April 8, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 27, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Let’s Pretend that He Stole $20 from Me as Well”

Philem. 1:18-9

“If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me. 19 I, Paul, am writing this with my own hand. I will pay it back—not to mention that you owe me your very self.”

Tony was livid; someone had stolen $40 from his locker.  Though this young Christian saw it as a very bad day, I saw an opportunity to teach him two valuable lessons.  So I said to him, “I will give you $20, and let’s pretend that this guy stole $20 from you and me each.  Then, I’ll have the same reason to be upset at the thief as you do, right?”  Somewhat following my logic, he responded, “Yeah,” at which point I said, “But I forgive him.  And I will pray that this guy, feeling bad about his misdeed, seeks God’s forgiveness.”  After some 25 years, I still think that $20 was worth the investment to impress a valuable lesson on this young believer’s heart.

Now, the difference between my story and Paul’s is that the apostle is covering for the thief. In Les Misērable, Valjean steals the Bishop’s silverware; Onesimus, I am sure, pilfered things just as valuable.   In the novel, this Bishop covers for Valjean, now under police custody, by pretending that the valuables were given to him.  Perhaps, the author Victor Hugo was inspired by what Paul does here for Onesimus: “Whatever he stole, ‘charge it to me . . ., I will pay it back.”  In so doing, the apostle “covers over a multitude of sins” (1 Pet. 4:8) of a runaway slave, who “became [his] son while [he] was in chains” (Philem. 1:10).  

That realization, then, leads to the second lesson: seeing a glimpse of the substitionary death of Christ who, having no sin, took on ours to pay for its penalty, instead of us.  I partially took the loss of the young man and paid for it with my money; Paul was willing to take the entire blame for what Onesimus did and pay for it with his own money as well.  That’s as closest as we can get to what Christ actually did for us, “so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Cor. 5:21).  

Cover for someone today; afterwards, tell that person how Jesus has done the same for all of us. 

Prayer: Father, while I’m thankful for what You have done for me, I often find that I am not living the life that I should be living.  I hoard rather than share; hold grudges than forgive; condemn than accept.  Forgive me, but at the same, jolt me to action so that I would share, forgive, and accept, just as Christ did for me.    Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 28

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Samuel 20:30-4: “Saul’s anger flared up at Jonathan and he said to him, ‘You son of a perverse and rebellious woman! Don’t I know that you have sided with the son of Jesse to your own shame and to the shame of the mother who bore you? 31 As long as the son of Jesse lives on this earth, neither you nor your kingdom will be established. Now send someone to bring him to me, for he must die!’ 32 ‘Why should he be put to death? What has he done?’ Jonathan asked his father. 33 But Saul hurled his spear at him to kill him. Then Jonathan knew that his father intended to kill David. 34 Jonathan got up from the table in fierce anger; on that second day of the feast he did not eat, because he was grieved at his father’s shameful treatment of David.”

Questions to Consider

  1. Actually, what Jonathan did for his friend David, an outlaw to his father, is similar to what Paul did for Onesimus.  What binds these men together?
  2. What’s involved when a friend tries to cover for an innocent person (David) or someone who needs an opportunity for redemption (Onesimus)?
  3. How would David and Onesimus have felt being on the recipient end of this kind of love?  Have you ever experienced it?  

Notes

  1. Both were covering for the people whom they loved.  Instead of being indifferent or uncaring, they went out of their ways to ensure that they were not harmed. 
  2. Such kind of friendship or relationship does not materialize without the willingness to pay the cost on behalf of the other person.  Paul was willing to lose a significant amount of money; Jonathan was willing to lose his life.  Thus, Jesus said in John 15:13, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”  After saying that, Christ would soon put that into practice. 
  3. They would have felt a sense of gratitude and also determination to prove to their benefactors that they did not make a mistake by vouching for them.  It would be an added incentive to do right. 

