Part 6 This is the last of our 6 part series for the One month to live challenge. How would you live your life if you had one month to live? Would you live it to the fullest for Christ? Could you honestly say that you lived a “no regrets” life? If you were to die tomorrow how would you want people to remember you? If you were able to write something in the place of the dash between your birthdate and the date of your passing, what would you want it to say?

In these studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life. 

For a fuller experience of the One month to live challenge please  visit: http://www.onemonthtolive.com”

Act 20:24

However, 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.

We often feel that life is a failure unless we are getting a lot out of it; recognition, fun, money, success. But Paul considered life worth nothing unless he used it for God’s work. What he put into life was far more important than what he got out. What is more important to you? What you put into life or what you get out of it?

Single-mindedness is a quality needed by anyone needed for anyone who wishes to do God’s work. Paul was a single minded person and the single most important goal of his life was to tell others about Christ. (Philippians 3:7-13). It is no wonder that Paul was the greatest missionary who ever lived. God is looking for more men and women who focus on that one great task God has given them to do.

 Acts 21:13

Then Paul answered, “Why are you weeping and breaking my heart?  I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.”

Paul knew he would be imprisoned in Jerusalem. Although his friends pleaded with him not to go there, he knew he had to because wanted him to. No one enjoys pain but a faithful disciple wants above all else to please God. Our desire to please God should overshadow our desire to avoid hardship and suffering. When we really want to do God’s will, we must accept all that comes with it – even the pain. Then we can say with Paul, “the Lords will be done”.

 Matthew 4:2-4

After fasting forty days and forty nights, He was hungry.  The tempter came to Him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.”  Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Jesus was hungry after fasting for 40 days, but He chose not to use His divine power to satisfy His natural desire for food. Food, hunger and eating are good but the timing was wrong. Jesus was in the desert to fast, not to eat. And because Jesus had given up the unlimited, independent use of His divine power in order to experience humanity fully, He wouldn’t use His power to change the stones to bread. We also may be tempted to satisfy a perfectly normal desire in a wrong way or at the wrong time. If we indulge in sex before marriage or if we steal to get food, we are trying to satisfy God given desires in wrong ways. Many of our desires are normal and good but God wants us to satisfy them in the right way and at the right time.

Jesus was able to resist all of the devils temptations because He not only knew Scripture, but He also obeyed it. Ephesians 6:17; says that God’s word is a sword to use in spiritual combat. Knowing Bible verses is an important step in helping us resist the devils attacks, but we must also obey the Bible. Note that Satan had memorized Scripture but failed to obey it. Knowing and obeying the Bible helps us to follow Gods desires rather than the devils.

 Psalm 73:26

My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

Asaph declares his confidence in God’s presence and guidance. From birth to death God has us continually in His grip. But far more, we have the hope of the resurrection. Though our courage and strength may fail we know that one day we will be raised to life to serve Him forever. He is our security and we must cling to Him.

 Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

We are free to choose to between two masters but we are not free to adjust the consequences of our choice. Each of the two masters pays with his own kind of currency. The currency of sin is eternal death. That is all we can expect or hope for in life without God. Christ’s currency is eternal life – new life with God that begins on earth and continues forever with God.

Eternal life is a free gift from God. If it is a gift then it is not something that we earn, nor something that must be paid back. Consider the foolishness of someone who receives a gift given out of love and then offers to pay for it. A gift cannot be purchased by the recipient. A more appropriate response to a loved one who offers a gift is a graceful acceptance with gratitude. Our salvation is a gift of God not something of our own doing. (Ephesians 2:8-9). He saved us because of His mercy not because of any righteous things we have done. (Titus 3:5). How much more should we accept with thanksgiving the gift that God has freely given to us?

 Romans 8:1-2

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

“Not guilty, let him go free”, what would those words mean to you if you were on death row? The fact is that the whole human race is on death row, justly condemned for repeatedly breaking God’s holy law. Without Jesus we would have no hope at all. But thank God! He has declared us not guilty and has offered us freedom from sin and power to do His will.

The Spirit of life is the Holy Spirit. He was present at the creation of the world (Genesis 1:2), and He is the power behind the rebirth of every Christian. He gives us the power we need to live the Christian life. For more about the Holy Spirit read, John 3:6, Acts 1:3-4, and 5:15.

In these studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life. 

 For a fuller experience of the One month to live challenge please  visit: http://www.onemonthtolive.com”

Psalm 112:1-6

“Praise the Lord. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord, who finds great delight in His commands.  His children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.  Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.  Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.  Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely.”

Many blessings are available to us-honor, prosperity, security, freedom from fear, -if we fear the Lord and delight in obeying His commands. If you expect God’s blessings you must revere Him and gladly obey Him.

Generosity will cure two problems that money can create. The rich man may abuse others in his desire to accumulate wealth. Generosity will eliminate that abuse. Also the fear of losing money can be a snare. Generosity and respect for God places our trust in Him, not our money, for justice and security.

1 John 2:17

“The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.”

When the desire for possessions and sinful pleasures feels so intense we probably doubt that these objects of desire will one day pass away. It may be even more difficult to believe that the person who does the will of God will live forever. But this was John’s conviction based on the facts of Jesus’ life, death, resurrection and promises. Knowing that this evil world will end can give you the courage to deny yourself temporary pleasures in this world in order to enjoy what God has promised for eternity.

Matthew6:19-20

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Storing up treasures in heaven is not limited to tithing but is accomplished by all acts of obedience to God. There is a sense in which giving our money to God’s work is like investing in heaven. But our intention should be to seek the fulfillment of God’s purposes in all we do, not merely what we do with our money.

2 Corinthians 4:18

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.  For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Our troubles should not diminish our faith or disillusion us. We should realize that there is a purpose in our suffering. Problems and human limitations have several benefits (1) they remind us of Christ’s suffering, (2) they keep us from pride, (3) they cause us to look beyond our brief life, (4) they prove our faith to others, (5) they give God the opportunity to demonstrate His power. See our troubles as opportunities. Our ultimate hope when we are experiencing terrible illness, persecution, or pain is the realization that this life is not all there is-there is life after death! Knowing that we will live forever with God in a place without sin and suffering can help us live above the pain that we face in this life.

1 Kings 2:1-3

“When the time drew near for David to die, he gave a charge to Solomon his son.  “I am about to go the way of all the earth,” he said.  “So be strong, show yourself a man, and observe what the Lord your God requires:  Walk in His ways, and keep His decrees and commands, His laws and requirements, as written in the Law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go.”

