August 29 -- "Reality Discipline"

Today's Reading: Ezekiel 6

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In today's verse, God is speaking about the consequences that will come to the rebellious people of Israel for not heeding His warnings. He wants them to know that His warnings were not empty threats, but rather a genuine vow of what was to come.

Discipline is an important part of teaching children about responsibility and the consequences of their actions. Consistency is key in making sure they understand that stated consequences are real and not just "empty threats." When parents follow through on the natural or logical consequences of their child's behavior, it sends a clear message that there are real outcomes for the choices their child makes. This type of parental follow-through is called “reality discipline” because it emphasizes the real consequences of one’s behavior and choices.

In the same way, God's “reality discipline” is not arbitrary. It comes from His righteousness and faithfulness. As believers, we need to recognize the reality of God's warnings and the certainty of consequences for our actions. We must understand that His warnings are not “in vain” nor empty words, but a confirmation of what will happen if we don't respond to His corrections.

Just as God's discipline comes from His righteousness and faithfulness, we must recognize the reality of His warnings and the certainty of consequences for our actions. His guidance isn't arbitrary; it's a loving reminder of what will happen if we don't heed His corrections. Unfortunately, Israel continually rejected these warnings and rebelled against their loving Father. As a result, God explained in Ezekiel 6 that the consequences He warned them about are now coming to pass.

It's crucial for us to listen to God's warnings because they guide us through life, helping us avoid danger and making better choices. These warnings aren't arbitrary mandates or empty threats; they're loving cautions from a Father who wants what's best for us. He sees beyond our current circumstances and desires to do us good. Let's heed His warnings and follow His guidance, trusting that He knows what is best for us and knowing that if we persist in defying His warnings, He will follow through with some "reality discipline" in our lives. 

Note: The term “Reality discipline” was popularized by Dr. Kevin Leman in his 1983 best-selling book, "Making Children Mind without Losing Yours.”

August 28 -- "Jerusalem: Center of Nations"

 Today's Reading: Ezekiel 4 and 5

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God didn't choose Jerusalem randomly - it has a deep spiritual significance. This city, nestled in the heart of nations, embodies God's unique bond with His chosen people, the Israelites. Geographically and spiritually, Jerusalem became the epicenter of God's grand plan for redemption, shining His light to every corner of the globe.

God chose this city to be His holy dwelling place among His people. The construction of the Temple further solidified its role as a hub for worship and communion with the Creator. This choice represents God's unbreakable covenant with Israel, showcasing His unwavering faithfulness to His promises.

As believers today, understanding God's deliberate choice reminds us to recognize our own unique placements and circumstances. Just like Jerusalem was at the heart of God's redemptive work, we are intentionally positioned for His purposes. Our faithfulness and obedience should mirror Jerusalem's commitment to God's plan.

Acknowledge that God's selection of Jerusalem is mirrored in your own life. Align your heart with His will, knowing that His sovereign choice in your circumstances is an opportunity to be a part of His divine masterpiece. Embrace your role, no matter how small it may seem, trusting that God is weaving a beautiful tapestry of redemption.

Consider the story of Mary, the humble young woman from Nazareth chosen by God to bear the Savior of the world. Despite the challenges and societal norms, Mary submitted to God's choice, and her obedience played a crucial role in God's redemptive plan.

Matthew 5:14 reminds us that, just like Jerusalem, we are the light of the world, called to reflect God's glory and purpose shining brightly for all to see! May the Lord bless and guide you to align your heart with His divine plan, that you may shine as a beacon of His light in this world.

August 27 -- "When the Spirit Enters"

 Today's Reading: Ezekiel 2 and 3

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In today’s verse, the prophet Ezekiel reveals a powerful and private moment in his life. The moment he was called by God and the Holy Spirit entered into him, empowering him to boldly speak out the messages he hears from God  As the Holy Spirit entered him, Ezekiel gained the courage to share the messages from above, even if others didn't want to hear them (verse 7!). We too can tap into the power of the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength to fulfill our divine purpose.

