same servant's heart - a heart that simply considers the needs of others and then reaches out to "take care of My sheep" (John 21:16). Let's secure our Heavenly relationship through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus and then live each day with a humble heart that only His security allows. Let's love our Heavenly Father as we reach out to the world and love as Jesus loved.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm DB2C5AF7-A0DB-46C6-B8B4-B95923AB263F Sun, 31 Jan 2010 18:02:07 -0500
Much of Paul's letter to the Romans is a love story between a righteous God and sinful man. Even though our sinful state sentenced us to an eternal death (Romans 6:23), God looked upon us with love: "But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

Our Heavenly Father loved us long before we knew Him - He loved us when there was nothing in us that deserved His love - and He gave His Son as a sacrifice for sin so that, through faith, we might experience His deep and wonderful love for all eternity. This is a love I don't think we fully appreciate or even understand. And yet, this love which was demonstrated through the life of Jesus has become the standard for how we are to love others; "As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34).

When Jesus came to earth He revealed the true love of God. John wrote of the awesome power of Jesus; "Through Him all things were made" (John 1:3). But we also know that the Creator of the Universe "made Himself nothing...being made in human likeness" (Philippians 2:7). Jesus Christ came to earth in human form; He "humbled Himself and became obedient to death - even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8). His entire life was an act of divine love which revealed the love of God.. And this is the same love He commands us to have for one another; the love which Paul says we must continually repay.

Romans 13:8
"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another."

Paul knew the fullness of Jesus' love and he knew we were commanded to love one another in a like manner. He also knew we could never truly fulfill Jesus' command of love because His love was simply too great. And though the love involved in our Salvation is beyond comprehension, His love continues even more with the gift of His Spirit for daily guidance and strength. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit, each loving one another, together pour out their love on us with a blessed abundance. We definitely have a large love-debt!

But notice that our debt of love to God has become a debt of love to others - a "continuing debt" which will be with us for the rest of our life. Though we can never fully repay, we can honor Jesus' command by welcoming our debt and joyfully loving those who are placed in our path; "We love {others} because He first loved us" (1 John 4:19).

Honoring the command of Jesus doesn't mean we love just the loveable or those who love us in return - it means we love...and then we love some more! Let's accept our debt and love one another as we make regular (daily) payments toward our continuing debt of love.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm ACBF79C4-AF29-4203-B6C5-45341B0D0A88 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 23:16:44 -0500
As wars continue around the world, we must remember our true battles are not against flesh and blood - not against terrorism or deceptive governments, nor an oppressive boss or unappreciative spouse - but "against the spiritual forces of evil in the Heavenly realms" (Ephesians 6:12). The true battles occur in a world which is real, but unseen; and yet, the battles we see and hear everywhere we turn are the ones which tend to consume our thoughts and cause us to become angry...and to fear.

As Jesus was teaching and healing around the Sea of Galilee, large crowds of people began to come out to Him. One evening, Jesus decided to leave the crowds behind and sail with His disciples to the other side of the sea. As Jesus slept in the back of the boat, a terrible storm soon developed. The disciples woke Jesus and cried out in fear, "Teacher, don't You care if we drown?" (Mark 4:38).

Mark 4:39-40
"He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to His disciples, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?'"

The disciples had seen Jesus cure a man with leprosy, heal a paralytic, and teach with the authority of Almighty God; but now they thought Jesus didn't care. When Jesus rose, He rebuked the storm as well as His disciples. These men who were chosen to walk with the Son of God were now accused by Jesus of being afraid and living without faith.

This same event occurs in our life today. Jesus climbs into our boat and directs us to a distant shore. We've heard about His miracles so we joyfully cast off, expecting a smooth sail. Suddenly, the wind begins to blow and the waves turn white - this is probably not the voyage we had in mind. No longer able to see the shore, we begin to wonder why we ever set sail. Did we really hear His voice? And in our desperation we pathetically cry out, "Don't You care if we drown?" ... Is our faith really so weak?

In the midst of our fears, we must remember that He is the same God who created the Heavens and the earth, sent His Son to die for our sins, and gave us His Spirit "with whom we were sealed for the day of redemption" (Ephesians 4:30). He is the same God who chose us to walk by His side!

