2007 Archived Devotions

January
A Fresh Start // Monday // January 1
As we come to the beginning of a new year and the ending of an old one, we often wish we could turn over a  . . .
Astray or On Track? // Tuesday // January 2
As you look back on this last year, can you say it was a year when you progressed spiritually? Was it a year when you  . . .
My Determined Purpose // Wednesday // January 3
With the world the way it is today, with things getting darker and darker and going from bad to worse, it seems to me the  . . .
Don't Look Back // Thursday // January 4
The end of a year is a time of reflecting and remembering what God has done. But there comes a point where I say, that  . . .
Press On // Friday // January 5
You remember how God fed the Israelites with manna. Every morning they would wake up, step out of their tents, and there would be the  . . .
Keep Growing // Monday // January 8
Every new Christian faces obstacles. And of course, every older Christian faces obstacles as well. These difficulties never go away. There never comes a moment  . . .
Blinded by Sin // Tuesday // January 9
Paul, in the Book of Acts, described the process of conversion as he spoke of his encounter with Christ on the Damascus road. The Lord  . . .
Shallow Roots // Wednesday // January 10
Jesus spoke of people who hear the Word of God but it never quite takes root: "But he who received the seed on stony places,  . . .
Seeds and Weeds // Thursday // January 11
When Jesus spoke of the seed that is sown among thorns, He was talking about ground that is embedded with weeds. There were over 2,000  . . .
Good Ground // Friday // January 12
Believers who produce spiritual fruit are not like the seeds sown on the wayside that Jesus spoke of in the Parable of the Sower. These  . . .
God's Heroes // Monday // January 15
In many ways, we have lost the meaning of the word "hero." We throw it around so casually. If you can put a ball through  . . .
Under the Spirit's Control // Tuesday // January 16
When we hear the term "filled with the Spirit," it can sometimes frighten us. We might have seen bizarre things take place in the name  . . .
The Day of Small Things // Wednesday // January 17
One quality we consistently find in the lives of the men and women throughout Scripture whom God put His hand on is faithfulness. We read  . . .
The Person God Uses // Thursday // January 18
When I was 18 and a new Christian, I quickly came to understand where the phrase "starving artist" came from. All I knew how to  . . .
An Outlet for Your Inlet // Friday // January 19
A lot of Christians today who have known the Lord for many years are facing spiritual stagnation. They are saying, "I have been a Christian  . . .
A Life that Matters // Monday // January 22
I am sometimes a little amused when I read obituaries in the newspaper or hear what is said at some peoples' funerals. Whoever the deceased  . . .
When Opportunity Knocks // Tuesday // January 23
To recognize opportunity is the difference between success and failure. When opportunity knocks, we have to get up and answer the door. And we never  . . .
Courage to Stand // Wednesday // January 24
Throughout history, God has given special grace and courage to millions of Christians who were persecuted for the faith or who lost their lives. They  . . .
A Matter of Light and Darkness // Thursday // January 25
I have always been amazed at how upset and completely irrational some people can become when the subject of Jesus Christ comes up. You can  . . .
Falling into Heaven // Friday // January 26
It's a funny thing how we find sleep more and more appealing as we get older. When I was a kid, I hated to go  . . .
How God Speaks // Monday // January 29
Does God still speak to people today? Is He interested in what happens to us as individuals? Does He really have a master plan for  . . .
The Good Shepherd // Tuesday // January 30
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, is a familiar and comforting picture of God's feelings for us and His outlook toward us. It is a picture that  . . .
Like Sheep // Wednesday // January 31
Jesus said, "My sheep hear My voice . . . " (John 10:27). Of all the animals Jesus could have compared us to, He chose  . . .
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February
Our Source of Strength // Thursday // February 1
Sheep are timid little creatures. The strange thing about them is that because of their very makeup, it is almost impossible for them to lie  . . .
Hearing His Voice // Friday // February 2
As you get to know your Shepherd, you will come to realize that when He calls you, it is always worth obeying. When He says  . . .
Becoming New // Monday // February 5
When someone becomes a Christian, it isn't that he or she is simply a little better off than before. It isn't that he or she  . . .
Just Throw the Net // Tuesday // February 6
Many of us are afraid to ask someone if they would like to give their life to Jesus Christ for one simple reason: we're afraid  . . .
Willing to Go // Wednesday // February 7
Philip was a Jew, yet he went to a city in Samaria. That doesn't mean a lot to us today, but it meant a lot  . . .
Without Question // Thursday // February 8
Philip was used to lead others to Jesus because he was obedient. In Acts 8:26, we read that the Lord said to him, "Arise and  . . .
Acts 8:30 // Friday // February 9
"Tell me, was the prophet talking about himself or someone else?" That was the question the Ethiopian dignitary had for Philip. It's a good thing  . . .
Improbable Christians // Monday // February 12
You may know someone right now who you cannot even visualize as a Christian. Maybe it's one of those people who goes out of his  . . .
A Genuine Conversion // Tuesday // February 13
The mere mention of the name Saul of Tarsus would send chills down the backbones of the believers of his day. So significant an event  . . .
Misguided Loyalties // Wednesday // February 14
We know from reading about Saul, or Paul, that he was raised in a strict Jewish home. This meant that he would have learned the  . . .
Just One // Thursday // February 15
What drove Saul to such a hatred for Christians? No doubt it was when he saw the courageous last stand of the young Stephen, who  . . .
Worth Quoting // Friday // February 16
I have always felt that when I preach, especially at Harvest Crusades, I should generously quote Scripture, because I believe there is authority in the  . . .
