June 24, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI Devotional, provided by Pastor Peter Yoon of Kairos Christian Church in San Diego, was first posted on April 7, 2015.  Peter is a graduate of University of California, Riverside (BA) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Playing the Victim Card”

1 Samuel 22:6-8

Now Saul heard that David and his men had been discovered. And Saul was seated, spear in hand, under the tamarisk tree on the hill at Gibeah, with all his officials standing at his side. 7 He said to them, “Listen, men of Benjamin! Will the son of Jesse give all of you fields and vineyards? Will he make all of you commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds? 8 Is that why you have all conspired against me? No one tells me when my son makes a covenant with the son of Jesse. None of you is concerned about me or tells me that my son has incited my servant to lie in wait for me, as he does today.”

My two boys will get into a little tiff and eventually one of them (usually the younger) will come running to me making a case about how he had been victimized by his brother: “Dad, he took the controller away from me, and he’s not sharing!” Of course, then his older brother will have to plead his own case that he first had been wronged: “Dad, he’s been playing already for a long time, and I didn’t even get a turn.” Back and forth the arguments will be made, hoping that I would be persuaded to take the side of the ultimate victim. 

I can probably make the case that being born as sinful creatures, we are all prone to playing the victim card; this is where we use attention seeking strategies to either cope, or even worse, manipulate others for our benefit. Both Adam and Eve tried to blame others rather than admit their disobedience, claiming that they had been victimized. 

In this passage, King Saul concludes his tirade by playing the ultimate victim card. He makes accusations that “all have conspired against me,” and that “none of you is concerned about me.” Saul discloses that even his own son has taken the side of David—perhaps trying to manipulate his men to take his side. It would seem that while Saul still remained seated on the throne, his kingdom was slipping from his very own fingers. He needed to convince others that he was still a legitimate king and that the real perpetrator was David, while he was the victim. 

Do you sometimes find yourself playing the victim card? Perhaps it’s about your spouse, your boss, your small group leader, or your pastor. (Of course, if a perpetrator has indeed hurt you by abusing one’s authority or power, then the Lord desires to heal you.) Do you sometimes react to situations and find yourself resorting to the same strategies employed here by Saul in the secret hopes of manipulation? If so, ask the Lord to reveal the truth of your circumstances. Ask the Lord to reveal what’s really going on in your heart.  

Prayer: Dear Lord, it is easy to complain about others and claim that I have been wronged. I can try to make a case that I have been overlooked, abandoned, and unloved. But Lord, I know that you have not overlooked me. I know that you have not abandoned me and that nothing will separate me from Your love. In Jesus’ name, amen.   

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 40

Lunch Break Study  

Read Romans 8:31-39 (NIV): What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things? 33 Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies. 34 Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written: “For your sake we face death all day long;we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”  37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Questions to Consider

  1. How does Paul convince the church in Rome that God loves them and is for them? 
  2. What is Paul referring to when he writes, “in all these things” in verse 37?  
  3. Rather than feeling victimized by trouble and hardship, how is Paul convinced that he is more than a conqueror?  

Notes

  1. Paul reminds them that God did not spare his own Son, but gave His very own Son for us all.  
  2. Paul is talking about all of the “trouble and hardship, persecution, famine, nakedness, danger and sword” mentioned in verse 35. 
  3. Though there’s persecution and murder of Christians, Paul says, “No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” What I think this means is that a conqueror has his enemies lying, subdued at his feet—enemies such as distress, famine, nakedness, peril, sword, and persecution. But if we are “more than conquerors,” it means that they’re not just at our feet, but they are serving us. They’re not just in chains in prison; rather, they are serving us. Our persecution, famine, nakedness, loss—as painful and as tearful as they are—are our servants, for God works them all together for our good (John Piper).

Evening Reflection

Have you been feeling victimized due to difficult circumstances? Have you found yourself complaining and feeling hopeless? Spend some time asking the Holy Spirit to readjust your perspective on those matters. Make plans to meet with a trusted person who can both listen to you but also provide you with a truthful perspective on these matters. 

June 23, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on February 15, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“The Fear of Death”

Psalm 17:13-15

Rise up, O Lord, confront them, bring them down; rescue me from the wicked by your sword. 14 O Lord, by your hand save me from such men, from men of this world whose reward is in this life.  You still the hunger of those you cherish; their sons have plenty, and they store up wealth for their children. 15 And I—in righteousness I will see your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing your likeness.