David stressed to Solomon the need to make God and His laws the center of personal life and government in order to preserve the kingdom, as God had promised to do. The promise from God had 2 parts. One part was conditional and depended upon the kings’ actions. The other part was unconditional. God’s conditional promise was that David and his descendants would remain in office as kings only when they honored and obeyed Him. When David’s descendants failed to do this, they lost the throne. God’s unconditional promise was that David’s line would go on forever. This was fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David who was also the eternal son of God. David whose life exemplified obedience, gave well seasoned advice to his son, the next king. It would be up to Solomon to follow it.

Deuteronomy 11:18-21

“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 gates, so that your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give your forefathers, as many as the days that the heavens are above the earth.”

This sets a pattern that helps us relate the word of God to our daily lives. We are to love God, think constantly about His commandments, teach His commandments to our children, and live each day by the guidelines in His word. God emphasized the importance of parents teaching the Bible to their children. The church and Christian schools cannot be used to escape from this responsibility. The Bible provides so many opportunities for object lessons and practical teaching that it would be a shame to study it only one day a week. Eternal truths are most effectively learned in the loving environment of a God fearing home.

Part 4 This is the One month to live challenge. How would you live your life if you had one month to live? Would you live it to the fullest for Christ? Could you honestly say that you lived a “no regrets” life? If you were to die tomorrow how would you want people to remember you? If you were able to write something in the place of the dash between your birthdate and the date of your passing, what would you want it to say?

In these studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life.

  James 1:2-4

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.  Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

James doesn’t say, if you face trials, but whenever you face them. He assumes that we will have trials and it is possible to profit from them. The point is not to pretend to be happy when we face pain, but to have a positive outlook (consider it pure joy) because of what trials can produce in our lives. James tells us to turn our hardships into times of learning. Tough times can teach us perseverance. For other passages dealing with perseverance (also called perseverance and steadfastness) see Romans 2:7, 5:3-5: 8:24-25, 25:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:3-7, 2 Peter 1:2-9.

We can’t really know the depth of our character until we see how we act under pressure. It is easy to be kind to others when things are going well, but can we still be kind when others are treating us unfairly? God wants to make us mature and complete, not to keep us from all pain. Instead of complaining about our struggles we should see them as opportunities for growth. Thank God for promising to be with us through tough times. Ask Him to help you solve your problems or to give you the strength to endure them. Then be patient. God will not leave you alone with your problems; He will stay close and help you grow.

Romans 5:3-5

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.”

For first century Christians, suffering was the rule not the exception. Paul tells us that in the future we will become, but until then we must overcome. This means that we will experience difficulties that help us grow. We rejoice in suffering not because we like pain or deny its tragedy, but because we know God is using life’s difficulties and Satan’s attacks to build our character. The problems that we run into will develop our perseverance, which in turn will strengthen our character, deepen our trust in God and give us greater confidence about the future. Thank God for the opportunities to grow and deal with them in His strength.

 John 9:1-7

“As He went along, he saw a man blind from birth.  His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”  “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.  As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me.  Night is coming, when no one can work.  While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.”  Having said this, He spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.  “Go,” He told him, “Wash in the Pool of Siloam”.  So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.”

Verse 2-3 - A common belief in Jewish culture was that calamity or suffering was the result of some great sin. But Christ used this man’s suffering to teach about faith and glorify God. We live in a fallen world where good behavior is not always rewarded and bad behavior is not always punished. Therefore innocent people sometimes suffer. If God took suffering away whenever we asked then we would follow Him for comfort and convenience, not out of love and devotion. Regardless of the reasons for our suffering Jesus has the power to help us deal with it. When you suffer from a disease, disability, or tragedy, try not to ask, “Why did this happen to me?” or “what did I do wrong?” instead ask God to give you strength for the trial and a clearer perspective on what is happening.

Verse 6 – when Jesus spit on the ground and made mud in order to heal the man’s eyes, He was working with original materials. Genesis 2:7 states that God formed Adams body from the dust of the ground. Jesus was demonstrating a Creators awareness of the materials He first used to shape the human body.

Verse 7 – The pool of Siloam was built by Hezekiah. His workers constructed an underground tunnel from a spring outside the city walls to carry water into the city. Thus the people could always get water without fear of being attacked. This was especially important during times of siege. (See Kings 20:20 and 2 Chronicles 32:30)

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Many think that when God comforts us, our troubles should go away. But if that were always so, people would turn to God only out of a desire to be relieved from pain and not out of love for Him. Understand that being comforted can also mean receiving strength, encouragement, and hope to deal with our troubles. The more we suffer the more comfort God gives us. If you are feeling overwhelmed, allow God to comfort you. Remember that every trial you endure will help you comfort other people who are suffering similar troubles.

 Hebrews 4:15-16

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have One who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin.”

Verse 15 - Jesus is like us because He experienced a full range of temptations throughout His life as a human being. We can be comforted knowing that Jesus faced temptation – He can sympathize with us. We can be encouraged knowing that Jesus faced temptation without giving into sin. He shows us that we do not have to sin when facing the seductive lure of temptation. Jesus is the only perfect human being that has ever lived.

Verse 16 – Prayer is our approach to God and we are to come to Him with confidence. Some Christians approach God meekly with heads hung low, afraid to ask Him to meet their needs. Others pray flippantly, giving little thought to what they say. Come with reverence because He is your King. But also come with bold assurance because He is your Friend and Counselor.

Optional study

Philippians 2:8-10 - “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself and became obedient to death– even death on a cross! 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.” 

Death on a cross was the form of capital punishment that Romans used for notorious criminals. It was excruciatingly painful and humiliating. Jesus died as one who was cursed. How amazing that the perfect man should die this most shameful death so that we would not have to face eternal punishment.

At the last judgment even those who are condemned will recognize Jesus’ authority and right to rule. People can choose to regard Jesus as Lord now as a step of willing and loving commitment or be forced to acknowledge Him as Lord when He returns.

1.  LEARN FROM MY LOSSES

Luke. 22:61-62 - “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the rooster crows today, you will disown Me three times.’ And he went outside and wept bitterly.” 

Sin, like cancer has a way of growing if unchecked. Note the progression of how Peter disowned Jesus: in 22:57, he denied knowing Jesus, in 22:58, he denied being one of His followers and in 22:60, he denied even knowing what they were talking about. Sin has a way of spreading. As it does the cover up gets bigger as well. The time to get a grip on sin and it’s cancerous effects is in the very beginning, before it has to time to multiply poisons in your life. Better yet, kill it before it even begins. Confess your sins or your desire to sin to the Lord, and ask His help to avoid Peter’s mistakes. Peter wept bitterly, not only because he realized that he denied his Lord, the Messiah, but also because he had turned away from a very dear friend, a person Who loved him and taught him for three years. Peter said he would never disown Christ, despite Jesus’ prediction. But when frightened he went all against all he had boldly promised. Unable to stand up for his Lord for even 12 hours, he had failed as a friend and a disciple. We need to be aware of our breaking points and not become overconfident or self sufficient. If we fail Him we must remember that Christ can use those who recognize their failure.         

a. Take Responsibility for My Failure - Prov. 28:13 - “A man who refuses to admit his mistakes can never be successful. But if he confesses and forsakes them, he gets another chance.”      