Believe and See // Monday // February 19
We have all heard people say, "Seeing is believing. Show me and I will believe." But the Bible essentially teaches us that believing is seeing.  . . .
The Cost of Believing // Tuesday // February 20
When Jesus healed the blind man, did everybody in town begin to rejoice because of what God had done? No. Not everyone rejoiced. In fact,  . . .
Who Sinned? // Wednesday // February 21
Sometimes the question comes up of whether our physical suffering on earth is the result of sin. Who sinned? That is the question the disciples  . . .
In Spite of Sickness // Thursday // February 22
God can work in spite of sickness. He still answers prayer and heals people today, and He still does miracles. In sickness and in hardships,  . . .
One Thing I Know // Friday // February 23
You know what? The most aggressive witnesses for Jesus are brand-new converts. You'd think it would be the people who have known the Lord for  . . .
The Man in Satan's Grip // Monday // February 26
In Mark 5, the Bible tells us of a man who was possessed by demons, had superhuman strength and was able to break chains with  . . .
Satan, Society, or Savior? // Tuesday // February 27
There are three forces at work in the life of the demon-possessed man in Mark 5. First there is Satan. Just like a roaring lion,  . . .
He Is Greater // Wednesday // February 28
The devil can gain a foothold on your life in many ways. I think one way is through drugs. Sadly, we are seeing a real  . . .
Finding the Lost Sheep // Thursday // March 1
The devil was trying to stop Jesus and the disciples from reaching a poor tortured soul, a demon-possessed man who was living among tombstones (Mark  . . .
Away with Jesus? // Friday // March 2
After Jesus cast the demons out of the man who lived among the tombs, they went into a herd of pigs and ran over a  . . .
Why Prayer is Essential // Monday // March 5
Have you ever been in a situation where there seemed to be no way out? Everything is going along just fine when, all of a  . . .
Just Ask // Tuesday // March 6
It is my firm conviction that some Christians today don't have God's provision, God's healing, or God's blessing in their lives because they have not  . . .
Make Every Day Count // Wednesday // March 7
It is hard to explain when someone's life has been cut short, when someone who is relatively young dies. We expected them to live a  . . .
A Guide for Prayer // Thursday // March 8
For prayer to be powerful and effective, there has to be at least a few moments of recognizing the One to whom we are speaking. "What?  . . .
When Not to Pray // Friday // March 9
In a broad sense, we should pray about everything. But there are certain things we don't need to pray about. For example, if someone were  . . .
Nuclear Giants and Ethical Infants // Monday // March 12
In 1948, General Omar Bradley made a statement with a prophetic ring to it: "We have grasped the mystery of the atom and rejected the  . . .
Not of This World // Tuesday // March 13
So often the world misconstrues what Christians say. It draws erroneous conclusions because it never takes the time to really listen carefully to the gospel  . . .
One at a Time // Wednesday // March 14
The apostle Paul was probably the greatest communicator the church ever produced. As a brilliant orator and a great student of Scripture, history, and culture,  . . .
Compelled to Preach // Thursday // March 15
Do you ever feel righteous indignation as you look at our confused society today? Righteous indignation is the result of seeing something that disturbs you  . . .
Moved to Action // Friday // March 16
Even before Titanic arrived on the big screen in 1997, people have been fascinated by its story, perhaps because there is so much to it.  . . .
Life during Life // Monday // March 19
A few years ago, there was a lot of interest in the possibility of life on Mars. I was even interviewed for an article about  . . .
Choose Life // Tuesday // March 20
God has provided us with a radical contrast regarding the choice that we can make in life. Jesus has essentially told us, "Here is your  . . .
Peace in the Kingdom // Wednesday // March 21
Jesus calls us His sheep, and we know that the Shepherd's primary objective for His sheep is that they flourish. He wants His sheep to  . . .
The Key to Contentment // Thursday // March 22
As you begin to know God's love and purpose for you, you can live a life that is unending—even overflowing. It is life as it  . . .
A Tune-up for Your Life // Friday // March 23
People can talk all day about their love and deep sense of devotion for God, but the proof is in the pudding, so to speak.  . . .
Death Turned to Victory // Monday // March 26
As we get older, a new question begins to gnaw away at us: Is there life after death? Sometimes it will come earlier if someone  . . .
Temporary Unknowns // Tuesday // March 27
Often the question comes up as to whether we will know one another in heaven. I cannot give a definite answer to that, because the  . . .
Trust His Plan // Wednesday // March 28
When Mary and Martha informed Jesus that Lazarus was sick, they expected to see their brother recover as soon as the message reached Jesus. But  . . .
When God Cried // Thursday // March 29
At the tomb of Lazarus, Jesus surveyed the scene. Mary, Martha, and the others were all weeping and mourning. And Jesus wept. Tears rolled down  . . .
Do You Believe? // Friday // March 30
You know what I like about Martha? People always knew where they stood with her. She was someone who would speak her mind. After Lazarus  . . .
New Knowledge for the Skeptic // Monday // April 2
Thomas, one of Jesus' disciples, had the nickname Doubting Thomas, but I think that is a bit unfair. I have always thought of Thomas as  . . .
New Comfort for the Grieving // Tuesday // April 3
Mary Magdalene was one of the most devoted followers that Jesus ever had. Luke's Gospel tells us that she and others ministered to Him out  . . .
New Peace for the Fearful // Wednesday // April 4
After Jesus' crucifixion, the disciples were terrified. Afraid that the same authorities who executed Jesus would come after them next, they hid behind shut doors,  . . .
A New Start for the Distant // Thursday // April 5
It all started to fall apart for Peter in the upper room. Jesus warned the disciples that one of them would actually betray Him and  . . .
