April 15 Render unto Caesar

Posted on April 15, 2016 by Robert Springer
Mark 12:17 (NKJV)
17 And Jesus answered and said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Render unto the IRS what is theirs. Why should we send them the money? They will just waste it anyway. Romans 13:1 (NIV) says “13 Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” The authorities that exist have been established by God. If God establishes the authorities, shouldn’t we obey them?

Today is the day we in the US have to file our taxes. It is time to render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s. It is our duty to support the government that they may protect us and serve the least of these. Do you think they are the best choice for protecting the least of these? Instead of paying higher taxes, shouldn’t the followers of Jesus be stepping up to the plate and taking care of others out of the overflow of blessing God has poured out upon us? When the Church runs a campaign to benefit people, there are no management expenses or waste. All the work is done by volunteers who raise the funding necessary to provide the benefit. Do you get personally involved in serving others? Is this your calling?

Today, you have the chance to make a difference! God has blessed you in many ways. It is not always financial blessing that is needed. Some people are the ones who can write a check. But God also calls us to lend a hand. He asks us to share time, talent and treasure. Where are you being called? What gifts and talents do you have to share? Don’t sell yourself short. God values someone who is willing to take the time to listen to another and encourage them. Ephesians 4:11 (KJV) says-  “11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” What are you called to do? Every gift is important. Will you use your gifts today?

Father, thank You for the gifts and talents you have given each of us. You have put a little of Yourself in every person. Help us to honor everyone as the child of God that they are. And in so honoring each person, help us to make sure they are cared for and valued. In Jesus name we pray.

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April 14 There is wisdom in the name

Posted on April 14, 2016 by Robert Springer
2 Chronicles 1:1-12 Selected (NKJV) Solomon Requests Wisdom
1 Now Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him and exalted him exceedingly……..6 And Solomon went up there to the bronze altar before the Lord, which was at the tabernacle of meeting, and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it. 7 On that night God appeared to Solomon, and said to him, “Ask! What shall I give you?” 8 And Solomon said to God: “You have shown great mercy to David my father, and have made me king in his place. 9 Now, O Lord God, let Your promise to David my father be established, for You have made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. 10 Now give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people; for who can judge this great people of Yours?” 11 Then God said to Solomon: “Because this was in your heart, and you have not asked riches or wealth or honor or the life of your enemies, nor have you asked long life—but have asked wisdom and knowledge for yourself, that you may judge My people over whom I have made you king— 12 wisdom and knowledge are granted to you; and I will give you riches and wealth and honor, such as none of the kings have had who were before you, nor shall any after you have the like.”

My Grandfather was named Solomon. There is something special in that name that brings wisdom. He was a wise man who knew when to speak and when not to speak. He had a way about him that brought people to him. He was respected. He was bold. He had business acumen. He came to the US in 1938 after fleeing Germany with his family leaving behind everything to take a janitor’s job in a hotel where he scrubbed floors. A few years later, he was back running his own business. Solomon and my Uncle Marty ran Marty’s Superette in New York City which was a local grocery store. I delivered groceries for them when I was a teenager. The point being, Solomon was not going to stay a janitor.

As much as he knew about business, he knew more about people. Solomon knew that how you got along with others was really the most important thing. Relationships are most important. Wisdom and knowledge in a vacuum don’t amount to much. God gave us the Ten Commandments which are about our relationships to Him and each other. My Opah, Solomon, knew how to make each person feel special. He gave his full attention to you when you spoke.

What is wisdom? Is it knowing what to do, how to do it or why it should be done? I am of the opinion it is why you do it. Both Solomons knew that why mattered! The “why” is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. We are taught to “seek first the Kingdom of God and all these things will be added unto you.” Both Solomons were Godly men who drew closer to the Lord. When you follow the Lord, He will make your way blessed. Solomon, Son of David, was the wealthiest man who ever lived. He lived in splendor. Solomon, Son of Hertz, my Opah, was wealthy in relationships. Wherever he went, there were friends or soon to be friends. He was very funny too! Like I said, there is something special about the name.

Father, teach us the why of life. We know You give us the talents needed and provide the resources. Help us to live each day with goodness in our hearts to love those whom You love. Draw us closer to You. Help us to bring glory to You in thought, word and deed! In Your name we pray.

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April 13 Can God Trust You With More?

Posted on April 13, 2016 by Robert Springer
Matthew 25:14-30 Selected Verses (NKJV) The Parable of the Talents
14 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. 15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also. 18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord’s money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them…….
20 “So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.’ 21 His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things……..
26 “But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
29 ‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

We are talking about the Kingdom of Heaven here and you are asked to be its Steward. A Steward is an awesome responsibility. You are in charge of and responsible for taking care of something that belongs to someone else. How will you invest what has been given to you? How will you advance the Kingdom?

Much, if not everything depends on attitude. There is a way of thinking that needs to be taught. Are you always preparing for the future or do you depend on others to support you? I know of a parent who was struggling financially and got back $1500 of his child support payments from the court. Did he put that money in the bank for a rainy day? No, he bought a big screen TV. At that time, we did not have a big screen TV but we did have food on the table. Do you think he made a wise investment?

Do you hold a Stewardship position at home, work or Church? At home, all that you have belongs to God and you are its steward. At work, you are responsible for making profit for the company and stockholders. Almost everywhere you look, there are opportunities for you to steward something. How do you accept that challenge? God asks us to do everything as if unto the Lord. Do you take your responsibility seriously? Are you a good steward of that for which you are in charge? Ask the Lord and He will help you do it great!

Lord, thank You that You are always there to help us live our best lives. Guide us this day to the plan You have for us and help us to take care of that You have entrusted to us. In Your name we pray!

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April 12 W.O.W. – With Out Words

Posted on April 12, 2016 by Robert Springer
Titus 2:6-8
6 Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, 7 in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, 8 sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you.
9 Exhort bondservants to be obedient to their own masters, to be well pleasing in all things, not answering back, 10 not pilfering, but showing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things.

Is there someone in your place of business who people turn to when they are in need? What is it about that person that draws others to them? Do you want to be that kind of person? If you are kind and helpful to all people, what kind of reputation will you develop?

“Preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ every day and, if you have to, use words” was attributed to St Francis of Assisi though there are questions about his authorship. The point is to walk the walk before talking the talk. When I started in Youth Ministry, the Church Pastor complained that Youth Group was not Christ centered enough and we needed to do things differently. My response to him (looking back now, my arrogant response to him) was that he was welcome to show up any Sunday evening and lead. Many organizations who want to evangelize come on too strong. They are like street evangelists preaching the end is near! Isn’t it better to set an example of how to live and have people ask you questions about why you do what you do? There seems to be a strong argument that we need to “preach” the Gospel which involves speaking. I am suggesting we begin by living the Gospel which will get us an audience who will listen. As you know, I am not afraid to preach the Gospel if you have been reading the devotionals.

Our son Clayton came to us when he was 12 years old. As a Foster and now Adoptive parent, I thought he needed to hear that I love him and I am not shy about sharing that sentiment. It wasn’t getting the desired results. In the beginning, there was no response. Later on, there was skepticism. I was bewildered. I came from a loving, affectionate home. It took years for things to come around but I learned valuable lessons from him. Many people had told him they loved him and then abused him. I was the first who said it and then set that example. I built on the promise of that “love” word. I had to earn his trust. I had to build and prove a good reputation. Jean and I have done that now but it took a long time.

Romans 10:17 (NIV) says17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. I fully understand that the Word of God must be preached but it is important to gather an audience and get them to believe you. To do that, it is best to set an example of the fruits of the Spirit which are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22). If you live your life in the Spirit, you will set an example that people will admire and want to follow. Then, you have earned the right to give an explanation of the faith you have in Christ. People don’t care how much (or what) you know until they know how much you care.