It is human nature to hide our sins or overlook our mistakes. But it is hard to learn from a mistake that you don’t acknowledge making. And what good is a mistake if it doesn’t teach you something? To learn from an error we must admit it, confess it, analyze it, and make adjustments so that it doesn’t happen again. We all make mistakes but only a fool will repeat them. Something in each of us strongly resists admitting we are wrong. That is why we admire people who openly and graciously admit their mistakes and sins. These people have a strong self image. They do not always have to be right to feel good about themselves. Be willing to reconsider – to admit you’re wrong and to change your plans when necessary and remember the first step towards forgiveness is confession.                     

b. Let Go of My Guilt - Mark 16:7 - “But go, tell His disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him, just as He told you.’ “       

The angel made special mention of Peter to show that in spite of Peter’s denials, Jesus had not disowned and deserted him. Jesus had great responsibilities for Peter to fulfill in the church that was not yet born. The angel told the disciples to meet Jesus in Galilee, “as He told you”. This is where Jesus had called most of them and had said they would become fishers of men (Matthew 4:19) and it would be where this mission would be restated (John 21). But the disciples filled with fear remained behind locked doors in Jerusalem (John 20:19). Jesus met them first in Jerusalem,  (Luke 24:36)   and later in Galilee (John 21). Then He returned to Jerusalem where He ascended into heaven from the Mount of Olives.                             

 2.  SURRENDER TO GOD’S STRENGTH

2 Corinthians 12:9 “Each time He said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.” 

Although God did not remove Paul’s physical affliction, He promise to demonstrate His power in Paul. The fact that God’s power is displayed in weak people should give us courage. Though we recognize our limitations we will not congratulate ourselves and rest at that. Instead we will turn to God to seek pathways for effectiveness. We must rely on God for our effectiveness rather than simply on our own energy, effort or talent. Our weakness not only develops Christian character; it also deepens our worship, because in admitting our weakness we affirm God’s strength.                                      

 3.  PURSUE GOD’S PATH

Psalm 119:32 - “I run in the path of Your commands, for You have set my heart free.”      

Matthew 11:29-30 - Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

A person may be carrying heavy burdens of (1) sin, (2) excessive demands of religious leaders (23:4 and Acts 15:10), (3) oppression and persecution (4) weariness in the search for God. Jesus frees people from all these burdens. The rest that Jesus promises is love, healing, and peace with God, not the end of all labor. A relationship with God changes all meaningless, wearisome toil into spiritual productivity and purpose. In what sense was Jesus’ yoke easy? The yoke emphasizes the challenges, work and difficulties of partnering with Christ in life. Responsibilities weigh us down, even the effort of staying true to God. But Jesus’ yoke remains easy compared to the crushing alternative. Jesus doesn’t offer a life of luxurious ease – the yoke is still an oxen’s tool for working hard. But it’s a shared yoke with the weight falling on Bigger Shoulders than ours.

In these studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life.

 1 John 3:16

“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.”

Real love is an action, not a feeling. It produces selfless, sacrificial giving. The greatest act of love is giving oneself for others. How can we lay down our lives? By serving others with no thought of receiving anything in return. Sometimes it is easier to say we would die for others than to truly live for them – this involves putting others desires first. Jesus taught this same principle in John 15:13. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

 1 John 4:7-11

“Dear Friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God.  Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.  Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.  This is how God showed His love among us:  He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.  This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” ¹¹ Dear friends, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.

Verse 7 - Everyone believes that love is important, but love is usually thought of as a feeling. In reality love is a choice and an action, as 1Corinthian 13:4-7 shows, God is the source of our love. He loved us enough to sacrifice His Son for us. Jesus is our example of what it means to love; everything He did in life and death was supremely loving. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to love; He lives in our hearts and makes us more and more like Christ. God’s love always requires a choice and an action and our love should be like His. How well do you display your love for God in the choices you make and the actions you take?

Verse 8 – John says the God is love, not love is God. Our world with its shallow and selfish view of love has turned these words around and contaminated our understanding of love. The world thinks that love is what makes you feel good and that it’s alright to sacrifice moral principles and other’s rights in order to obtain such love. But that isn’t real love; it is the exact opposite – selfishness. God is not that kind of love. Real love is like God, Who is holy, just, and perfect. If we truly know God we will love as He does.

Verse 9 - Jesus is Gods only Son. While all believers are sons and daughters of God, only Jesus lives in this unique relationship.

Verse 9-10 – Love explains (1) why God creates-because He loves, He creates people to love. (2) Why God cares-because He loves them, He cares for sinful people. (3) Why we are free to choose-God wants a loving response from us. (4) Why Christ died-His love for us caused Him to seek a solution to the problem of sin and (5) why we receive eternal life-Gods love expresses itself to us forever.

Verse 10 – Nothing sinful or evil can exist in God’s presence. He is absolute goodness. He can not overlook, condone, or excuse sin as though it never happened. He loves us but His love for us does not make Him morally lax. If we trust in Christ, however, we will not have to bear the penalty for our sins (1Peter 2:24). We will be acquitted (Romans 5:17) by His atoning sacrifice.

John 13:34-35

“A new command I give you:  Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.”

Verse 34 – To love others was not a new commandment (see Leviticus 19:18 ‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD.) But to love others as much as Christ loved others was revolutionary. Now we are to love others based on Jesus’ sacrificial love for us. Such love will not only bring unbelievers to Christ, it will also keep believers strong and united in a world hostile to God. Jesus was a living example of God’s love, as we are to be a living example of Jesus’ love.

Verses 34-35 – Jesus says that our Christ like love will show that we are His disciples. Do people see petty bickering, jealousy and division in your church? Or do they know you are Jesus’ disciples by your love for one another? Love is more than simply warm feelings; it is an attitude that reveals itself in action. How can we love others as Jesus loves us? By helping when it’s not convenient, by giving when it hurts, by devoting energy to others welfare rather than our own, by absorbing hurts from others without complaining or fighting back. This kind of loving is hard to do. This is why people notice it when you do and know you are empowered by a supernatural source. The Bible has another beautiful description of love in 1 Corinthians 13.

Ephesians 4:32

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

This is Christ’s law of forgiveness as taught in the Gospels (Matthew 6:14-15 – 18:35, Mark 11:25).  We also see it in the Lord’s Prayer-“Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Luke 11:14).

God does not forgive us because we forgive others, but solely because of His great mercy. As we come to understand His mercy, however, we will want to be like Him. Having received forgiveness we will want to pass it on to others. Those who are unwilling to forgive have not become one with Christ, Who was willing to forgive even those who crucified Him (Luke 23:24).

