Learn. Grow. Live. Go.

Matthew 23:23-39

2010-06-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

Eternal: What does this passage teach me about God?

God knows the depths of our hearts. He knows every little thing about us. We cannot hide a single thing from Him. We can appear differently to people. They may not know what we are thinking or how we are feeling. God is different. He knows all about us.

Internal: What does this passage teach me about myself?

Unless i speak up people will not know how I feel. Facial expression may or may not express how I feel. Just because I may be tired this does not mean I am unhappy. Or if I am in a mode of thinking -- again a serious expression does not equal unhappy. My life is very blessed. It may not be how I planned it all of the time but He has blessed us. Thankfully, God knows me best. He knows the why to things others may not realize.

External: What does this passage teach me about those around me?

God desires to know us. All of us. All about us. Even when people do not know Him He still knows them. We cannot hide anything from God.

Matthew 23:1-22

2010-06-15T10:23:00.000-07:00

Eternal: What does this passage teach me about God?

Not all of the Pharisee laws were bad. But here was the problems: they took their man-made laws as seriously as God's laws. told others to obey these laws but did not do so themselves. or they obeyed the laws to make themselves to look good but not in order to honor God. Jesus warns about these very things. Jesus cared about people and this is why He warned. Jesus even went as far as to expose the hypocrites. Jesus warned about holding positions of leadership in the church can be dangerous if we love the position more than our loyalty to God. Jesus reminded that greatness comes from serving. Jesus reminded that people needed to be attracted to God...not the leader.

Internal: What does this passage teach me about myself?

This passage of Scripture had a lot to say. However, all were good reminders. I love to serve others. I am thankful for the opportunities given to do so. Serving others is rewarding. I will continue to serve others. It is important for us to study the Word for myself. I cannot hang onto everything a person says. It is my responsibility to study what I have been taught. When I study it helps me to remember better what is taught. It helps me grow.

External: What does this passage teach me about those around me?

Children, teens, young and older adults tend to just believe whatever they are told by a teacher, preacher, professor, boss, co-worker etc. The sad thing is....are they learning and growing themselves? Is what they are being told right? The only way to know is to study themselves. Unfortunately, this does not happen as often as it should. This is not to point blame....rather it is for us to grow and know more. This is also not to dig and fine the wrong in something -- but if we find something we should discuss it. In order for our relationship to mature we gotta study, learn and grow on our own.

Matthew 22:23-46

2010-06-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

Eternal: What does this passage teach me about God?

The Sadducees believed in only the Pentateuch as Scripture. They were trying to trap Jesus here in admitting that what they believed was all truth. However, Jesus showed them otherwise. He told them to concentrate on a relationship with God rather than what heaven looks like. Jesus even answered their question using the book of Exodus which is part of the Pentateuch. (Exodus 3:6). The verse points to resurrection and eternal life.

Internal: What does this passage teach me about myself?

Relationship with Christ is far more important than focusing on the things in the future. Studying His Word, prayer....these things are what is important today. Continuing to build on my relationship with Christ is important.

External: What does this passage teach me about those around me?

Sometimes people try to question the smaller subjects of the Bible. The subjects that are not fundamental to a relationship with Christ. The important thing to remember is that we all need to agree on the fundamentals of the faith. The other subjects we may or may not agree on and that is okay. We will not all agree. It is the basic biblical truths we must agree on. Jesus was born, came to this earth to seek and save the lost and He is coming again. These are the things we need to agree on.

Matthew 22:1-22

2010-06-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Eternal: What does this passage teach me about God?

God continues to invite us to know Him and all He has for us...for eternity. God gives us opportunity to accept eternal life. We have to be willing and ready to accept His invitation. Jesus says it so clearly in verse 14: "For many are called, but few are chosen."

Internal: What does this passage teach me about myself?

This passage reminds me to always be ready. Christ is coming back. My focus shall remain on the One who gives eternal life. The things He has promised will occur. It will be better than we can even believe. One day I will see my Savior face to face.