Evening Reflection

Did you have a blessed day?  Maybe it wasn’t so great.  At least, you can go to sleep knowing that nothing really changed: God still loves you, Jesus’ death still forgives you, and tomorrow, the Lord willing, you will have another opportunity to make a difference for God’s kingdom.  Journal it before turning in. 

April 7, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by then (2013) staff of Remnant Westside Church in Manhattan, was first posted on September 23, 2013.  

Devotional Thought for This Morning 

“Remember This When You Question God’s Faithfulness”

Psalm 89:38-52

But now you have cast off and rejected; you are full of wrath against your anointed. 39 You have renounced the covenant with your servant; you have defiled his crown in the dust. 40 You have breached all his walls; you have laid his strongholds in ruins. 41 All who pass by plunder him; he has become the scorn of his neighbors. 42 You have exalted the right hand of his foes;    you have made all his enemies rejoice. 43 You have also turned back the edge of his sword,   and you have not made him stand in battle. 44 You have made his splendor to cease and cast his throne to the ground. 45 You have cut short the days of his youth; you have covered him with shame. Selah 46 How long, O Lord? Will you hide yourself forever? How long will your wrath burn like fire? 47 Remember how short my time is! For what vanity you have created all the children of man! 48 What man can live and never see death? Who can deliver his soul from the power of Sheol? Selah 49 Lord, where is your steadfast love of old, which by your faithfulness you swore to David? 50 Remember, O Lord, how your servants are mocked, and how I bear in my heart the insults of all the many nations, 51 with which your enemies mock, O Lord, with which they mock the footsteps of your anointed. 52 Blessed be the Lord forever! Amen and Amen.

Psalm 89 concludes on a note of anguish and despair. The psalmist mentions rejection, desolation, and defeat. His surety of God’s covenant with the line of David now seems dubious. While he previously proclaimed that God would not violate His covenant, yet here we see him declare that God has renounced the covenant. But even in the midst of despair and anguish, the psalmist is not hopeless; he calls on God to remember His servants. The psalmist even ends with a note of praise.

While it may seem audacious for us to ask God to remember us, we find the psalmist crying out to God in this manner. What do we make of this?  Certainly we are not asking  God to remember because He forgets, but rather, it is akin to declaring to God to take action according to the truth of who He is; it is a faith declaration that God will show himself to be who He said He is. 

There are times when our situations and circumstances make us question the heart, will, and desire of God in our lives. In those moments, call out to God to remember who He is and what He said He will do. Hold onto the promises of God as seen in His Word.

Lunch Break Study

Read Philippians 3:17-4:1: Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.4:1 Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.

Questions to Consider

  1. Nobody is perfect; we all know that. So, if someone asks the question, “How can I know how to live for God?”, how would you answer? 
  2. Do you have a spiritual mentor? Are there brothers or sisters whose examples you can follow as you seek to live for the Lord?
  3. Are there “earthly things” that have laid hold of your heart? How can you set your eyes on things above?

Notes

  1. It would seem somewhat arrogant to say, “Well, just imitate me.” That’s what Paul does here, but not in a prideful boastful way. He is just stating explicitly what we implicitly know: that what we see is what we do. It’s not a question of whether or not we should follow an example, but rather, we should ask ourselves, whose example are we following?
  2. If you don’t have one, you really should find someone who is mature in faith who can encourage your walk with God.
  3. Paul’s simple suggestion: “Flee the evil desires of youth” (2 Tim. 2:2).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, You have been my comforter even when I didn’t recognize You. Continue to be my comforter now and always, Almighty God, for You delight in being compassionate and bringing comfort to Your children.  Thank You. Amen.                                                                                  

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 27

Evening Reflection

Isaiah 49:13: “Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing!   For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted.”

Tell the Lord of your desire to always be open and to be aware of the Holy Spirit’s comforting love.  It brings much pleasure to the Lord when we perceive Him rightly, knowing that He will fight and give everything for your future in accordance to His will.

April 6, Tuesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, written by the then (2013) staff of Kairos Christian Church in San Diego, was first posted on July 27, 2013.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“What Do You Find Security In?  