Preach W.O.W ( with out words) today! Show them you care. Be patient as our world is cynical and skeptical. Do it long enough and you will find the toughest curmudgeon will come around. I have done it! Ask God for patience because you will need it. Be bold for the Lord and He will be your shield! You will bring Him glory in this endeavor.

Lord, thank You that You have trusted us with the Gospel. You did not give it to us to hold for safe keeping. You gave it to us to share. Please, as You brought the animals to Noah, so bring us people who want to hear and learn about You. Thank you for the honor of preaching the Gospel even W.O.W! Amen!

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April 11 If you Want to Walk on Water, You have to Get Out of the Boat!

Posted on April 11, 2016 by Robert Springer

Matthew 14:25-33 (NKJV) Jesus Walks on the Sea
25 Now in the fourth watch of the night [just before dawn] Jesus went to them, walking on the sea. 26 And when the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear.27 But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” 28 And Peter answered Him and said, “Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.” 29 So He said, “Come.” And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus. 30 But when he saw that the wind was boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink he cried out, saying, “Lord, save me!” 31 And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those who were in the boat came and worshiped Him, saying, “Truly You are the Son of God.”

Are you a brave person? Can you accomplish great things for the Kingdom? The details of this story tell us that we need to take chances and be brave. In fact, it gets more specific and mentions the “F” word. You know, faith!

The disciples were in a boat crossing the Sea of Galilee as Jesus had instructed them. The wind and waves were against them so it was not easy going. All of a sudden, they thought they saw someone walking toward them on the water and they were terrified. They thought it was a ghost. Little did they know it was the Holy Ghost. Jesus told them not to be afraid. Peter, always the bold impetuous one, said “command me to come to You on the water” and then the crazy son of a gun got out of the boat! He was afraid of a ghost but stepped out on to the water? I don’t get that. He actually walked on the water for a little while.

How about you? Are you willing to get out of the boat? Are you bold for the Lord? Most people are not. They are timid. Society teaches us we should not speak about religion or politics in polite company. In my opinion, if you don’t speak about these things, the day will come when you will no longer have the chance. We notice, in the story, that Peter is OK for a while but then begins to sink. Why is that? As soon as he took his eyes off Jesus, he was distracted by the wind and began to sink. Isn’t that a lot like us? Don’t we start out great with a vision, walking on water but lose sight of the Creator of that vision and begin to sink? What lesson can we learn here that will help us achieve the destiny God has created for us? Simply said, keep your eye on the prize and that prize is Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 (ESV) says “2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.” He will make all things possible. So, will you begin to be bold for the Lord? When you hear of someone’s difficulties, will you ask if you can pray for them? Will you invite them to Church? What steps will you take to encourage them in their faith? 2 Timothy 1: (NKJV) says “7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” Today, be bold. Be powerful, knowing whose power you wield. Speak out with the sword of the Spirit. He will direct you in what to say. People are looking for a relationship with God. It may be through you that they find Him.

Father, give us the faith we need to trust You. We lose focus and turn our eyes away from you and begin to sink into the darkness. Reach out Your hand to us before we sink sending us a reminder of Your love and support. Be our Help and Shield today and every day. In Your name we pray.

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April 10 He Loves You!

Posted on April 10, 2016 by Robert Springer

Romans 5:8 (NKJV)
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

He loves You! That’s right! Even before you knew how to love, He loved you. In fact, it was Him who taught you how to love. So, what is love? Love is defined by Thomas Oord as “acting intentionally, in sympathetic response to others, including God, to promote well being.” God certainly does that. He always does things to promote well being.

How do you love? Do you always look out for the good of others? In the case of Foster Children, the courts and the system are supposed to do what is in the best interest of the child. I am not always sure that is their objective. There are times, when children are returned to parents who do not always put the child’s best interest first. It seems to be more about their pride (parents and system) than the welfare of the child. Pride gets in the way of too many things. Have you found instances where pride has clouded your judgment? Have you been overly concerned with what people would think?

The best tack to take is considering what God would think. The One who loves you and wants the best for each of His children should be the One setting the standards we follow. Do you follow God’s standards? Do you know what His standards are? Do you love as He loved? That is a tall order. When our Pastor says “love as Jesus loved”, I think I am not capable of that love. In my own power, I am not. But I am not in my own power if I let the Holy Spirit lead. The Spirit will show me and you how to love and give us the strength to accomplish that love. Will you ask for the Spirit to guide you? Will you love as Jesus loves? Ask for help and give it a try. His ear is tuned to the sound of your voice. He will answer. He, who loves you, will come through.

Lord, teach us how to love as You love. We know it is not easy but we know You will help us if we ask. So Lord, we are asking for Your help to love our neighbors as ourselves. And Lord, please help us do a better job of loving ourselves too. We tend to fall short there. In your name we pray. Amen!

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April 9 I am with you!

Posted on April 9, 2016 by Robert Springer

Isaiah 41:10-11 (NIV)
10 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. 11 “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.

Billy Graham says “fear causes us to doubt God’s promises and disbelieve His love.” I don’t know about you but that is not where I want to be. God’s word, through Isaiah, tells us not to fear for He is with us. What does it mean to have God with you? It means his favor goes before you making things go your way. King Jehoshoaphat faced a huge army that was too powerful for Israel (2 Chronicles 20).  Jehoshaphat appointed men to sing to the LORD and to praise him for the splendor of his holiness as they went out at the head of the army, saying: “Give thanks to the LORD, for his love endures forever.” Israel triumphed over their enemy in spite of being outnumbered. God will bring His will to pass and protect His own.

Daily we face challenges that seem to overwhelm us. Did you realize it was a sin to be fearful of these challenges? It shows a lack of faith. God is our strength and shield. He will uphold us with His righteous right hand. What do you face today? Is there a project at work you are not sure how to complete? Is there tension in your family? Do you face a possible bad diagnosis? Whatever the issue, your God walks with you. In fact, He is within you. He will give you the strength to face and triumph over any challenge. He loves you! He has anointed you with all you need to accomplish the dream And rest assured, He has placed that dream in your heart. It would be a shame if you did not live your destiny because of fear, wouldn’t it? Be bold! Go out and try new things. 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) says 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. God does not want you to be shy. You carry His image and likeness inside you. You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Live as a child of the Most High God today! Do great things in His name!

Father, we thank you that You go out before us paving the way for us to make a bold statement in Your name this day. Guide us into Your will for our lives and give us this day, what we will need to bring glory to You. In Jesus name we pray.

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April 8 Stay the Course

Posted on April 9, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 18:1-8 (NKJV) The Parable of the Persistent Widow
18 Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, 2 saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. 3 Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ 4 And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, 5 yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’”
6 Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

We all have a tendency to doubt ourselves and want to give up at times. When others are persistent in their attacks and claims, we begin to wonder if we are right and if the fight is really worth it. We may be facing something that seems clear but a relentless foe tries to get their own way and it wearies us. Such was the case in the story of the persistent widow. She knew she was right but her adversary would not relent and the judge did not care about justice. We need to remember to stand up for justice and always do the right thing.

Are you facing a challenge where your adversary is trying to manipulate you into doing things their way? Does the judge seem to just want things settled as quick as possible and the easiest way for him? Have you lost heart and want to give in to just be done with the whole thing? Have you prayed about the situation? God is a righteous Judge and will bring about justice. He will vindicate you if you stay the course.

God asks you to come to Him in your difficulty. He will avenge you. But the key is that you cry out to Him. You must also believe that He cares about you. You must remain in faith. When you go before the judge, pray first, that you be given the right words and that He will give you strength to endure. Matthew 24:13 (NIV) says “13 but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.”