External: What does this passage teach me about those around me?

Many, many people do not believe Jesus is returning to this earth. The world entices and captures so many people. People have forgotten of His promise to return. He is coming back very soon and we must be ready. People need to decide today to accept His invitation. Do not let it become too late. Eternity is real. What do you have to lose? Nothing. Be ready.

Matthew 21:23-46

2010-04-07T19:31:00.000-07:00

Eternal

There will come a time when Christ is going to judge. He is a just God. He offers forgiveness and mercy today but there is a day coming where He will judge.

Internal

I am so glad I have made the choice to follow His Word and believe. I desire mercy and forgiveness while it is still called today.

External

Jesus gave people a free will to chose Him or not to choose Him. People need to make sure they are right with God. This needs to be done today. Judgement from God will come....are you ready?

Matthew 21:1-22

2010-04-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

Eternal

The triumphal entry occurs. Jesus rides into Jreusalem on a donkey which signifies kingship. Therefore, this is why Jesus was treated in the way it was written...hosanna...he was received well by most at this point. (note: i said most, not all) For a second time Jesus clears the temple. He reminds the people that His house is a house of prayer. Jesus reminds us that whatever we ask in prayer, believing, we shall receive.

Internal

Even though Jesus knew what was to come He was still teacher. Amazing. He spoke about prayer. I can pray for anything. All I have to do is ask and believe. So simple.

External

Even with everything that was preparing to transpire....people were still entrenched in themselves. Selling things for money in the house of prayer. Either they were not listening the first time or they did not care. Jesus cleared the temple a second time. We better listen and heed what we are taught.

Matthew 20:17-34

2010-03-16T14:11:00.000-07:00

Eternal

Jesus is teaching about servanthood in this passage. Jesus is not about being at the top or having the prestigious position. He asks that we serve others. Everything on earth and in heaven is about Him.

Internal

Culture is all about career....reaching the top....especially in the workforce. I am thankful that I gave up on this craziness. Along with getting the top position comes a ton of responsibility. I chose to let it go. Now, I am able to serve my family and work does not consume my every thought. My phone is not ringing at all hours. I can serve with freedom. This makes for a blessed wife and home. I thank Him daily for these blessings.

External

Everyone who is working wants everything the workplace has to offer. Unfortunately work consumes a lot of time. People work every day. We value work over God. Weekends are our only time off and fitting God in is just not cool cause that takes time. I hear this a lot. I respond with....he gives us so much more....all He asks for does not amount to as much as we give to our work or even ourselves. Unfortunately, people do not take the time to understand, trust or believe....i will continue to serve and be faithful.

Matthew 20:1-16

2010-03-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

Eternal

Entrance to God's kingdom is by grace alone. It does not matter if a person serves Christ for years or just a day.....all who have relationship and believe will enter the Kingdom.

Internal

Knowing God is all about studying His word, prayer, being taught...or shall I say teachable? It does not matter how long a person knows Jesus. More important is that a person knows Him and is building a relationship. God has no favorites. His grace is for all who desire it.

External

So many people believe that because they have been following Jesus for so long that they have all of the answers or best relationship with Jesus. This is not true. The newest believer has the same truth and grace. Yes, they are beginning to learn all God has for them but they are still a child of God. If we do not allow fresh, new Christ followers the opportunity to serve how will they mature and grow? Several people believe that they are better than others because they go to "that" church or have "that" pastor or they are part of "that" ministry. This is not how Jesus meant for His children to be. We are all saved because of grace. We are all learning until He is done with us. We are all growing in Him until our final breath.

Matthew 19

2010-03-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

Eternal

Jesus reaches out to everyone. Status does not matter to Him. He gives everyone the choice to follow Him. His ways are simple. Unfortunately he came across people who did not want to give up the world to follow Him. We have to let go and allow God into our lives. It is so simple and yet so hard for people to do.

