Help for Today - Real Life Church

Storms in your life will come in various forms but the help in whatever storm of you may face is the same... it's Jesus. You can have a life changing relationship with Jesus - who made you... who knows you... who loves YOU. Jesus is just the help you've been looking for.

The following contains thoughts from everyday people in the Real Life community reflecting on God's Word and finding help for today.

Help for Today - March 24, 2008

Key Verses: Matthew 6:33,34 “Seek first God’s kingdom and what God wants. Then all your others needs will be met as well. So don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will have its own worries. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”

Reflection: Worries… What college am I going to attend? Will I even be accepted? Is my grandma doing okay? Is my friend who just found out he is paralyzed still doing okay? Is the homeless man I gave a Nutri-grain bar to this morning still alive? Is my cousin doing okay at boot camp?

There are so many different things that we all can worry about, but why worry when God says, “do not worry…” Our problems and worries are minor compared to our eternal salvation and leading others to Christ. Satan is ultimately the one who puts that worry in our heart. He enjoys seeing us rely on other things to resolve our worry instead of coming to God when He calls us back. So bring your troubles to God who does not think of our problems as unimportant, but they are of utmost importance to Him. He loves you so much and is waiting for you to hand Him all of your worries.

It is so relieving to know that God will take care of me through it all. All I have to do is just seek Him. When we do this, we can truly live for today and only today. When we do that, we have a better opportunity to reach out to other people who need God.

We all get so wrapped up in the worries of life that we miss amazing opportunities to reach out to people. God says, “ALL our needs will be met…” so we need to trust that they will. Natalie Grant sings this amazing song called “Live for Today” that explains it all:

Meditation: Take some time to think about all the worries that are in your life and write them down. After you have done that, give them all to God. Then gladly rip up the paper and throw all your worries away.

Lord, what concerns me also concerns You, so help me learn to NOT lean on my own understanding, but to shed all my cares upon you. Amen.

Key Verse: John 10:10b “I have come that they might have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” -Jesus-

Reflection: Jesus came, lived, died, and conquered death for me. AND, as if that isn’t enough, He tells me that He will give me not only life, but ABUNDANT life.

Typically, when we think of someone who has an abundant life, we think of all of the stuff they have or all of the vacations they take or the big ol’ house they live in. This isn’t what Jesus was talking about when He said that He came to give us a more abundant life. The word “life” in this passage refers to spiritual life. My spirit, the true essence of who I am can live abundantly!

How? How do I live abundantly? When I accepted Jesus into my life I was forgiven and was promised eternal life with Him, but He didn’t forget that I have a life to live in the meantime. He has given me His Spirit who helps me become not only more like Him, but more of who He truly created me to be. As I give myself up to Him in my desire to be obedient, He changes me. I become more devoted to Him and to His cause….the things that have eternal significance. This gives my life meaning and purpose, making my life abundant and full, overflowing into the lives of others so they might also know how to live abundantly.

Meditation: Do I have an abundant life in Christ? Am I still seeking after things that will not truly fulfill? Are there things in my life that I just don’t want to give up to Him? Why don’t I trust my Creator, Savior, and Friend to help me become less of me and more of Him?

God, thank you for giving me life. Thank you for forgiving me and setting me free. I want to live the abundant life you’ve promised. Amen.

Key Verses: Hebrews 10:19-21 “So, friends, we can now – without hesitation – walk right up to God, into ‘the Holy Place.’ Jesus has cleared the way by the blood of his sacrifice, acting as our priest before God. The ‘curtain’ into God’s presence is his body.”

Reflection: This scene is such a dramatic part of the passion of Jesus. Jesus is in his last moments in his earthly shell and with his last breath, the curtain in the temple is ripped in two by a supernatural force! (Along with an earthquake and various other acts of God!)

Understand this was no ordinary curtain-- it was more than a few inches thick; several yards in length; and was ceremonially very important in the Temple. Without the protection of the curtain, one would die from the presence of God!