Psalm 79:1-13

O God, the nations have invaded your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple, they have reduced Jerusalem to rubble. 2 They have given the dead bodies of your servants as food to the birds of the air, the flesh of your saints to the beasts of the earth. 3 They have poured out blood like water all around Jerusalem, and there is no one to bury the dead. 4 We are objects of reproach to our neighbors, of scorn and derision to those around us. 5 How long, O Lord? Will you be angry forever? How long will your jealousy burn like fire? 6 Pour out your wrath on the nations that do not acknowledge you, on the kingdoms that do not call on your name; 7 for they have devoured Jacob and destroyed his homeland. 8 Do not hold against us the sins of the fathers; may your mercy come quickly to meet us, for we are in desperate need. 9 Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake. 10 Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Before our eyes, make known among the nations that you avenge the outpoured blood of your servants. 11 May the groans of the prisoners come before you; by the strength of your arm preserve those condemned to die. 12 Pay back into the laps of our neighbors seven times the reproach they have hurled at you, O Lord. 13 Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise.

What do you find security in?  Maybe you find security in your job, your position at work; maybe you find security in your spouse, friendship, or some other relationship; maybe you find security in your wealth, or the wealth of your family.  Whatever it may be, most of us have something that brings us security, satisfaction, and identity.  

Of course, for many of us, our security is in God.  It was God for the Jews too.  But the place where God dwelled, where God manifested his love and grace, where they worshipped God- which was the temple- was destroyed.  Can you imagine how the Jews must have felt?  It was devastating.  The place where they found security was destroyed.  They must have felt afraid, alone, and betrayed.  

How could God allow this?  It’s interesting how the psalmist responds to this.  In the midst of all this, he still calls on God to show up, to get revenge.  Also, he still has the heart to worship God in the midst of losing the temple.  That is faith; that is having a deep connection with God. 

Maybe right now you’re struggling with the same thing that this psalmist and the other Jews were facing.  Maybe you’ve lost something that you had security in, something that brought you a lot of satisfaction.  If that’s you, I encourage you to call on your Father to show up, to reveal His power so that you and the Body can worship God.

Prayer: Father, I confess that sometimes I find myself angry toward You because of the condition of life.  I call and ask You to show up and help me.  Fill my heart with the assurance that Your will for my life is better than what I had planned.  I praise You in advance for what You will do in my life.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 26

Lunch Break Study

Read James 5:7-9 (NIV): Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

Questions to Consider

  1. How are the believers to respond to the oppressions by those in power and influence? 
  2. What is the character of God that is revealed in these passages?
  3. Ask God for patience to persevere in the face of oppression, injustice, and unfairness. Rather than grumble and complain, fix your gaze on Jesus who is the Judge over such matters. 

Notes

  1. Believers are to respond with godly patience even as a farmer waits for the harvest that is surely coming in due time. They are to not fall into grumbling and complaining to others; rather they are to stand firm, waiting for the Lord’s judgment over oppression. 
  2. In these passages, God is again revealed as the Judge, particularly over oppression and injustice. As James had written in 4:12, God is the one who establishes what is right in life as well as punishing the wrong and evildoers of this world. 
  3. Personal response

Evening Reflection

Reflect on the blood of Jesus Christ which allows us to meet God’s presence and worship Him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I ask that You generously give me patience and wisdom in the face of my oppressions. Help me to stop complaining and rather look to You and wait upon You as the Judge over these matters. Amen.  

April 5, Monday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 23, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“You Owe Me”

Philem. 1:14

“But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced.”

“I would do anything for my wheelchair bound friend,” said the man. When asked, “Why?” he responded, “My buddy broke his back while saving my life.”  But that was when he was a single; being married now with children, answering his friend’s call for help feels like a great burden.  What would the wheelchair bound friend say?