Internal

I am in love with my Saviour. His ways are simple. What do I have to lose in order to follow Him? Nothing. All I have is gain. I look forward to heaven. I look forward to learning more and being there one day. I look forward to touching lives while I am on this earth. This is very important to me. I desire for others to know Jesus.

External

People think that they must give up everything in order to follow Jesus. This is an untrue statement. Yes, you have to let go of sin....but you will still have a home and things you enjoy. All you have to do is allow Him in and make your heart soft and pliable. Following Him means you will trust Him and allow Him to love you. Trusting in Him....He is good. His plans for you are good. (Jer 29:11)

Matthew 18:21-35

2010-03-16T10:06:00.000-07:00

Eternal

Jesus wants us to forgive no matter how many times we may be the one hurt. However, God is fair. There are consequences for the one who caused the wrong. But remember....God is teaching us to forgive no matter what.

Internal

If I harbor unforgiveness it will cause my heart to become hard. If I choose to not forgive is my relationship with Jesus right? No. I choose to have a heart that is filled with forgiveness. I want my relationship with Jesus to be right. I want reflect His ways in my life so that others may see Him.

External

So many people harbor ill feelings and unforgiveness towards others. This makes our world an angry place. People often say the one thing that results in not being able to forgive "me". The thing they fail to realize is that when they forgive and focus on the forgiving they have made peace. The relationship may take time to repair. But at least repairing and rebuilding the relationship can occur. If people do not forgive none of the rebuilding and repairing can commence. Forgiveness impacts future decisions and relationships. We need to forgive when necessary. Remember....He came to seek and save people. We need to have the best relationships possible in order to continue His work.

Matthew 18:1-20

2010-03-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Eternal

God desires a humble heart. God also warns us not ot be tempted and to steer clear of temptation. God reminds us that it does not matter who we are....He came to save the lost...He seeks everyone. He does not care who we are. He created everyone equal and offers His saving grace in the same way...equally.

Internal

Jesus reminds me that He came to seek and save the lost. It does not matter who a person is. Every person has a choice to make. We are all born with a soul. May I continue to have passion for those that need to know of God's saving grace and mercy.

External

This world focuses a lot on people. Especially those that are rich and famous. We also focus on people whenever tragedy happens. People are not treated equally at all times. People think that if you are famous or earn a lot of money they get special treatment or recognition. However this is not the majority. Most people are hard working and truly earn what they have. People quickly forget that God created us equally and offers eternal life in the same way.

Matthew 17

2010-02-22T13:01:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus showed the disciples how important faith would be in their future ministry. They were still struggling with this area. He showed them that some things take greater faith. At times the disciples would have to go beyond prayer and fasting for a miracle to occur. Endurance and faith sometimes go hand in hand.

Internal

Faith. This has been a theme running through this gospel. Faith is not easy nor is it all we need. Sometimes it takes faith plus some. I strive to have faith but I do not always succeed. My human nature stands in the way. I have to remind myself that He is greater than what my own mind can conceive.

External

Faith is not a huge deal in our culture. We think we have all of the answers. We think doctors, science etc is all we need. Faith is not brought up. Hope is a word so loosely used. But we fail to have faith. However, faith and hope go hand in hand. It almost seems like hope is the buzz word of today. Faith is "religious". Yet they both work together. We need faith more than hope. Faith brings us closer to the throne of grace.

Matthew16

2010-02-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus warns that we should be careful not to follow wrong teaching. Jesus reminds his disciples of the different miracles he had performed. He asked them why they reason among themselves. He cautioned them to be careful with what they hear from others.

Internal

Teachers and preachers are in the media, lead large to small churches. However I must remember that it is the Word of God that I am seeking. Not a man. Our culture has so much out there. The only way to know the truth is to study it for myself.