In theory, those who believe in Jesus Christ, who promises eternal life to those who believe in him, should no longer be gripped by the fear of death.  What about in practice?  Are we any different than unbelievers who have every right to fear that which is inevitable—death? 

The New Atheist, Richard Dawkins, told a story of a clergy who told his dying colleague, “Congratulations! I wish I was coming with you.”  Noting that this clergy seemed like a sincere believer, Dawkins said, “It is precisely because it’s so rare that his story catches our attention.  Could it be that [religious people] don’t believe all that stuff they pretend to believe?”  

To some extent, this is true.  One reason is that believers are more enamored by men of this world who are getting all their “rewards” now, than the rewards of seeing God’s face.  David, always yearning to worship Him, ultimately found this satisfaction when, upon dying, awoke in heaven and saw the face of God.  

Who do you yearn to meet?  If it is anyone not named Jesus, what does that say about us?   

Prayer: My precious, righteous, and loving God, I yearn to see Your face: I thirst for Your presence, and I hunger for Your word!  Who in this world can quench this longing in the depth of my being? Oh LORD, help me to place my hope in Your grace and mercy instead of the fleeting wealth, fame, and power of those whose reward is in this life. Amen.

Lunch Break Study

Read Matt. 6:1-4: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.2 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

Questions to Consider

  1. What does “reward in this life” mean (Matt. 6:2, 5, 16; Lk. 16:19-26)?
  2. Ps. 17:14 can be read as, “Save me from the influence of men of this world whose reward is in this life.”  How can “the men of this world” affect our outlook on life if we allow it (Matt. 11:7-9, 3:1-6)?
  3. How should we live our lives now in such a way that we would yearn for heaven and long to see God’s face (Phil. 3:7-11, 1:22-6)?

Notes

  1. In short, it refers to enjoying the trappings of success here and now without any regard for God’s rewards in heaven.  The Pharisees got the respect and accolade of men that they sought after, while the rich man, in his lifetime, was so caught up with living in luxury (“dressed in purple and fine linen”) and receiving good things that he was utterly unprepared to meet his Maker. 
  2. Jesus implied that if people were still chasing after living in luxury and dressing in fine clothes, they would not have come out to the desert to hear John preach repentance, thereby drawing themselves closer to God.  One reason some churches grow is that they no longer preach repentance but tips on how to live like a king here and now.  People are not likely to yearn to see God in such a setting. 
  3. We constantly need to let go—either temporarily or permanently—of those things that take the place of God in life.  This is a call to a radical lifestyle!   

Evening Reflection

James 4:14: “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

Life is like a 100-meter race—so fleeting. Review what went on in your life today in that light.  Are you living for God or for yourself?  How can we make our tomorrow better?

June 22, Tuesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional was first posted on July 11, 2014.

Devotional Thoughts for This Morning

“The Cost of Following God”

Jonah 4:3-5

Therefore now, O Lord, please take my life from me, for it is better for me to die than to live.” 4 And the Lord said, “Do you do well to be angry?” 5 Jonah went out of the city and sat to the east of the city and made a booth for himself there. He sat under it in the shade, till he should see what would become of the city.

What is our response when things don’t go as we want? This is the question that confronts us when we look at today’s text.

Here, we find Jonah who seemingly completed the task that God had commissioned him to do.  He certainly proclaimed judgment against the Ninevites and in response, they repented; as a result, God spared them.  But Jonah was livid, for this was what he feared would happen.  By acquiescing to the Lord, the Ninevites, whom Jonah felt deserved wrath, were given mercy. In reaction, he asks the Lord to take his life.  This is how extreme Jonah’s anger is towards God and His pouring of mercy on people who clearly did not deserve it. 

When we look at Jonah, it’s easy to dismiss him as someone who is bitter and unloving, but that is too dismissive of what God is revealing through this story. Jonah presents a mirror to all of our true desires. In our desire to follow the Lord, can we truly say, “Lord, have your way?”