As Jesus gave up his life on the cross, it was ripped in half! Now, as a result, Jesus takes the place of the curtain-- he is the one between God and us! Cool huh? When we know him, we have the protection! We can "know the guy who knows the guy.” The ultimate sacrifice of his blood cleanses us from all our sins!

Meditation: Click here to play the song “This Man” by Jeremy Camp and read along as you listen.

Thank you, Jesus for your sacrifice on my behalf. Thank you for removing all that separates me from your presence and your love. I love you, Father! Amen.

Key Verse: John 19:30 “When he had received the drink, Jesus said, ‘It is finished.’ With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”

Reflection: “It Is Finished.” With these words, Jesus completed the plan of redemption that God had implemented from the beginning of time. Atonement was required. Blood had to be shed for the forgiveness of sin. The blood of Jesus makes our salvation and the promise of heaven possible. Now we know that everything Jesus claimed about himself was true. He is the Messiah, the Son of God.

Remember, the Patriarchs of the Old Testament were looking forward to the day when the Messiah was to be revealed. Now we look backward to that day and thank God for it. Our faith in Christ gives us hope. When Jesus uttered the words, “It is finished,” he knew that God’s plan was complete. Satan had been defeated. Death had lost its sting. And it was Jesus who paid the price.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for the love that you have extended to me and for the care that you show. I ask for your continued guidance in my daily life. Help me to be a witness for you at all times. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Key Verse: Mark 10:14 “When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, ‘Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.’”

Reflection: Why does the Kingdom of God belong to those who are like children? Children confidently abandon themselves to the care of their parents: they believe in their love. When they are in their arms, they feel safe and unafraid. When they sense that there is danger, they hold on even more tightly to their mom or dad and immediately feel safe, secure, and protected.

Haven’t you seen a child placed and standing on the side of a swimming pool's deep end being told to “Jump”? The child stands there, afraid, shivering, toes curled, a little uncertain, creeping closer and closer to the edge... not too sure this is something that they want to do. You can hear the encouragement of the parent who’s in the water with arms wide open saying to the child “Jump! I’ll catch you. I promise I won’t let you drown… you can do it! I promise, it will be ok, you’ll see… Just do it!”

Eventually the child takes a flying leap! Arms reaching out to grab hold of the parent. Completely trusting that they will be caught and they won’t drown. Wouldn't you know... just as promised, the child was caught! With arms wide open, the parent encourages, shows love and says, “See, I told you that you wouldn’t drown!”

Over the past year, I have learned that standing on the edge and being fearful is not where I want to stay. Especially not knowing how to swim, it makes it even more fearful to take that leap and trust. But I’m reminded that my Heavenly Father loves me and he won’t let me drown!

I think this is what Jesus was trying to tell his disciples and us. If you’re a Christian and believe in God, then throw yourself into the arms of your Heavenly Father and trust him UNCONDITIONALLY! Put your everythings into the Father's hands and with child-like trust, believe that he will resolve it all. Abandoning yourself completely as a child does, without calculating the risks. And just like that parent in the pool, he too is saying “I promise, I’ll catch you… I won’t let you drown.”

Meditation: A person with child-like faith believes that God has the power to do anything. A faith that is child-like, is a faith that has recognized that it’s not about our ability or strength, it’s about God’s ability and strength. A person with child-like faith watches as God does the impossible. What seems impossible to you? What’s stopping you from taking that leap? God is waiting for us to believe, trust, and dive in!

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your promises. Thank you for always being there. Show me the areas of my life that I need to let go of and to completely trust you with. Help me not to be fearful, but to have faith as a child. I know your plan for my life is an awesome one.

Key Verses: Matthew 14:27-33 “But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.’ And Peter answered Him and said, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water. So He said, ‘Come. And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, ‘Lord, save me!’ And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, ‘O you of little faith, why did you doubt?’ And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly You are the Son of God.’”

Reflection: This passage has encouraged me many times in my life and through the many storms I have faced. Six years ago, I encountered one of the biggest storms of my life. I conceived a child through a forced encounter. As a result, I faced some incredibly tough decisions. Should I tell anyone? What should I do with the baby? What should I do with myself? I felt I was already drowning and the storm had just begun.