External

People follow others. They think because this person has a number of books published or their own television spot....they must know what they are talking about. We must be careful! We must study the Word ourselves. We cannot count on a person's popularity or accolades. What if these people turn out to be something else? We need to hold onto the simple, biblical teachings. Who better to model after than Jesus Himself? Why do we assume everyone else has answers? Jesus has the answers. All we have to do is study the Bible to discover the answers for ourselves.

Matthew 15:21-39

2010-02-22T07:35:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus had compassion for everyone. He was no respecter of persons. He did not care about who they were. He cared for them no matter what. He came to this earth for people. Status, wealth, poverty, disease -- none of this mattered to Jesus. He healed and helped everyone who was willing to accept His touch or teachings.

Internal

The same is true for my own life. It does not matter who someone is....we are all born with a soul. We are all going to leave this earth. It does not matter what our skin color is or status may be. I can be a witness of God's love, mercy and grace to anyone who desires to know Jesus. Everyone leaves this earth. No one is excluded.

External

Our society is really good at forming what I know as cliques. It started as early as elementary school and continues on into adulthood. How sad to think that we determine relationships through cliques. And these cliques are often not a true representation of who we are. But we just want to be part of the popular crowd. How are we able to spread the gospel if we only associate ourselves in cliques? We are all unique and yet we all try to be the same. This is unfortunate in a world that needs God. We are supposed to be set apart. People need to see Jesus in our lives but do they really?

Matthew 15:1-20

2010-02-22T07:18:00.000-08:00

Eternal

While the Pharisees knew a lot about God they did not have a relationship with Him. They knew regulations. God desires more. He desires relationship. What is in our hearts is most important. It is not about who we are, what we wear, what we do etc.

Internal

The most important thing that matters to God is my relationship with Him. Am I reading His Word? Am I striving to follow it? What do I think about? How am I showing others Christ? Am I learning, growing, living, going?

External

The world is so focused on material things. Spirituality has become a dim part of the lives of many. As long as we are good that is all there is. But there is so much more!! Do you know Jesus -- everything about Him? What He desires? His plans? His Word is so full. He is everlasting. We must let go of this world and cling to Jesus.

Matthew 14:22-36

2010-02-22T07:02:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus is always there. Even when we fail He is there. Peter had faith but when he took his eyes off of Jesus...he faltered. Again, when we doubt and lose our focus He is still there.

Internal

Trusting His plans for me has not always been easy. Nor have I understood everything He has planned for me. But I choose to trust Him. My life has not gone in directions I thought it would but I trust His wa for me is better than my own. I must keep my faith planted in His Word. His promises are true and He is faithful/

External

Faith in Jesus is hard for people to grasp in difficult situations. The question of "Why" pops up. Peter had faith until his focus faltered. Even in difficult times we must keep our mindset on Christ. He is always in control. Things may not go as planned. But we must keep our focus on Christ.

Matthew 14:1-21

2010-02-22T06:51:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God performed the miracle of feeding 5,000 people. The 5 loaves and 2 fish multiplied. There was more than enough for the gigantic crowd. God performed a miracle for those people. He performed these miracles to show signs of His identity.

Internal

Life is messy. Life is HARD. But I believe that He still performs miracles today. I have seen Him heal and provide. Simple miracles but nonetheless miracles.

External

People need to see that God is still the same. He has not changed. He still cares for people. It is His heartbeat. It is still His passion. We live in a world where people question and use science and reason for answers. Miracles -- there is no explanation for them except that God is still working. So why do we doubt and question? God is real. What is there to lose? Nothing. All we have to do is trust and believe. So simple. Yet, so hard for people to do.

Matthew 13:31-58

2010-02-22T06:36:00.000-08:00

External

The parable of the fishing net as well as the wheat and tares carries the same message: I am to tell others about God BUT I am not to decide who is or is not a part of the kingdom of heaven. God is the judge.

Internal

There will be a day of judgement and that is the job of God. No one else has this right. I am thankful that this is His. What a job! My job is to be a light of His ways....that is all. He does the rest.

