February 3, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor David Kwon who heads Journey Community Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, was first posted on June 3, 2014.  He is a graduate of Drexel University (BS) and Columbia International University (M.Div.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Visitors with a Strange Message”

1 Timothy 1:3-11

As I urged you when I was going to Macedonia, remain at Ephesus so that you may charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrine, [4] nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculations rather than the stewardship from God that is by faith. [5] The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. [6] Certain persons, by swerving from these, have wandered away into vain discussion, [7] desiring to be teachers of the law, without understanding either what they are saying or the things about which they make confident assertions. [8] Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, [9] understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, [10] the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, [11] in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted.

A few days ago, I had visitors come to my house because they wanted to share their non-Christian faith with me.  We engaged in conversation and after they were finished, I shared with them about my beliefs and how I thought the Christian doctrine was the right view. I was reminded of the truth of the Gospel message and how important it is to understand doctrine to defend our faith with love and humility.

That is exactly what Paul is charging Timothy in these verses.  Paul tells Timothy to remain at Ephesus so that he would “charge certain persons not to teach any different doctrines.”  What was the nature of these “false doctrines”? Thinking that it would aid their salvation, some teachers in Ephesus constructed mythical stories based on OT history and genealogies. They embroiled the church in endless and irrelevant question and controversies, taking precious time way from studying the Truth of Scripture.  These teachers were not teaching the truth of the Scriptures and that is exactly why Paul writes this.  

In these verses, we see Paul’s heart to defend the Gospel truth “with love, which issues from a pure heart.”  In the secular and pluralistic world we live in, do we also have that kind of heart to defend the truth of the Gospel?  It takes wisdom and boldness but we too should be challenged to share the love of Christ to this unbelieving world out of a heart of love.  Take some time and ask God to give you opportunities and courage to share your faith and defend the Gospel truth to those who may not believe.  

Prayer: Lord, thank you for opening my heart to the truth of the Gospel.  May I be grounded in your Word and may you give me the opportunity to share this Good News with those who may not know you in my life.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today:Genesis 38

Lunch Break Study  

Read Galatians 1:6-10: I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel—[7] not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. [8] But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. [9] As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. [10] For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Questions to Consider 

  1. How would you describe Paul’s attitude in defending the Gospel?
  2. Why does Paul bring up v. 10?  Is this relevant in your life?
  3. How can we be bolder for Christ in our lives?  What are some of the challenges you face?

Notes

  1. Again, Paul is defending the truth of the Gospel.  People in the church of Galatia were preaching a ‘works-based’ Gospel, which is not the Gospel at all.  We see Paul’s heart and courage to defend the Gospel truth.
  2. When we are living for the Gospel, there will always be a temptation to please man over Christ.  It could be our co-workers, friend, family, etc.  Pray that God would give you the courage to surrender this temptation in your life.
  3. Personal response

Evening Reflection

Take some time to pray and ask the Lord for great wisdom and courage so that we can have greater boldness in our faith in Christ.  

February 2, Tuesday

UPDATED Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on February 26, 2013.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Who is the Real Fool?”

Psalm 19:1-4

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world. In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun.

A chapter in Richard Dawkins’ The God Delusion is entitled, “Why there almost certainly is no God,” which seems to suggest that even if God were looking right at Dawkins, he would deny Him.  Perhaps, that is why David declared, “The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God’ (Ps. 14:1a).

But “through the researchers of anthropologists, we now know that almost all the races of men have some knowledge and belief in one Supreme God” (Neill 1986:13).  Why?  As the Psalmist declared, the most natural response to observing the symmetry of the universe is to acknowledge that it was created.  Mathematical physicist Paul Davies, then an agnostic, quipped, “It looks like somebody made the universe. I don’t think it was made, but it sure looks that way.”  What Davies didn’t want to admit then was the existence of an infinite and personal God, who not only created the universe for us, but wants to have a relationship with us through His Son Jesus Christ!  Why would this God do this for us finite beings?  It’s because God loves us.  God loves you!