How can you know when the Holy Spirit has entered you? While everyone's experience may be different, the Bible describes several signs of the Holy Spirit in your life. These include:

Peaceful Assurance: An inner confidence and peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Spiritual Awakening: A renewed appreciation for Scripture and a deep desire to know God more intimately (Ephesians 1:18). Empowerment: Courage, strength, and boldness to serve others and share our faith (Acts 1:8). Fruit of the Spirit: Exhibiting qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). Receipt of Spiritual Gifts: Receiving abilities such as prophecy, healing, teaching, service, or tongues to edify others and build up the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). Christlikeness: Becoming more like Jesus through a transformed character (2 Corinthians 3:18).

The famous preacher, Charles Spurgeon, once wrote, "The clearest evidence of the Spirit's presence is not in extraordinary gifts or experiences, but in the transformed character of a person, making them more and more like Jesus." As we grow into Christlikeness by the Holy Spirit’s power, we become more loving, patient, forgiving, compassionate, and humble.

Remember, these signs of the Spirit in your life aren't always dramatic or attention-grabbing; they can be subtle yet profound changes in our lives. As you seek the Holy Spirit's infilling, be open to experiencing these manifestations in your own unique way.

Today, may the Holy Spirit's presence fill you with peaceful assurance, spiritual awakening, empowering strength, godly fruit, spiritual gifts, and Christlike character.

August 26 -- "I Fell On My Face"

 Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 1

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Imagine witnessing the divine splendor of God! This was the incredible experience that the prophet Ezekiel had. As he gazed upon the glory of the Lord, Ezekiel beheld a spectacle of unparalleled beauty and power. A dazzling array of elements filled his vision - stormy winds, great clouds, brilliant light, fiery flashes, gleaming metal, living creatures with four faces and wings, burning coals, lightning, and much more.

This unfathomable display was not something that could be understood or explained by human reasoning alone. As the Apostle Paul reminded us in 1 Corinthians 2:14, "The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned." The truth of God's nature transcends our finite understanding.

Yet, we don't need to dissect or analyze this vision. Instead, we simply need to realize that these revelations came to him through the mysterious work of the Holy Spirit. In verse 28, Ezekiel explains that what he saw was "the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD." It was an exact representation of God's magnificent splendor and outshining. It was like peeking behind a curtain to see the amazingness of our Creator.

So, what would you do if you were granted a vision of God? Like Ezekiel, you would likely fall on your face in reverence. When someone sees God for who He truly is (holy, pure, magnificent, powerful), they see themselves for who they truly are (unholy, unworthy, sinful, powerless). The sight of divine majesty is so overwhelming that it demands our deepest humility and respect. This is the essence of true worship - to be humbled by the sheer magnificence of God's glory.

When we stand before something so magnificent, so far beyond our human understanding, it naturally humbles us. But it's not just our size that humbles us. It's also His holiness. God is perfectly good, perfectly just, and completely without fault. When we, with all our imperfections and flaws, come face-to-face with that kind of purity, it exposes our flaws and shortcomings and makes us feel a sense of reverence and awe for the One who is flawless.

Though we may not all experience this vision firsthand, when we seek God with all our heart, we can catch glimpses of His splendor. As He is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit, we "see" Him in spirit. When we do, we will inevitably respond with deep and intense humble worship. So let us continue to pursue a deeper relationship with our Creator, that we might be awed by His glorious presence and respond with the reverence He so deserves.

August 25 -- "Grace Amid the Wreckage"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 39 and 40

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The incredible book of Jeremiah spans over several decades, chronicling the powerful and passionate ministry of the prophet Jeremiah. Throughout this time, he tirelessly called out to God's people, urging them to repent and return to their loving Creator. Jeremiah's messages were clear: the people of Judah needed to turn away from their sins and back to the Lord or face the consequences.

Fast forward to Jeremiah 40:3, and we find ourselves in the midst of a heart-wrenching scene. Amidst the ruins of Jerusalem, Jeremiah receives a sobering message from the captain of the Babylonian guard. He points out the utter defeat of Judah, acknowledging that the Lord had spoken this disaster into existence. It's a gut-wrenching "I told you so" moment, as God's judgment falls upon the nation through the hands of Babylon. This was a moment Jeremiah had warned about for over 40 years, but sadly, the people refused to listen.