To be honest, what I’ve found is that there is both increasing difficulty as well as ease when we say, “Lord, have your way.”  Following the Lord sometimes means that even though you did all the right things, trouble and persecution may ensue.  That is, your obedience causes others to be upset at you; the more you obey, the more this potential increases. However, the comfort comes with knowing that God is the one who is leading you. There is a level of trust and hope that allows us to be okay with whatever happens as long as God is the one who brings it about. (e.g., 2 Samuel 24:14)

This morning, let’s be reminded of looking to the Lord in whom we trust and not to the result. If following the Lord results in difficulties or hardships, let us remember that the Lord is still in control; let the hope in Him arise.

Prayer: God, following You is difficult at times. Sometimes the results of obedience are too much to bear. Renew my hope in You so I can follow wherever You lead me. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 38

Lunch Break Study

Re-read the passage for this morning’s devotion.

Read Ephesians 4:30-32: “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, 27 and give no opportunity to the devil.”

Questions to Consider

  1. Why was Jonah waiting outside the city?
  2. According the Ephesians 4 text, is it wrong to feel angry?
  3. What is the stern warning against anger that is allowed to fester and simmer?

Notes

  1. Jonah was waiting to see whether or not the destruction of Nineveh would occur.  He sure wasn’t hoping that God would turn from his indignation. 
  2. Anger itself is not wrong, but what we do with it and how we let it fester is wrong. There is an allowance of anger as a righteous response [“Jesus looked around at them in anger (Mk. 3:5)] as well as an emotional response.  Whatever the reason however, in our anger we should not sin.
  3. It leaves room for the devil to cause roots of bitterness, dissension, and temptations.

Evening Reflection

In following the Lord, has there been any outcome that was contrary to what you expected? Has it caused any roots of bitterness and anger? Tonight, let’s reflect on the goodness of God and His overwhelming love for us. Let’s ask God to increase our trust and hope in Him so that we would be okay with whatever may happen.  

June 21, Monday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Barry Kang who heads Symphony Church in Boston, was first posted on April 26, 2013.  He is a graduate of Stanford University (BA), Fuller Theological Seminary (M.Div.) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (D.Min.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Do Not Forget in the Darkness What the Lord Revealed in the Light”

Psalm 42:5-6 (NIV)

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and 6 my God. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar. 

There’s an old saying, “Do not forget in the darkness what the Lord revealed in the light.” When the Psalmist sought to console his downcast soul, he had to remind himself to put his hope in God.  Hope is medicine for the downcast soul.  And hope comes as we remember what God has done.   

The book of Psalms is littered with remembrances of God’s faithfulness to the people of Israel, most notably during the exodus from Egypt.  Interestingly, here the Psalmist does not recall past salvific acts of God but certain places where he personally experienced the presence of God.  Hope comes as we remember not only how God manifested Himself to us in the past generally, but also how the LORD has worked in our past personally. 

I remind myself of all that you’ve done
and the hope I have because of your son

Love came down and rescued me
Love came down and set me free
I am yours, I am forever yours.

-Brian Johnson (“Love Came Down”)

One way that we can actively recall the faithfulness and character of God is through songs of worship.  Today, let us take some time to worship God and remember what he has done.  

Prayer: Father, I thank You for Your faithfulness and provision.  When I lack the vision to see Your love in the present, help me to recall Your love for me in the past.  I thank You that You rescued me, for I was that lost sheep that You searched for, leaving behind the ninety-nine sheep, and found.  I thank You for Your love displayed on that cross.  No matter what happens in my life, I know that the cross stands for me and proves Your love for me.  In Jesus’ name, I pray.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 37

Lunch Break Study

Read Romans 8:18-25 (NIV): I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope 21 that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. 22 We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 23 Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 24 For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has? 25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

Questions to Consider

  1. What contrasts does Paul draw between the sufferings and glory of God’s children?
  2. What does Paul mean by creation and what is its destiny?
  3. How are we to wait?

Notes

  1. For Paul, our present sufferings and future glory are inextricably linked.  First, in verse 17, we are told that we must share in Christ’s sufferings in the present so that we might share in his glory in the future.  Second, the future glory cannot be compared with the present suffering (v.18) for the future “far outweighs them all” (2 Cor 4:17).  Third, the suffering and glory concern not just God’s children but affects all of creation.  
  2. By creation, Paul means not only our world but the whole universe and all that it contains (apart from people).  Paul tells us that creation was “subjected to frustration” (v20).  Theologically, the repercussions of sin not only affected humans but also the physical creation as well.  The hope we have is for the redemption of both children of God and all of creation.  Indeed, Paul tells us that creation will be liberated from “bondage to decay” and brought into “the glorious freedom of the children of God (v21).
  3. We are to “wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies” (v23).  Of course, we have already been adopted, and the Spirit assures us that we are his children (v16), yet we await an even deeper and richer child-Father relationship that will come.  We are also to wait patiently (v25) for we have confidence in God’s promises.  How are we to do both?  As one commentator writes, “We are to wait neither so eagerly that we lose our patience, nor so patiently that we lose our expectation, but eagerly and patiently together.”