Father, I thank You that You care enough about us to bring us justice. Thank You that we can always turn to You for help. We know You hear our cry and quickly come to our aid. Help us to remain in You and prevail. In your name we pray. Amen!

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April 7 Going through it!

Posted on April 7, 2016 by Robert Springer

Psalm 30:5b, 11-12 (NKJV) Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
11 You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, 12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.

I had a difficult first quarter of 2015. It was a time of trials. I had skin cancer surgery. I got the flu. My best friend went to be with the Lord. We sold and emptied my parent’s home and I had to watch things go out the door. I have gone through a time of sadness as almost everyone does in life. How do people make it without faith? I know that, when I face a challenge, I go to God for strength and support. What do others do? Have you faced some challenges so far this year? How have you handled them?

In life, there is no way around the challenges. You just have to face them. But people of faith are given strength to not only face them but to go through them. I have come to a place in my life where I ask what God is trying to teach me through this particular challenge. Trials refine us. They are there to make us better. If we go through life asking “why do these things always happen to me?” rather than what can I learn here, we are missing valuable lessons. Are you looking for those lessons? Do you try to figure out what God is trying to teach you? It may look bad right now but tomorrow will be better.

We all have lessons to learn. The question is will we learn them? He is the potter and will mold us into the shape He wants us to be but we need to stay on the Potter’s wheel. Are you willing to be molded? Are you willing to trust the Potter? Will you remain in faith? He will teach you!

Thank You Father that You are willing to teach us things. That You are willing to refine us through our challenges. We know that you have prepared a table for us past the valley. Help us to walk through that valley to the blessings you have prepared for us on the other side. Help turn our mourning into dancing. In your name we pray.

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April 6 The Dreamer Lives out his dreams!

Posted on April 7, 2016 by Robert Springer

Genesis 50:20 (NIV)
20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

There are many who will hold you back when you have large dreams. If you succeed, it may make them look bad. Many will do things to slow you down if not stop you from succeeding. My brother once said that the way my wife treated my Grandmother made the rest of us look bad. You have got to appreciate his honesty.

Joseph was the oldest son of Jacob by Rachel, his favorite wife. Joseph was Jacob’s favorite son and he was not shy about letting others know. You need to be careful about playing favorites. It causes jealousy and that is why Cain killed Able. Do you set up jealousy in your family or beyond? Are you careful to make sure you are fair to others? It is normal for a person to feel closer to someone that is more like them but caution is needed. Be careful not to show favoritism because it destroys self esteem and causes rivalry. Joseph was a dreamer! He was given a vision from God about the future. He knew, by the Spirit, what the future held! His brothers hated him because of these dreams.

Dreams can be powerful! If you can focus on a dream, you can accomplish things others haven’t even thought about yet. Joseph had dreams that God gave him about being the ruler of a country. That dream got him into trouble with his brothers who tried to kill him. But years later, he became second in command to Pharaoh, King of Egypt. That position saved the lives of his brothers, the Children of Israel (Jacob), God’s chosen people.

When my nephews were young, I used to tell them shamelessly that “you are one of my two favorite nephews.” As they got a little older, they figured out that I only had two nephews and complained about my statement. I told them that fact did not change anything and they were still my two favorites. I was careful to spend time with both. I went on class trips and soccer games and Boy Scout events of all sort. It was worth every minute of my investment. Another thing to consider is your level of encouragement. Do you use your words to help forward their dreams? I encouraged them to do whatever their dreams lead them to do. If they believed in themselves, all things were possible.

Do these stories exist today? Are their young people who could go beyond conventional wisdom? There are! All around us are people who can do great things if we encourage them. Will you use your words to bless them? Young people encouraged in the right direction will do amazing things. Be an encourager. Support a dreamer and watch what they will do!

Lord, thank You that You plant seeds of dreams in our hearts. Help us to protect them from trouble. Guide us to nurture and cultivate them into the blessings You intended for us. By Your grace and through Your power, help us to grow people and opportunities today!

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April 5 What do we do now? It’s Friday but Sunday is coming!

Posted on April 5, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 24:1-12 Selected Verses (NIV) Jesus Has Risen
24 On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus…..  “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 6 He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ”……

 11 But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. 12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.

So what just happened? Just hours ago, it looked like all our hopes and dreams were over! The One who was to redeem Israel was put to death by the Romans. The dream had just died along with Him. Now what?

Jesus had died on Friday and the religious authorities wanted His body down off the cross before sundown when the Sabbath began. Joseph of Arimathia had removed Jesus body, prepared it hastily and placed it in his own tomb. Now, on Sunday (the third day), after the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them came to the tomb to complete the task and give Jesus a proper burial. They were shocked at what they found or didn’t find. Jesus was not in the tomb. Two angels told them Jesus was risen. In fact, they asked why the ladies were looking for the living among the dead. The two reminded them of what Jesus had said that he would rise on the third day. And now he has! He is risen!

The women went to tell the other the good news but no one believed them. Or did they? Peter decided to go look for himself. He wondered what had happened. He needed time to process all this and figure it out. It was too much to grasp at first. Could Jesus really have been raised from the dead? God is faithful. He did say He would rebuild His Temple in 3 days. Jesus was that Temple. God has decided to go one step beyond living among His people. He had now decided to live within His people. Peter, who had denied Jesus three times, now considered the thought the he would face Jesus again. What would he say? How would he tell Jesus that he had denied his Master three times? How can we face Jesus and explain how often we have denied Him?

Most times, we live our lives according to our own desires without consulting God. We make decisions and then ask God to bless them. Wouldn’t it be better to invite God into the decision making process so He can lead us to the blessings He wants for us? He gave up everything to redeem us. That shows how valuable we are to Him. Who are we that He is mindful of us? We are His children.

You have got to go through death to get to resurrection. Jesus went through an awful death. Once you pass from death to eternal life, you have overcome death. That is what Jesus did for us. He brought us from life through death and back to life again! Only this life is eternal. It has no end. Jesus stands ready to forgive our denials and other shortcomings. He knows how we are made and that we cannot manage without Him. He is with us now and will carry us through to life eternal. He is risen that you might rise!

Lord, we thank You that You are mindful of us and that You care so much for us. Thank you for opening the way for us to spend eternity with You in paradise! You have given everything that we might have life and have it to the full. Help us to live as redeemed people reflecting Your glory to a hurting world. In Jesus name we pray! Amen!

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April 4 It is Finished!

Posted on April 4, 2016 by Robert Springer

John 19:28-30 (NKJV) It Is Finished
28 After this, Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” 29 Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on hyssop, and put it to His mouth. 30 So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit.

It is finished! What is finished? How could this happen? Wasn’t He supposed to liberate Israel? What things were “now accomplished”? And now he is dead. What are we going to do now? I thought for sure He would free us from oppression! I am so disappointed. The two on the road to Emmaus echoed what many were thinking.

Most people thought that Messiah (Christ) would be a Mighty King that would come in power and liberate Israel from Roman occupation and restore the glory of the former kingdom. Isaiah 9:6 says  “6 For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” It is no wonder they would think Christ would be a conquering king since the Prophet Isaiah said the government would be upon His shoulder. But God had a different plan. He wanted to go another way. He was doing a new thing. God knew that Rome was a temporary problem for Israel. Sin, on the other hand, was a bigger issue!

God came to the weak to shame the strong and to the poor and uneducated to shame the wealthy and the religious leaders. He turned everything we know about wealth, strength and power upside down. This plan was inconceivable to us. God would take on human form and come to the lowly to spread His message to the ends of the earth. He would entrust the greatest news ever to a fisherman, a tax collector and others that society would never have chosen. And on top of that, he would offer Himself as the only sacrifice needed to redeem us. Aren’t we supposed to serve Him? How is it that He came to serve us?