 Colossians 3:13

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.  Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

The key to forgiving others is remembering how much God has forgiven you. Is it difficult for you to forgive someone who has wronged you a little when God has forgiven you so much? Realizing Gods infinite love and forgiveness can help you love and forgive others. Let God worry about the wrongs you have suffered. Don’t quench your life by bitter feuding, live renewed in love and joy.

** Verses 12-17 – Paul offers a strategy that helps us live for God day by day; (1) (3: 12-13) imitate Christ’s compassionate and forgiving attitude. (2) (3:14) let love guide your life. (3) (3:15) let the peace of Christ rule in your heart. (4) (3:15) always be thankful. (5) (3:16) keep God’s word in you at all times.

(6) (3:17) live as Jesus Christ’s representative.

 Matthew 18:21-35

“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?”  Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.  Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.  As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him.  Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt.  The servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’  The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.  But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii.  He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded.  His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’  But he refused.  Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.  When the other servants saw what had happened, they were greatly distressed and went and told their master everything that had happened.  Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant, ‘he said, ‘I cancelled all that dept of yours because you begged me to.  Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’  In anger his master turned him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.  This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.”

Verse 22 - The Rabbis taught that people should forgive those who offend them-but only three times. Peter trying to be especially generous asked Jesus if seven (the perfect number) was enough times to forgive someone. But Jesus answered, “seventy times seven times” meaning that we should even keep track of how many times we forgive someone. We should always forgive those who are truly repentant, no matter how many times they ask.

Verse 30 – In Bible times serious consequences awaited those who could not pay their debts. A person lending money could seize the borrower who couldn’t pay and force him or his family to work until the debt was paid. The debtor could also be thrown into prison, or his family could be sold into slavery to help pay off the debt. It was hoped that the debtor, while in prison, would sell off landholdings or that relatives would pay the debt. If not, the debtor could remain in prison for life.

Verse 35 – Because God has forgiven all our sins, we should not withhold forgiveness from others. Realizing how completely Christ has forgiven us should produce a free and generous attitude of forgiveness toward others. When we don’t forgive others we are setting ourselves outside and above Christ’s law of love.

 James 4:1-2

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don’t get it.  You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want.  You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God.”

Conflicts and disputes amongst believers are always harmful. James explains that these quarrels result from evil desires battling within us-we want more possessions, more money, higher status, more recognition. When we want badly enough to fulfill those desires, we fight in order to do so. Instead of aggressively grabbing what we want, we should submit ourselves to God, ask God to help us get rid of our selfish desires, and trust Him to give us what we really need. James mentions the most common problems in prayer: not asking, asking for the wrong things, asking for the wrong reasons. Your prayers will become powerful when you allow God to change your desires so that they perfectly correspond to His will for you.

 Ephesians 4:26-27

“In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”

The Bible doesn’t tell us that we shouldn’t feel angry but it points out that we should handle our anger properly. If vented thoughtlessly, anger can hurt others and destroy relationships. If bottled up inside it can cause us to become bitter and destroy us from within. Paul tells us to deal with our anger immediately in a way that builds relationships rather than destroys them. If we nurse our anger we give Satan an opportunity to divide us. Are you angry with someone right now? What can you do to resolve your differences? Don’t let the day end before you begin to work on mending your relationship.

In these studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life.

Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them.  Be strong and very courageous.  Be careful to obey all the law My servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.  Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.  Then you will be prosperous and successful.  Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.         

Verses 6-8 - Many people think that prosperity and success come from having power, influential personal contacts and a relentless desire to get ahead. But the strategy for gaining prosperity that God taught Joshua must be (1) be strong and courageous because the task ahead will not be easy, (2) obey God’s law and (3) constantly read and study the Book of the Law – God’s word. To be successful follow Gods words to Joshua. You may not succeed by the worlds standards, but you will be a success in God’s eyes and His opinion is most important.

 Isaiah 41:9-10

I took you from the ends of the earth, form its farthest corners I called you.  I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.  So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous Right hand.

Verses 8-10 – God chose Israel through Abraham because He wanted to, not because the people deserved it (Deuteronomy 7:6-8 & 9:4-6). Although God chose the Israelites to represent Him to the world, they failed to do this; so God punished them and sent them into captivity. Now all believers are God’s chosen people, and all share the responsibility of representing Him to the world. One day God will bring all His faithful people together. We need not fear because (1) God is with us (“I am with you”) (2) God has established a relationship with us (“I am your God”) (3) God gives us the assurance of His strength, help and victory over sin and death. Have you realized the ways God has helped you?

Ephesians 5:15-17

Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.  Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Verses 15-16 – By saying “the days are evil,” Paul was communicating his sense of urgency because of evil pervasiveness. We need the same sense of urgency because our days are also difficult. We must keep our standards high, act wisely, and do good whenever we can.

  James 4:13-16

Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.”  Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life?  You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.  Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”  As it is, you boast and brag.  All such boasting is evil.  Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.

Verses 13-16 – It is good to have goals, but goals can disappoint us if we leave God out of them. There is no point in making plans as though God does not exist, because the future is in His Hands. The beginning of good planning is to ask, “What would I like to be doing ten years from now? One year from now? Tomorrow? How would I react if God steps in and rearranges my plans?” We can plan ahead but we must hold on to our plans loosely. If we put God’s desires at the center of our planning, He will never disappoint us.

 2 Peter 1:3-4

His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him Who called us by His own glory and goodness.  Through these He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

Verses 3-4 - The power to grow doesn’t come from within us, but from God. Because we don’t have the resources to be truly godly, God allows us to “participate in the divine nature” in order to keep us from sin and help us to live for Him. When we are born again, God by His Spirit empowers us with His own moral goodness. See John 3:6, John 14:17-23, 2Corinthians 5:21, and 1Peter 1:22-23.

 Philippians 2:13

For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.

Verse 13 – What do we do when we don’t feel like obeying? God has not left alone in our struggles to do His will. He wants to come along side us and within us to help. God gives us the desire and the power to do what pleases Him. The secret to a changed life is to submit to Gods control and let Him work. Ask God to help you want to do His will. To be like Christ we must train ourselves to think like Christ. To change our desires to more like Christ’s we need the power of the indwelling Spirit (Philippians 1:9), the influence of faithful Christians, obedience to God’s word (not just exposure to it) and sacrificial service. Often it is in doing God’s will that we gain the desire to do it (see 4:8-9). Do what He wants and trust Him to change your desires.

In the next six studies according to scripture we will find out how to live the dash, live passionately, love completely, learn humbly, leave boldly, and live a no regret life.