Our hope is not just based on the past works of God but also on our expectations of what God will do for us in the future.  One day, an amazing glory will be revealed in us.  All of creation, though groaning now, will one day be liberated.  Our bodies will be redeemed and our adoption as God’s sons completed.  Let us think on our future hope even as we remember what God has already done.  Until that day comes, we wait eagerly but also patiently.  In the words of the early church, maranâ thâ, (O, Lord, come)!

Evening Reflection

Reflect upon this week.  How have you experienced God’s presence/blessing/faithfulness?  In our journals, let us give thanks for each and every instance of God’s presence.  

June 20, Sunday

REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, written by Pastor Young Kim of Grace Covenant Church in Philadelphia, was originally posted on June 22, 2013.  Pastor Young is a graduate of University of Illinois (BS), Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.) and Westminster Theological Seminary (MA). 

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Wisdom and humility”

Proverbs 22:4 (NIV)

“Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”

Meditate on this thought: Humility is the fear of the Lord, and fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. 

Wisdom and humility are strongly linked together.  If you search the Scriptures, you will realize that humility before God is one of the wisest postures.   Humility before others also pleases God. Success can make us lose our humble posture.   

Have you ever met someone who is proud about nothing? Don’t be that kind of person.  There are still too many things for us to learn.  Be humble, and be teachable.  

Prayer: Lord, make me humble.  Jesus, soften my heart to be teachable.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 36

June 19, Saturday

UPDATED Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor David Kwon who heads Journey Community Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, was first posted on June 1, 2014.  He is a graduate of Drexel University (BS) and Columbia International University (M.Div.).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“A Life of Holiness”

1 Peter 1:13-16 

Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, 16 since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

The word “holiness” sounds so archaic and so irrelevant in our “anything goes” world.  But, if you dismiss it, you do so at your own peril, for a life of unholiness is not without consequences. 

So then, how should the holiness of God affect our daily lives?  Peter writes in his letter that we, who are in Christ, should strive to be holy in all of our conduct.  Our lifestyle is not to conform to the base desires that formerly dominated us and kept us from God; rather, believers should control our desires rather than to be controlled by them. Before Christ we were in ignorance, but now, because of the grace that brought us to the revelation of Jesus, we have come to know God and his will.

Verse 13 begins with “therefore,” thus connecting what Peter has addressed in verses 1-12:  that is, the great salvation we have received.  Because of this salvation, we now should set our “hope fully on the grace to be brought.”  Peter states, first, that the conduct should be holy, and then since we have been sanctified by the Spirit (1:2), we should live this set apart life.  Both “sanctified” and “holy” come from the same Greek root, having to do with a life set apart.  Our holiness is derived from our calling: God has called us to be holy, “as he is holy.”  

What are some areas that God is calling you to be more holy?  Maybe it’s sexual purity, love for others, pride, desire for material things, etc.  Surrender whatever it might be to the Lord, and ask that he would make you more holy in that area of your life.  

Prayer: Dear God, I pray that You would give me the purity of heart and mind as I desire to become more like your Son Jesus.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 34-35

June 18, Friday

REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, written by Han Byul Kim of Remnant Westside Church in Manhattan, was first posted on August 7, 2014.   Han Byul, meaning one star in Korean, is a long-time member of the church’s worship team (plays the keyboard).  Check out her music at  (https://www.youtube.com/user/hanbyulru/).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“What a Genuine Spirituality Looks Like”

1 Peter 2:17a 

“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God.”

Rom. 12:9

“Let love be genuine.”

I recently visited a church that is known for its culture of celebration and honor, where everyone seems happy all the time. The lead worship pastor of the church especially embodied the uppity, positive spirit of the community. My honest thought when I first met her was, “Could this be all genuine? How could she be this joyful toward everyone all the time?”