The Right Kind of Fear // Monday // April 9
Even the most committed believer has those moments when fear or worry can kick in. Anxiety can overtake us. Maybe we are concerned about our  . . .
Standing By // Tuesday // April 10
Paul had gone to Jerusalem to preach the gospel, and the next thing he knew, he was locked up in a cold, damp, dark prison  . . .
It's Not Over Yet // Wednesday // April 11
Are you discouraged today? Are you afraid of an uncertain future? The Bible tells the story of a time when Jesus' disciples were not only  . . .
Just Wait // Thursday // April 12
Jairus was a well-known, powerful, wealthy individual who was the head of the local synagogue. When his 12-year-old daughter, his only child, was in great  . . .
Corrective Suffering // Friday // April 13
David wrote in that familiar psalm, Psalm 23, "Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me." The rod and the staff were shepherd's tools. The  . . .
The Sum of Our Lives // Monday // April 16
It has been determined that the average American spends 15 years of his or her life in front of the television set—15 years. I am  . . .
Real Worship // Tuesday // April 17
A number of words in the Bible are translated "worship." The one used the most often means "to bow down and do homage." Another biblical  . . .
Time Does Tell // Wednesday // April 18
A while ago, I ran into a guy that I once hung out with in school. I hadn't seen him in 25 years. He called  . . .
Open Access // Thursday // April 19
Within the first few verses of Jude's short epistle, he uses an important word twice: "beloved." In verse 1, he writes, "To those who are  . . .
An Itch for Novelty // Friday // April 20
In describing the last days, the apostle Paul said, "A time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They  . . .
The Real Jesus // Monday // April 23
Without question, Jesus Christ is the most fascinating person ever to walk the face of the earth. He is undeniably the most extraordinary, influential individual  . . .
To See Jesus // Tuesday // April 24
I remember visiting a mental hospital years ago with my friend and fellow pastor, Mike MacIntosh. We were visiting the patients and sharing the gospel.  . . .
A Different Kind of Kingdom // Wednesday // April 25
The Bible tells us that when Passover took place, Jerusalem,— being the spiritual capital of Judaism,— teemed with visitors. People were everywhere. Not only that,  . . .
God's Trade-in Deal // Thursday // April 26
Most of us are suspicious of the trade-in deal. Maybe you have tried to buy a car and trade in something else. The salesman says,  . . .
A Light in the Dark // Friday // April 27
Jesus became very popular during His earthly ministry. He spoke in a way that people could understand. He reached out to hurting people. He was  . . .
A Strong Community // Monday // April 30
We live in a time in which our society is becoming more and more disjointed and divided. Rather than celebrating what we have in common,  . . .
Called Together // Tuesday // May 1
There is nothing in this world quite like Christian fellowship. We know that the early church worshipped and prayed together. They studied the Scriptures together.  . . .
A Place for You // Wednesday // May 2
The Bible likens the church to a family and to a physical body. We are called as Christians to be functioning, participating, contributing members of  . . .
The Loving Church // Thursday // May 3
The Bible tells us again and again that we should love one another. Love is like the glue that holds us all together. The apostle  . . .
Love Is Patient and Kind // Friday // May 4
Can you imagine the world we would live in if people operated by the principle that says, "Don't look out for your own needs and  . . .
Heart Trouble // Monday // May 7
Have you ever felt troubled in your heart—agitated, stressed-out, or uncertain about tomorrow? Or to put it another way, have you ever driven on a  . . .
The Big Picture // Tuesday // May 8
There are times in our lives as Christians when God will do things or fail to do things that we want Him to do, and  . . .
Our Great Hope // Wednesday // May 9
We don't have to be stressed-out or troubled in our hearts, because as Christians, we are going to heaven. No matter what happens, no one  . . .
Watching and Waiting // Thursday // May 10
The Bible says that God has loved us so that in the ages to come, He might show us the exceeding riches of His grace  . . .
A Vision of Heaven // Friday // May 11
Have you ever tried to explain something to someone and could not quite find the words? Have you ever tried to describe something complex to  . . .
In Search of Biblical Literacy // Monday // May 14
Whenever I am invited to speak somewhere, I can discern the biblical IQ of the group I'm addressing in the first few minutes of my  . . .
Destruction by Deception // Tuesday // May 15
Is it possible to preach and not be a true believer, or to even do miracles and not necessarily be saved? Absolutely. Jesus said, "Not everyone  . . .
Contend for the Faith // Wednesday // May 16
Without question, the gospel is under attack today. And I believe that most Americans, not to mention the rest of the world, have not really  . . .
Contending with Care // Thursday // May 17
I remember walking down Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki and seeing a man holding a big sign with red flames and the words, "The wages of  . . .
Building and Defending // Friday // May 18
When God called Nehemiah, the cupbearer of King Artaxerxes, to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah was living in the lap of luxury. He was  . . .
Misunderstood Grace // Monday // May 21
I am shocked at what some people today will do and still claim to be Christians. They will blatantly do what the Bible tells them  . . .
The Importance of Doctrine // Tuesday // May 22
Theology and doctrine are not trivial matters. Yet there are people today who set aside biblical teaching and say, "I just want to experience God.  . . .
The Result of Rebellion // Wednesday // May 23
Sometimes the question arises as to how a God of love could create someone as wicked as Lucifer. The answer is that God did not  . . .
A Time-Tested Warning // Thursday // May 24
It may seem like a bit of a stretch to use Sodom and Gomorrah as an example and warning to us in the church today,  . . .
Our Back-up Plan // Friday // May 25
When police officers are in trouble, what do they do? They call for backup. That is what believers need to do as well. When we  . . .