While Paul appealed to Philemon’s softer side to treat Onesimus kindly, a runaway slave who stole from him, the apostle did remind Philemon this: “You owe me your very self” (Phile. 1:19).  I heard a preacher say we shouldn’t do that; perhaps so, but sometimes an ungrateful person should be reminded of the favor that was granted him, lest he becomes conceited and difficult to live with.   

Look no further than the Israelites, who, on their way to the Promised Land complained to God at every turn whenever they felt hungry or thirsty.  They even conjured up a past life in Egypt that they, as slaves, rarely, if ever, experienced, saying, “If only we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt at no cost—also the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions and garlic” (Num. 11:4-5).  Responding to this lunacy, Moses said, “Is this the way to repay the LORD, O foolish and unwise people?” (Deut. 32:6).

No, we shouldn’t use the “You owe me” line too often to get others to do for us a personal favor.   However, when the matter at hand is truly God’s work, then gently remind the unwilling person how Christ died so that he might live.  When the ungrateful heart of a friend or family member is diminishing her character and relationships, then gently remind her of all that was provided to give her opportunities to be successful.    Then say, “I don’t want anything from you but you should do the same for those who are where you used to be.”  That, in essence, is what Paul told Philemon: “You were once a runaway sinner from God but He forgave you; you should forgive and accept your runaway slave as well.” 

 How about you?  Is there anything you should do for someone in need to whom you owe?

Prayer: Dear God, I love You and I praise You for who You are.  Thank You for rescuing me from the pit of hell through Jesus Christ.  How can I repay You for what You did for me?  What little I can do and have, please use it to show the same love I have received from You to those who desperately need it.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 25

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Pet. 5:1-4: “To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.”

1 Cor. 11:1: “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

Questions to Consider

  1. In what sense is Peter’s approach or attitude similar to that of Paul in his dealing with Philemon?
  2. When we are trying to get people to do things for the church or for us (sometimes they appear same), what are some pitfalls that should be avoided?
  3. What’s the best way to lead?  Why was Paul able to appeal to Philemon the way the way he did?

Notes

  1. Both Paul and Peter, as pillars of the early church, could have used their authority to push their weight around to get what they wanted.  But they knew that any short-term gain would have been nullified by people’s resentment as well as stunting their own growth.  People grow when they are willingly to serve God, even at a cost, because they are motivated by their love for Him.     
  2. Merely using people to get what I want (even good things) but not really caring about what it will cost those who are asked to serve, or whether it will help them to grow as a person and servant. 
  3. The best way to lead is through setting worthy examples for people to follow.  Paul was able to appeal to Philemon because the latter knew about his sacrifices and commitment to serve the Lord.  When Mother Teresa used to speak, powerful men would listen because she had moral authority.

Evening Reflection

As you look back today, did you encounter a moment when you felt quite grateful and thankful to the Lord?  What happened?  Pray about someone in your life who can use a favor from you. 

April 4, Sunday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, first posted on April 5, 2015, is provided by Pastor Shan Gian who is the Fenway Site pastor at Symphony Church in Boston.  Shan is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BA) and Gordon Conwell Seminary (M.Div.).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Easter Sunday”

Romans 8:11

If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

A long time ago, when I was still pretty young in my faith (but acting like I was mature), I remember a friend of mine closing a prayer meeting with a prayer that went something like this: “God, we thank you that the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is within us.”  After he said that, my immediate reaction was, “Wait, is that true?”  It was inconceivable to me that this incredible statement could be factual.  So after the prayer meeting, I went home and pulled up Bible Gateway and did a search for those words; and to my amazement, it was true!  The Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead dwells within me and with all believers.  When we know this truth, it changes everything, doesn’t it?  

Today, we celebrate Easter Sunday—Jesus rose from the dead on this day a few thousand years ago.  It was and still is the greatest day in all of history because everything changed as a result of the Christ’s resurrection.  Not too long after this glorious day, simple, uneducated men would start sharing this Good News to strangers and even foreigners, where thousands of people started to put their faith in this Jesus.  They would help the lame to walk, the sick to be healed, and bring dead back to life, all the while rejoicing as they took on beatings and persecutions.  These simple, uneducated men would flip the whole world upside down.  All of this could only be possible because that same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwelled in them.