My prideful speculation was soon countered as I began to see the depth and dimension of her heart through her words and action toward, not only the visitors, but also her own staff. Throughout the course of two weeks, I saw her leading worship and teaching paradigm-shifting thoughts on stage, always with a big smile on her face. Frequently, I heard her speaking of the great impact other speakers have made and building them up with such compliments where anyone would feel undeserving or even embarrassed to receive. But even more frequently was she seen off stage looking out for the needs of the people she was serving with, as small as getting water for them, with the same big smile.

Toward the end of the second week, as I caught a glimpse of her handing out snacks to the staff during their monthly meeting, it clicked in me: Celebrating and serving people come so genuinely and naturally for her because she sees them as how God sees them; that is, with eyes of honor, acceptance and hope. He created us in his own image, fearfully and wonderfully, crowned us with glory and honor (Psalm 8:5), and put eternity in our hearts to treasure the eternal God and become partners for His kingdom work.

Though it is a real challenge to genuinely honor and love someone when all we see is brokenness, let us receive the ministry of the Holy Spirit who aligns our hearts to his and gives us compassion to love the world as he does.

Prayer: Father, You said that we shouldn’t call “unclean” what You have made clean, and likewise, to treat everyone like how You treat them: with honor, acceptance and hope. Open our eyes to see what You see and strengthen us to hope in Your restorative plan to bring all creation in Your dwelling place where all is made whole.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 33

Lunch Break Study

Read Rom. 12:9-16 (ESV): Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.  Never be wise in your own sight. 

Questions to Consider

  1. What are some tangible things we can do to benefit and bless others?
  2. What is implied in “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep”?  Relate that to authenticity.
  3. Are there people in your life right now who need one or more of the blessings listed here?  Would you pray about what you can do?

Notes

  1. When someone is being mean to us, we can bless them by praying for them; when we see people being discriminated or ridiculed, instead of joining with those who do these things or be silent, we come to the side of the battered.  For instance, we don’t agree to gossip about someone who is being maligned wrongfully.
  2. This shows that the believers are authentic beings who are not to be dehumanized in any way.  No matter how happy one is because of his fortuitous circumstances, he identifies with the sorrow of those who are undergoing difficult times.     
  3. I (P. Ryun) have a brother-in-law who is undergoing chemotherapy to treat cancer.  I pray for him every day without fail. 

Evening Reflection

What was our heart’s response when we encountered someone different than us today? Let’s continue to press on to see the way God sees that person and honor him/her in heart and action.

June 17, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional was first posted on July 10, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“If God Can Pardon David Berkowitz . . .”

Jonah 3:10, 4:1-2

When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God relented of the disaster that he had said he would do to them, and he did not do it. 4 But it displeased Jonah exceedingly, and he was angry. 2 And he prayed to the Lord and said, “O Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and relenting from disaster.

God’s grace is amazingly frustrating because it sometimes seems like God makes mistakes. We look at someone like David Berkowitz (a.k.a., Son of Sam) who killed 6 women and shot 7 others and ask, “God, this person deserves judgment. How can you show him grace?”

This is the same situation Jonah found himself in. Despite the great atrocities the people of Nineveh committed, and despite the fact that they didn’t deserve it, Jonah knew God was gracious, and if Nineveh repented they would be spared. This is why he ran away. 

There is an inherent danger in this pattern of thought. The moment we feel like some people merit grace and others don’t, it stops becoming grace altogether. When this happens, we take the place of God the Creator in judgment of man whom He created. 

Rather, we are told to cultivate faith like a child when it comes to the matters of grace; that is, receive grace like a child.  We need to have faith that God knows what He’s doing when He pours out grace. Isaiah 55:8-9 says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”

When we do this, we may get a glimpse of how powerful God’s grace truly is. Nineveh repented top down. Likewise, David Berkowitz repented, converted to Christianity, and said this: “I have no interest in parole and no plans to seek release. If you could understand this, I am already a ‘free man.’ I am not saying this jokingly. I really am. Jesus Christ has already pardoned me, and I believe this.”

There’s a word of warning as well as a word of encouragement for us today.We cannot assume that certain people merit grace and others do not. To do so would be to take the place of God. Our encouragement is that God’s grace is wonderfully powerful and He extends it to us.