My pastor and a friend reached out to me. They prayed with me and helped me remember that in order to get through my storm, I needed to look to Jesus. I set my sights on Him and stepped out into the storm with my eyes locked on my Savior. The storm hit hard a few weeks later when I told my family. Most of them were great and offered much needed support. However, one of my closest family members refused to believe me and stopped speaking to me.

During the storm I learned to cling to Jesus and my focus on Him became stronger. As the months continued, I made the decision to give my baby to an adoptive mom and dad. I met a couple who lived a few states away and who were unable to have children of their own. The storm raged on, but God kept peace in my heart as He walked through it with me.

The day came for our baby to be born. The adoptive couple drove through the night and made it to the hospital with an hour to spare. Our beautiful baby girl was born with her adoptive mom in the room. I spent the next two days in the hospital getting to know baby Elizabeth and her parents. Through it all there was peace and joy in my storm. That year Mother’s Day fell on May 12. We celebrated a special Mother’s Day as I signed the papers that gave Elizabeth to her Mom and Dad. Later, we all left the hospital together. I was in my wheelchair holding Elizabeth, with Mom and Dad following behind. The moment came when we would go our separate ways. I looked up to see the new parents weeping for me.

My storm did not end at that point. In the following months, I went through many emotions. At times, it was all I could do to keep my eyes on Jesus. As my strength wavered, He carried me through the last part of the storm. Now, I enjoy a wonderful relationship with Elizabeth and her parents. They even brought her to my wedding to be a flower girl. What a gift I have in them that I would not have had if I had not gone through that storm.

Life is never perfect, but when storms come, we are not alone. We have hope. We have a Savior to help us through good times and the bad times.

Meditation: Are you in the midst of a storm? Do you feel like there is no help for you? You are not alone. Jesus is waiting. All you have to do is ask, and He will be there to walk with you through your storm.

God, thank you for walking with me through the storms in my life. I could not make it without you. Thank you for the peace that only You can provide. Please guide my steps through good times and bad, and help me remember to keep my eyes on you. Amen.

Key Verse: Philippians 3:14 (NASB) “I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: I believe the goal referred to in this verse is the call God has placed on our lives. Any time I am faced with adversity, or if the enemy is trying to rob me of my joy, I say this verse in my head and it helps me to stay focused. Remembering this verse gives me strength to press on toward the goal, my calling from God in Christ Jesus.

God has really been working in me this last month and he has shown me that it is time to get spiritually strong and grow up. God wants me to do the things I ought to be doing - not just what I want to do! We need to grow ourselves everyday - spiritually and personally - and make Jesus number one in our lives so we can do his work. I was born to do what he has called me to do. What is God calling you to do?

Meditation: Continue to think about this idea of a calling in God. What are the things you are focused on? Are you progressing with a goal in mind or just coasting right now? Talk honestly with God about what you uncover.

Dear Jesus, thank you for blessing me so I can be a blessing to others. Please help me to have a good attitude and walk in faith with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Key Verses: Luke 19:37,38 “When he (Jesus) came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen: ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!’”

Reflection: One of my favorite greeting cards has a picture of a little girl in a ballerina outfit twirling around and around and the caption says, “Sometimes you’ve just got to twirl!” Have you ever felt that way…like there is just so much joyful energy bubbling up inside that there is simply no other way to get it out then to throw your arms out wide, tilt your head to the sky and spin around a few times?

I think that might have been how the crowd described in this passage of Luke must have been feeling. Life for them had been filled with hard times and challenges. But they knew about Jesus and the miracles he had done and now here he was, riding into their hometown to save the day… help had finally arrived. They simply couldn’t contain their joy.

I understand that feeling. I’ve had hard times and challenges in my life, too. But the best day of my life was the day Jesus came into it. Knowing Him as my friend and Savior has given me a firm foundation of hope, joy, peace and love. My feet are securely planted, each and every day…no matter what the day holds. And that’s something to twirl about!