Letting the Holy Spirit Work // Monday // May 28
Why has the Spirit come into this world? What does God's Holy Spirit want to do in the life of the unbeliever? The Holy Spirit  . . .
God's Royal Seal // Tuesday // May 29
What does the Bible mean when it says that we are sealed with the Holy Spirit? In the apostle Paul's day, when goods were shipped  . . .
Our Helper // Wednesday // May 30
In the Upper Room, on the night Jesus was betrayed, the disciples were upset and discouraged by what He had been telling them about His  . . .
Our Teacher // Thursday // May 31
We may not even realize it, but the Spirit of God teaches us all the time. The Holy Spirit can unfold passages from the Bible  . . .
Dynamic Power // Friday // June 1
Jesus said there is a promise of power for every Christian. When we become Christians, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit, who gives us  . . .
Love You Can Count On // Monday // June 4
We all have probably heard someone say at some time, "God loves you." And sometimes we may wonder, Does God really love me? Maybe you  . . .
Twelve Hours to Live // Tuesday // June 5
At the first Passover in Egypt, the blood of the lambs that protected the Israelites was pointing to Jesus Christ. It was foreshadowing what He  . . .
Fatherly Love // Wednesday // June 6
What do you think God's love is? Do you envision a permissive love that allows you to do whatever you want to? That isn't what  . . .
Constant Cleansing // Thursday // June 7
Before the Passover meal, Jesus took off His outer robe. He got down on His hands and knees, picked up the basin, and began to  . . .
Darkness or Light? // Friday // June 8
The ultimate betrayal is done by someone you love. And that was the case with Judas. It wasn't just that he turned against the Lord,  . . .
The Pursuit of God // Monday // June 11
A glance at today's headlines might cause us to conclude that we live in pretty bleak times. There is great uncertainty about the future, especially  . . .
Filling the Void // Tuesday // June 12
If you are seeking fulfillment or purpose or meaning from this world, I have some bad news: you will never find it. There is nothing  . . .
What Spiritual Fruit Looks Like // Wednesday // June 13
The concept of bearing fruit is used often in Scripture. In the Gospels, Jesus told the story of a sower who went out to sow  . . .
Making a Commitment // Thursday // June 14
Although it has been more than three decades, I still remember clearly the day I was joined in marriage to my wife Cathe. She walked  . . .
In Harmony with God // Friday // June 15
The word "walking" speaks of regularity, of moving at a certain pace. The Bible tells us in Genesis 5 about Enoch, who walked with God.  . . .
Promises . . . with a Prerequisite // Monday // June 18
Without question, Psalm 91 is a real gem among the psalms. Next to Psalm 23, it probably has brought more encouragement and comfort throughout the  . . .
What's in a Name? // Tuesday // June 19
To show us different facets of His nature, God gives us different names for himself. The words used in Psalm 91:1–2 include 'Elyôwn, Shaddai, Jehovah,  . . .
Your Hiding Place // Wednesday // June 20
When you were a child, did you have a hiding place you would run to when you were afraid or wanted to be alone? God wants  . . .
Kept in His Ways // Thursday // June 21
The angels of God are nearer than you may think. They are all around us all the time, taking care of us and ministering to  . . .
When Trouble Comes // Friday // June 22
Are you facing an emergency today? Dial 911—Psalm 91:1, that is. God can use adversity in the life of the Christian. None of us wants  . . .
Going into Business // Monday // June 25
There are a number of things included in the concept of walking with God. The Bible says that we need to walk in the Spirit  . . .
Principles for Happiness // Tuesday // June 26
If you think the Christian life is boring, then you haven't yet learned how to walk with God. He will change your outlook on life.  . . .
Friends of God // Wednesday // June 27
Two men camping in the forest were enjoying their morning coffee when, all of a sudden, they spotted a very large, hungry grizzly bear running  . . .
True Friends // Thursday // June 28
We cannot choose our coworkers necessarily. We cannot choose all the members of our family. But we can choose our friends. Choose your friends carefully, and  . . .
Friendship with Jesus // Friday // June 29
How do we show our friendship for Jesus? How do we show our love for Him? In John 15:14, Jesus points out three things we  . . .
The Place of Blessing // Monday // July 2
Though God's love toward us is undeserved, unconditional, and even unsought, it is possible for us to be out of harmony with Him. To keep  . . .
The Way of Cain // Tuesday // July 3
A fisherman who filled a bucket with crabs to take to the market every day was asked why he never put a lid on his  . . .
Balaam's Error // Wednesday // July 4
A Roman Catholic priest who had heard people confess every imaginable sin and crime, including murder and adultery, said that he had never heard anyone  . . .
False Promises // Thursday // July 5
A common characteristic of false teachers is the offer of false promises. You see them promising, for example, that God will prosper those who give  . . .
Looking Up? // Friday // July 6
There is a lot of disagreement in the church as a whole over what we call "eschatology," or prophetic events. Most often, it seems, the  . . .
When Christians Stumble // Monday // July 9
Contrary to what some might believe, the Bible doesn't teach that if you are a Christian, you will never stumble. It doesn't teach that if  . . .
Remember to Forget // Tuesday // July 10
Have you ever done anything that you are ashamed of? Have you ever done things you wished you had not done? If you have repented  . . .
No Approval Necessary // Wednesday // July 11
I remember thinking as a young Christian that the reason God was blessing me was because of my disciplined and regular Bible study. I would  . . .
Just Getting Started // Thursday // July 12
When I look back on my life at the things God has allowed me to do and the opportunities He has opened up, I can  . . .