Prayer: God, I thank You for your grace over my life. I ask that You reveal Your heart of grace for those around me. Use me to reveal Your grace to those who desperately need it.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 32

Lunch Break Study

Re-read the passage for this morning’s devotion.

Read Matthew 6:14-15: For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, 15 but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”

Questions to Consider

  1. What does today’s text reveal about God’s desire for people?
  2. Why was Jonah upset at God’s grace?
  3. When we look at today’s text in light of what Jesus says in Matthew, what are we warned of?

Notes

  1. God desires mercy and grace instead of destruction (Joel 2:12-14).
  2. It can be inferred that Jonah believed that Nineveh should be destroyed for its great sins, especially to the people of Israel.
  3. If we do not show grace in forgiving others, then we cannot expect God to show grace in forgiving us.

Evening Reflection

In tonight’s reflection, take a moment to honestly examine if there is anyone you have not shown grace to. Press into the heart of God that shows grace when it feels like grace is undeserved. Ask the Lord to strengthen you to go and show grace in a practical, tangible way.

June 16, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, first posted on April 2, 2015, is provided by Pastor Shan Gian who, in the coming month, is slated to lead Remnant Westside in Manhattan.  Congratulations.  Shan is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BA) and Gordon Conwell Seminary (M.Div.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Giving It It Up for the Right Cause”

1 Samuel 20:30-32

Then Saul’s anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said to him, “You son of a perverse, rebellious woman, do I not know that you have chosen the son of Jesse to your own shame, and to the shame of your mother’s nakedness? 31 For as long as the son of Jesse lives on the earth, neither you nor your kingdom shall be established. Therefore send and bring him to me, for he shall surely die.” 32 Then Jonathan answered Saul his father, “Why should he be put to death? What has he done?” 

The throne of Israel was Jonathan’s birthright—this was supposed to be his kingdom.  In the eyes of the world, he had every right to take this throne.  Knowing full well that his father was right, that as long as David lived on earth neither Jonathan nor his kingdom would be established, he defends David.  Essentially, Jonathan abdicated his throne to David.  

But why would he do this?  What could lead someone to give up all of the fortune, prestige and power that is due them?  Hardly any of us would refuse something we rightly deserve.  If we were there, we all would have thought Jonathan was crazy.  He was the prince of Israel, the future king!  And kings don’t just step aside and let others take over their kingdom—no king would just leave his own throne like this.

What led Jonathan do to this?  For him, I think it was really simple: he knew who the real king was.  He saw God’s anointing on David, as well as his character and heart for God, and Jonathan just stepped aside and gave up his rightful throne.  He put aside all of his rights, all of his abilities, all of his own authority and power.  And he gave all of that up to the true king of Israel.  

A few thousand years later, a son of David would do something similar.  He had all authority and power, deserving of glory and praise; He was the true King.  And yet, this King put aside all of that, He emptied and humbled Himself to be a servant, to the point of death on a cross.  

Do you know who the real King is in your life?  If so, then let Him lead you in every aspect of your life—including relationships, finances and entertainment.  In the long run, you will be more content and satisfied with Christ leading you than you leading yourself.  Think.  Reflect.  Pray.

Prayer: Jesus you are my King.  I pray that as I remember You, I will see how worthy You are of my whole life. I set aside all that I am and declare that you reign in my life.  In Jesus’ name, amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 31

Lunch Bible Study

Read John 13:1-17: Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. 2 During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him,3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. 6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” 7 Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.”8 Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” 9 Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” 10 Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” 11 For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.”

12 When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? 13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. 16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. 

Questions to Consider

  1. What was so incredible about Jesus washing his disciples’ feet?
  2. Why does Jesus do this for them?
  3. What does the humility of Jesus mean for you?

Notes

  1. Even if we only look at Jesus’ human nature, washing the feet of his disciples was astounding, since to his disciples, Jesus was their Master and Rabbi.  Though He was in the position of power and authority, yet he was the one who stripped down, bent down and washed their dirty, smelly feet as an act of service, something that these disciples altogether refused to do for one another because of their pride.  When we consider Jesus’ God nature, it’s more unfathomable: He knew that He was about to take the cross and that he was washing the feet of men who would flee from him, deny him and even betray him.
  2. Jesus washes their feet to set an example of what it means to be a servant and how they should let go of their pride to serve one another.  Not too long after this account, Jesus would be nailed to the cross, giving all of us the ultimate example of humility and service to others.
  3. Personal application question

Evening Reflection

Reflect again upon Jesus, our humble King who washed the feet of His disciples; and out of love for us He humbled Himself to die on a cross for our sins.  How has this humility of Jesus changed your life?  How is your life a reflection of Jesus’ humble sacrifice for us?  