Meditation: Take time to freely praise God today… say a “thank-you” prayer, write a poem, or sing a song. He will delight in whatever way you choose to honor Him.

Thank you, Jesus, for giving me something to twirl about! There just aren’t enough words to let you know how grateful I am for the help you give me each and every day, and for the eternal difference you have made in my life.

Key Verses: Psalm 30:2-3 “GOD, my God, I yelled for help and you put me together. GOD, you pulled me out of the grave, gave me another chance at life when I was down-and-out.”

Reflection: Have you ever felt desperate? I have. Miserable moments of feeling utterly hopeless! A family crisis, finances, poor health, stranded with car trouble, teenagers, loss of a loved one...etc. In these moments, (and more will come) three simple words can change everything… “HELP ME, JESUS!” These words spoken aloud have tremendous power. You are calling in some serious help!

The next time you feel your life hitting the wall, exercise your faith and try this. Stop right where you are and CRY OUT LOUD, “HELP ME, LORD!” You’ll see the darkness begin to lift just enough to get a new perspective, while He continues to work on your behalf. He knows what is happening in your life. He is waiting for your call. Help is on the way!

Meditation: Think back on a tough time in your life. Think through how you could have handled that situation differently if you had cried out to Jesus for help. Write a list of situations that might be coming up. Write out your heart’s cry for Jesus’ help. Now thank Him ahead of time for helping.

God, help me to think of you sooner in times of trouble. Help me to humble myself before You. Mighty God, teach me how to ask for help. Thank you for hearing my call and working on my behalf. You are an awesome God!

Key Verse: Ephesians 4:7 “But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.”

Reflection: When I read this verse, I think of Todd Agnew’s song, “Grace Like Rain.” It is his version of “Amazing Grace." Take a look at these lyrics:

God’s grace is amazing! We certainly don’t deserve it, but He keeps giving it to us over and over! I am so thankful for His grace. He has given us a perfect example of the grace we are to show others. The only thing to say is Hallelujah!

Meditation: Go read the lyrics to this song again. Better yet, click here to listen to Todd Agnew’s version. It can be found on his “Grace Like Rain” album.

Dear Lord, thank you so much for the grace you have shown me. I know I fall short in this area, so please help me show grace to others. Help me be humble, gentle, and patient with others. Help me be more like you so I can be a good example to others. Amen.

Key Verse: John 10:10 “The thief's purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.”

Reflection: As spring, my favorite time of the year approaches, I see tulips thrusting their green leaves through the brown earth in preparation of putting forth a beautiful flower. The evidence that new life is once again being produced is a wonderful reminder that the deadness of winter is over.

New life is what Jesus has given me and as John 10:10 states, “…My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.” Before I heard Jesus’ voice and began following Him, my life was full of worry, doubts, and fears. He truly has made my life rich and satisfying by replacing those worries, doubts, and fears with peace, joy and love. The blessings of the ability to enjoy the beauty of creation, family, friends, good health, and a church home are all a result of what Jesus has given me. Thank you, Jesus, for the rich and satisfying life you promised.

Meditation: What negative thoughts are you dwelling on that Jesus can replace so you can experience a rich and satisfying life? List those thoughts that are keeping you from enjoying the blessings Jesus has for you. If fear is troubling you, seek peace. List the blessings you already have as a reminder of what Jesus has to offer.

Jesus, I am thankful that I can recognize your voice. Show me the areas of my life that are keeping me from the rich and satisfying life you have for me. Amen.

Key Verse: “Then he asked them, 'Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?’"

Reflection: During the summer when I was about 5 or 6 years old, my sister and I wanted nothing more than to play in the water while my grandma was babysitting us. So, very kindly, my grandma set up the pool, filled it with water from the hose, and placed the slide over the edge so we could have the fun we had been waiting for.