Jesus is still committed to our journey, and still in complete control. In His perfect timing He will calm ALL the wind and waves - ALL the roaring seas. When doubts begin to surface, we must draw even closer, hold on even tighter, and trust Him even deeper. No matter what battles we see with our eyes and hear with our ears, we must be determined to live each moment by faith and refuse to be afraid.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm EF0B771F-5CCA-4C75-919E-5862984A373F Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:23:36 -0500
After Joshua led the Israelites into the promised land, the nation was governed by a series of judges. The period of the judges lasted several hundred years and ended with the prophet Samuel. Samuel lived his entire life dedicated to God. In fact, Samuel's mother dedicated him to God before he was even born.

For many years Hannah and her husband had tried to have a child, but God did not allow her to conceive. The desire for a child continued for several years and became such a consuming portion of Hannah's life that she could think of little else; "In bitterness of soul Hannah wept much and prayed to the Lord" (1 Samuel 1:10).

Finally, Hannah's heart softened and she made a vow that if God would give her a son, "then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life" (1 Samuel 1:11). God honored Hannah's vow and she soon became pregnant. A few years after Samuel was born Hannah brought him to Eli, the priest.

1 Samuel 1:27-28
"I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of Him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord."

When Hannah made her vow, she no longer desired a child to satisfy her own needs but truly desired to honor God by returning her son to Him. In turn, God blessed Hannah with five additional children after Samuel (1 Samuel 2:21). God did not bless Hannah because of her vow (we can never "bargain" with God); rather, God blessed Hannah because her heart desired to glorify Him with her blessing.

We must learn to consider everything in our life from the same perspective as Hannah. We have created nothing of lasting value with our own hands. Everything we have - everything which defines who we are - is a precious gift from God. This includes our possessions, family, business, school, special skills, and talents. ALL we have is by the grace of God.

And just as it's prideful sin to take self-credit for God's many blessings, it's equally shameful to shun His gifts - to pretend they don't exist - and fail to use them for His glory. God always blesses with a purpose; and we live a shallow life if we ignore His gifts or use them solely for our own benefit and pleasure.

Let's bless our Heavenly Father by fully receiving His gifts, and then by giving back what we've so graciously been given. Let's praise Him and determine to use even the gift of our own life to bring Him glory and honor. God has showered us with many wonderful gifts, but they are ALL gifts to be returned.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm B9046052-B271-4402-AD4D-022D9B0891AF Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:01:17 -0500
In the message "An Eternal Perspective" we saw the need to consider our life on an eternal time scale and to weigh our current burdens against the eternal glory of Heaven. But there are many believers who are unable to gain strength or comfort from this view of life. Although they know the concept, they lack anything on which to base their hope.

This lack of tangible hope is unfortunate, but understandable. If our view of Heaven contains no real foundation, the thought of eternity will never make our troubles seem "light and momentary" (2 Corinthians 4:17). And while it's true that "faith is the substance of things hoped for" (Hebrews 11:1), we still need some understanding or our faith will never generate the hope which can truly impact our life.

When Jacob was looking for a wife, he found Rachel. Jacob quickly fell in love and promised to work seven years in exchange for receiving Rachel as his wife.

Genesis 29:20
"So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her."

Jacob worked hard for many years, but the hope of being with the one he loved eased any burden he might have felt. Jacob had a good understanding of the one he hoped for - and this brought him great comfort. He saw Rachel's beauty every day and was certainly permitted to talk with her often. He knew Rachel and probably spent many hours dreaming of her and holding her in his arms. There was undoubtedly a longing inside Jacob which he knew only Rachel could fill.

God gave His Son so we could be brought back to a full and right relationship with Him for all eternity. But God did not leave us with an empty view or ask us to cling to a blind hope. He allows us into His presence and gives us the ability to know Him NOW! We will never grasp all that Heaven has to offer until we see Him face to face. But God allows us to taste eternity if we will remove the competing distractions, draw near to His side, and ask for our hunger to be satisfied.

Let's dedicate our lives to knowing the One with whom we will spend eternity - the One on whom we base our hope. Let's commune with our Father in prayer and learn of His nature through His Word. Let's strive for an all-consuming love - a love complete with the empty ache which only His presence can fill. Let's rejoice, receive comfort and gain strength, as we draw near and are allowed a taste of eternity.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 16BC65AE-BC3F-4D25-94B5-A0DC392AE582 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:38:13 -0500
The path of a "successful" Christian walk is one of daily commitment to Christ and submission to the leading of His Spirit. Jesus said, "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). Paul understood this commitment when he said, "I die every day" (1 Corinthians 15:31). Our old nature died when our heart was transformed by the Spirit of God; yet, there remains an on-going death which occurs as we continue our walk and battle temptations from a world which seeks to pull us away from Christ.