External

People are so quick to judge others. They forget who is in control. Everyone believes they are going to heaven. What we forget is that there will be judgement. And this job belongs to God and no one else. We just have to choose to follow Him.

Matthew 13:1-30

2010-01-19T18:40:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus reminds us that when we tell others why we believe in Him we are planting seeds. Sometimes these seeds fall on scarce soil. The plants grew but did not last long. This is because they did not take root. Other seed fell among the thorns and were choked. Finally, other seed fell on good soil. The plants took root and produced a great crop. In other words, even though we tell others the seeds all fall differently.

Internal

It is up to me to show others the way to the cross. It is up to me to plant "seeds" in the hearts and lives of others. I may not see the person GROW but I can plant a thought or verse in their heart. I can give them the opportunity to know Him.

External

I think that in order to plant seeds and show others the cross relationship is important. People relate better when there is a common ground or relationship. They want to SEE and often WATCH someone's life. Actions speak louder than words. Anyone can talk. But can we walk the walk and do what we say?

Matthew 12:24-50

2010-01-19T18:25:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God reminds us to be careful with our words. He will judge upon what we have said. Our words must not be careless.

Internal

Words are important. Especially since He cares enough to remember them. I need to be mindful of this.

External

We have freedom of speech but do we take it to the extreme at times? I do not want to hear some things people say. I believe we need to watch what we say and how we say it. You never know who is listening. Furthermore, since He is also listening it is even more important to choose our words wisely.

Matthew 12:1-23

2010-01-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

Eternal

There was nothing wrong with David picking some grains to eat. Honoring the Sabbath was aimed primarily at regular work. Jesus was questioning their approach (Pharisees) to the law itself. The Pharisees did not grasp the full significance of the law. All of this shows that He is the Messiah. He is the Son of Man and Lord of the Sabbath. He is in a position to handle the Sabbath Law in any way He wills.

Internal

Sometimes it is difficult to interpret rules and regulations. But they are important. When in doubt I ask questions. It is better to ask questions than to assume. How can one argue a rule if it is not fully understood? Understanding is just as important -- if not more so than following rules.

External

We constantly want to question and challenge others. Everyone wants answers to benefit them. Rules have almost become a joke. No one wants to follow them. Yet everyone wants to create and enforce their own or just not follow ones provided. Some, simply, do not care. Very few people believe there is authority. These concepts are so lost....different today. We need to change our mindset and look at the basics....history.

Matthew 11

2010-01-18T17:43:00.000-08:00

Eternal

We can lay our burdens on Him. Jesus is humble at heart and gentle.

Internal

This lesson is hard too. I know this but do I always trust that He will take care of me? When you see the sad news day after day regarding Haiti....it is HARD. Yet I know He is faithful....but my humaness creeps in. I ask "why?" on so many levels and about so many things in life. A friend that is sick....i lay this at His feet but the burden is HARD to forget. These are the things I struggle with. All I have is trust -- He knows the plans He has for each of these things. All I can do is lay the burdens down and trust. Again, this is not easy.....but He is faithful....even til the very end...my hope is heaven....Jesus will meet me wherever I am on this journey called life.

External
People find their answers in everything or everyone else. They feel there is no one to carry their burden. Although there are circumstances that confuse me....I trust Him and choose to lay burdens at His feet. He will meet my every need. I gotta TRUST in the midst of the HARD.

Matthew 10:21-42

2010-01-18T17:28:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God reminds that in order to know Him we must lay our life at His feet.

Internal

Life is good. Life can be fun. There are hard times. Yet, life is good. It is not always easy to surrender to His plan. I love the things He has blessed me with. I cherish certain things. I must remember to lay it all in His hands. Not easy but necessary. He loves me. I am His. I must remember that His plans for me are greater.

External

People often measure life by what they possess, achieve, status etc. We often feel that once we lay everything at His feet we will lose these things. This is not true. We become His and the future He has is so much greater than anything this earth can provide!