At this point, all the hopes and dreams of redemption seem dead along with Jesus. The religious leaders had struck the Shepherd and the flock had scattered as they predicted. Or did they? In hindsight, we see that they stepped back to regroup. They had to have time to process what had just happened. Looking back from our vantage point, we know the “rest of the story” as Paul Harvey [a News Anchor from days gone by] would say. We have seen beyond the death to the resurrection. It looks totally different from here.

These twelve did take the message to the ends of the known world of their time and on to the whole world as we know it today. Some interesting circumstances precipitated the spread of the Gospel. Some were forced out of Jerusalem and had to find other places to live. Others went on a mission to share the story. Do you share the story? 1 Peter 3:15 tells us to “…..Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect….”. In other words, you are to share with others the reason for your hope as the gift it really is. That hope is the Risen Christ who redeems us. As Pastor Don Feuerbach says, “You are the bearers of the good news to the world.” Things may seem dark as of today but Easter Sunday is always coming. And He is Risen! Go tell someone!

Father God, thank You for the gift of Your Son who brought a new covenant of love and redemption. You have shown us that, when things look their worst, You can bring out the best. Your power is made perfect in our weakness! Help us to walk in that power through the trials of every Friday but to remember that Sunday is coming! Help us to live lives as if every Sunday was Easter. Give us signs to remind us that You always walk with us and will lead us to Your Rest if we would but follow. Thank you that, by Your Son’s blood, we are Holy, Righteous and Redeemed! That we are loved more than we can fathom. In Jesus name we pray. Amen!

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April 3 He is Risen Indeed!

Posted on April 3, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Corinthians 15:12-20 Selected Verses – The Risen Christ, Our Hope
12 Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen. 14 And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty. 15 Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up—if in fact the dead do not rise. 16 For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen. 17 And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!………
20 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep [died].

Do you believe Christ was raised from the dead? I do! That is one of the basic tenants of the Christian faith. There is a greeting on Easter Morning of “He is risen indeed.” I serve a Risen Lord. I see myself as an Easter Christian. Many focus on Good Friday (Strange name for the day of death of our Lord) and cannot see the blessings to come. It may be called Good Friday because of all the good God worked for us in the death and resurrection of the Lord.

I know many bad things happened that lead to the death of Jesus. But my focus is beyond the death to the resurrection. I am an optimist. I always look for the good in every situation. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I don’t intend to stop there. My Lord calls me to go through the valley, as He did, to the table He has prepared for me on the other side.

Are you walking? Will you continue through the valley? Do you see the table set before you? You have to look through your eyes of faith to see this table. If you look carefully, you will see Jesus at the head of the table and there is a place card with your name on it a few places away from Him. Do you want to sit on His right or His left? Look again. You will see Him beckoning for you to come, sit by Him. Go ahead! He has saved that place just for you. He is risen and waits for you!

Lord thank you that You are risen and offer us a seat at Your table. It is incomprehensible that You would save that place for us. Thank You that Your love for us knows no bounds. Help us to hear Your voice and answer the call to come to You. In Your name we pray. Amen!

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April 2 Your Redeemer Lives!

Posted on April 2, 2016 by Robert Springer

2 Corinthians 5:18-19.
18 Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, 19 that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation.

How does it feel to know that God is willing to help you with the things that have gone wrong in your life? We have all gone our own way but yet He waits for us to return to Him. He wants us to be reconciled to Him. He never wanted us to be separated. We chose to disobey. In fact, He wants us to bring reconciliation to others as well. We are to lead by example.

Adam and Eve were expelled from the Garden and separated from God. Hell is described as separation from God. Jesus, while on the cross, spoke of being forsaken by God. We were made to be in His presence. Anything else is not good. Since we decided to go down a path that led away from God, He had to create a plan for our return. Jesus is that plan. God, in Christ, is working out our redemption and return to His presence. Since Christ accepted the burden of our transgressions upon Himself, redemption is through Him. Our trespasses are not imputed to us. They are upon Christ. We are now reconciled to God if we accept His grace.

So what does this all mean? Imagine that you are driving on the highway and there is a pile-up of cars in front of you such that you can’t avoid. It looks like there is no way out. Suddenly, out of nowhere, a way opens up through which you are guided that takes you around the accident and you are completely safe on the other side. Someone or something has prevented what looked like serious injury or even death. What was that? That was the favor of God protecting you. God has redeemed you from this trouble. He wants the best for you.

God has made a way for you if you will just follow Him. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says “No temptation has seized you except which is common to man…..But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” He is faithful to carry you through. Will you let Him? Do you complain when things go wrong or do you look for that “way out”? It is there. Keep your eyes and ears open and remain in faith. Your Redeemer lives!

Father, we thank You that You always provide a way out. Help us this day to remain in faith and look to you for the solution. We know you are there. Make Your presence and Your will known to us at each turn. Help us to live in such a way as to cause others to notice and be drawn to You. In Your name we pray. Amen!

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April 1 Are You Kidding Me?

Posted on April 1, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Corinthians 1:18
“For the message of the cross is FOOLISHNESS to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God …  in the wisdom of God, since the world through wisdom did not know God, it pleased God through the FOOLISHNESS of the message preached to save those who BELIEVE.

Easter time brings us once again to the celebration of the foolishness of the cross. YOU GOTTA BE A FOOL to believe the message of the cross and the message of the gospel – God coming to die on a cross for us. Yeah, right? Why would He do that? It seems utterly ridiculous. No one would do that or would they?

It is incomprehensible that God would do what He did for us. But the proof is in the death and resurrection of Jesus. He did that for us. So on this day of Pranks, I want you to know the message of the Cross and our redemption is No Joke! God loves you enough to give Himself up for you. He paid a painful price to ransom you from sin and death. You are that special and important to Him.

Then there is this story about the atheist holiday. An atheist became incensed over the preparation for Easter and Passover holidays and decided to contact the local ACLU about the discrimination inflicted on atheists by the constant celebrations afforded to Christians and Jews with all their holidays while the atheists had no holiday to celebrate. The ACLU jumped on the opportunity to once again pick up the cause of the godless. The case was brought before a wise judge who after listening to the long, passionate presentation of the ACLU lawyers, promptly banged his gavel and declared, “Case dismissed!”

The ACLU lawyer immediately objected and said, “Your honor, how can you possibly dismiss this case? Surely the Christians have many observances as do the Jews and yet my client and all other atheists have no such holiday!”

The judge leaned forward in his chair and simply said “Obviously your client is too confused to know about, or for that matter, even celebrate the atheists’ holiday!” The ACLU lawyer pompously said: “We are aware of no such holiday for atheists. Just when might that be, Your Honor?”

The judge said, “Well, it comes every year on exactly the same date — April 1st!”
The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” — Psalm 14:1

You’ve just been pranked but with some seriousness involved. I hope I got at least a little chuckle out of you. Enjoy the day, laugh a lot and be blessed. God loves you and so do I!

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March 31 What He wouldn’t do for you!

Posted on March 31, 2016 by Robert Springer

Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)
5 But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

When someone loves you, they do extraordinary things for you. What would you do for your family? What would you do for a stranger? How far would you go? We have heard stories of people who have donated kidneys to others or have taken a bullet for someone.

What kind of love makes someone go through crucifixion? The kind that wants to reconcile the whole world back to God. All of creation was separated from God by Eve’s sin. There was a lot to reconcile. Jesus came to make a way for us all to return to God. You see, since the time of Adam and Eve, we had committed a lot of sins. There was a lot to reconcile.