June 15, Tuesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on February 18, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

Malachi 2:13

“Another thing you do: You flood the Lord’s altar with tears. You weep and wail because he no longer looks with favor on your offerings or accepts them with pleasure from your hands.” 

In the story of Hosea, an 8th century B.C. prophet in Israel, and his adulterous wife Gomer, their children, who were named, “Not my people” (Lo–Ammi) and “Not my loved one” (Lo–Ruhamah), represented God’s indignation against a nation too busy chasing after idols.   So furious was God that He later declared through Jeremiah (7:16), “Do not pray for this people . . . for I will not listen to you.” 

Some 300 years later, the Israelites appeared to have changed since they offered sacrifices to God.  But, by keeping the best for themselves while offering animals that had no value to them, God was insulted.  To the list of “I no longer love you” and “I no longer listen to your prayer,” the Lord added, “I no longer accept your offering.”  Since God’s holiness is beyond our imagination, none should be shocked by God’s displeasure expressed in this manner; however, if our probing stops here, we’ll get the wrong picture.

In the case of Hosea, notice what God had him do while Gomer, having run away, was working as a prostitute under her pimp.  Hosea (2:8) wrote, “She has not acknowledged that I was the one who gave her the grain, the new wine and oil, who lavished on her the silver and gold—which they used for Baal.”  Evidently, Hosea, still concerned about Gomer, went to her to give food and items showing affection.   Apparently, the pimp intercepted them, presumably promising Hosea to give them to his wife.  Gomer got some, being told that it was from the pimp; most of it, however, was used to worship Baal.  

Its meaning?  In God’s rejection of His wayward people, as well as their prayers and offerings, He continued to provide for their needs, for “He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Matt. 5:45).

What does this all imply?  The time of discipline will be followed by a time of restoration: “I will say to those called ‘Not my people, ‘You are my people’; and they will say, ‘You are my God’” (Hos. 2:23).  So, if you haven’t spent much time with Him lately, do so today.  If you’ve been away from God, come back.  Today.

Prayer: “Lord, I know I have been closer to you in the past than now.  I recall the time when you found me, how joyous and thrilling it was.   I am sorry that I let too many things of this world to get in the way of truly loving and honoring you.  Forgive me.  Help me to do better.  I need you, Lord.   Thank You.  Amen.”

Bible Reading for Today: Ezekiel 30

Lunch Break Study

During Paul’s second missionary journey (49-52), the apostle was in Lystra, speaking to pagans there. 

Read Acts 14:16-7: “In the past, he let all nations go their own way. 17 Yet he has not left himself without testimony: He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; he provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.”

Hebrews 12:5b- 6, 10-1: “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son. . . . Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.  Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.”

Matt. 7:24, 6: “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. .  . . But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.”

Questions to Consider

  1. How does Paul express God’s love for these pagans who worshiped Greek gods?  What does it mean that God sent Paul there to preach the gospel to them? 
  2. Ultimately, why does God punish or discipline His children?
  3. What is the best way to avert God’s discipline of us? 

Notes

  1. Even though these pagans neither acknowledged nor worshiped God, the Lord was still concerned that they had plenty to eat.   He is not a petty deity but the God of the universe who is kind to all that He has made.  But, of course, God wants more for them; thus, Paul was sent there to share the gospel so that they might be saved. 
  2. When and if we respond to God’s discipline with a good attitude, we will come out more humble and pliable to Him.  Subsequently, we will be able to lead more of a righteous and peaceful life (sinning less while producing good fruits more frequently).  In short, it is for our own good.
  3. Whatever God tells us, through convictions we get while reading the Scripture, praying or hearing sermons, put it into practice right away.   If we respond to God as soon as He tells us something, then that is one less reason for God to discipline or punish us. 

Evening Reflection

As you go over today, in what ways did God demonstrate His love for you?  Were you also able to express this love to others around you?  Reflect on God’s goodness.  Pray for a softer heart.