Matthew 10:1-20

2010-01-14T17:28:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus called His disciples. He did not force them or volunteer them. He chose the 12 disciples. He gave them a choice. Jesus asked His disciples to only go to the Jews because He came first to the Jews. Jesus gave the disciples some guidelines to follow as they ministered and prepared them for persecution.

Internal

I have a choice, free will, to follow Christ. I am not forced to do so but I choose to do so because I believe that what He has written through others is true. I have a hope and a promise. I look forward to the days ahead. He still leads and guides today. I am thankful for His direction.

External

People definitely have a choice to either follow Him or remain behind. People believe that they have all the time in the world to choose but life is short. We are never guaranteed tomorrow or even the next minute. A relationship with Christ is vital to knowing Him. With Christ there is only gain.

Matthew 9

2010-01-13T18:20:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus continues to heal and teach. He eats with those that are not following Him. He touches their lives. He goes to them. He teaches the religious leaders. It did not matter who people were or what they did Jesus taught. He did what He came to do....teach.

Internal

I want to be His child and do His work to further His kingdom. I want others to know the truth. Furthermore, I want others seeking Him and believing. I am willing to teach and disciple others. I am willing to encourage others in their faith.

External

We need to be ready and willing to serve Him. Often we are "too busy". We need to make time for Him. One day it will be too late. I want others to know Him!

Matthew 8

2010-01-13T18:06:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Jesus performs many miracles. Jesus heals. People demonstrate faith. Jesus calms a storm. Jesus casts out demons. All of these events proves His power and authority.

Internal

I need to continue and trust that God still moves and heals today. I need to rememner that it is His will and not my own. Not easy but He is faithful!

External

Jesus still reigns with power. He still heals. I have seen Him heal. I know He can. He has the power and authority. Jesus still reigns!

Matthew 7

2010-01-13T17:54:00.000-08:00

(Sorry about the delay but I will be back on track now.)

Eternal

Jesus teaches about many things in this chapter. He is reminding us to judge our own motives rather than others. God reminds us to persist in pursuing God. Jesus teaches about the foundation of active goodness and mercy. This is the kind of love God shows us everyday. God reminds us to evaluate teachers.

Internal

I need to examine my own heart and not judge others. This is a great lesson to remember. I must continue to pursue Jesus and His Word. I journey on. I need to continue to study the Word. I need to make sure what I am taught does line up with His teaching.I am thankful for grace and mercy.

External

People have a hard time not judging others. We are quick to judge. This is sad because we may be in no position to do so! People need to evaluate what they are taught but this has become a lost practice. People often assume what they are taught is all they need. Why did we study at home or in our dorm after being taught all day in class??? Simple: We were responsible for evaluating what was taught and committing information to memory. We should still be doing this today!

Matthew 6:19-34

2010-01-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God reminds us that the things we love and hold dear to us on earth should not be our focus. Instead, heaven and the place He has prepared for us should be our focus. Furthermore, He reminds us not to worry and that He will take care of us.

Internal

I admit that there are things I like here on earth....my house, my dog, books...etc. But these things are only temporary. I need to remember that heaven and all He has is forever...eternal. I worry about things at times. My dad once told me that 90% of what we worry about never happens. So, do not worry and let God handle things. This is not always easy. But I am trusting him and trying not to worry. But it is not easy!

External

People worry constantly. I think this almost feeds another person's worry. If everyone took time out to relax and let worries go the world would be a much happier place. We worry over finances, our job, family and the list can go on. If we relaxed more and trusted Him I bet our level of worry would diminsh. People always want "things". We have forgotten, as a society, that this world and everything in it is only temporary. Heaven is forever. This is our temporary home....there is a song out with this title. The lyrics are below.