So, if you are still doubting God’s existence, stop being a fool and follow the trail of evidence—it will lead you to the One who created you and loves you.  As those who already believe, how big is your God?  Perhaps you made Him too small!   Mediate on His amazing power and start trusting God more.

Prayer: Heavenly Father who created the universe, no words can adequately capture this amazing fact that You want to get to know me and that I matter to You.  Important people in our society wouldn’t give me the time of day, but You created the universe so that I can know that You exist.  And finally, You sent Jesus so that I can know You personally!  I praise and glorify You for that. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 37

Lunch Break Study

Read Romans 1:18-23: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools, 23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.”

Questions to Consider

  1. From a Scriptural standpoint, why are those who refuse to believe in God’s existence deemed as fools (Rom. 1:18-23)?
  2. Why do they do this?  Is it mostly intellectual or personal?
  3. What’s needed to acknowledge the existence of God? Blind faith or reasonable faith (Heb. 11:6; Rom. 1:18, Ps. 19:1-4)?

Notes

  1. Atheists are deemed fools because they refuse to acknowledge that which is knowable about God.  For instance, even though they admit that the universe is fine-tuned to make intelligent life possible (i.e., anthropic principle), they rather believe that it was a result of chance than the work of a designer (God).
  2. Suppressing the truth by their wickedness” means it is personal, denying God’s existence and His laws, so they can live any way they want.
  3. One needs faith to believe in God, for Hebrew 11:6 states “anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists.”  But this isn’t a blind faith that posits: Even if there is no good reason to suppose that God exists, I believe it anyway due to my desperate desire to live eternally.  No, the Scripture asks us to have a reasonable faith, meaning there are enough credible signs (plausible evidence) to warrant that this road will lead to God.

Evening Reflection

Go out and look up to see the symmetry that adorns the night sky. Then come back to review your day in view of God’s grandeur.  And if you are willing, consider these questions:

We all have had doubts about our faith. While intellectual answers are adequate, the most meaningful answer will come from our personal relationship with God.  For instance, what makes you believe that God exists from your personal experiences with Him?

If we believe in the God of the Bible, that belief ought to affect the way we think and behave, transforming us, however gradually.  Have you allowed God to really transform every facet of your life (business, family, finance, recreation, etc.)? 

February 1, Sunday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Matt Ro who formerly pastored Journey Church in Atlanta, was originally posted on May 5, 2013.  Matt is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BS) and Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Wealth Management 101”

Psalm 49:16-20 (ESV)

Be not afraid when a man becomes rich, when the glory of his house increases. 17 For when he dies he will carry nothing away; his glory will not go down after him. 18 For though, while he lives, he counts himself blessed—and though you get praise when you do well for yourself—19 his soul will go to the generation of his fathers, who will never again see light. 20 Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish.

Wealth is temporary.  We can’t take it with us, so we must use it for the glory of God while we have it.  1 Timothy 6:17 says, “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.”  We are stewards of wealth, not owners.  A person may think he owns house and all of the possessions he has attained; yet, when he dies, he is separated from them forever.  

The psalmist gives us two warnings regarding material possessions.  First, beware of having a false security in temporary, secondary things.  Second, beware of wasted opportunity.  We can invest what God has entrusted to us in His work.  We can bless other people.  The wealth that God gives to us—if we are faithful stewards—can be transformed into ministry that brings everlasting glory to Him.  Don’t waste your opportunity to serve Him in this way. This, then, is the wealth management 101 that rises from the perspective of eternity. 

Prayer:  Father, help me to use my wealth and resources wisely.  I want to invest in eternal things.  I give you all of myself, including the things You have blessed me with.  Help me to use it for your glory.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today:  Genesis 36

Lunch Break Study

Read Ephesians 2:4-6 (ESV): But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,

Questions to Consider

  1. According to this passage, what are three ways that we are to identify “with Christ”?
  2. What is the importance of the word “together” when saying that God made us alive together with Christ?
  3. What is the significance of using the past tense when talking about the blessings that we’ve received?
  4. In what ways have we discovered that “his life” is “our life?”