For a fuller experience of the One month to live challenge please  visit: http://www.onemonthtolive.com”

Psalm 90:12

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom

Theme: Gods eternal nature is contrasted with people’s frailty. Our time on earth is limited and we are to use it wisely, not living for the moment, but with our eternal home in mind.

Author: Moses which makes this the oldest of the Psalms. This psalm is a prayer of Moses, the man of God.

Verse 12 - Realizing that life is short helps us to use the time we have more wisely and for eternal good. Take time to number your days by asking, “What do I want to see happen in my life before I die?” What small step can I take toward that purpose today?

James 3:13-18 – Who is wise and understanding among you?  Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.  But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.  Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil.  For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.  But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.  Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.

Author: James, Jesus’ brother, not the apostle James.

Verse 13-18 - Have you ever known anyone who claims to be wise but acts foolishly? True wisdom can be measured by the depth of a person’s character. Just as you can identify a tree by the type of fruit it produces, you can evaluate your wisdom by the way you act. Foolishness leads to disorder, but wisdom leads to peace and goodness. Are you tempted to escalate the conflict, pass on the gossip, or fan the fire of discord? Careful winsome speech and wise loving words are the seeds of peace. God loves peacemakers. (Matthew 5:9)

Psalm 39:4-5

“Show me, O Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life. 

You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you.  Each man’s life is but a breath.

Theme of Psalm 39: Apart from God life is fleeting and empty. This is an appeal for God’s mercy because life is so brief.

Author: David

Verse 4 - Life is short no matter how long we live. If we have something important we want to do we must not put if for another day. If you only had six months or one year to live what would you do? Tell someone that you love him or her? Deal with an undisciplined area of your life? Tell someone about Jesus? Because life is short don’t neglect what it truly important.

Verse 5 – The brevity of life is a theme throughout Psalms, Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. Jesus also spoke about it (Luke 12:20) Ironically people spend so much time securing their lives on earth and spend little or no thought to where they will spend eternity. David realized that amassing riches and busily accomplishing worldly tasks would make no difference in eternity. Few people understand that their only hope is in the Lord. For more verses on the brevity of life see Ecclesiastes 2:18 and James 4:14

 Philippians 3:20

But our citizenship is in heaven.  And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Theme of Paul’s letter: Although Paul was writing from prison, joy was the dominant theme in this letter. The secret of his joy is grounded in his relationship with Jesus. People today want to be happy but are tossed and turned around by daily successes, inconveniences, and failures. Christians are to be joyful in every circumstance, even when things are going badly, even when we feel like complaining, even when no one else is joyful. Christ still reigns and we still know Him so we can rejoice at all times.

Verse 20 - As citizens of heaven we are to promote heaven’s interests on earth and lead lives worthy of heavenly citizenship. Too many Christians have failed to transfer their citizenship to heaven. They still seek earthly pleasures and treasures instead of heavenly ones. Paul told the Philippians to remember that they are citizens of heaven where the Lord Jesus Christ lives.

 1Peter 2:11

Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.

Theme: Peter wrote to Jewish Christians who were experiencing persecution for their faith. He wrote to comfort them with the hope of eternal life and to challenge them to continue living holy lives. Those who suffer for being Christians become partners with Him in His suffering. As we suffer we must remember that Christ is both our hope in the midst of suffering and our example of how to endure suffering faithfully.

Verse 11 – As believers we are aliens and strangers in this world because our real home is with God. Heaven is not the pink cloud and harp experience that we see in cartoons. Heaven is where God lives. Life in Heaven operates according to Gods principles and values and it is eternal and unshakable. Heaven came to earth in the symbolism of the Jewish sanctuary (the tabernacle and the temple) where God’s presence dwelt. It came in a fuller way in the person of Jesus Christ, “God with us”. It permeated the whole world as the Holy Spirit came to live in every believer. Someday after God judges and destroys all sin, the Kingdom of Heaven will rule every corner of this earth. John saw this day in a vision and he cried out, “Now the dwelling of God is with men and He will live with them and be their God”(Revelation 21:3). Our true loyalty should be to our citizenship in heaven, not to our citizenship here, because the earth will be destroyed. Our loyalty should be to Gods truth, His way of life, and His dedicated people. Because we are loyal to God we often feel like strangers in a world that would prefer to ignore God.

1Peter 1:24-25  For, “All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever.”

Same theme as for 1Peter 2:11

Verse 24-25 – Quoting Isaiah 40:6-8, Peter reminds believers that everything in this life – possessions, accomplishments, people, will eventually fade away and disappear. Only God’s will, Word and work are permanent. We must stop grasping the temporary and begin focusing our time, money and energy on the permanent – the word of God and our eternal life in Christ.

 Psalm 119:105

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.

Verse 105 - To walk safely in the woods at night we need a light so that we don’t trip over tree roots or fall into holes. In this life we walk through a dark forest of evil. But the Bible can be our light to show us the way so we won’t stumble as we walk. It reveals the entangling roots of false values and philosophies. Study the Bible so will be able to see your way clear enough to stay on the right path.

Theme for Psalm 119: Gods word is true and wonderful. Stay true to God and His word no matter how bad the world becomes. Obedience to Gods laws is the only way to achieve real happiness.

 This is both the longest Psalm and the longest chapter in the Bible. It may have been written by Ezra after the temple was rebuilt (Ezra 6:14-15) as a repetitive meditation on the beauty of God’s word and how it helps us stay pure and grow in faith. Psalm 119 has 22 carefully constructed sections each corresponding to a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet and each verse beginning with the letter of its section. Almost every verse mentions God’s word. Such repetition was common in the Hebrew culture. People did not have personal copies of the Scriptures to read as we do, so God’s people memorized His word and passed it along verbally. The structure of this Psalm made it easy for memorization. God’s word is the only sure guide we have for living a pure life.

 2 Timothy 3:16-17

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Theme: Paul gives helpful advice to Timothy to remain solidly grounded in Christian service and to endure suffering in the difficult days to come. It is easy for us to serve Christ for the wrong reasons; because it is exciting, rewarding or personally enriching. Without a proper foundation we will find it easy to quit during difficult times.  All believers need a strong foundation for their service because it does not get easier as we get older and it will not get easier as the time for Christ’s return comes closer.

 Verse 16 - The Bible is not merely a collection of fables, myths, stories or human ideas about God. It is not a human book. Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His Person and plan to certain believers who wrote down His message for His people (2Peter 1:20-21). This process is known as inspiration. The writers wrote from their own personal, historical and cultural contexts. Although they used their own minds, talents, language and style, they wrote what God wanted them to write. Scripture is completely trustworthy because God was in control of its writing. Its words are entirely authoritative for our lives and our faith. The Bible is “God breathed”.