Isaiah lived 750 years before the birth of Christ. He prophesied the events that would free us from sin and death. Jesus was pierced in His side by the Centurion. He was beaten and tortured and then crucified. All so He could take upon Himself our transgressions. He became the Passover Sacrifice that averted the Angel of Death from us. By His wounds we are healed. Because of what Jesus did, we are redeemed. He did all that for you and for me! He died so we can live. Incredible! How will you live?

Lord, we thank You for what You have done for us. You bought us back at a terrible price. How can we understand how much we mean to You that You would submit Yourself to this brutal death. You have redeemed us from sin and death. We can barely comprehend what You have done nor why You did it but we gladly accept Your grace! Amen!

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March 30 Fan the Flames!

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 24:13-35 Selected Verses (NKJV) The Road to Emmaus
13 Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him………21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel………28 Then they drew near to the village where they were going, and He indicated that He would have gone farther. 29 But they constrained Him, saying, “Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” And He went in to stay with them. 30 Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. 32 And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?”

Do you recognize the King of Kings? Does your heart burn within you when you think of Jesus? Is there a fire burning in your soul? Do you share that passion with those you meet? If you do, do you share that knowledge with others. Since you were made in the image and likeness of God, can people see the family resemblance? What do they see when they look at you?

I came to know Jesus in 1998. I was on the road to Basking Ridge when He got in the minivan with me. He spoke to me and it scared me. In fact, I drove 45 minutes past my exit trying to figure out what had just happened. I was a volunteer with a Church Youth Group but had not made a commitment to Christ as of yet. I decided to read the New Testament to see what all the ruckus was about. It is always good to know the opposing side, I thought. I have come to know there is only one side and it is God’s side. The rest doesn’t matter.

Wow! So that’s what all those Prophets were talking about. Holy cow! This Jesus was and is amazing. Could all this be true? I was skeptical but I had to find out. I was a doubter at that point. Now, I know that doubters are seekers and it is good to doubt! Thomas doubted and discovered “My Lord and my God” (John 20:28). Thomas now believed. After Jesus entered the minivan, so did I believe! Now what? Who could I tell? Would they believe me? It took a month before I told anyone and it was my fellow youth worker that I told. She said what any good Presbyterian would say. She said “I think you should talk to the Pastor.” And I did. That led to my Baptism.

Are you on fire for the Lord? The fire can start slowly and smolder for a long time or it can burst into flames. What would it take to get it to burst into flames within you? Does the Bible speak to you in ways you cannot explain? Does Jesus call out to you? Can you hear Him? Will you answer that call or will you ignore Him? He is coming! He is willing to walk with you on the road to Emmaus or Basking Ridge or anywhere else for that matter. He loves you! Are you ready? Put on your walking shoes and take the journey. I promise you that you won’t be disappointed. Start a fire and fan the flames! Stir up the gift of God which is in you today.

Father thanks that You are sending Your Son to light the fire within us and fan those flames of Your gifts, love and mercy. Walk with us and teach us how we carry Your image within us. Teach us to be bold and use the gifts You give us to build the Kingdom. Teach us to shine Your light for others. Thank you that Your Kingdom is within us here and now. Help us to live lives as children of the King of Kings. In Your name we pray!

Start a Fire by Unspoken tells this story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrEzr-rWwe8

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March 29 It’s right here!

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 17:20-21 (NIV) The Coming of the Kingdom of God
20 Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, 21 nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.”

Sometimes, people are so busy looking for something that they do not see what is right in front of them. They can’t see the forest for the trees! Are you like that? Are you looking for the Kingdom? Where would be the best place to start looking?

I used to think the Kingdom of heaven was something that I would see only after passing from this world. I thought I had to endure this life in order to earn my mansion in Heaven. I did not realize that, in God’s realm, there are more dimensions than humans can see in our finite lives. There is more than meets the eye.

The Bible often speaks to us on different levels. We think it is talking about the physical level and it is in the spiritual realm. So it is with the Kingdom of Heaven. There is the real place and then there is the place in your heart. If you trust Jesus, He enters your heart and abides there. Any place where God has placed His name and resides is the Kingdom. Therefore, the Kingdom of God is here and now and living inside of you. If the Kingdom is inside you, how should you live? Should you live blessed? Should you live joyful? Should you have peace? Should you let the light of God’s glory shine out from within? Yes to all of the above. Live like a child of the King because that is what you are. Be bold. Enjoy God’s presence. Let Him lead your life. Light up the room when you enter. Encourage others. Spread the good news that there is hope. Leave them wondering what is going on inside you!

Father, I thank you that you abide with us. I thank you that You are near and care for us. It is comforting to know that we are Yours and You are close. Help us to share the Kingdom and Your love with those we meet. In Your name we pray.

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March 28 Saving Sinners and Tax Collectors?

Posted on March 28, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 19:1-10 (NKJV) Selected Verses – Jesus Comes to Zacchaeus’ House
19 Then Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2 Now behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus who was a chief tax collector, and he was rich. 3 And he sought to see who Jesus was, but could not because of the crowd,……. 5 And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” …….. 7 But when they saw it, they all complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.”……..9 And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

Parents sometimes say, when their child gets in trouble, the he or she just got mixed up with the wrong crowd. For we know that the people with whom you associate have an effect on you. So what about this Jesus character hanging out with sinners and tax collectors? What will people think? They all complained, saying “He has gone to be a guest with a man who is a sinner.” They were unhappy. We know Jesus did not care what people thought but why would he associate with a tax collector? They were considered the worst of the worst.

You may have noticed that Jesus did not go to the community leaders with His message of grace and forgiveness. Those leaders thought they already had God’s favor. They were not interested in Jesus’ message. “He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” (John 1:11) God’s message and Word will not be thwarted! If the leaders would not receive Him, someone would! So why did He come? He came to seek and save that which was lost. He came for you and me! Thanks be to God that He did!

Zacchaeus received salvation that day because he believed in Jesus. Salvation is available to you and me today as well because He came. He seeks you. There is no place where He cannot find you and He will search to the ends of the earth. You are that important to Him. You are his masterpiece. You too are a son of Abraham and a son (or daughter) of God! Will you receive Him today?

Lord, we thank You that You never give up on us. We thank You that You will search until you find us and we find You. We praise You because we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Bring Your salvation to our house this day. In Jesus name we pray!

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March 27 One wish, What is your request?

Posted on March 27, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 18:35-43 Selected Verses (NKJV) A Blind Man Receives His Sight
35 Then it happened, as He was coming near Jericho, that a certain blind man sat by the road begging. …… 38 And he cried out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be brought to Him. And when he had come near, He asked him, 41 saying, “What do you want Me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, that I may receive my sight.” 42 Then Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” 43 And immediately he received his sight, and followed Him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

If you were face to face with Jesus, believing that He could grant your wish and He asked what you wanted Him to do for you, what would you request? Do you know what you want? Would you even be bold enough to “cry out”?

One of the things that comes out in the story is the man’s boldness. People tried to shut him up but he wouldn’t have any of it. He continued to cry out. He had faith that could be seen or, in his case, heard! He knew this was “the Son of David” long prophesied. Do you believe Jesus can grant your request? Way down deep in your heart, is there faith that He can see? Many people say they believe but would they go out on a limb on that belief? Would you take the chance? This man believed down in his soul! 42 Then Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has made you well.” Jesus saw his faith and granted his request. He received his sight. The man was appreciative and followed Jesus, glorifying God!

Here is another important key. When God does something for you, do you glorify Him? Do you give Him praise? Our purpose is “to glorify God and enjoy Him forever”! Are you doing that? What have you done for Him lately? Have you pointed others to God with your praise?

Lord, thank You that You are willing and able to grant our requests. You said You will do anything we ask in Your name. By Your Holy Spirit, guide us in what to ask! Give us the desires of our hearts. In Your name and to Your glory, we go out to live this day! Amen!