We can look at our own lives and just feel so ordinary; it’s hard to think we could be like those apostles and have much to offer to this world.  Especially when we focus on the darkness and problems of this world, we feel powerless.  Maybe instead of the Spirit, we see the sin that still rages within our hearts.  It’s hard to believe that we would ever be free of it.  But when we realize this truth that this same Spirit who raised Jesus Christ from the dead dwells within us, and when we remember this Easter Sunday, it should change everything.  Sin has lost its power over us.  Death has been defeated.  We have this power within us that comes from the Holy Spirit.  

As we celebrate this Easter Sunday, let us rejoice that this same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead lives in us. Let’s believe in that power within us!

Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for the resurrection and the hope that it imbues.  May the power of resurrection propel me to live a life worthy of your precious name.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 24

April 3, Saturday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Charles Choe who leads Tapestry Church in Los Angeles, was first posted on April 18, 2015.  Charles is a graduate of University of California, Riverside (BA) and Fuller Theological Seminary (M.Div.).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

1 Samuel 31:6 (ESV)

“Thus Saul died, and his three sons, and his armor-bearer, and all his men, on the same day together.” 

Reading about another fallen church leader is never easy to stomach. Even more difficult to bear is reading about how their sin affects those around them. The Bible says that your sin will find you out (Num. 32:23); and when it does, people who sinned are not the only ones who get hurt but also their families, friends and churches as well.

This is clearly demonstrated in Saul’s last battle against the Philistines in 1 Samuel 31.  The battle turned so badly for Israel that they were in full retreat to their own camp.  At this moment, a Philistine archer hit Saul and severely wounded him. Saul, turning to his armor bearer, demanded, “Draw your sword, and thrust me through with it, lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and mistreat me” (v. 4).  Because his armor bearer, being afraid, wouldn’t do it, Saul took a sword and fell on it, bringing a tragic and inevitable end to his undistinguished life and reign. Sadly, Saul did not die alone that day; that is, his prideful rebellion against God ended up causing the death of countless men, including his three sons (one being Jonathan) and his armor bearer.

What this shows is that you cannot “plant” sin, even if it’s in private, and not expect to reap its consequences that will spill over to those who are in your sphere of influence. The principle is also conversely true. If you make good choices by living in obedience, it will have a way of blessing those who you come to contact with. 

As you are reading this, perhaps the Holy Spirit is bringing to your attention how your sins (perhaps habitual) are affecting the people around you—the people whom you love. Whatever the sin may be, the good news is this: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).  It is sobering to see how sin absolutely diminished the life and reign of Saul.  And yet such a fate may befall us, unless we are vigilant about sin, by praying and walking humbly with our God. 

Bible Reading for Today:Jeremiah 22-23

Reflection

“Although God loves us unconditionally, He does get angry at sin, wickedness and evil. But He is not an angry God. God hates sin, but He loves sinners! He will never approve of sin in your life, but He always loves you and wants to work with you to make progress in living a holy life in Christ.” – Joyce Meyer

April 2, Friday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT blog, written by Pastor Mark Chun of Radiance Christian Church in S.F., was originally posted on March 29, 2013; it has been updated. Mark is a graduate of University of California, San Diego (BS) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Getting Ready for Easter” (2): Good Friday

Psalm 31:3-5 (ESV)

“For you are my rock and my fortress; and for your name’s sake you lead me and guide me;  4  you take me out of the net they have hidden for me, for you are my refuge.  5 Into your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O Lord, faithful God.” 

When Jesus spoke the words of this psalm on the cross, it was at the very end of his suffering.   Imagine the events preceding this statement: an evening of torturous prayer, betrayed by a friend in the dark of the night, questioned and beaten by religious leaders deep into the morning hours of the next day, and then stand trial before Pilate at dawn.  In less than two hours, Jesus would be tried and sentenced to carry his cross up to Mt. Calvary.  By 9 am, the soldiers would have nailed his hands and feet, and lifted him up on that cross.  