Verse 16-17 - The whole Bible is God’s inspired Word. Because it is inspired and trustworthy we should read it and apply it to our lives. The Bible is our standard for testing everything else that claims to be true. It is our safeguard against false teaching and our source of guidance for how we should live. It is our only source of knowledge about how we can be saved. God wants to show you what is true and equip you to live for Him.

Verse 17 - In our zeal for the truth of scripture, we must never forget its purpose – to equip us to do good. We should not study God’s Word simply to increase our knowledge or prepare us to win arguments.. We should study the Bible so that we know how to do Christ’s work in the world. Our knowledge of God’s Word is not useful unless it strengthens our faith and leads us to do good.

 Hebrews 4:12

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.

 Theme: to present the sufficiency and superiority of Christ.

 Verse 12 – The word of God is not simply a collection of words from God, a vehicle for communicating ideas, it is living, life changing, dynamic, as it works in us. With the incisiveness of a surgeon’s knife, God’s word reveals who we are and what we are not. It penetrates the core of our moral and spiritual life. It discerns what is within us, both good and evil. The demands of God’s word require decisions. We must not only listen to the Word we must let it shape our lives.

 Below are devotionals that I thought would be interesting to share. This describes living passionately.

 Living with Passion

Focus your attention on two passages.  The first is:

Ecclesiastes 9:10, Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.

The second passage is:

Colossians 3:23, And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.

Do you see the common theme?  God desires us to live our lives full out, with passion.  Whether you are a preacher, a writer, a teacher, or a singer, whatever you do, you are to do it with passion.  You are to throw yourself into it.

People are attracted to passion.  They want to see someone who is burning with a fiery zeal for whatever they do!

The greatest example of a passionate person is Jesus.  Remember the story when Jesus threw the money changers out of the temple?  That was a passionate act.  In fact, the end of that passage says, “Zeal for Your house has eaten Me up.”

Zeal is just another word for passion.  “Passion for Your house has eaten Me up!”  Have you ever tried to imagine Jesus doing that?  He is whipping these guys and they are running, covering their heads.  He is throwing over these big tables and the disciples are watching with their mouths wide open, when they remember the verse, “
Zeal (passion) for Your house has eaten Me up.”

When is the last time you were eaten up with zeal for anything?  When is the last time you were utterly passionate about anything?

Don’t just sleepwalk through life.  You need to decide you are going to live

 Take a look at
2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your willingness, about which I boast of you to the Macedonians, that Achaia was ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up the majority.

Mark9:24
I do believe; help my unbelief
Someone has said that success comes in cans and failure in can not’s. The “Twenty Cans of Success,” taken from God’s Word, will expand your knowledge of our faith-object, the Almighty God. Building your faith by internalizing these truths will help lift you from the miry clay of the can not’s to the reality that in Christ you can do all things.
Romans1:17
The righteous man shall live by faith
Believing that you can succeed at Christian growth and maturity takes no more effort than believing you cannot succeed. So why not believe that you can walk in faith and in the Spirit; that you can resist the temptations of the world, the flesh and the devil; and that you can grow to maturity as a Christian.

1. Why should I say I can’t when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength(Philippians 4:13)? I can do everything through Him who gives me strength
The power we receive in union with Christ is sufficient to do His will and to face the challenges that arise from our commitment to doing it. He does not grant us superhuman ability to accomplish anything we imagine without regard to His interests. As we contend for the faith we will face troubles, pressures and trials. As they come ask Christ to strengthen you.

2. Why should I lack when I know that God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus(Philippians 4:19)? And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus
We can trust that God will always meet our needs. Whatever we need on earth He will always supply, even if its the courage to face death as Paul did. Whatever we need in Heaven He will supply. We must however, remember the difference between our needs and our wants. Most people want to feel good and avoid discomfort or pain. We may not get all we want. By trusting in Christ our attitudes and our appetites can change from wanting everything to accepting His provision and power to live for Him.

3. Why should I fear when the Bible says God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7)? For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
When we allow people to intimidate us we neutralize our effectiveness for God. The power of the Holy Spirit can help us overcome our fear of what some people might say or do to us so that we can continue to do Gods work. The characteristics of an effective Christian leader are power, love and self discipline. These are available because the Holy Spirit lives in us.

4. Why should I lack faith to fulfill my calling, knowing that God has allotted to me a measure of faith (Romans 12:3)? “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you”
Healthy self esteem is important because some of us think too little of ourselves. On the other hand some overestimate themselves. Our identity in Christ is the basis of our self worth. Apart from Him we aren’t capable of very much by eternal standards, in Him we are capable of and valuable of worthy service. Evaluating yourself by worldly standards of success and achievement can cause you to think too much about your worth in the eyes of others and thus miss your true value in God’s eyes.

5. Why should I be weak when the Bible says that the Lord is the strength of my life and that I will display strength and take action because I know God(Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?
Psalm 27:1 The LORD is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life, of whom shall I be afraid?
Fear is a dark shadow that envelopes us and ultimately imprisons us within ourselves. We all have been a prisoner of fear at one time or another- fear of rejection, misunderstanding, uncertainty, sickness or even death. But we can conquer fear by trusting in the Lord who brings salvation. If we want to dispel the darkness of fear let us remember with David “The Lord is my light and my salvation”
Daniel 11:32 With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.
God encourages us to remain faithful in the midst of challenging circumstances. The “beast” will deceive through a combination of outright lies, partial truths, and temporary truths. The people who see through his devious words will do so because they know and believe God and His truth. They will therefore be strong in giving glory to Him. These people will prefer to risk their lives rather than betray God’s honor. By believing God, they will be prepared for the beast’s onslaught, and this will give them strength because it produces firm resolve and sense of purpose.

6. Why should I allow satan supremacy over my life when He that is in me is greater than He that is in the world(1 John 4:4)? You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One Who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
It is easy to be frightened by the wickedness we see all around us and overwhelmed by the problems we face. Evil is obviously much stronger than we are. BUT, GOD is even stronger! He will conquer all evil and His Spirit and His word live in our hearts.

7. Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph (2 Corinthians 2:14)? “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him”.
Paul thanked God for his ministry, his relationship with the Corinthian believers and the way God used him to help others wherever he went, despite difficulties. When Christians preach the gospel it is good news to some and repulsive to others. Believers recognize the life giving fragrance of the message.