Eyes on Him // Friday // July 13
Holocaust survivor Corrie ten Boom once said, "Look within and be depressed. Look without and be distressed. Look at Jesus and be at rest." Looking  . . .
Conditions for Peace // Monday // July 16
One of the first things I remember about the day I put my faith in Christ was the sense of peace filling my heart. It  . . .
Unlimited Access // Tuesday // July 17
As a child, I always wanted to go to Disneyland on my birthday. I still remember making a vow in the backseat of the car  . . .
Embracing Hardship // Wednesday // July 18
The apostle Paul did not merely endure his hardships. He gloried in them. The meaning of the word "tribulation" that Paul used in Romans 5:3  . . .
Finding Fortitude // Thursday // July 19
When you want to get in shape, it is actually through the process of tearing your muscles down that you build them up. The first  . . .
Prepared for Choice Work // Friday // July 20
A traveler was visiting a logging area in the Pacific Northwest and was interested to see how logs were chosen that eventually would be used  . . .
The Day's Curriculum // Monday // July 23
Although He knew that a storm was coming, Jesus said to His disciples, "Go to the other side" (see Matthew 14:22–24). Jesus sent them out  . . .
Just Before Dawn // Tuesday // July 24
In Matthew 14, we read about the disciples being tossed by the wind and waves in their boat on the Sea of Galilee. Then Jesus  . . .
Ready and Waiting // Wednesday // July 25
Some people may believe they are going to heaven and may even be looking forward to the return of Jesus, yet still not necessarily be  . . .
Foxhole Christians // Thursday // July 26
Before I became a Christian, I thought I already was one. Whenever I was in trouble, I cried out to Jesus. I thought I must  . . .
Let Go and Take Hold // Friday // July 27
A man who fell over the side of a cliff was hanging on to a branch that was starting to give way. Recognizing it was  . . .
A Call to Courage // Monday // July 30
Have you ever been afraid of the future? Maybe you feel as though you are in a rut, or maybe you are discouraged. Maybe you  . . .
Arise and Walk // Tuesday // July 31
The Gospel of Mark gives us the account of a group of men who wanted to bring their paralyzed friend to Jesus for healing. Jesus  . . .
Tapping into God's Power // Wednesday // August 1
As Jesus made His way to the home of Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue whose daughter was ill, there was a woman in the  . . .
Courage in His Presence // Thursday // August 2
Jesus had told His disciples to go over to the other side of the Sea of Galilee. They were in their little boat, rowing across,  . . .
Heroes Wanted // Friday // August 3
The world has never been more advanced technologically, yet we have never been in worse shape spiritually and morally. It can be frightening to wonder  . . .
In Conclusion . . . // Monday // August 6
Before I became a Christian, I was like most young people, looking for purpose and meaning in life. The thinking of the day was that  . . .
A Radical Difference // Tuesday // August 7
The Book of Acts tells the story of a handful of men and women who, by the power of the Holy Spirit, did not leave  . . .
Practical Power // Wednesday // August 8
Before He ascended into heaven, Jesus told His disciples that He had a job for them to do. He would come back and establish His  . . .
Telltale Signs // Thursday // August 9
We can often tell where people have been just by looking at them. For instance, if someone walked by wearing a wet swimming suit and  . . .
Peace and Victory // Friday // August 10
There are two primary sources of spiritual attack in the life of the Christian: outward and inward. While an inward attack comes in the form  . . .
Know, Know, Know // Monday // August 13
A Christian's defeat on the spiritual battlefield lies largely in his or her ignorance of the facts. In Jesus Christ there is the power to  . . .
Use What You Have // Tuesday // August 14
When God released the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt, it took them a while to get to the Promised Land—a lot longer than  . . .
A Worthy Walk // Wednesday // August 15
I remember when both my sons took their first steps. We so desperately wanted to see our kids take them. We were so excited. Then  . . .
Is Meekness a Weakness? // Thursday // August 16
In classical Greek, the word for "humility" is a derogatory term suggesting low-mindedness and groveling servanthood. The Greeks had no place in their language or  . . .
Why We Need Unity // Friday // August 17
When you put your faith in Jesus Christ, you became a part of the church. You are a part of the body of Christ. We  . . .
Do You Want to Change Your Life? // Saturday // August 18
Have you ever wished your life could change? Perhaps you have made choices you regret. You are facing the consequences of those decisions this very moment. Is  . . .
The Source of Happiness // Monday // August 20
It has been said the best cure for hedonism is an attempt to practice it. If you chase after pleasure, you eventually will come to the  . . .
New and Improved // Tuesday // August 21
Madison Avenue discovered long ago that a good way to sell a product is to add the words "new and improved." The only thing that  . . .
Our Choice in Life // Wednesday // August 22
As a guest on Larry King Live a few years ago, Billy Graham was asked to comment on the rash of violence on high school  . . .
Under God's Protection // Thursday // August 23
In the New Testament, we have the account of Jesus saying to Peter, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift  . . .
The Lust of the Eyes // Friday // August 24
Why do we get tempted in our minds? Because it is command central. It is here that we reason. It is here that we intellectualize.  . . .
Heaven Can't Wait // Saturday // August 25
This life is filled with things to worry about, and we could easily spend every waking hour of our day worrying. Some of us do  . . .
Responsibility // Monday // August 27
When Peter and John came before the priests, elders, and scribes to answer for their preaching the gospel, who was there? Acts 4:6 says that  . . .
A Walking Light Bulb // Tuesday // August 28
The religious leaders thought they had eliminated the problem when they crucified Jesus. But now, His disciples were preaching and performing miracles. It was as  . . .
Ability vs. Availability // Wednesday // August 29
When Peter and John were brought before the Sanhedrin, it was a source of complete amazement that these untrained laymen could be so well-versed in  . . .