After about 5 minutes of playing in the water, my sister, who was about 2 years old, decided to take a breather and plopped down right in the middle of the pool. So of course, that meant Big-Sister-Emily couldn’t slip down the slide in fear of accidentally knocking Anna over. So with Anna taking a breather in the water and with my grandma sunbathing, I also decided to take a break.

As I sat in the water, I noticed there were bugs everywhere. Bugs in the water, bugs on the slide, bugs on Anna, and bugs on my legs… bugs were everywhere… and I did NOT like bugs. So being the very sweet child I was, I started screaming and flailing and crying for someone to save me. And what happened?

My grandma picked up Anna, set her on the grass outside of the pool, probably so she wouldn’t be splashed, and calmly asked me what the problem was. I, still screaming of course, managed to spit out the words about the bugs being everywhere. My grandma simply scooped the bugs out of the water with her hands, (I recall being terrified for her life, because as you know, bugs kill) flicked the remaining bugs off of my legs, and ran some water over the slide. Then my grandma said, “Do you really think I would let the bugs get you?”

Although the story of the disciples in the boat, and me in the pool, don’t have too many parallels on the outside, if you really dig in, they are quite similar. Here are the things I found to be related:

Bugs or storm, I know I am always going to be saved. Just like Moses and the Israelites were saved from Pharaoh (Exodus 6:1-8); like Noah was saved from the flood (Genesis 7:1-4); like Jonah was saved from the big fish (Jonah 2); Shad, Mesh, and Abe were saved from the fire (Daniel 3:19-29); Daniel was saved from the lions (Daniel 6:16-22); the disciples from the storm (Mark 4:35-41); and me from the bugs… God will always have a plan for saving you. (Jeremiah 29:11)

Meditation: Think about a time when you were a child and needed to be “rescued” and see if you can find any similarities between your story and one that God has already performed. Do you think that if God can handle lions and storms and floods, he can handle whatever situation you are in now? I think he can. Read: Psalm 55:16,17.

Thank you, Lord, for all the times you have saved me. Thank you for the times you will save me again! I pray that I might keep your promises in my heart and that I might come to understand you better day by day. Thank you for helping me all the time, with things that are small and large.

Key Verse: Matthew 26:34 “'I tell you the truth,' Jesus answered, 'this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.'”

Reflection: Jesus has asked us all to suspend our wants and desires to follow him. Easier said then done. Crazy, I know! Even Peter for all his conviction and frankly being in the physical presence of the Lord, failed miserably when put to the test.

It’s easy to say we believe and love the Lord when we are together as believers. What about when we are with our coworkers or friends who don’t believe or have a relationship with Jesus? What happens when we are called upon to stand for what we believe? Are we like Peter?

Meditation: Prepare yourself! This is one of my biggest areas of weakness. We need to commune with the Lord. We need to read his Word and be in prayer. What an awesome way to strengthen ourselves and be ready when we are put to the test. I challenge you as I will challenge myself to commune with God.

Father, guide us in these days! We pray that we can be a light to our brothers and sisters who are seeking after you. We pray that many souls are won for you this Easter season. Amen.

Key Verses: 1 Peter 1:3,4 "All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance — an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay."

Reflection: I first heard about Jesus when I was very young, but He became "Real" to me when I was 14 years old. I remember that time so clearly (where I was and what I said). I felt His presence surrounding me at that moment and my life was changed forever.

My walk with Jesus has not always been easy. There have been some "bumps" along the way. But, Jesus has never left my side. I feel Him in all the amazing answers to prayer and the times that His beautiful peace has filled my heart. God gave us his Son so that we never again have to wonder about our future.

When we accept what Jesus did on the cross, we live with the wonderful expectation of eternal life. We have a priceless inheritance that no one can take away. Even when trials come and our faith is tested, we can stand on the promise of Jesus that He will never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13)

Meditation: Think about the time when you first trusted Jesus with your life. How has your life changed since you placed your hand in His and began your walk with Him? Ask Him to strengthen your faith through the trials ahead and know that He'll always be there for you.

Dear God, there are no words to express my thanks for the gift of your Son, Jesus. Because of His death and resurrection, I will live forever in His presence. Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus as I walk through the trials of this life. I know He will never leave me. Amen.