8. Why should I lack wisdom when Christ became wisdom to me from God and God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask Him for it. Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5)?
1 Corinthians 1:30 “It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, Who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption”.
God is the source of and the reason for our personal and living relationship with Christ. Our union and identification with Christ results in our having God’s wisdom and knowledge, possessing right standing with God (righteousness) being holy, and having the penalty for our sins paid by Jesus.
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
By wisdom James is talking not only about knowledge but about the ability to make wise decisions in difficult circumstances. Whenever we need wisdom we can pray to God and He will generously supply what we need. We can ask for God’s wisdom to guide our choices. The wisdom we need has three distinct characteristics:
A.) It is practical - the wisdom from God relates to life even in the midst of most trying times. It is not a wisdom isolated from suffering and trials. Wisdom is the tool by which trials are overcome. An intelligent person may have profound ideas but a wise person puts profound ideas into action.
B.) It is divine – God’s wisdom goes beyond common sense. Common sense does not lead us to choose joy in the midst of trials. This wisdom begins with respect for God, leads to living by Gods direction and results in the ability to determine right from wrong.
C.) It is Christ like – Asking for wisdom is ultimately asking to be like Christ. The Bible identifies Christ as “the wisdom of God”

9. Why should I be depressed when I can recall to mind God’s loving kindness, compassion and faithfulness, and have hope?
(Lamentations 3:21-23)? “Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness”.
God willingly responds with help when we ask. God’s steadfast love and mercy are greater than any sin and He promises forgiveness. Jeremiah knew from personal experience about Gods faithfulness. God promised that punishment would follow disobedience and it did but God also promised future restoration and blessing and Jeremiah knew that God would keep that promise. Trusting in God day by day makes us confident in His great promises for the future.

10. Why should I worry and fret when I can cast all my anxiety on Christ who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7)? “Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you”.
Carrying your worries, stresses and daily struggles by yourself shows that you have not trusted God fully with your life. It takes humility, however to recognize that God cares, to admit your need and to let others in Gods family help you. Sometimes we think that struggles caused by our own sin and foolishness are not Gods concern. But when we turn to God in repentance He will bear the weight of even those struggles. To let God have your anxieties calls for action and passivity. Don’t submit to your circumstances but to the Lord Who controls circumstances.

11. Why should I ever be in bondage knowing that there is liberty where the Spirit of the Lord is (2 Corinthians 3:17)? Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
Through the Holy Spirit, God provides freedom from sin and condemnation. When we trust Christ to save us, He removes our heavy burden of trying to please Him and our guilt for failing to do so. By trusting Christ we are loved, accepted, forgiven and free to live for Him.

12. Why should I feel condemned when the Bible says I am not condemned because I am in Christ (Romans 8:1)? Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Without Jesus we would have no hope at all. But thank God He has declared us not guilty and has offered us freedom from sin and power to do His will.

13. Why should I feel alone when Jesus said He is with me always and He will never leave me nor forsake me(Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)?
Matthew 28:20-“and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Jesus was with the disciples physically until He ascended into Heaven and then spiritually through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would be Jesus’ Presence that will never leave them. Jesus continues to be with us today through His Spirit.
Hebrews 13:5-Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you”
How can we learn to be content? Strive to live with less rather than desiring more; give away out of your abundance rather than accumulating more, relish what you have rather than resent what you are missing. We become content when we realize Gods sufficiency for our needs. Christians who become materialistic are saying by their actions that God can’t take care of them or at least that He won’t take care of them the way they want. Insecurity can lead to the love of money, whether we are rich or poor. The only antidote is to trust God to meet all our needs. See Gods love expressed in what He has provided and remember that money and possessions will pass away.

14. Why should I feel accursed or that I am the victim of bad luck when the Bible says that Christ redeemed me from the curse of the law that I might receive His Spirit (Galatians 3:13, 14)? Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree.” He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit
Every human is cursed under the law because we have not abided by God’s laws. Jesus purchased us (redeemed us) from the curse upon us. Jesus alleviated the curse upon us by dying on the cross. By dying on the cross, Jesus became a curse on our behalf because he died in a fashion that people would see Jesus as rejected and cursed by God, according to Deuteronomy 21:23. (By dying on a cross, Deuteronomy 21:23 says such a person was to be considered “cursed by God.”)

15. Why should I be discontented when I, like Paul, can learn to be content in all my circumstances (Philippians 4:11)? I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
Are you content in any circumstances you face? Paul knew how to be content whether he had plenty or he was in need. The secret was drawing on Christ’s power for strength. We should learn to rely on God’s promises and Christ’s power to help us be content. If we always want more we should ask God to remove that desire and teach us contentment in every circumstance. He will supply all of our needs but in a way that He knows is best for us.

16. Why should I feel worthless when Christ became sin on my behalf that I might become the righteousness of God in Him (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.
When we trust in Christ we make an exchange-our sin for His righteousness. Our sin was poured into Christ at His crucifixion; His righteousness is poured into us at our conversion. This is what we mean by Christ’s atonement for our sin. In the world, bartering works only when two people exchange goods of relatively equal value. But God offers to trade His righteousness for our sin, something of immeasurable worth for something completely worthless. How grateful we should be for His kindness to us.

17. Why should I have a persecution complex knowing that nobody can be against me when God is for me (Romans 8:31)? “What then shall we say in response to this? If God be for us then who can be against us?
Do you ever feel that because you aren’t good enough for God, He will not save you? Do you ever feel that salvation is for everyone else but you? Then these verses are for you. If God gave His Son for you, He isn’t going to hold back the gift of salvation. If Christ gave His life for you He isn’t going to turn around and condemn you. He will not withhold anything you need to live for Him. The book of Romans is a letter of comfort and confidence addressed to you.

18. Why should I be confused when God is the author of peace and He gives me knowledge through his indwelling Spirit (1 Corinthians 14:33; 2:12)?
1Corinthians 14:33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace. – as in all the congregation of the saints…….
Although there are many interpretations of this Scripture, here Paul is talking about the use of spiritual gifts. Singing, praying, dancing, playing instruments, reading, speaking, and giving all must be done in an orderly manner. Where the gift of prophesy is present all can prophesy in turn so that everyone can be instructed and encouraged.
1Corinthians 2:12 We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us.
Paul taught the Corinthians that true wisdom and discernment requires the believer to be guided by the Holy Spirit. Because satans greatest impact on us occurs when he deceives us, we need the Holy Spirits help. Spiritual discernment enables us to draw conclusions based on God’s perspective, make wise decisions in difficult circumstances, recognize the activities of Gods Spirit, distinguish the correct and incorrect use of Scripture and identify and expose false teachers. Ask God to give you His discernment as you serve Him. Let that discernment guide you through your daily walk with the Lord.

19. Why should I feel like a failure when I am a conqueror in all things through Christ (Romans 8:37)? In all things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.
This is one of the most comforting promises in all scripture. Believers have always had to face hardships in many forms: persecution, illness, imprisonment, even death. This could cause them to fear that they have been abandoned by Christ. But Paul exclaims that it is impossible to be separated from Christ. His death for us is proof of His unconquerable love. Nothing can stop Christ’s constant presence with us. God tells us how great His love is so that we will feel totally secure in Him. If we believe these overwhelming assurances then we will not be afraid.