No Condemnation // Thursday // August 30
We all have our moments of hypocrisy—times when we are not behaving as we ought to behave as Christians, times where we really let the  . . .
Tares among the Wheat // Friday // August 31
Ananias and Sapphira had a choice: They could give a lot to the early church, or they could give a little. Nothing was required of  . . .
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September
God with Skin On // Saturday // September 1
I heard about a little boy who was frightened one night during a great thunderstorm. He called out to his father from his bedroom and  . . .
A Meaningful Life // Monday // September 3
How should I live my life on this earth? What purpose does God have in mind for me, now that I have received His Son  . . .
Ordinary Heroes // Tuesday // September 4
I think we have lost the meaning of the word "hero" today. We throw it around so casually. Everyone is called a hero, from athletes  . . .
Ready for a Refill? // Wednesday // September 5
If you want to be used by God, then you need to be filled with the Holy Spirit. The word "filled" as used in the  . . .
A Good and Faithful Servant // Thursday // September 6
The person God uses must be faithful. Stephen was a man full of wisdom and the Holy Spirit, and full of faith (see Acts 6:1–7).  . . .
Eager to Serve // Friday // September 7
When I was a new Christian, I would hang around at Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa. I was 18 years old, and I wanted to  . . .
How Not To Become a Christian // Saturday // September 8
What does it mean to be a Christian? How do you become one? I'm glad you asked. First, let's look at three ways you cannot  . . .
The Right Way to Pray // Monday // September 10
When it comes to prayer, people sometimes mistakenly think they can first come up with a plan and then get God to do what they  . . .
Unanswered Prayers // Tuesday // September 11
I am so glad that God will overrule my prayers at times, because I have prayed for things fervently, believing they were the will of  . . .
One Bite at a Time // Wednesday // September 12
If you find a person who has fallen into gross sin, I would say that in every situation that you can think of, it began  . . .
Coming Up Empty // Thursday // September 13
It is not that unusual to pick up a newspaper, read an article, or turn on the news and learn that another celebrity has checked  . . .
Short-Circuiting the Soul // Friday // September 14
J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist who directed the Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, where the United States' first nuclear weapon was developed, said this about  . . .
The Perfect Guest // Saturday // September 15
Are you facing what seems like an impossible situation? A failing marriage? Loss of employment? Bad news from the doctor? Then you need to read this. Because  . . .
Grasping for the Wind // Monday // September 17
Joy Davidman, the wife of C. S. Lewis, said, "Living for your own pleasure is the least pleasurable thing a person can do. If his  . . .
The Quest // Tuesday // September 18
I read about a convention where Star Trek memorabilia was auctioned off, including a half-filled glass of water that had been sipped by a cast  . . .
Divine Deposits // Wednesday // September 19
Let's say that your phone rings tomorrow morning, and it is a call from the manager of your bank. He tells you, "I received a  . . .
Green Lights and Blue Skies // Thursday // September 20
If I decided how my day were to go, I would never write in "crisis." I would never write, "Get sick" here, or "Have my  . . .
Living Well // Friday // September 21
With everything going on in our world today, we could be really fearful about our lives: I don't know if I should do that—an accident  . . .
Lost in Translation // Saturday // September 22
Pastor Greg Laurie is in New York City this weekend for Harvest 07 at the WaMu Theater at Madison Square Garden on Sunday. Please be  . . .
Faithful // Monday // September 24
When David was called by God to be king, he was out watching sheep, just being faithful. The day David killed Goliath, he didn't wake  . . .
Committed to Learn // Tuesday // September 25
Have you ever had one of those golden opportunities in life to share the gospel, and you found that you just weren't prepared? Or have  . . .
Evangelize or Fossilize // Wednesday // September 26
Have you ever noticed that when you start talking about one of God's qualities, by the time you have finished the conversation, you find yourself  . . .
A Picture of Courage // Thursday // September 27
God not only gives us the right words to say in a given situation, but He also gives us the power to stand up for  . . .
When Opportunity Knocks // Friday // September 28
Stephen had been brought before the Sanhedrin to be judged for preaching the gospel. There was no higher authority in all of Israel than the  . . .
What Do You Want? // Saturday // September 29
Some time ago, psychologist William Marston asked 3,000 people, "What have you to live for?" He was shocked to find that 94 percent said they were  . . .
Altogether Different // Monday // October 1
The Ethiopian official's conversion in Acts 8 shows us what happens when someone becomes a Christian. A radical and immediate change took place in this  . . .
On His Way Rejoicing // Tuesday // October 2
The Bible tells the story in Acts 8 of a very empty man who met a very satisfied one. The former, an Ethiopian official, had  . . .
A Burden for the Lost // Wednesday // October 3
Philip was a man God used to bring others to himself. But why was he so powerfully used by God? What was his secret? Philip had  . . .
Simple Obedience // Thursday // October 4
Philip was a man that God could call. He was used to leading others to Jesus because he was obedient. As he proclaimed the gospel  . . .
An Opportunity to Be Seized // Friday // October 5
The Ethiopian official was going home empty-hearted. He had not found the answers he had been searching for in Jerusalem. I wonder if anyone in  . . .
Why He Died . . . // Saturday // October 6
The cross is en vogue today as a fashion accessory. This symbol of the Christian faith is emblazoned on shirts and purses, and is even a  . . .
Faith and Works // Monday // October 8
A flurry of research recently has found that in spite of the secularism of popular culture, many people believe in God and identify themselves as  . . .
The Implanted Word // Tuesday // October 9
The human heart is like receptive soil to the seed of the Word of God. Jesus used this analogy in the parable of the sower  . . .