Key Verses: John 13:3-5 “Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel he had around him.”

Reflection: Wow! All powerful and all humble. Jesus’ example of a leader is one who serves. Notice from the key verse that Jesus washed their feet because he had all authority and came from God.

This Scripture came to my mind recently when I had done something very wrong. I was burdened with guilt, and couldn’t believe that God really loved me. As I thought through this chapter and pondered Peter's denial of Jesus, I was completely filled with wonder of a God that knelt down and washed the dirty ugly feet of a man who would later claim to not know him. Jesus even told him that his feet were the only thing in need of a bath.

It was as if Jesus himself spoke to me, telling me that I was ok. He was telling me that I just needed to give him my feet so he could wash them. God's grace is so undeserved, and all he asks is that we wash other's feet as he has washed ours. To forgive as he forgives. To serve with humility as he serves.

Meditation: If you feel dirty and unlovely, allow the God of the universe to fall to his knees and tenderly, lovingly wash your feet. If you are having trouble forgiving someone, God wants to remind you how much he had to forgive you. Now that God has served you, go and find people to humbly serve. “That is the path of blessing”.

Dear Heavenly Father, Please don’t let me forget this lesson. Help me to remember how personally you love me in spite of my failures. Place a servant's heart in me that I will pour your love and grace on the feet of others. Thank you! In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Key Verse: Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”

Reflection: Ever notice how some sayings in our culture get used so often that they take on the power of Scripture? Recently we were talking with a friend who brought up the saying, “Everything happens for a reason.” Sounds like the Bible, doesn’t it? Does the Bible actually say that? The Bible tells us that God is all knowing and powerful. It would seem that an all-powerful God would control everything and make sure that “everything happens for a reason.” The reality is God gave us the freedom of choice. The truth is God does not control everything, because he chooses not to. Instead, he controls the outcomes of our choices, and the choices of others to ultimately “work all things together for good to those who love God.”

The Easter story is the ultimate example of God taking a terrible, painful event that the Devil meant for evil, and “working it for good.” In this situation, God’s good is the salvation of the entire human race through the death and resurrection of His son, Jesus.

Meditation: What painful, negative event in your life is causing you pain or regret, or hurting the people you love? Try to recognize the hand of God in your life and see if he isn’t “working all things for good.”

God, help me to be so filled with your Spirit that I see things as you see them. Thank you for your promise to “work everything together for good.” Lord, I do love you and I know that I am called according to your purpose. Help me to trust you to work out the things in my life that I don’t understand. Praise You, Lord! Amen!

Key Verse: Luke 23:34 "But Jesus was saying, 'Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.'"

Reflection: If asked if I understood what forgiveness was, I would probably say, not really. Webster says to forgive is to “pardon or absolve.” Absolve means to set free from an obligation or the consequences of guilt. What I do not understand is how to forgive not just the small things but all things.

When Jesus was on the cross, the first thing He talked about was forgiveness. The entire day of the crucifixion was centered on forgiveness. It was an act of forgiveness toward us, for every one of us. It was appropriate that the first statement from His lips expressed the thought that was uppermost in His mind: forgiveness.

How beautiful to think that even in agony, in heartbreak and sorrow, Jesus wanted to grant forgiveness. This was His total purpose, His total dedication for that day. He wanted us to be forgiven. So why do I find it so hard to forgive some things and not others? Why am I unable to forgive and forget? The best answer is that I am still a work in progress. By reading God’s word and seeking Him, I am able to understand better each day about forgiveness. God will continue to love and teach me until I am willing to forgive all things and let them go.

Meditation: Forgiveness is not easy but it is so rewarding. When forgiveness is given, it is as if a huge weight has been lifted off us. A healing can begin in our life. Today write down some of things that you struggle to forgive. Ask God to give you the strength to forgive. We cannot change what we do not confront.

Father, forgive us for being so unforgiving of others! How can we accept Your ultimate act of forgiveness and yet hold hatred and revenge in our hearts? Cleanse us and fill us with Your love so we can then love our fellow man, as we should.