20. Why should I let the pressures of life bother me when I can take courage knowing that Jesus has overcome the world and its tribulations (John 16:33)? “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world!”
With these words Jesus told His disciples to take courage. In spite of the inevitable struggles they would face they would not be alone. Jesus does not abandon us to our struggles either. If we remember that the ultimate victory has already been won, we can claim the peace of Christ in the most troublesome times.

Rules for Christian Households
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.
Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.
Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.
Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.

Study - Paul gives rules for three sets of household relationships:
(1) husbands and wives
(2) parents and children
(3) masters and slaves.
In each case there is mutual responsibility to submit and love, to obey and encourage, to work hard and be fair.
Why is submission of wives to husbands “fitting in the Lord”? This may have been good advice for Christian women newly freed in Christ who found submission difficult. Paul told them that they should willingly follow their husbands’ leadership in Christ. But Paul had words for husbands as well: Husbands love your wives and do not be harsh with them. It may also have been true that Christian men , used to following the Roman custom of giving unlimited power to the head of the family, were not used to treating their wives with love and respect. Real Christian leadership involves service. Just as Christ served the disciples even to the point of washing their feet, so the husband is to serve the wife. This means putting aside his own interests to care for his wife. A wise and Christ honoring husband will not abuse his leadership role. At the same time a Christ honoring wife will not try to undermine her husbands leadership. Either approach causes disunity and friction in the marriage.
Children must be handled with care. They need firm discipline administered in love.
Parents should not alienate them by nagging, deriding, or destroying their self respect so that they lose heart. However the opposite problem occurs when parents are afraid to correct a child for fear of stifling some aspect of their personality or losing their love. Single parents or parents who cannot spend as much time with the child may be prone to indulgence. But such children, especially, need the security of guidance and structure. Boundaries and guidelines will not embitter a child. Instead they will set the child free to live securely inside these boundaries.
Paul does not condon or condemn slavery but explains that Christ transcends all division between people. Slaves are told to work hard as if their were master were Christ Himself but masters are to be just and fair.
Since the creation God has given us work to do. If we could regard our work as an act of worship or service to God such an attitude would take some of the drudgery and boredom out of it. We could without complaining or resentment if we would treat our job problems as the cost of discipleship.

Study - Paul was exposing a heresy in the Colossion church that was similiar to Gnosticism. Gnostics valued the accumulation of knowledge, but Paul pointed out that knowledge in itself is empty. To be worth anything it must lead to a changed life and right living. His prayer for the Colossians has two dimensions: (1) that they might be filled with the knowledge of Gods will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.
(2) that they would bear fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.
Knowledge is not merely accumulated; it should give us direction for living. Paul wanted the Colossians to be wise but he also wanted them to use their knowledge. Knowledge of God is not a secret that only a few can discover, it is open to everyone. God wants us to know more about Him and also to put belief into practice by helping others.
Pauls prayers teach us how to pray for others whether we know them or not. We can request that they (1) understand Gods will (2) gain spiritual wisdom (3) please and honor God (4) bear good fruit (5) grow in the knowledge of God (6) be filled with Gods strength (7) have great endurance and patience (8) stay full of Christs joy (9) give thanks always. All believers have these same basic needs. When you dont know how to pray for someone use Pauls prayer pattern for the Colossians.
Paul lists five benefits God gives all believers through Christ: (1) He made us qualified to share in His inheritance, (2) He rescued us from Satans dominion of darkness and made us His children (3) He brought us into His eternal kingdom (4) He redeemed us - bought our freedom from sin and judgement (5) He forgave all our sins.
Thank God for what we have received in Christ.
The Colossians feared the unseen forces of darkness but Paul says that true believers have been transferred from darkness to light, from slavery to freedom, from guilt to forgiveness, and from the power of satan to the power of God. We have been rescued from a rebel kingdom to serve the rightful King. Our conduct should reflect our new allegiance.

John 3:16
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son so that whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish but have everlasing life.

Isaiah 53:5
But He (Jesus) was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.

1Peter 2:24
He Himself (Jesus) bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live for righteouness, by His wounds you have been healed”

Hebrews 9:27-28
Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgement, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for Him.

Mark 14:36
“Abba Father, everything is possible for You, take this cup from Me, yet not what I will but what You will”

Study - Jesus expressed His true feelings but He did not deny or rebel against God’s will, He reaffirmed His desire to do what God wanted. Jesus’ prayer highlights the terrible suffering He had to endure, an agony so much more magnified because He had to take on the sins of the whole world. This “cup” was the agony of alientation from God, His Father, at the cross. The sinless Son of God took on our sins and was separated for a while from God so that we could be eternally saved. Christ died for our sins, in our place, so we would not have to suffer the punishment we deserve. This is called substitutinary atonement.

In times of suffering people sometimes wish they knew the future or they wish they could understand the reason for their anguish. Jesus knew what lie ahead and He knew the reason even so His struggle was intense, more wrenching than any struggle we will ever have to face. What does it take to say “as You will”? It takes firm trust in Gods plans. It takes prayer and obedience each step of the way.

What Really Happened on the Cross?

- written by: Devotion Hub

So many times I’ve heard about the pain that Christ endured on the cross. The crown of thorns, the nails driven through his hands and feet, the bleeding and so on. Yes, it was an agonizing way to die. But these physical pains that I’ve described above don’t come close to the agony that Jesus felt as he bore the weight of our sins. For when he hung on that cross, he took upon Himself the unspeakable consequences of all the sins of mankind; past, present, and future. Do you grasp what that means? Try to imagine all the murders of all time. The pain and agony that all those victims felt, Jesus felt it too. The suffering of the victim’s family members, Jesus felt that as well.
When He took the sin upon Himself, he took all that goes with it. The unspeakable consequences, or results of sin are more tortuous than any crown of thorns or nails. While He hung there bearing this unimaginable sorrow, He was alone for the first time. The Father could not look upon the Son. It was Jesus cup to drink from alone. He was “Forsaken”. He experienced what Hell is like. I don’t know about you, but it means something quite significant to me that the Son of God went through this. It also alarms me when I realize that because of my own sins, I personally added to His pain on the cross. Yes, the suffering of Christ on the cross goes well beyond physical pain. Salvation did not come without a high price to pay. Jesus knew what anguish he would have to endure and that’s why he actually sweat blood in the Garden the night before. We have a hard time dealing with all the hurt and pain that our own sin causes us daily. Try to imagine being hit with everyone’s sin pain for all of time & all at once! The next time you look at a crucifix, try looking beyond Christ’s beaten body & dare to focus on his mental anguish. He endured it alone. For you. Because he loved us and didn’t give fear a chance, He prevailed & defeated death and sin’s power so that we can live with Him in Heaven. It’s the way it was supposed to be since the beginning, Us and God together forever. Thanks to what Jesus did for us on the Cross.