Little boy, six years old
A little too used to being alone
Another new mom and dad, another school
Another house that'll never be home

When people ask him how he likes this place
He looks up and says with a smile upon his face

This is my temporary home
It's not where I belong
Windows and rooms that I'm passing through
This is just a stop on the way to where I'm going
I'm not afraid because I know
This is my temporary home

Mmmmm

A young mom on her own
She needs a little help, got no where to go
She's looking for a job, looking for a way out
'Cause a half-way house will never be a home

At night she whispers to her baby girl
Someday we'll find our place here in this world

This is our temporary home
It's not where we belong
Windows and rooms that we're passing through
This is just a stop on the way to where we're going
I'm not afraid because I know
This is our temporary home

Old man, hospital bed
The room is filled with people he loves
And he whispers, "don't cry for me,
I'll see you all someday"

He looks up and says,
"I can see God's face"

This is my temporary home
It's not where I belong
Windows and rooms that I'm passing through
This was just a stop on the way to where I'm going
I'm not afraid because I know
This was my temporary home

Mmmmm

This is our temporary home

Matthew 6:1-18

2010-01-07T16:31:00.000-08:00

Eternal

In this portion God is reminding us to do certain things not for glory or praise from others. We can help the needy, pray, and fast without making a big deal about it. These things are not about me, rather, they are about Him.

Internal

I love to pray. I know that prayers are answered. Sometimes they are not answered in the way I want but it is His will....not mine. I am reminded that I can talk to God whenever I want. Fasting = doing without. I need to do this more often. This world is very "I want it now" I do not want to allow this to become my mindset.

External

People often think "Fasting is crazy" But it is something Matthew took time to write about. It is a topic Jesus spoke about. Therefore, it is important. Fasting keeps me in check and focused on His will and plan for whatever I am facing. Fasting = obedience, faith and staying close to Him.

Matthew 5:27-48

2010-01-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Sin has to be dealt with. (v29-30) God reminds that we need to mean what we say. When we say "Yes' we mean it and the same goes for when we say "No". God reminds us to love our enemies and our neighbors.

Internal

Today we are more cautious and not as neighborly with those living around us. We need to remember to love our neighbors even if they are not the same as us. We can talk with them when we see them. We could exchange phone numbers in case one needed something. I think the idea of neighbor is not what it once was. We need to make the effort to be more neighborly.

External

Everyone is so "me" oriented that others have been forgotten. People do not take the time to spend time together. We all live on the same street or neighborhood but do we even know who we live next to?? We need to build community within our neighborhoods. A simple hello when we see others out is a beginning... My grandma in Muncie knew her neighbors. And knew them well. Do we?

Matthew 5:1-26

2010-01-05T16:42:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God blesses even when life may not be the mountaintop experience; He blesses even in the valley experiences of life. God reminded me again that I am the salt and light...I must carry on the work of Jesus. Jesus is not about legalism, rather He He reminds us of why the law was written. Jesus came to teach the truth. God reminds us to settle matters quickly and not to delay. We need to reconcile.

Internal

I was reminded that I need to carry on until His return... I need to GO and share with others or help someone GROW in their own faith. I need to seek His truth and study His Word with diligence.

External

People forget that God blesses no matter the circumstances of life. When life may not be going as planned we are quick to think of being punished or that this is just not the way it was supposed to be. While these thoughts are true and real we must remember that He is with us no matter the circumstance and that we are blessed! We often forget that we are His light. We allow other things creep in and our light may not be so bright. People should see something different. But we often mask this. We need to be the light. We need to remember that we are here just as His disciples were....to let others know of His mercy, love, grace and truth. I challenge you to let your light shine so that others can see...actions speak louder than word.

Matthew 4

2010-01-04T11:08:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Obedience and trust are STILL the 2 things God is teaching. Jesus had to trust God during His 40 days of temptation. The first disciples He called to follow Him had to trust and obey. Jesus also begins His preaching ministry and had to trust that there would be seeds planted. And that lives would be changed. God is also teaching that we can be strong in the midst of our weakness. He is teaching us to rely on Him alone.

