November 8 -- "Mercy, Not Merit"

Today's Reading: Daniel 9

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Have you ever noticed that your prayers tend to be more effective when you approach the Father with humility and a deep understanding of your dependence on His mercy?  In Chapter 9 of Daniel, we see a perfect example of this.

As Daniel mourned the loss of Jerusalem and the Israelites' exile, he knew it was a consequence of their own mistakes. But instead of focusing on their own merits or worthiness, Daniel acknowledged God's great mercy in verse 18 & 19, saying in essence, "Listen to us, O God; look at us and see the trouble we are in and the suffering of the city that bears your name. We are praying to you because you are merciful, not because we have done right. Lord, hear us. Lord, forgive us. Lord, listen to us, and act!”

This beautiful truth this teaches us about our relationship with God is that it's not about what we've done, but rather who He is!  As followers of Jesus, we're called to approach God with the same humility and dependence on His grace and mercy. This principle is at the heart of the Gospel message, reminding us that forgiveness isn't earned through good deeds or religious achievements, but rather received through faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice.

So, as we pray, let's remember to be honest with God about our shortcomings and thank Him for His mercy. Let's pray like Daniel, acknowledging our need for grace and forgiveness, and asking for it based on who God is—a merciful Father.

After Daniel's humble prayer, he was treated to an amazing divine experience—the angel Gabriel appeared to him and shared a profound prophecy that outlines the timeline of future events leading up to the coming of the Messiah and the end times. This prophecy, known as the "seventy weeks," is a key part of the book of Daniel and is considered one of the most important revelations in the Bible.  It's a powerful reminder that God is always listening to our humble prayers and working out His plan in our lives.

As we reflect on our own prayers and attitudes towards God, let's ask ourselves: Are we approaching Him with a sense of entitlement or with a humble heart, acknowledging His mercy? Like Daniel, let's come before God with a contrite heart, seeking His mercy and grace.

November 7 -- "An Excellent Spirit"

 Today's Reading: Daniel 5

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In Daniel 5:12, the phrase "excellent spirit" refers to an outstanding or exceptional inner quality that distinguished Daniel from others. This "excellence of spirit" encompasses wisdom, insight, integrity, and faithfulness to God. It describes Daniel's character as being full of God-given wisdom and a deep connection with the Spirit of God, enabling him to interpret dreams, explain mysteries, and solve complex problems.

Biblically, "excellence of spirit" is not about human ability or effort, but is entirely brought about by God's empowerment in a person's life. Daniel’s excellence flowed from his unwavering faithfulness and reliance on God, making him a vessel through whom God’s wisdom and power were made manifest.

Acquiring an "excellent spirit" like Daniel’s is not something we can manufacture through our own strength or effort—it comes from a deep, abiding relationship with God. Here's how we can cultivate this excellence:

The first step is a heart fully surrendered to God. Daniel's life was marked by complete trust in God’s sovereignty. To acquire an excellent spirit, we must daily seek the Holy Spirit’s power enabling us to yield our lives to God, trusting His plans and purposes above our own. This surrender invites the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, molding us to reflect Christ.

Galatians 5:16 reminds us to "walk by the Spirit." This means living each day in step with God’s guidance. By seeking His will in prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and allowing His Spirit to lead, we position ourselves to receive the wisdom, insight, and strength that only He can give. Our obedience to God's Word, even in the small things, cultivates a spirit of excellence as we grow in our understanding of God’s ways.

James 1:5 promises that if we ask for God’s wisdom, He will give it generously. An excellent spirit comes from this God-given wisdom. Regularly asking for His insight and guidance equips us to handle life’s challenges with discernment, like Daniel did.

We must recognize that we cannot achieve excellence by ourselves. This keeps us dependent on God. Daniel’s humility before God allowed him to be used mightily. When we humble ourselves and rely on the Spirit, God works through us in ways we never imagined.

November 6 -- "The Cunning Deceiver"

Today's Reading: Daniel 8 

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In the captivating vision of Daniel 8, we find ourselves immersed in the future conflicts and struggles that God's people will face. Amidst the turmoil and chaos, the message resonates loud and clear: God is in control of history, and He triumphs over evil in the end.

In the immediate historical context, Daniel 8 refers to the Greek ruler Antiochus Epiphanes, who persecuted the Jews and desecrated the Temple in Jerusalem. Antiochus is a foreshadowing of the ultimate Antichrist, a future ruler who will embody opposition to God and deceive many in the end times.