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March 26 Leave room for God – He will make it all work!

Posted on March 26, 2016 by Robert Springer

Numbers 14:39-45 Selected Verses
….”We have sinned” they said. We will go to the place the Lord promised.”….41 But Moses said “ Why are you disobeying the Lord’s command? This will not succeed! Do not go up because the Lord is not with you. You will be defeated by your enemies,….”

The Israelites had just sent twelve spies into the Promised Land to see what it was like so they would know what they were up against. Ten of the twelve spies gave a negative report because they could not believe they could defeat the people living in the land. They disregarded God’s promise to give them the land. God became angry with them for not believing His promise. When God threatened to destroy them, they half-heartedly said they would go up and take the land. At that point, God was not with them. They would have to go it alone and they were not able to accomplish the victory. Moses told them not to go but they went anyway and were repelled.

It always works best when we follow God’s plan. To do that, we need to prayerfully discern the plan. When we try to do things in our own power, it does not work out well. When God goes before us, He makes crooked places straight. We can stand and watch what the Lord will do. God promised to give Israel the land and He is faithful. When Israel tried on their own, they were defeated. Later under Joshua, when they followed God’s plan, the walls of Jericho fell at their trumpet blast because it was God’s doing.

Are you doing things in your own power? What has the Lord called you to do? Are you following His will for your life and being blessed or do you feel it is an uphill battle? Do you think that God has given you all the answers and that you can do it on your own now? You may not like those results.

Ephesians 6:13 says “Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Have you heard the expression “Let go and let God.”? You are to do all you can and let God do what you can’t. When you are in the center of His will, He will fight your battles! He will give you the desires of your heart. He is known as Jehova Jireh, the Lord our Provider.

Do you want success or defeat? When I was offered the opportunity to go to Honduras in 2014, I prayed for God’s guidance about the trip. When I was still, I got the calling to go. I was going to a foreign country 3000 miles from home. I did not speak the language. I had never been out of the USA. I did not know any of the people on the trip. I did not know the job I would be doing. I was completely out of my comfort zone but not afraid. The whole time, I felt protected. Everything went well. The people were all wonderful and I felt comfortable like I was guided and loved. I knew God was with me. In fact, He said “Trust Me!” That is how I want all my life to be. I want to live as God wants me to live. How about you?

Father, I thank You for Your protection and grace. I thank You that You know what’s best for us and You always lead us in the right path if we will just listen. Thank You for going before us making the paths straight and blessing us in our daily walk with You! Amen!

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March 25 How can I do this?

Posted on March 25, 2016 by Robert Springer

Hebrews 2:17-18 (NKJV)
17 Therefore, in all things He had to be made like His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. 18 For in that He Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to aid those who are tempted.

Life is tough! Each day, many of us face challenges that seem beyond what we can bear. We wonder how we can get through these times. How can we live in this world and still be faithful to God’s will? It seems impossible. If there was only someone who had already done it that we could ask for guidance. Why do we have to go through all this anyway?

We go through trials sometimes just to teach us what is like to face a certain challenge. In 2000, I got fired from a job I should not have lost. I was hired by a Vice President who left the company. They replaced him with a much younger man who did not know the business. I won the Vice President’s Award for Outstanding Service in January and was fired in July. I decided to sue the company for wrongful termination because I felt it was age discrimination and I was in a protected age class. Going through the process led me to depositions where I had to repeat the story many times. Each time I did, it was another blow to my self esteem until I ended up in deep depression. The kind where you can’t leave the house! I learned a lot about how debilitating that can be and how devastating to our lives. At that time, I would have given up altogether except for the glimmer of hope that was my faith. I had questions like “How could God let this happen to me?”. It was only years later that I understood. I was not supposed to be working for a corporation. I could do more for the Kingdom on my own. Also, God wanted me to understand depression fully – from the inside – so I would know what it was like and how to help others. When I tell someone with depression “I know how you feel!”, I really do understand. I learned many things which I have successfully used to help others through the darkness!  I can help people back into the daylight because of what God has taught me through my own circumstances.

Hebrews 2 tells us about the One to whom we can turn who fully understands our plight. Jesus has been through every temptation that we face having been fully made like us so that He can understand what it is like. It is not sympathy, it is empathy! He knows what we are going through intimately.

What’s more, He is our Faithful High Priest. As High Priest, He advocates for us with the Father. He is merciful and faithful. But the best part is that, not only will He help us through, He is willing to bear the burden and the costs of our sins and failures. He is ready, willing and able to aid us in the trials we go through. His mercy endures forever! Speak with Him. He understands.

Lord, we thank You that You fully understand our plight and come to our aid when we need You. Thank you that You are merciful and show us the way through the trials. Give us strength for today and hope for tomorrow as we live our lives for and with You!

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March 24 There’ll be no condemnation here.

Posted on March 24, 2016 by Robert Springer

John 8 Selected verses
3 Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, 4 they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?”……. 7 So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first.” ….And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. ……., He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?” 11 She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more.”

What is the worst thing you have ever done? Does anyone know about it? Have you kept the secret all these years? What if someone found out? Would it be embarrassing or devastating? It could be awful?

This women’s sin has just been made public! She stands before her accusers and they are ready to stone her to death for her crime. Adultery is a capital offense in that society. What do you think it should be today?

The Pharisees don’t really care about this woman. There Law was clear. She was caught in adultery and should be stoned to death. By the way, where was the man with whom she was caught? Shouldn’t he be there facing the music too? I digress. Why did they bring her to Jesus? They told about the Law and then said “…Now what do you say?” They were trying to trick Jesus into disagreeing with the Law. How did that work out for them? Jesus turned the whole thing around on them. They thought they would trick Him into breaking the Law to save this woman. He took it to a whole other level.

Jesus did not change the Law. He said in Matthew 5:17 that He had not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it. He was not about to set the Law of His Father aside. The Law said she deserved death.  We all deserve death. But Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. He had a whole new plan. He would take the responsibility of the sin on Himself.

Jesus asked the accusers to go ahead and stone her if, they themselves, had no sin. One by one, they dropped their stones and walked away. There is none without sin for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. So instead of stoning her, they just learned of their own shortcomings. Not one of them was without sin and neither are we. Do you look down at other people in judgment? There is only one Judge and we are not Him. It is our job to love and leave the judging to God. Jesus asked her if there was anyone who condemned her. They all left her with Jesus alone. He said “Then neither do I condemn you….Go and sin no more.” What an amazing gift! She was dragged there to be stoned to death and is given grace instead. Do you want grace? I do!

Lord, thank you for Your grace which is incomprehensible. We can never earn it or deserve it but You freely give us this gift. Guide us aright with Your good counsel but, when we do fail, quickly come to our aid and restore us to You. Lord, You make all things new. Renew our spirit today and help us to bring glory to You in word and deed. In Your name we pray.

Posted in Grace and Mercy | Comments Off on March 24 There’ll be no condemnation here.

March 23 Who is this man?

Posted on March 23, 2016 by Robert Springer

John 1:29-31 (NIV) John Testifies About Jesus
29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”

Have you wondered about the identity of Jesus? How could some people recognize Him while others denied who He was? John knew when he saw Jesus. How did he know? There are still doubts for many. How about you?

Here is the scene. John, this strange character (eats locusts and wild honey), is out in Bethany by the Jordon river baptizing people into the Kingdom of God. The Pharisees have sent a delegation to ask John if he is the Christ, the Anointed One. John says no. They press him for more details and He quotes Isaiah 40:3 saying “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, Make straight the way for the Lord.” They ask him why he is baptizing and he replies “….among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me. The thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” Back in verse 15, John told them about the One who comes after him. In 14, he told them the Word became flesh. It was clear who Jesus was according to prophecy.