Key Verses: Luke 15:3-4 “Then Jesus told them this parable: ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?’”

Reflection: I love this passage because we are again reminded of how personal God is to each of us. He is willing to set aside the ninety-nine who are following him to go out and search for the one that is lost. 2 Peter 3:9 says that God is patient, “not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” This passage also illustrates so beautifully, how God seeks us out. He knows we are lost and comes searching for us to bring us back to where we need to be, right beside Him.

In the same way, I want to be that person who is willing to set aside the comfort of the flock, my friends, my family, and the safety of the bunch to go out and find the lost.

At the end of this passage, you do not read about the Lord scolding the sheep that was lost or mocking him in front of the other ninety-nine. Instead, he calls his friends and neighbors to celebrate the fact that he has found his lost sheep.

Meditation: First, try to remember the story of how God sought you and found you when you were lost. Write down the story to remind you of God’s personal sacrifice to find you and save you. Then think of those around you who are lost. How can you help them to find God?

God, thank you that even though you are a great big God, you stop everything to find us when we are lost. Thank you that you do not condemn us, but celebrate over us. Please help me to be a person that seeks out the lost and give me opportunities to help those that are lost. Amen.

Key Verse: Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Reflection: Easter brings us to the culmination of why Jesus Christ came to earth. His death on the cross and subsequent resurrection on the third day made it possible for me to become a child of God. All I have to do is believe in Him as my Savior and Lord. It seems so simple, but we often make it so difficult. Obedience to the Word is the key. Recently in a small group I attended, someone pointed out the importance of Christians keeping in the Word.

Meditation: Take some time today to start searching out nuggets of truth about Jesus. See how His death and resurrection was predicted in the Old Testament; how He lived and taught on earth; and finally what He is doing today. All because God loves us so much!

Lord, thank you for coming to earth and dying for us. I pray that this Easter is a time when many will make that all-important decision. Help me do my part. Amen.

Key Verse: Mark 4:39 "He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Quiet! Be still!’ Then the wind died down and it was completely calm."

Reflection: How am I supposed to reflect when all I want to do is nap? It's hard to see past my immediate needs when my own efforts to sleep are not enough. My pregnancy insomnia hits around 3 am and my mind is filled with "to-dos" and "what-ifs" until 4 or 5 rolls around and I just want to scream, "I can't sleep! There's too much to do!" Meanwhile, my husband sleeps blissfully beside me. This cycle could easily continue (long after the baby is born) and I turned to God's word because in my heart, I knew God would provide an answer.

Jesus was resting while the disciples were in "control" of the situation. When they put their burdens on Him, He took control and the disciples rested. There is peace in God for all of us. As I give my cares to the Lord through prayer, He is there. I am able to rest as he listens and quiets my mind.

Meditation: Write a list of things you need rest from. Think about giving all your cares to the Lord. How would this make your life become more peaceful?

Lord, I need peace in my life; my burdens are yours. You hear my heart's cry for rest. Please remind me that's it is okay to hand over my problems as they come along. It will be your strength that gets me through. Amen.

Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 5:21 “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

Reflection: Have you ever received a gift that was just too generous, or too big? What was your first thought? “Oh, I can’t accept this…I don’t deserve this…are you sure?” It is hard for us to receive such a gift, such a sacrifice from someone else. Well, this happened to me this last week. I am so grateful that simply saying thank you isn’t enough.

It made me stop and think. Jesus gave me a gift, a huge, amazing gift that can never be taken away. He gave up His life so that I could have everlasting life with Him. What a sacrifice! Not only did He give me this, but He also took something away - my sins, all of them! He has made me a “new creation!” Wow!

Since thank you isn’t enough, I am going to do my part in getting the word out. I am going to make sure that everyone knows that there is a gift waiting for them. All they have to do is open the gift and accept it. They might not deserve it. None of us do. That’s why He gave us the gift of grace. What an awesome God we have!