For the next six hours, Jesus would not only suffer the physical pain of the crucifixion, but more importantly, he would endure the spiritual agony of God’s wrath and abandonment.  This is what makes this statement so amazing, that even after enduring such despair, Jesus was still able to entrust his spirit into the hands of God.  It was and is the greatest proclamation of trust in the sovereign will of God; even unto death he was the perfect model for his followers.  It is easy to trust God when things are going well but the cross reminds us that the real trust is forged through the dark nights of our soul.  

As you come to Easter weekend, are you praying for anyone in particular to hear the Gospel?  Pray about opportunities to bring someone to church to celebrate the resurrection of Christ.  

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I confess that it is difficult to entrust my life completely into your hands.  Help me to follow the example of your Son who lived his life in complete dependence upon your will.  Even when I cannot understand the circumstances surrounding my life, teach me how to trust you instead of leaning on my own strength and understanding.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 21

Lunch Break Study

Read Matthews 6:34 (NIV): “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” 

Questions to Consider

  1. What is the basis of our trust in God’s provision for our daily needs?  (Matthew 6:26)
  2. Why is it pointless to worry?  (Matthew 6:27)
  3. What is God’s promise to those who put their trust in Him? (Matthew 6:33)

Notes

  1. Jesus points out that the birds of the sky are well taken care of and compares their worth to ours.  Clearly, we are worth more to God than a sparrow since we are the only creatures under heaven that bear His image.  Therefore, it is reasonable to believe that God is concerned deeply about our daily needs.  
  2. From a pragmatic sense, it is pointless to worry because there is nothing that anxiety can do about the circumstances of tomorrow.  In addition, worrying doesn’t make the quality of our lives better, but in reality diminishes it.    
  3. God’s promise is a simple one for those who put their trust in Him and seek first the kingdom of God: Everything we need for life eternal will be provided for us.  

For some, the command not to worry is about as difficult to follow as an instruction to stop breathing.  Anxiety seems to be such a natural part of our lives that we forget that it is a symptom of our lack of trust in God.  

Evening Reflection

Are you growing in terms of your level of trust?  Prayer is one of the ways we can learn to put our trust into God during difficult times.   

April 1, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Yohan Lee, a friend of AMI, was first posted on April 17, 2014.  A graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BA) and Cairn University (MA), Yohan served as a staff at several AMI churches in the past. 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Getting Ready for Easter (1): Holy Thursday”

John 14:18-21

“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.19 Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.20 In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. 21 Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.”

Oftentimes, when reading the accounts of the Last Supper, I ask myself what I would do if I knew that this would be my last night on earth.  I used to think that I’d do something really adventurous, like skydive, base jump, or climb a mountain, but as I thought about it more,  I would probably spend my last night at home with my family.  Surprisingly, I can even imagine this being the most selfless night of my life, catering to whatever my wife and kids would want to do.  My kids being so young, such a night would probably entail endless chasing and wrestling, watching a continual loop of Frozen, Ice Age, and Dora, and continually getting them every snack and drink they wanted.  Even their silly questions would get my full attention and elicit genuine thought on my part.  I’d like to believe that I’d find the patience to do all the things that normally drive me crazy with my children.  

One of the reasons we see so much tenderness in the Last Supper narratives is that these disciples were “children” to Christ, and the Lord knew this would be his last night with them.  On this night, even when the disciples’ constant bickering on who would be the greatest could’ve wore thin, Jesus tenderly set the example of service by washing their feet.  When Philip, who, like the rest, could not grasp Jesus’ message and asked to see the Father, Jesus patiently told him that they have all seen the Father through the Son (John 14:8-14).  Even Peter’s bravado and self-surety was met by a matter-of-fact warning from Christ that he would indeed deny him three times (John 13:38).  