Internal

There are times when I am tempted to do the opposite. Again I have to fight the temptation and do what I know is right. Once again obeying and trusting God are key to GROWING as a child of God. Is this easy? Nope. All I can do is LIVE each day and strive to trust and obey Him. It is when I do this that I will GROW in my relationship with Him.

External

Temptation, no matter what it may be, is so easy to fall prey to. Jesus was strong. But we are not perfect. He was. Sometimes people think it will be easier to give in and for the moment it may be but in the long run is generally a rougher road. It is tough to get back on track once you give in to temptation. It is so much easier to give in than to do what we know is right and much better for us.We need to be strong and not weak. It takes effort but the end result is worth it...you are not beating yourself up over allowing yourself to let your guard down.

Matthew 3

2010-01-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

Eternal

After 400 years of silence God called a new prophet...John the Baptist. Baptism along with repentance were prominent with his ministry. God uses ordinary people to truly do extraordinary things. I think God was showing us 2 things with Jesus being baptized by John. 1 -- Jesus needed to demonstrate that He is willing to be a servant and 2 -- He can truly identify with the sinful human race.

Internal

In order for me to teach others about God I may need to form a relationship with that person and LEARN all I can. I may LEARN things through what they say to me, their interests etc. I also need to know what I am presenting to others. I must be rock solid in what I believe and know why I believe it.

External

People want answers. They often watch for answers rather than listen. Actions speak louder than words. People often can talk anything up but can they walk the walk? People do not care about what you say but, rather, are you living it out? John the Baptist did this daily. Jesus followed in his footsteps.

Matthew 2

2010-01-04T10:00:00.000-08:00

Eternal

Several key elements occur in this passage. the Magi wanted to go meet this king whom was born. The Magi came from Jerusalem where King Herod was ruling. Herod was not happy that a king had been born. He even had a secret meeting with the Magi to find out the exact location of the baby Jesus. In all of this God intervened through a dream to the Magi that they should go a different route back home. God is all knowing. He spoke to Joseph twice more through dreams concerning the safety of the Child. God is concerned for the well being of His children. Again obedience is another key element of the passage.

Internal

Again the Bible teaches me that I need to be obedient and trust Him. Furthermore, God takes care of His children. He protects me from harm.

External

Herod was scheming plans to get rid of this newborn King from the beginning. Often, people make plans to hurt someone or something. The business world is all about "getting to the top". People are not always honest in the way they achieve their way to the "top". As a child of God I need to remember that He will take care of me and that man's ways are not always godly or wise or good.

Matthew 1

2010-01-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

Eternal

God chose to speak to Joseph through a dream. God foreshadowed what was to come....that Jesus would save people from their sins. (v 21) God knew that Joseph was planning to quietly divorce Mary and this is why speaking to him through a dream was important. Even God reminding Joseph of who he was played a part in Joseph's obedience. (v 20)

Internal

I may not always understand the plan God has for me at the present time but I still need to be obedient. I need to trust even when I may not understand.

External

People do not always want to trust God when the entire picture is not laid out before them. They want to know every detail. This is not always His plan though. Sometimes we have to LEARN to trust Him in order to follow His plan and direction for our lives. People have a hard time following the unknown.

Intro

2010-01-04T08:24:00.000-08:00

I am excited to journal the things I LEARN as I read through the New Testament. As I LEARN I will then GROW as a child of God. Furthermore I will LIVE my life in accordance to His plan. Finally, I will GO and do what it is He has called me to....and be open to his leading. I will still post the everyday at Rita's Ramblings....

My pastor has challenged the following:

Eternal: What is the Bible teaching me about God?
Internal: What is the Bible teaching me about myself?
External: What is the Bible teaching me about those around me?

I have been reading and journaling on paper but have decided to blog it. Why? Anyone can read my blog and I can print all of it and read it easier. I challenge you to read through the Bible in 2010. LEARN. GROW. LIVE. GO.