Meditation: Ask yourself, have I opened that gift yet? How can I share it with others? Write down three ways your life has been changed since you opened that gift of grace! Thank God for giving you Jesus, and thank Him for all the amazing ways He has changed your life!

Thank you Jesus for giving me a new life in you! Please, Lord, help me to reach people for You. Help me to share this gift that You have given me with others! I love you! Amen!

Key Verses: 1 Peter 1:3-5 “What a God we have! And how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus! Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we've been given a brand-new life and have everything to live for, including a future in heaven—and the future starts now! God is keeping careful watch over us and the future. The Day is coming when you'll have it all—life healed and whole.”

Reflection: I was on a dead end road, seeking every kind of worldly pleasure that could fill the void in my life. Sex, drugs, and rock and roll were all I knew. I was overwhelmed by a sense of how meaningless life seemed to be and was experiencing a deep sense of despair due to a drug and alcohol addiction that seemed impossible to kick.

Through AA, I was encouraged to find a higher power. During this search, a man invited me to church and after church, the pastor asked if we could meet. I said sure. During our meetings, the pastor would share with me about a God who created me, knew me, loved me, and wanted to offer me a real life - an eternal life with Him! The pastor shared about how God was offering a life that He had paid for with His blood. All that I needed to do was agree with God that I had blown it (that was easy), ask for and receive the forgiveness He was offering, open the door to my heart and invite him to make his home with me there.

How fortunate we are to have a God who knows us and yet still loves us so much that He would make the sacrifice necessary to have a relationship with us for eternity. It is a gift from Him. He takes us exactly as we are.

Many people think they need to get it together and then come to God. Impossible. It never would have happened with me if that were the case. We come to Him just as we are and invite Him into our hearts, allowing Him to clean us up. It is only by His power we can be healed! Thank God for that!

Meditation: Take a few moments to think of your heart as a home. A home that has many different rooms, each room with its own stuff in it. Some rooms are cleaner than others. Some are acceptable for guests to walk into. Some are not.

Think of that one room in your home that you keep locked and don't want anyone else to see. Think about all of the garbage and clutter and cobwebs and stink that are in there. Then go get Jesus. Walk him down the hall to that room. Take the key out of your pocket. Hand it to Jesus. Let Him have free reign to clean you up and make your heart a comfortable place for him to live.

God, make your home with me as you promised in your Word. Come into every room of my heart, clean it and purify it. Help me to be the person you created me to be. Amen!

Help for Today - March 2, 2008

Reading: Matthew 6:19-34

Key Verse: Matthew 6:34 “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.”

Reflection: Do I look put together from where you’re standing? Well, come closer. Get to know me better and you’ll see…I need help. A lot of help. And not just once in awhile. Oh no. I need every day, all-the-time-kind-of-help. I mean well. I try hard. But life is just so…difficult, and well…messy. Then I picture Jesus, sitting up on that grassy hillside, kids crawling all over him. There are families spread out on blankets in every direction, the young and the old leaning in, focused on what he’s going to say next. He shifts his weight and smiles. “Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now,” he says.

Meditation: The first thing I notice in this verse is that I have a choice. “Give your entire attention…” It is up to me. God won’t force me to pay attention to him. I must choose to focus on him. The next thing I see is the time factor. I am to give my attention to “what God is doing right now.” Our God is essentially creative in nature. He is always up to something good! He’s always working on something new and exciting right now. What is he up to in your life today? Third, God is teaching me in this verse to chill out. Don’t worry so much “about what may or may not happen tomorrow,” he says. How much time and energy do we spend on things that never materialize? And last, God promises me his help. “God will help you deal with whatever…when the time comes.” Sure, God is supremely powerful, knows everything, and has unlimited resources at his fingertips. But the best part is…he wants to help me. He’s standing by…just waiting to help. Now that’s love.

God, I need your help. I need your help if I’m going to give you my full attention. Please teach me to trust you. Teach me to rely on your help as I deal with the life-stuff that comes up everyday. I love you, Father. Thank you for loving me. Amen.