The Gathering Place Where Family Matters

“The officers answered, Never man spoke like this man” (John 7:46).

The religious leaders wanted Christ arrested and put away. In a precious and powerful way the officers reported to the leaders, testifying that they could do nothing against Him. In fact, they never heard anyone speak like the Lord Jesus spoke. In His voice there was authority and ability. He speaks compassion and understanding. Life itself is in His written words. Have you been listening to Him by reading His Word?

For today:  Have you taken time today to read your Bible? If you are too busy, you are indeed too busy!

“Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us…But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the gold image which thou has set up” (Daniel 3:17-18).

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego loved the true and living God. No matter how great the cost, they would not bow their knees to the gods of Babylon. God is still looking for believers with this kind of courage and conviction.

For today:  Be strong in the Lord. Graciously take your stand to do what is right, no matter the cost.

“O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake Thee shall be ashamed” (Jeremiah 17:13).

What a powerful truth Jeremiah proclaims. Those who forsake, or turn their backs on the Lord, will be very sorry for their actions someday. The LORD God is our hope, source of life, author of salvation, and coming King of Kings! Wise people still trust Him.

For today:  You may feel like you are in a very small minority. But rest assured the day is coming when you will be very glad you trusted Him.

“I will greatly praise the Lord with my mouth” (Psalm 109:30).

Many folks do not like the thought of April 15^th and their taxes being due. David had a good perspective on life. Throughout this Psalm, this shepherd turned king wrote about the difficulties he experienced in life. He was honest about his hurts, but committed himself to praising the Lord even through the hard times. What a great lesson for us!

For today: We have much for which to give praise to the Lord. Which way shall it be today? Shall we be a grumbler? Or will we praise the Lord for His goodness?

“And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee…” (Deuteronomy 8:2).

The children of Israel were in the wilderness forty years. Throughout all this time, the Lord never lost track of His people. He never lost sight of them. Quite on the contrary, He guided them each step of the way. Think of how the Lord has been your guide. Do you trust your Guide? If He could take care of a nation in the wilderness, certainly He can take good care of you!

For today: Think of the old tune, “My Lord knows the way through the wilderness, all I have to do is follow.”