Our daily commitment, denial, and "self-death" can become a painful burden if we focus on our present circumstances. Anytime our walk is characterized by self-pity, and our trials become viewed as the heavy cross we must bear for Jesus, we have missed the true joy and peace - the true success - that God desires for our life.

1 Corinthians 15:19
"If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men."

If our hope in Christ is only for today's protection and blessings, then we have grossly underestimated the power of the gospel. This limited view of a Christian life will always fall short of our expectations. Through faith in Jesus, we have been given eternal life. This means the life we now live must be viewed on an eternal time scale.

When we place our faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, our life begins anew. But this means far more than a fresh start. In an instant, EVERYTHING has changed. The burdens that were once so heavy must now be weighed against the magnificent glory of Heaven. And our "never-ending" trials must now be timed on the clock of eternity.

The world screams at us to focus on the here and now - on immediate gratification from what we can see and feel. It tells us life is short so fill it with sensual pleasures and tangible possessions. God's Word agrees that our earthly life is short; "A mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14). But it also teaches that our spiritual life continues forever! "What is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:18).

We have been given new eyes! Let's begin to view our life in the context of eternity and gain the greater hope and power this view can provide today. Let's carry our cross with greater joy, live with more peace and contentment, and experience new victories in life's many battles. Let's find true success as we evaluate all areas of our life from an eternal perspective.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm D8825441-678F-42BD-8363-71D974DD7A6D Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:32:44 -0500
The term leprosy, as used in the Bible, actually refers to a whole variety of skin conditions ranging from rashes, to open sores, to various infectious diseases, and includes true leprosy as we know it today.

According to God's Law given through Moses, a person with leprosy was ceremonially unclean and not allowed to take part in any form of worship. They were to live in isolation or cry out "Unclean! Unclean!" as they walked about the community (Leviticus 13). Lepers were strictly avoided since even accidental contact would cause a person to become unclean. Therefore, imagine the turmoil in the crowd as a leper boldly approached Jesus.

Matthew 8:2-3
"A man with leprosy came and knelt before Him and said, 'Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.' Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. 'I am willing,' He said. 'Be clean!' Immediately he was cured of his leprosy."

Yes, imagine the turmoil as many in the crowd scattered to get out of the leper's way. Some must have been calling out warnings, others delivering harsh rebukes. But even more importantly, consider the faith of the leper as he stepped forward. He knew he would face ridicule and scorn, but he had heard about Jesus and his faith propelled him to action.

Jesus looked past the ugliness of the man's condition and saw directly into his heart. In the heart, Jesus saw a beautiful man of faith reaching out to be made clean - He saw a heart which reflected the heart of king David; "Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin" (Psalm 51:2).

Our sin creates an ugliness far greater than any skin disease. Sin caused man to be repulsive to God and totally separated from His presence. But while we were in this terminal state, "God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

No matter how bad we think we "look" - no matter how much sin is covering us and making us unclean - Jesus sees directly into our heart. No amount of sin can keep Him from rescuing those with a repentant heart and a desire to be cleansed.

If there is anything causing us to be separated from the presence of our Lord today - any past sin, any current temptations, or any lack of obedience - we must kneel before Him and seek forgiveness. Others may turn away and not understand, but Jesus stands ready to lovingly touch us with His outstretched hand and say, "Be Clean!"

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 641DB0E8-6509-47F1-AB52-3B6C077DD165 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:29:51 -0500
Prayer is a vitally important part of our Christian walk, but it's often greatly misunderstood. Prayer is how we talk with our Heavenly Father. It can never be used to manipulate God nor cause Him to do anything outside His perfect will. God is not our magic genie who has to grant our wishes!

Our attitude toward prayer reveals much about how we view God and the closeness of our relationship through faith in Jesus. If we continually wait for a crisis before we pray, we actually demonstrate a lack of love. A man may say he loves his wife but if he only occasionally talks with her, he reveals a shallow relationship. True love will always be reflected by a desire to spend time together.

And if we lift our problems to God in prayer but also give Him our expected solutions, we demonstrate a lack of trust and reveal a misunderstanding of His sovereign nature and limitless ability.

Ephesians 3:20
"Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us."