Have you ever known something and you just knew you were right? After investigation, you were correct. Sometimes, inside, you just know. I knew Jean would be my wife after first meeting her. There was just something special inside telling me to ask her. Of course, she had to think about it. She has never been one to decide anything quickly. I guess her reputation for making careful choices is a good thing as we have been together more than 40 years. If you have ever experienced something like this, you understand what happened next. John sees Jesus approaching and says “29 Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” There is significance to the “Lamb” part also. The Lamb points to the sacrifice that God ordained in the Old Testament (Leviticus) that people could offer in place of their own death for their sin; a substitution. Jesus also became the Paschal (Passover) Lamb that protected Israel from the Angel of Death during the Exodus from Egypt and still protects us today.

John goes on to say “….the reason I came baptizing with water is that he might be revealed to Israel.” So John’s purpose was to reveal Jesus to Israel and us. John tells how he knew Jesus was the One. “He was told by the one who sent him to baptize ‘The One on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.” Has He been revealed to you? Do you still have doubts? What will it take to convince you? You have heard from an eye witness.

John also tells us “12 Yet to all who believed in him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God….” That is an incredible offer. I have accepted it and hope you will too! Do you want to be a child of God? Ask Him! He is waiting for you. He wishes none to perish.

Lord thank You that You wait patiently for us to come to You in our own time. By Your Spirit, draw us to you. Prepare our hearts to receive You. May we hear John’s voice preparing the way and leading us to the Lamb of God! In Your name we pray!

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March 22 I found it (Him)!

Posted on March 22, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 15:1-7 (NIV) The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus. 2 But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law muttered, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.”
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

It has been said that the surest way to find something is to buy its replacement. That happened to me with a test meter. I finally bought the test meter I always wanted and misplaced it after a project. It was “lost” for 6 months. I needed to have one so I went on eBay and bought one similar to replace it. Shortly after, I was cleaning up my workshop and found the original. Boy was I happy! That which was lost in now found.

Who or what have you lost? Or is it you that feels lost and alone? You don’t have to remain in those feelings. Some people may not even realize they are lost. They know something is missing but they are not really sure what it is. Do you feel something may be missing in your life? Jesus came to seek that which was lost. But more than just seek, He came to redeem that which was lost. Our’s is a lost world. Communication is diminishing. People don’t talk to each other, they text. We get so caught up in all our own things that we don’t notice others. Relationships suffer. Many in busy metropolitan areas are lonely.

Relationships are of primary importance to God. He created this universe to facilitate fellowship with us. Relationships would restore what was lost. Do you want to be found? Do you have a relationship with Jesus? Does He call you friend? He is looking for you. He wants to build a relationship that can redeem that which was and is lost. There will be celebration in heaven for each relationship that is restored. Oh that there would be celebration over you or one of yours!

What is the blessing here? You were not made to be alone. You were made to be in relationship and the primary relationship is with Your Creator. He stands close by ready to redeem and restore you. He wants to be your friend. He longs to bless you holding you in the center of His will. Will you let him? He is even willing to hang out with sinners like you and me.

Lord, thank You that You care for us so much that You come searching for us. You said that we are Your sheep and You are our Shepherd. As our Shepherd, guide us in Your ways. Lead us in Your pastures, beside still waters and restore our souls. Amen!

Posted in Grace and Mercy | Comments Off on March 22 I found it (Him)!

March 20 Salvation is here. Do you see it? Do you hear it? Do you feel it?

Posted on March 20, 2016 by Robert Springer

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (NIV)
6 As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 For he says,
“In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.

Some people say seeing is believing but it ain’t necessarily so. Illusionists show you things that are not real. Do you believe what you see? Do you believe things you cannot see? Are you aware that salvation is now here? At this time of year, we are reminded that God entered the world to reconcile us to Himself. The Kingdom of God is here and now in the spiritual sense. Zig Ziglar speaks of the way you look at things (attitude) making a difference. You can take the letters “n o w h e r e” and determine that the kingdom is “now here” or “nowhere” – you decide. Is your heart open to the kingdom? It can be seen through the eyes of faith.

My Pastor Don interviewed people who had heard God speak to them. I wrote down what they said. When I went to Honduras last year, I heard God speak to me. I put those things together and this is what we heard. “Trust me!”   “I am all around you.”   “It’ll be OK.” He spoke these words and He is faithful. I choose to believe.

I know others have heard God speak but many are afraid to tell the story for fear others will think they are crazy. I maintain that God still speaks today. Write me if you have heard Him! I am going to tell those stories in a book.

Now is the time of God’s favor. He wants to be with you and He wants you to be with Him. Isaiah 55:6 says “Seek the Lord while he may be found; call on him while he is near.” The Lord is always near. He is all around you. He stands ready willing and able to help you. A Leper asked Jesus if He was willing to make him clean. Jesus replied that He was willing. He is willing to help you too! Why not call on Him because He hears you too?

Father, we thank You that You hear us and are willing to help us. Open our hearts to Your presence. You said You would never leave us nor forsake us. You said You are willing to heal us! You said this is the time of Your grace and favor! Pour out that favor upon us and let us share it with those whom we meet. In Jesus name we pray.

Posted in Faith | Comments Off on March 20 Salvation is here. Do you see it? Do you hear it? Do you feel it?

March 19 He is Risen so we can rise!

Posted on March 19, 2016 by Robert Springer

1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NKJV)
3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,

What do you fear most? The majority of people rank public speaking higher on the scale of fear even over dying. So, for arguments sake, let’s rate dying as number two. Are you afraid of dying? What if I told you that you could overcome that fear and live forever? Would you want to know about it? Probably.

There is One who has overcome sin and death and lives to share that gift with you. Paul is the writer of this verse and the Book of Corinthians. Paul says that what he received, he also delivered to us. So it is with Christ. What He received from the Father, the gift of forgiveness and eternal life, He also delivered to us. All we have to do is put our faith and trust in Him. In John 1:12 it says “Yet to all who received Him….He gave the right to become children of God.” Are you a child of God? Do you want to be?

Hospitality was a big deal in ancient times. Greeting people and bringing them into your home was imperative. How do you greet people today? Jesus is coming. Will you receive Him? What stands in your way? Do you know how to receive Him? Is the house clean enough? On our fridge, we have a sign which says “Our House was clean last week; too bad you missed it!” Jesus doesn’t care about your house. He only cares about your Temple and He is willing to clean the Temple up for you! He will clean the Temple in which His Holy Spirit will reside (your heart) if you will open the door to Him. Today, open the door. No excuses! Let Him come in and abide with you and love you. His love will make you feel better than you ever felt before!

Lord, You said that You would abide with us if we invite You in. Help us today to overcome our fears and excuses and boldly throw open the door to our hearts. We know we will never be the same. Help us to be the people You called us to be. In Your name we pray!

Posted in Faith | Comments Off on March 19 He is Risen so we can rise!

March 18 Who will stand up for me?

Posted on March 18, 2016 by Robert Springer

Exodus 20    Selected Verses
18 Now all the people witnessed the thunderings, the lightning flashes, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking; and when the people saw it, they trembled and stood afar off. 19 Then they said to Moses, “You speak with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die.”

20 And Moses said to the people, “Do not fear; for God has come to test you, and that His fear may be before you, so that you may not sin.” 21 So the people stood afar off, but Moses drew near the thick darkness where God was……..[The Lord said] In every place where I record My name I will come to you, and I will bless you.

The Lord had just given the Israelites the Ten Commandments. You might want to go and read the whole chapter to understand the story better. You’ll notice He did not call them the Ten Suggestions. After that, Moses came down to the people to share these commandments with the people. The people had seen His awesome power displayed and were terrified.