As you reflect on Easter, take a few minutes to read through the Last Supper narratives (John 13-17).  Try to get a glimpse of the Lord’s heart as he comforts his disciples, reminds them again of who he is, and tells them who and what to expect in the coming days.  Maybe this will be the first time in a long time, but admire him for his tenderness; thank him for his selflessness; and love him for his sacrifice. 

Prayer: Jesus, as we remember you on the eve of your sacrifice, please help us to fall in love with you over again.  We confess that after many years, our hearts have become numbed to the cross; forgive us and renew us.  Thank you once again because you loved us first.  

Bible Reading for Today:  Jeremiah 20

Lunch Break Study

Read John 17:20-26: “I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21 that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 The glory that you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, 23 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me. 24 Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory that you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father, even though the world does not know you, I know you, and these know that you have sent me. 26 I made known to them your name, and I will continue to make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”

Questions to Consider

  1. For whom is the Lord praying?  What is his prayer request?
  2. Why is unity so important?
  3. How important is unity in your life? 

Notes

  1. The Lord was praying for all who would believe in his message; this includes us.  His prayer request is for unity among the believers; a unity that reflects the unity that Christ and the Father share.  He also prays that the love of the Trinity would be in us (17:26).  
  2. Unity reflects the love between the Father and the Son and serves as a witness to the unbelieving world (17:21).
  3. Personal response

Evening Reflection

Were you able to take time today to reflect on Christ?  How has your desire for Christ been lately?  Do you feel like you are growing in your love, or is your Christian walk more like a chore?  Pray earnestly that the Lord would rekindle your passion for him and thankfulness to our Savior this weekend.

March 31, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 22, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Do the Right Thing”

Philem. 1:12-3

“I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel.”

Shortly after paying for our meal, I realized that that the cashier mistakenly gave me more change.  When I returned the change, the person accompanying me thought that I was being dumb, asking, “Why would you do that?”  I answered, “Isn’t that the right thing to do?”  Besides, it wasn’t that hard to do since the amount was small; perhaps, a greater amount would have really tested my character. 

Yet, in Paul’s case, he was indeed being tested of something more consequential.  His dilemma was whether to send Onesimus back to Philemon, his master, or to keep him there in Rome where Paul was under house arrest while waiting for his trial; obviously, he needed someone to take care of his needs.  

Actually, someone had been sent by the Philippian Church to help, but it didn’t work out because Epaphroditus became ill and homesick.  The apostle did the honorable thing by sending him back home with a letter of commendation to ensure that the church wouldn’t think that he was a failure (Phil. 2:25-30).

Paul does the same here with Onesimus.  The apostle really needed him there but he knew that Onesimus legally belonged to Philemon; that was the social structure of the Roman Empire.   Returning a small change is nothing compared to the choice that faced Paul.  So why send back Onesimus? Because it was the right thing to do.  

So what choices are you facing these days?  Do that which is just and right before the Lord.  Remember Psalm 106:3: “Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right.”  

Prayer: Dear Jesus, I have made more dishonest choices in my life than I care to count.  I opted for decisions that would benefit me, justifying them with all kinds of human rationale.  I confess them to you today for a new start.  Make me aware and strengthen me to do that which is right and just before you.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today:Jeremiah 19

Lunch Break Study

Read Philippians 2:3-5: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4 Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the  interests of the others. 5 Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus.” 

Questions to Consider

  1. In what sense did Christ look out for our interests while ignoring his own?
  2. How do you consider others better when clearly you are better educated and endowed than them?
  3. In what sense Paul did and I look out for the interests of Philemon and the cashier, respectively?   Are you facing a similar choice?  What are you going to do?