Notes

  1. Paul goes from talking about being dead in trespasses and sin (v. 1) to being made alive together with Christ (v. 5).  Three times he says, “with Christ”.  We are made alive with Christ, raised with Christ, and seated with Christ on His throne. He has come to live in us, He has joined himself to us, and we are one person with Him. That is the most important fact upon which to build all the rest of Christian faith and experience–this tremendous statement that we are made alive with Jesus Christ. Notice those three upward steps of identification with Jesus: we are made alive with Him, resurrected with Him, and enthroned with Him. The way up is down; from the lowest, we go to the highest. God exalts the lowest to the highest, and this principle runs all throughout Scripture. It is not just a matter of history but the outworking of a universal law: Whoever humbles himself will be exalted. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled. (Matthew 23:12).
  2. Later in this letter Paul likens the church to a body, of which Christ is the head. Have you examined your body lately? Have you noticed that your fingers don’t come off if you twist them a half-turn and pull? They are tied to the body, and they share the life of the body. They are not attached by any mechanical process, but rather they are an organic part. These figures are all given to us to show us the intimate way we are united to Jesus Christ, to tell us that He is our life. So never think of yourself in any other way, because the whole work of the enemy is to get you to disbelieve that and to go back to thinking that you are just an ordinary individual struggling on through life trying to make it the best way you can, needing to mobilize all your human resources to try to get ahead of the other fellow and to achieve as much of the fulfillment of life as you can. Any time you believe that, you go right back to acting as you once did–back to the misery, back to the heartaches. You can escape that only when you come back again to this central truth–we are alive in Jesus Christ!
  3. There is one final thing to notice here. These verbs are all in the past tense. This is something that has happened, not something that is going to happen. It has already occurred when you believed in Jesus Christ. You don’t have to work toward it. It is not something that great saints achieve after years of effort. It is something that is already true, and every Christian has this experience. We were made alive in Jesus Christ. We cannot be the same again. 

Evening Reflection

We often feel like a failure at times.  I know I do.  Yet our failures are swallowed up in the victory of Jesus Christ.  And He will be victorious in and through us too.  It is inevitable.  “37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37).  The two words “But God,” make all the difference.  How can we view our failures and hardships from the vantage point of “But God”?  Journal the ways that we can currently look at our lives from God’s eyes.  

Prayer:  Thank you, Jesus, for Your work on the cross.  I proclaim that I humble myself before God, identifying myself to be made alive with Him, resurrected with Him and enthroned with Him—because Jesus died my death that I may receive His life.  Amen.

January 31, Sunday

REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, written by Pastor Sam Lee who leads Catalyst Agape Church in Northern New Jersey, was first posted on December 6, 2013.  He is a graduate of University of Wisconsin (BA) and Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Seeking a Spirit-Filled Life”

Acts 1:8

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” 

Jesus modeled for us what would a Spirit filled life look like. Jesus is eternally God but Jesus chose to do ministry out of His incarnated Human nature “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equity with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness (Phil. 2:6-7). 

Therefore, Jesus waited and did the ministry until He was baptized by the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:14, Acts 10:38). The disciples also waited for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5) and when the power of the Holy Spirit came upon them, the NT church began. The disciples of Jesus before the Pentecost were unreliable and even deserted Jesus at death row. After the Pentecost, they never denied Jesus again. 

As believers we all have the Holy Spirit in us, but I want to challenge you to be hungry for the filling of the Holy Spirit. This is the promise of Jesus “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive (John 7:38-39). 

Holy Spirit is like a river. Many times in the OT when Israel was in trouble, there would be prophesy of water (A pool in the desert, flowing stream, rain, etc). I believe the water represent the prophetic word of Holy Spirit coming in great power. 