The consistent message through all of scripture is that God is calling us to a closer relationship - calling us to love Him with ALL our heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30). Therefore, our prayers MUST begin from a position of love. He wants us to continually know Him more and understand the true meaning of "My God will meet all your needs" (Philippians 4:19), and "with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26). He wants us to love Him and trust Him to provide!

It's foolish for us to limit God to our own understanding. He created the Universe and knew the end of time before the beginning. He can, and will, "perfectly" solve our problems. He is working all things together for the good and using all situations to conform us to the likeness of His Son (Romans 8:28-29).

Through a proper attitude of prayer, we acknowledge and submit to God's sovereignty. We praise Him because we know He is able to do much more than anything we ask, and we submit because we know His understanding and purpose is perfect; "Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). Our prayer is not a matter of "working things out" with God - not of wrestling until we obtain OUR solution - rather, prayer simply becomes submission to His direction and trust in His plan.

We must present ourselves as empty vessels and allow God to work through us each and every day. Let's love Him enough to "pray continually" (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Let's make our requests known, but then let's submit and humbly acknowledge that He can do immeasurably more.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 5ABE95EC-BFAF-49F1-828C-7025FBFCA9C7 Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:25:59 -0500
In the last two messages we've considered our need to walk with God in continued obedience in order to honor Him and allow us to experience His very best. God's plan is that we learn to live in His presence and become "conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29). This means we must listen intently for God's direction and follow where He leads, not just blindly walk down what appears to be His path.

David was crowned king of Judah soon after Saul died in about the year 1010 BC. About seven years later, all of Israel acknowledged David as their new king. One of David's first actions as king was to attempt to move the Ark of God from the home of Abinadab to Jerusalem. David and all the officials believed that by making the Ark a more central focus for the nation, God would bless all of Israel.

This was a very exciting time. The Ark was being transported on a new cart pulled by oxen, and over thirty thousand people were "celebrating with all their might before the Lord, with songs and with harps, lyres, tambourines, sistrums and cymbals" (2 Samuel 6:5). But even during this time of great excitement, God clearly demonstrated the need for obedience.

2 Samuel 6:6-7
"When they came to the threshing floor of Nacon, Uzzah reached out and took hold of the Ark of God, because the oxen stumbled. The Lord's anger burned against Uzzah because of his irreverent act; therefore God struck him down and he died there beside the Ark of God."

Uzzah's intentions were good, but God considered his actions "irreverent." Uzzah desired to serve God by keeping the Ark from falling to the ground, but his enthusiastic and well intentioned actions were not directed by God. In fact, Uzzah's actions were in direct conflict with God's Word.

During the time of Moses, God had given instructions that the Ark should be moved with poles (Exodus 25:14-15) and that anyone who touched the Ark must be put to death (Numbers 4:15). Uzzah served where he thought there was a need, but he served at the expense of true obedience.

We must learn great sensitivity to God's leading. Seemingly godly action, if done outside the will of God, is sin. We must never assume that what "looks" good and godly is truly of God. Our Heavenly Father will always be faithful to lead us in His perfect will. But we must be willing to spend time (often, lots of time!) worshiping at His feet, communing with Him in prayer, and waiting patiently for His direction. As we serve our Lord, let's do so with great enthusiasm; but let's always allow Him to lead and serve Him in obedience.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 4E43A267-A2B1-4BE1-8795-CD4AABC11F7C Mon, 9 Nov 2009 18:26:57 -0500
In the message "Don't Strike The Rock" we saw how Moses disobeyed God's command with obtaining water from the rock. God called Moses' disobedience a lack of trust and punished him quite harshly; "Because you did not trust Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them" (Numbers 20:12). God did not destine Moses for failure; rather, He sovereignly allowed Moses to choose which path he would travel.

Nearly forty years earlier, God allowed the entire nation of Israel to make a similar choice. When God brought the people out of Egyptian slavery, His plan - His destiny for His chosen people - was to lead them into the promised land of Canaan. But when the twelve spies gave their report, the people chose the path of fear and disobedience.

God always attributes disobedience to a failure to believe and trust; "How long will they refuse to believe in Me?" (Numbers 14:11). God was about to "strike them down with a plague and destroy them" (Numbers 14:12), but Moses pleaded for mercy; "In accordance with Your great love, forgive the sin of these people" (Numbers 14:19). God heard Moses and was indeed merciful.