In verse 25, we catch a glimpse of the future Antichrist himself, who is described as a cunning and deceitful figure who rises to power through manipulation and deception in the last days. This Antichrist is expected to deceive many with his charm and false promises, the text says, "He shall make deceit prosper under his hand."

The Antichrist is also characterized by his pride and arrogance, as he seeks to elevate himself above all, even opposing God Himself. Daniel prophesies that this tyrant will exalt himself in his own mind and become supremely self-important, reflecting the Antichrist's quest for ultimate power and control.

Moreover, the destructive nature of the Antichrist's reign is highlighted in this passage, as he is said to "destroy many without warning." This aligns with the Antichrist's expected role in bringing widespread chaos and suffering upon the earth through his actions and policies.

Finally, the Antichrist ultimately meets his end "by no human hand," meaning that his ultimate defeat will be orchestrated by God Himself, signaling the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the establishment of His eternal kingdom. This serves as a powerful reminder that even the most formidable of foes will ultimately be brought to heel by the hand of God.

Daniel 8 offers a direct glimpse into the character and actions of the Antichrist, emphasizing the themes of deception, pride, destruction, and ultimately, divine judgment. As believers, we are called to remain vigilant and discerning, understanding the signs of the times and placing our trust firmly in the sovereignty of God, who holds the destiny of all nations and rulers in His hands.

November 5 -- "Everlasting Dominion"

 Today's Reading: Daniel 7

Note to Reader: Remember, we are going through the Old Testament chronologically by the order 

the events occurred. Therefore, Daniel Chapter 7 follows Jeremiah and Lamentations.

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Our lives are not merely a series of temporal victories and struggles, but rather, they are an integral part of the eternal reign of our Lord Jesus Christ! Just as Daniel's vision in chapter 7 so beautifully illustrates, Jesus is not just a historical figure or a religious leader, but the sovereign ruler of all creation - now and forevermore!

This glorious verse declares that to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, so that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting one, never to pass away, and His kingdom is one that shall not be destroyed. Oh, the majesty and splendor of our King!

As we anchor our faith in this unshakable truth, let us not be swayed by the tumultuous winds of change that buffet our lives. For in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, we can find secure refuge in the knowledge that Jesus holds all power and authority.

Let us examine our hearts and minds and ask ourselves if we have been placing our trust in temporary things, such as worldly success, relationships, or possessions. May we redirect our focus to the One who truly matters, recognizing that His kingdom surpasses all others.

As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life, let us hold fast to the comforting truth of today’s key verse. Let us share this hope with others, inviting them to join us in the eternal kingdom of Christ. May our lives bear witness to His reign, drawing others to the love and salvation found only in Him.

If we face opposition or doubt, let us remember that Jesus is the ultimate victor, and His kingdom will never be destroyed. Just as Daniel remained faithful in Babylon, despite the prevailing culture, let us stand firm in our faith, trusting in the eternal dominion of our King.

Soon, the day will come when the seventh angel will blow his trumpet, and the voices in heaven will cry out, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever." (Revelation 11:15) Oh, what a glorious day that will be! Let us live each day with the anticipation and assurance of that coming day, and may our lives be a testament to the eternal reign of our King, Jesus Christ.

November 4 -- "A Backslider's Prayer"

Today's Reading: Lamentations 5 

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Within the cries of Lamentations, flickers a flame of hope – the hope of restoration. Today’s verse expresses this beautifully: "Restore us to yourself, O Lord, that we may be restored! Renew our days as of old." This verse serves as a powerful prayer for those who have strayed from God's path.

Have you ever felt like you've taken a step backward in your spiritual journey? This is what the Bible calls backsliding. It's when we stray from God's plan for our lives, and it can happen to any of us. Israel experienced this backsliding through idol worship and disobedience, and the consequences were severe. But even in the midst of devastation, there was a glimmer of hope - a reminder that faithfulness to God is essential.

As believers, we can identify with Israel's story. We, too, can experience seasons of temptation and neglect in our faith. But here's the incredible thing: God never gives up on us! Just like the prodigal son in Luke 15, He longs for our return. This verse is a gentle reminder that God's love is unwavering, and He's always ready to welcome us back with open arms.