Attention with Intention // Wednesday // October 10
It is possible to hear God's Word with our ears, but not with our hearts. Jesus knew that we can often hear without understanding. That  . . .
Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak // Thursday // October 11
In this day of instant information, we can get our news so fast that we don't have to wait for the evening news anymore. We  . . .
A Millstone or a Milestone? // Friday // October 12
Some people see the Christian life as rules and regulations and hardships, but God's law is the law of liberty, which means that it is  . . .
Judge Not? // Monday // October 15
Judge not, lest you be judged. . . . We have all heard it. It is in the Bible, in Matthew 7:1, where Jesus said,  . . .
A Time for Silence // Tuesday // October 16
I can think of so many times when I should have kept silent, but I just had to speak. On more than one occasion, I  . . .
Beauty for Ashes // Wednesday // October 17
I have been amazed at the testimonies of some people when they tell me the way they used to be. I've looked at them and  . . .
The Secret of Living // Thursday // October 18
Have you ever been semi-listening in on someone's conversation? Not intentionally, of course, because you would never do that. Maybe you were in a restaurant  . . .
For Our Good // Friday // October 19
A lot of us don't like commandments, because we see them as restrictive. CNN founder Ted Turner once made this statement about the Ten Commandments:  . . .
Charlene's Story // Saturday // October 20
Charlene McDaniel was a beautiful young woman. Some even compared her to Marilyn Monroe, which was pretty heady stuff for someone from Friendship, Arkansas. Although  . . .
Counting the Cost // Monday // October 22
When Jesus was in Jerusalem during the Passover, John's Gospel tells us that many believed in His name after they saw the signs He did.  . . .
Too Busy to Serve? // Tuesday // October 23
Everyone who serves the Lord is busy. We all have a lot of things to do. But I thank God for every volunteer in the  . . .
Creating Friction // Wednesday // October 24
If you are going to follow Christ, it will create friction in some of your relationships. Jesus made a very radical statement on this subject:  . . .
The Deity of Jesus // Thursday // October 25
There are people today who say that Jesus never claimed to be God; it is just something people dreamed up. But that is a lie.  . . .
Fully God, Fully Man // Friday // October 26
Because Jesus was God, we might ask, did He have full knowledge of God as a little baby in the manger at Bethlehem? Or did  . . .
Superstition or Faith // Saturday // October 27
I think we all have thought of questions we'd like to ask God someday. When something happens that seems inexplicable, we may wonder, "Why did  . . .
Just Our Nature // Monday // October 29
We all know what it is like to be tempted. But where does temptation come from? It does not come from God. James 1:13–14 says,  . . .
Enemy Strategies // Tuesday // October 30
On a trip to Alaska some years ago, I went fishing for king salmon. In one spot, our group used bright orange salmon eggs as  . . .
An Opportune Time // Wednesday // October 31
In a broad sense, temptation can come to us at any time. Of course, it often happens after times of great blessing. Jesus was tested,  . . .
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November
Focused Attacks // Thursday // November 1
Temptation comes to everyone, but the enemy focuses many of his attacks on those who are young in the faith and those who are making  . . .
Guard Your Mind // Friday // November 2
In many, if not most cases, temptation enters through the doorway of our minds. When Satan wanted to lead the first man and woman into  . . .
You Are a Worshipper // Saturday // November 3
Would you consider yourself a worshipper? Believers in God might be quick to say yes, while others who are not believers—or perhaps are skeptics—would say they're  . . .
It's All Relative // Monday // November 5
When you become a Christian, one of the more notable changes is that you will give up many of the things you once did. Of  . . .
The Ultimate Prize // Tuesday // November 6
When I was a kid, I had all kinds of ribbons on my walls for races I had run, but not one of them was  . . .
One Thing // Wednesday // November 7
David wrote in the psalms, "One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of  . . .
Forget the Past // Thursday // November 8
Everyone who has run a race knows that you can break your stride by looking over your shoulder to see how your opponents are doing.  . . .
So Far to Go // Friday // November 9
There is a sign along an airport runway that says, "Keep moving. If you stop, you are in danger and a danger to those who  . . .
The Worship of Worship // Saturday // November 10
Everyone worships someone or something. Of course, not everyone worships God, but everyone worships something. Everyone is a worshipper. Christians often seek to worship God in  . . .
God's Road Crew // Monday // November 12
Sometimes people on road crews are not very popular. I appreciate the work these crews do, but it seems they always do it at the  . . .
True Repentance // Tuesday // November 13
What do you think of when you hear the word "repent"? Maybe you think of someone wearing a sandwich board with flames on it who  . . .
Lord of All // Wednesday // November 14
There are people today who say, "I am a Christian," but they are out getting drunk. They say, "I am a Christian," but they are  . . .
Genuine Salvation // Thursday // November 15
Many people today have essentially believed a watered-down gospel that deletes the message of repentance. They believe in an all-caring, nonjudgmental God who requires no  . . .
The Question of Liberty // Friday // November 16
Sometimes I am asked what I think about Christians drinking alcohol. Do I think that is a good idea? I think it is a dangerous  . . .
What Can I Give to God? // Saturday // November 17
Have you ever gotten a gift that far exceeded what you could have expected? Something so nice that just saying "thank you" seemed so inadequate? If  . . .
Resisting Temptation // Monday // November 19
Not only do many of us in the United States have more than one Bible, but we have them in every color and every translation.  . . .
Hot Water // Tuesday // November 20
Have you ever had the bottom drop out of your life? Things had been going reasonably well. The birds were singing. The sun was shining.  . . .