Numbers 14:20-23
"I have forgiven them, as you asked. Nevertheless, not one of the men who saw My glory and the miraculous signs I performed in Egypt and in the desert but who disobeyed Me and tested Me ten times - not one of them will ever see the land I promised on oath to their forefathers. No one who has treated Me with contempt will ever see it."

Today, those who receive the gracious gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus are God's chosen people. We have believed and promised to walk in obedience; and He has promised to forgive us when we disobey and even when we fail to trust Him with ALL our heart. But God also has a plan - a destiny - for His chosen people; "For those He foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29).

Our Heavenly Father knew us before the foundations of the world and, in His perfect plan, has destined us to walk in faith and become more and more like Jesus. But He also gives us the freedom to choose. Every day we must choose to walk in faith - choose to trust and believe. Every day we either walk down a path of obedience or down the destructive path of sin. Yes, God will forgive; but He also will not withhold His discipline!

Let's live each day in obedient faith and continue to believe His Word is true. Let's submit our lives to His conforming Hands and trust Him to guide us down the path of our perfect destiny.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm E4E97168-81DC-43EC-B48C-2EF057950F69 Mon, 9 Nov 2009 18:22:47 -0500
Moses was chosen by God to lead the people of Israel out of Egypt. Through Moses, God demonstrated His awesome power and holiness. At the time, there was no one closer to God than Moses. However, even with this wonderfully close relationship, Moses still struggled at times with trusting God.

After being led out of Egypt, the people often brought their complaints to Moses. On one occasion, the people complained about their lack of drinking water; "Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to this terrible place?" (Numbers 20:5). When Moses entered the presence of God with this concern, he was given clear direction for solving the problem: "Gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water" (Numbers 20:8).

Moses gathered the people as he was told. But rather than simply speaking to the rock, Moses tried to accomplish God's work with a method of his own choosing.

Numbers 20:10-11
"'Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?' Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank."

Moses had seen God's power and knew how much He hated disobedience; yet, at this moment, Moses did not follow God's command. Moses may have become prideful while leading the Israelites through the desert; "Must WE {Aaron and I} bring you water out of this rock?" Or, he may have thought God needed help from the same staff used to turn the Nile river into blood and part the Red Sea. Either way, his disobedience stemmed from a lack of trust in God - trust is always related to obedience!

God still loved Moses and will fellowship with him for all eternity, but his failure to obey was severely punished; "Because you did not trust in Me enough to honor Me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them" (Numbers 20:12). God's perfect plan for Moses clearly included a trip into the Promised land; but, even after 40 years of faithful leadership, Moses' lack of trust caused him to miss out on God's very best.

God knows our needs and has a detailed plan which is unfolding according to His perfect timing. Let's listen intently for His direction and then fully obey. Let's take the steps to ensure all we do in our ministry - all we do in our family and in every area of our life - is done to bring Him glory and honor. Let's trust Him and His ways with ALL our heart, and always remember...don't strike the rock!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 70242865-4371-4A9F-9797-A970713FACBD Wed, 4 Nov 2009 20:23:26 -0500
In the message "Living a Holy Life" we saw that though we have freedom in Christ, we are also called to live a life of holiness. As we continue to walk with Jesus, we are called to strive for purity in our worship while understanding that nothing we do can ever add to His gift of Salvation.

Perhaps this relationship is best understood by considering our "marriage" to Christ; "I promised you to one husband, to Christ" (2 Corinthians 11:2). Jesus demonstrated His love for us, His eternal bride, when He gave His life; and NOTHING "will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:39). He promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), and even "if we are faithless, He will remain faithful" (2 Timothy 2:13). His love is perfect!

However, His perfect love must never produce complacency. We have no fear of losing our Bridegroom or driving Him away, and we need not earn His acceptance. But if we truly understand His love, we ought to be compelled to return His love in everything we do and live to bring Him glory and honor.

When the people of Israel turned their hearts away from God, it caused Him great pain. They were His chosen people - His chosen bride whom He dearly loved - and yet, they continued to seek a life apart from Him.

Ezekiel 6:9
"How I have been grieved by their adulterous hearts, which have turned away from Me, and by their eyes, which have lusted after their idols."

This pain still occurs today whenever we withhold even a portion of our heart. We are married to a loving God who gave His life so we could live; but He is also "a consuming fire, a jealous God" (Deuteronomy 4:24). When we allow our heart to become attracted to the things of this world or controlled by its set of values, we become an adulterous bride; "Don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God?" (James 4:4).