Yet, even in the midst of destruction and despair, we witness the incredible sovereignty and grace of God. Despite the great defeat, the Lord shows favor to Jeremiah, preserves a remnant for Himself, and begins to turn the hearts of His people back to Himself. Jeremiah's life is a testament to the fact that God's plans unfold according to His perfect will, even in the darkest of seasons.

At times, we may find ourselves in the ruins of broken relationships, shattered dreams, or unexpected challenges. But let us not forget that God is still on the throne! He remains in control, even when our circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. Look for the residue of His grace in the midst of trials. Acknowledge His sovereignty, and trust that He can bring forth beauty from the ashes.

Just as a flower can push through the cracks in the pavement, so too can God's grace break through the hardness of our circumstances, bringing unexpected blessings and new beginnings. So, let's hold onto hope, dear friend, and remember that no matter where we find ourselves, God's grace persists, and His love endures forever.

August 24 -- "Heeding Good Advice"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 38

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Obeying God's voice, even in difficult circumstances, leads to enduring peace, blessing, and fulfilling our purpose. This is illustrated through the story of Jeremiah, who continued to speak God's message even when imprisoned and faced with opposition.

Have you ever felt like Jeremiah, trapped and tossed into a cistern of despair? We've all been there, right? Life can throw some curveballs, making us doubt and want to bury our hopes and dreams.

But guess what? Jeremiah's story teaches us something powerful. Even in the darkest pit, he continued to speak God's message. And that's a lesson for us too! We shouldn't stay silent when God speaks to us.

In Jeremiah 38:20, he declares, "Obey now the voice of the Lord in what I say to you, and it shall be well with you, and your life shall be spared." Talk about courage and faith! Jeremiah understood that good advice – God's advice – is a lifeline, even in the darkest moments.

So, what's the good advice Jeremiah gives us? It's simple: "Obey the voice of the Lord." Obedience to God is always good advice. It's the foundation of a consistent truth that echoes throughout Scripture. Embracing and obeying God's truth isn't just good advice; it's the key to a life marked by God's goodness, blessing, and purpose. So let's remember Jeremiah's story and keep obeying God's voice, no matter what!

The key to this advice lies in recognizing God's sovereignty, His infinite love, and His perfect knowledge. Throughout the Bible, obedience to God is consistently presented as the path to blessing, favor, and fulfilling our purpose.

In our daily lives, obeying God's voice can be tough. But heeding Jeremiah's advice, even in tough circumstances, will always lead to enduring peace and blessing. May the truth of Jeremiah's counsel of obedience to the Lord’s voice take root in your heart. 

August 23 -- "The Peril of Unheeding Ears"

 Today's Reading: Jeremiah 37

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In the midst of chaos during the time of Jeremiah 37, we see the stark consequences of not listening to the Lord's guidance. God sent His prophet with a vital message, but the king, his servants, and the people chose to ignore it. The lesson here is clear: there are serious consequences when we neglect the counsel of the Lord. Disobedience often leads us down a dangerous path.

As a result of their refusal to listen, and in-fact, reject God's message, the Babylonian army besieged Jerusalem. The city faced a dire situation with famine, pestilence, and the horrors of war. King Zedekiah and his officials, who had ignored Jeremiah's warnings, found themselves in a desperate situation, trapped within the walls of the city.

This historical account serves as a sobering reminder that neglecting God's guidance and ignoring His warnings can lead to profound and lasting consequences. It highlights the timeless principle that obeying God's word is crucial for the well-being and preservation of individuals and nations.

In modern-day America, we see parallels between the historical context of Jerusalem and contemporary societal attitudes. Just as ancient Israel faced consequences for turning a deaf ear to God's counsel, the same cautionary tale applies to us today. We must consider the consequences of secular ideologies and moral relativism. A society that neglects the moral and spiritual compass found in God's Word risks collapse and downfall.

However, it's essential to note that these potential consequences are not inevitable. There's hope in the possibility of repentance, renewal, and a return to godly principles. As we consider the consequences of neglecting God's counsel in the context of modern America, let us be stirred to action. May believers arise as ambassadors of truth, seeking the welfare of the nation by advocating for righteousness and pointing others towards the enduring wisdom found in God's Word. And may the people of our nation heed the call.