Why did God give us these Laws? Is it because He wanted to force us to live His way? There is a clue in the text. It says “In every place where I record My name I will come to you, and I will bless you.” The Lord’s name is recorded in these commandments. Therefore, since He is true to His word, we can know that there are blessings in these commandments since the Lord’s name is recorded there.

Jennifer Benson Schuldt said in Our Daily Bread “Because God is perfectly holy and we are desperately sinful, we cannot relate to Him. We need a go between, an Intercessor.” Romans 8:34 (NKJV) says34 Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us.  Moses was the person who spoke for the Israelites. Jesus speaks for us now. We have an advocate who sits at the right hand of the Father and pleads our case. The Prosecutor is close to the Judge and the Prosecutor wants to help you and plead down the sentence. In fact, the Prosecutor is willing and has already paid the fine. You are forgiven. You are already justified. You are redeemed. You are blessed! Thanks be to God for His love of us! Go live as the Redeemed and see how you can lighten the load of another today. Will you share your story of redemption?

Thank You Lord for your intercession on our behalf. Thank You that You walk with us watching out for us at all times. Thank You that, wherever You record (or we speak) Your name that You will come and bless us! It is in Your name we pray! Amen!

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March 17 I Want You Back!

Posted on March 17, 2016 by Robert Springer

Malachi 3:6-7 (NIV)
6 “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed. 7 Ever since the time of your ancestors you have turned away from my decrees and have not kept them. Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty. “But you ask, ‘How are we to return?’

Malachi was written 430 BC. Even then, God had a plan. He always wanted to restore the relationship. God was just waiting for the right time and place. And that time was 463 years later and the place was Jerusalem.

We are reminded that the Lord is always the same. That means He is faithful and keeps His promises. One of those promises was that He would be our God and we would be His people. Even though we cannot uphold our side of the agreement and follow His decrees, God is patient not wanting any to perish. From the very beginning, God knew we could not keep the agreement and had another way to keep us close. His plan was to redeem us through His own sacrifice. We are separated from God when we sin. 1 John 1: 9 says “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” but we do not want to admit our sin. Without that admission, we cannot return. Hence the question “How are we to return?”

Jesus came into the world to bring us back to a right relationship with Him. If we confess our sin and turn away from it, God will take us back. He will remove the sin completely and restore the broken relationship. Our repentance is our return to Him. His redemption could be seen as His return to us. I don’t see it that way though. I believe that God is always with us just as He said “I will never leave nor forsake you.” We have drifted away. God has never wavered!

Do you want to return to God? Do you want to grow into a deeper relationship with God? Now is the time. This is the season. Here comes the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world! Will you let Him take your sin away? Will you return to Him? He longs to take you back!

Thank You Lord that You always had a plan to draw us back to you. Thank You that You never left us. You knew we would stray so you made a way for us to return. Help us this day to return to You!  In Your name we pray!

Posted in Grace and Mercy | Comments Off on March 17 I Want You Back!

March 16 You Love Me That Much?

Posted on March 16, 2016 by Robert Springer

John 15:12-16 (NIV)
12 My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

How much does God love you? He loves you with a sacrificial love; a love strong enough that He laid down His life for you, literally. And He asks us to love one another as He has loved us. I don’t know about you but I am not sure I am ready to lay down my life for someone else. Are you? Also, I don’t think I am able to love as Jesus loved. I can try with His help.

What does it mean to lay down one’s life for another? Does it mean I have to die to save someone else? Not necessarily. It means to “die to self”. When we put the needs of others ahead of our own needs, we die to self or lay down our life for our friends. That is sacrificial love. There are many ways to help others. Listening to those who need to speak, helping someone, being kind, opening a door, encouraging someone and being patient are all ways of loving others. Love is one of the fruits of the Spirit. (Gal 5:22) Agape love is defined as “acting intentionally, in sympathetic response to others (including God) to promote well being.” How can you love someone today? Who is it that God wants you to love? Will you keep your eyes open for opportunities?

How does it feel to know you are a friend of Jesus? Jesus chose you as His friend. He appointed you. He shared the “Master’s business” with you so that you know what He is about. He wants you to go and bear fruit that will last. Galatians 5 tells us “22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.” These fruits will last! God does not call you to something for which He does not prepare you. He gave you all you need to accomplish the calling. You are appointed. You are called. You are equipped. You are empowered. You are well able to go and bear fruit. He also gives you a promise! He says “Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.” For what will you ask in Jesus name? Will you bear fruit today?

Father I thank You that You love us so much that You laid down you life for us. Thank You for choosing us to bear fruit and giving us the chance to glorify you in that process. Lead us to the person to whom you wish to speak through our lives today!

Posted in Relationships | Comments Off on March 16 You Love Me That Much?

March 15 How much?

Posted on March 15, 2016 by Robert Springer

Luke 14:25-33 (NIV) The Cost of Being a Disciple
25 Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: 26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. 27 And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
28 “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? 29 For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, 30 saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’
31 “Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Won’t he first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? 32 If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. 33 In the same way, those of you who do not give up everything you have cannot be my disciples.

Do you think Jesus wants you to hate your family? He has spent so much time telling you to love your neighbor. Why would he ask you to hate your family? It doesn’t make sense. When I see things like this, I ask myself what is He trying to teach us? He is teaching us to count the cost.

How much will it cost to complete a project? If you want to put on an addition to your house, you go out and get estimates. From those estimates, you can determine if you can afford the addition. Jean and I did that a few years back when we were considering an addition. What we found was the cost was too high for the benefit we would receive. We decided not to go ahead.

What is the cost of following Jesus? You cannot consider money alone. There are many things to consider. There are time, talent and treasure to consider. Time is something that once spent can never be retrieved, Time includes eternity. My friend Brock always asks me what I am willing to give up in order to begin a new undertaking. There are only so many hours per week available so it is a very valid question.

What does it mean to follow Jesus? Doesn’t it mean that we are no longer going to live our lives for ourselves, but for Him? What does that look like? What would you be willing to give up in order to follow Jesus? It may cost you everything including your life. Is it worth it? Only you can decide. But for me, it is!

A number of years ago, I was at a Church meeting where we opened with some sort of devotional. We paired up and did the devotional. There is a method of asking the same question several times of a person to see the path the answers take. The question that night was “What would it grieve you to have to give up in order to follow Jesus?” I asked the question of my partner first. She gave me a long list of things like, her home, her education, her family and other things. When it was my turn, I said “Nothing!” I had come to a place in my spiritual walk where I knew everything I had was a gift from Jesus. I have come to trust Him. As a result of that trust, I know He would never take anything from me unless He was going to give me something better. He gave Jean to me. Why would He take her from me? It reminds me of the story of Abraham being asked to sacrifice his only son Isaac. Abraham went ahead with the plan and was about to follow through on God’s request when the angel of the Lord called out to him to stop him. Isaac was the Promise God had given Abraham. God would not take away that Promise.

Our focus has been on giving things up to follow Jesus. Since He is the God of abundance and blessing, might we look at this differently? What if Jesus wants you to put Him first in all your thoughts and decisions? What if He wants to be Lord of your life? Maybe He wants to direct your steps and lead you to all the blessings He has stored up for you. Instead of giving up everything for Him, it seems to me He gave everything up for you because He loves you that much! How much? Enough that He gave His own life for you. You are that important to Him!

Lord Jesus, I thank you that you love us enough to give Yourself up for us! By Your Spirit, please guide us in Your ways that we might bring glory to Your Holy Name. Help us to live for You. In Your name we pray.

Posted in Grace and Mercy | Comments Off on March 15 How much?