Reaching Your Family // Wednesday // November 21
It is noteworthy that neither James nor any of the other brothers of Jesus believed in Him prior to His resurrection. In fact, at one  . . .
For He Is Good // Thursday // November 22
At this time of year, we tend put a lot of emphasis on Christmas. That is because merchants are pushing us in that direction, wanting  . . .
His Ultimate Purpose // Friday // November 23
We must remember that God never tests us without a purpose or a reason. You might wonder, Why does God allow His children to go  . . .
Born Again? // Saturday // November 24
We all like the idea of changing, of becoming something different than what we presently are. Starting over again . . . . Reinventing ourselves . .  . . .
The Source of Our Problems // Monday // November 26
We are living in a time when we love to blame someone or something else for the things we do. It's convenient to have a  . . .
The Pursuit of Pleasure // Tuesday // November 27
The Bible tells us that one of the signs of the last days would be that people are lovers of pleasure rather lovers of God  . . .
Friendship with the World // Wednesday // November 28
When we come across the term "world" in the Bible, it isn't necessarily speaking of the Earth, per se. Rather, it is often speaking of  . . .
Your Best Defense // Thursday // November 29
When the Bible tells us to "submit to God," and to "resist the devil" (James 4:7), it doesn't mean we are to go out and  . . .
His Way or Your Way? // Friday // November 30
The Bible doesn't condemn the person who makes plans for the future. Rather, it criticizes the person who makes those plans with no thought whatsoever  . . .
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December
How to Be "Born Again" // Saturday // December 1
We all like the idea of change in our life. Why do you think products are regularly repackaged and released with the statement "New and  . . .
A Changed Life // Monday // December 3
Most Christians would readily agree with the simple truth that Jesus Christ is coming back again. But here is the question: If we believe that,  . . .
Preparing with Patience // Tuesday // December 4
The early rains in Israel would usually come in late October or early November. These were anxiously awaited by the farmer, because they would soften  . . .
At the Right Time // Wednesday // December 5
As we look at this world we are living in, as we look at the way our culture is going, we say, "Lord, come back.  . . .
A Friend in Need // Thursday // December 6
Job certainly stands out as a shining example of someone who was patient in adversity. He went through incredible difficulties. You probably remember his story:  . . .
The Rod and Staff // Friday // December 7
Sheep have a natural tendency to go astray and get themselves into trouble. When one sheep goes astray, the others will follow. We have the  . . .
The Legacy of a Life // Saturday // December 8
It seems the older I get, the faster time seems to go by. It seems like Christmas arrives earlier and earlier every year. When you are  . . .
The Acceptable Time // Monday // December 10
Some people will say the reason they are not Christians is that it is just not their time yet. They don't think they are ready. That  . . .
Spiritual Blindness // Tuesday // December 11
Before I was a Christian, I had heard the gospel and even had a respect for it. But I didn't understand it. Christians would come  . . .
At the Appointed Time // Wednesday // December 12
At one point in Jesus' ministry, the people in His own hometown of Nazareth tried to kill Him. They had taken Him to the edge  . . .
The Question of His Return // Thursday // December 13
In 1999, as the world prepared to enter a new millennium, there were some who claimed to have somehow deciphered a biblical code, secret messages,  . . .
Pop Quizzes // Friday // December 14
One of the first things that often comes to mind when we go through difficulties is, What have I done to deserve such a thing?  . . .
It's All About Him // Saturday // December 15
I heard a story about a little girl who noticed that her mom was getting really stressed out around Christmas. Everything was bothering her mom,  . . .
Not If, but When // Monday // December 17
It would be nice if we could see the trials in our lives as options, as electives. It would be nice if we could say,  . . .
Intended for Choice Work // Tuesday // December 18
I read about a traveler who was visiting a logging area in the Pacific Northwest. He watched with great curiosity as a logger, working alongside  . . .
There's No Escaping It // Wednesday // December 19
It was Martin Luther who said, "One Christian who has been tempted is worth a thousand who haven't been." Temptation is a subject we are  . . .
Caught in Its Current // Thursday // December 20
Some years ago, I was at the beach with my son Jonathan, and we decided to go swimming. We weren't very far from the shore.  . . .
Acquainted with His Strategies // Friday // December 21
Billy Sunday said, "One reason that sin flourishes is that we treat it like a cream puff instead of a rattlesnake." Not only do we need  . . .
The Greatest Gift of All // Saturday // December 22
It's been a great year of ministry, from radio to online to Harvest Crusades. But we need your help to finish 2007 strong, with no  . . .
True Seekers // Monday // December 24
The story of Christ's birth is one of the Bible's most famous and loved stories, probably one that most people who are not even familiar  . . .
Created for a Purpose // Tuesday // December 25
Years ago, one of my sons asked me, "Dad, why did God put us here on the earth?" I said, "God put us here on  . . .
Because He Is Worthy // Wednesday // December 26
Worship can turn the most miserable circumstances into a wonderful time. But our reason for worshiping should not be because we are in a good  . . .
A Life of Worship // Thursday // December 27
Some people come to church with great expectations. They expect something profound to happen in the church service, and then they don't see it happen.  . . .
True Worshipers // Friday // December 28
King Herod was a shrewd and clever tyrant, and he was a great builder. Today, some 2000 years later, the remains of his incredible structures,  . . .
The People God Uses // Saturday // December 29
It's been a great year of ministry, from radio to online to Harvest Crusades. But we need your help to finish 2007 strong, with no  . . .
A Future and a Hope // Monday // December 31
I've heard it said that the future is an opportunity yet unmet, a path yet untraveled, a life yet unlived. How our future will be  . . .