Many of our discussions of what is "acceptable" behavior for the bride of Christ, miss the true essence of our relationship. We are to be passionately in love! Our greatest desire should be to do those things which please the Bridegroom, not to cause Him grief as we live on the cold edge of what is "allowable." Everything is allowable! But what are the things which properly express our love?

Let's keep our heart pure and devoted to Him. Let's abide in Him and love Him with ALL our heart. Let's commit to living the remainder of our days as a faithful and loving bride.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 6BD8FBDF-3E55-4E6E-983E-3A43DEE3AD32 Wed, 4 Nov 2009 20:21:37 -0500
In the message "Believe and Be Restored" we considered our need to believe that what God said is true. He said the death and resurrection of Jesus was the final sacrifice for our sin, and that those who believe would receive the gift of eternal life.

Our Salvation is clearly a gift from God; "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith" (Ephesians 2:8). We did nothing to earn our Salvation and there is nothing we must now do to keep it, we simply must believe; "there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1).

Though our sins are forgiven and Jesus is 100% sufficient for Salvation - though we walk in grace and are absolutely free of condemnation - sin in our life still causes temporary separation and tension in our relationship with God. Therefore, over and over in scripture, we are called to a life of holiness: "As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do" (1 Peter 1:14-15). Holiness is to receive top priority in our life; "Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy" (Hebrews 12:14).

So why such an emphasis on holy living? After all, if we are saved by grace, our effort toward holiness plays no part in our Salvation. The answer is found in examining our purpose for life beyond Salvation: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship" (Romans 12:1).

2 Peter 1:5-7
"For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love."

After we are saved, we live to worship and glorify God; but this can only be done by growing in our faith and presenting ourselves as a living sacrifice. For any sacrifice to be pleasing to God, the sacrifice itself must be pure, and the one who presents the sacrifice must be holy. So when we "make every effort" toward a life of holiness, we don't do so in order to earn or maintain our Salvation; rather, we strive for holiness because we desire to truly worship our Heavenly Father with every heartbeat of our life.

We must never lose sight of God's wonderful gift given purely by His grace. But now our Father's plan is for us to be conformed to the likeness of His Son and live in a continual state of worship. His design for our life is that we mature in our faith and worship Him by living a holy life.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 0021FFDE-4331-45B6-A535-2C81B1178063 Wed, 4 Nov 2009 20:18:53 -0500
When God created man, He gave him dominion over all the earth; "fill the earth and subdue it" (Genesis 1:28). Man was created with a great amount of freedom. He was to take care of God's Garden and obey a single command: "You must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die" (Genesis 2:17). Adam did not believe what God said was true and he ate fruit from the tree. His sin (failure to believe) caused man to be separated from God.

When God used Moses to lead His chosen people out of Egypt, He gave them rules for their personal, social, and spiritual life. If these rules were obeyed, God promised to restore His people to a right relationship with Himself; "If we are careful to obey all this law...that will be our righteousness" (Deuteronomy 6:25). But the people did not obey God's law and so remained separated. Their lack of obedience demonstrated a lack of belief that what God said was true.

When God sent His Son as the final sacrifice for our sin, He gave one basic command: "Believe in the one He has sent" (John 6:29). Those who do not obey this final command (those who do not believe) are condemned to an eternal separation filled with torment. But those who believe in Jesus Christ are restored!

Hebrews 8:10
"This is the covenant I will make with the house of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my laws in their minds and write them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people."

Relationship with God has always been based on belief - a belief that what God said is true. But for this belief to be real it was always expected to produce obedience. The wonder of our relationship today is that God gives us His law written on our heart AND He gives us His Spirit to guide and strengthen us to obey; "And I will put My Spirit in you and move you to follow My decrees and be careful to keep My laws" (Ezekiel 36:27).

Through belief in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, we become a "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17) with a new heart and new strength. What an awesome blessing!! By His grace we are completely restored into the relationship for which we were created - a relationship of love, a relationship of trust, and a relationship of obedience.

God's Word is true! If He is calling, do not turn away; "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts" (Hebrews 3:7). Today, if you hear His voice, believe and be restored.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries]]> http://www.gdwm.org/archive.htm 20DE53A7-0E8F-4301-993B-D98668602558 Tue, 3 Nov 2009 22:35:57 -0500