So, what does this prayer of restoration look like for us? It starts with acknowledging our sin and expressing a genuine desire to return to God's embrace. Just like the prodigal son who confessed, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son," we can humbly admit our shortcomings and ask for forgiveness.

As we seek restoration, we can also recommit ourselves to following Jesus fervently and wholeheartedly. And let's not forget the importance of staying connected to a supportive Christian community to walk alongside us on this journey!

When we take these steps, dear friends, we can trust that God will faithfully renew our days and restore the joy of our walk with Him. So, don't be afraid to utter this prayer: "Restore me, O Lord, that I may be restored!" Let's embrace the hope and love that this powerful verse offers, and together, we'll find our way back to the warmth and light of God's embrace.

A sincere prayer of repentance can reignite the fire of God's love and grace in our hearts.

November 3 -- "Misplaced Trust"

Today's Reading: Lamentations 4 

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In today’s key verse, Jeremiah tells of the danger of misplaced trust and the importance of relying on God for deliverance. Jeremiah's lament highlights how the people of Judah looked to worldly powers for salvation instead of trusting in God.

The phrase, "In our watching we watched for a nation which could not save" encapsulates a heartbreaking lamentation from the prophet Jeremiah. Here, Jeremiah reflects on the desperate hope his people had placed in foreign nations for deliverance, only to find disappointment and despair. Rather than turning to their mighty God for help, they sought assistance from other nations “which could not save.”

Jeremiah is referring to Egypt as the "nation" Judah had hoped would save them. During the final years of Judah, the people placed their hope in Egypt for military assistance against the Babylonian invasion. Instead of relying on God, they sought protection through an alliance with Egypt, but this help never materialized, leading to disappointment and despair. The Babylonians still conquered Jerusalem, fulfilling Jeremiah's warnings that Judah's misplaced trust would lead to their downfall.

Jeremiah reminds us that when we put our faith in worldly powers or systems, we're setting ourselves up for disappointment. Instead, we should be turning to the one and only God who can truly save and deliver us. He's the one who has the power to rescue us from all our troubles.

It's easy to get lured by the things of this world and think that worldly solutions or devices or people can solve our problems. But we need to remember that true salvation and deliverance only come from God. He's the one who loves us, cares for us, and wants the best for us.

So, let's take a cue from Jeremiah and put our faith and trust in the Lord. Let's fix our eyes on Jesus, who alone has the power to save us from all our troubles. He's the one who can help us overcome any obstacle, no matter how big or small. And with His help, we can face anything that comes our way.

November 2 -- "New Every Morning"

Today's Reading: Lamentations 3 

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In times of hardship and struggle, it's all too simple to get bogged down by our problems, allowing fear and despair to take hold of our hearts. But, we are encouraged to shift our focus away from our circumstances and onto the character of God.

In Lamentations, chapter 3, we witness Jeremiah's powerful transformation as he redirects his attention from his dire situation to the Lord. Initially, Jeremiah paints a picture of his intense anguish and despair, describing himself as a man who has seen affliction and has been cast down, forgetting what happiness even looks like. His words are filled with the weight of his suffering.

However, in the midst of his despair, Jeremiah makes a critical decision: to shift his gaze towards the Lord. In verse 21, he declares, "But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope." Despite the darkness that surrounds him, Jeremiah consciously chooses to recall the character and promises of God. In verses 22 & 23 He remembers the Lord's faithfulness, His unwavering love, and His mercies that never run dry.

This turning point marks a profound shift in Jeremiah's outlook. Instead of being overwhelmed by his circumstances, he chooses to anchor his soul in the unchanging nature of God. As he meditates on the Lord's faithfulness, hope begins to stir within his heart. He realizes that even in the midst of suffering, God remains steadfast and true.

Jeremiah's change of perspective serves as a powerful reminder for us today. In times of hardship and struggle, it's all too easy to get bogged down by our problems, allowing fear and despair to take hold of our hearts. But, like Jeremiah, we are called to shift our focus away from our circumstances and onto the character of God.

When we take our eyes off our situation and onto the Lord, we find renewed strength and hope. We are reminded of His unfailing love, His faithfulness, and His promises that never fail. In the words of the hymn by Helen Howarth Lemmel (c 1922), “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.”

As you turn your eyes upon Jesus today, may the things of earth grow strangely dim, and the glory and grace of His face shine brightly upon you.