Notes

  1. The sinful humanity needed someone perfect to make amends for their sins “because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Heb. 10:4).  That was our need and our greatest interest.  Only one person was qualified to do that: The God-Man Jesus Christ.  And he did.  
  2. I think we have to recognize God’s broad image still residing in each person (Jas. 3:9: “. . . men, who have been made in God’s image”), and in this way recognizing their intrinsic worth apart from their accomplishments or lack thereof.  Coupled with the acknowledgement that all that we have is from the Lord, and that Christ died for the rich sinners as well as the poor, yes, we can see others better than ourselves
  3. In a strict legal sense, Paul was returning a stolen property.  Philemon suffered a loss when Onesimus ran away, probably with stolen goods.  As for the cashier, her interest was making sure that she was not short, thereby not incurring the displeasure of her boss.

Evening Reflection

We face this kind of decision everyday: To do right or to do nothing.  Did you face something like that today at work, home or school?  How did you fare?  Review your day here.  

March 30, Tuesday

REPOST Today’s AMI Devotional Thought—first posted on June 2, 2015—is provided by Pastor Yohan Lee, a friend of AMI, who in the past has served as a staff at several AMI churches.  He is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BA) and Cairn University (MA).

Devotional Thought for Today

“The Right Leadership”

2 Samuel 23:3-4

The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: “When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, 4 he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings grass from the earth.”

Like many churches, our church collected a love offering for relief efforts in Nepal.  However, giving to Nepal presented more challenges than other relief efforts I have been associated with.  For places like Haiti, Indonesia, Japan, New York/New Jersey, we would give to organizations like the Salvation Army or Samaritan’s Purse and feel relatively good that the majority of the money would be used to help people who needed it, even if we did not totally back the ideologies of these organizations.  However, in Nepal there was a legitimate concern that any donated money would line the pockets of some unscrupulous government officials.  So we had to find smaller, more discreet places to give.  

As I thought of government and the general mistrust of it (not only in Nepal, but in this country too), I couldn’t help but to marvel at how appropriate and accurate God’s word is on the subject.  I long for leadership and a system that acts with righteousness and a fear of God.  I do not want to get too political, but imagine how much better issues like poverty, education, healthcare, etc. would be if everyone did what was right, as opposed to what would get the most votes or satisfy special interest groups.  It could be as glorious as the sunrise on a clear day or as refreshing as a rainstorm after a long drought.  

The application for today is to pray—pray for our country and our leaders.  Pray that they would make difficult decisions that are right and wise.  If you are cynical, ask the Lord to give you real hope.  Pray also how you might get involved in serving your community.  You may not change the world, but you can make a difference in someone’s life.  

Prayer: Lord, we pray for the leaders of this country.  May they make policies and laws that are right and wise.  Give me the heart of Samuel who considered it a sin to fail to pray for Saul (1 Sam. 12:23). 

Bible Reading for Today: Jeremiah 18

Lunch Break Study

Read Revelation 20:1-6: And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. 2 He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. 3 He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time.4 I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.

Questions to Consider

This text concerns the millennium, a period of a thousand years where Christ will reign on the earth and Satan will be bound and unable to work on the earth.  For the purposes of this QT, let’s assume you believe in a literal millennium.  

  1. What do you suppose a world run by Christ would look like, even if fallen man inhabited it?
  2. Why do you suppose that those who were beheaded and those who did not worship the beast are specifically mentioned as raised and reigning with Christ?
  3. What purpose do you suppose there is for a millennium?

Notes

  1. In my mind, I could see a utopian society, where everything functions as it should.  Government programs would help rich and poor alike (if we have classes), and they would be effective.  Healthcare would work well; it would be reasonably priced, and all people would get correct treatment (maybe this is why there will be longer life spans).  We’d never question the integrity of our leaders because Christ is in charge.
  2. Christ, in His goodness, will reward those who were faithful—especially, those who were faithful during the great tribulation will get the honor of ruling with Christ.
  3. I would guess that a millennium would show, among many things, Christ’s goodness and how things were “supposed” to be on earth.  

Evening Reflection

Did you spend any time thinking about what Christ had in mind for his world?  Did you pray for our country (and world) and those running it?  Do you want to be less cynical and more hopeful?