We need to believe and be convinced that no matter what we are going through, that His manifested presence changes everything. If we are convinced of this truth, we won’t spend so much time leaning on our own understanding. We won’t spend so much time being frustrated and stressed. Instead, we will spend more time hungering the manifested presence of God. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I desire to be filled by Your Spirt.  Lord, empty out the things of the flesh in my life in order that the Holy Spirit can fill me to the brim.  Fill me, Lord. Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 35

January 30, Saturday

UPDATED Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, written by Pastor Young Kim of Grace Covenant Church in Philadelphia, was originally posted on June 12, 2013.  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

Proverbs 12:11 

“He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment.”

I know I will offend some people here, but upon reading this proverb, the first thing that came to my mind was fantasy football.  I think it can be used for some good (e.g., interaction with others) but personally I would rather see men praying with each other.  I also feel like video, phone, and Internet games waste so much time in a believer’s life.  

So why don’t you pray about fasting from some of these things for the rest of your life?  If you cannot do it for that long, try fasting from them at least for a season.  In place of these things read the Bible and pray.  And instead of playing fantasy football, get together with others and play real football (that is, once we are cleared of COVID).

Prayer: Lord, teach me to choose the best thing and let go of things that rob my time away from you.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today:  Genesis 33-34

January 29, Friday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 9, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Be a Real Influencer, Not the YouTube Kind”

Philem. 1:4a-5

“I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers, because I hear about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.”

Col. 1:5 

“. . . the faith and love that spring from the hope that is stored up for you in heaven and that you have already heard about in the word of truth, the gospel . . .”

What are you thanking God for lately?  Is it a new job, house, or relationship?   While those things are certainly worth noting, I wonder whether many of us can readily identify with why Paul felt thankful to God here.  The apostle’s gratefulness stemmed from hearing how well Philemon was walking in the Lord and about his sacrificial love for other believers.  Having led Philemon to the Lord and discipled him (Philem. 1:19), Paul probably felt like a proud father!  

Do you know what that feels like?  I can partially understand how Paul felt because I have had the privilege of investing into the lives of others since 1982 so that they may love Christ, and in time, serve him.   Recently, a rather prominent pastor in Hong Kong, who used to attend my church in the 1990s, wrote me, saying, “Thanks for the prayers and especially thank you for investing in me those early years. . . . You are a true man of faith for . . . starting a course in my life where I have the privilege of preaching [several times] a week.”  I left the pastorate in 1999, discouraged with a sense of failure, but upon hearing something like that, you wonder perhaps God did more through me than what I had imagined.   That’s a good feeling!  So I thank God because of the faith and love of those whom God had brought into my life to influence them with “the word of truth.”

How about you?  Perhaps, it is time to invest your time, knowledge and even money into the life of a young person so that one day, you will thank God for that person’s love for people and faith in the Lord Jesus.  Don’t make a hasty decision; pray for the Lord’s direction and then make that call.  Be a real influencer, not the YouTube kind.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank You for several people in the past who touched me in different ways at different stages of my life so that I might know, love, and serve You.  While I may not be ready to do the same for others right now, I pray for your strength to at least reach out to someone with a hearty greeting or a pat on the back to encourage him (her).  Thank You, Lord, for believing in me.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 32

Lunch Break Study

Read Acts 15:36-40:  “Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us go back and visit the believers in all the towns where we preached the word of the Lord and see how they are doing.’ 37 Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, 38 but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia (13:13) and had not continued with them in the work. 39 They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, 40 but Paul chose Silas and left . . .”

Question to Consider

  1. What was Paul, in fact, saying by adamantly opposing the inclusion of Mark on his missionary team?
  2. In what way did Barnabas’ acceptance of Mark and the price he paid to do so begin to restore him? 
  3. Some 15 years later, Paul, facing his last hour, had this to say about Mark: “Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry” (2 Tim. 4:11b).  Do you think Paul had some regrets about how he handled the earlier situation?  

Notes

  1. He was saying that the ministry at hand (the second missionary trip) was more critical and urgent than restoring Mark.  Paul was a great man of God, but in this instance, he failed to see the potential in a young man who would go on to write the first gospel.   
  2. This demonstrated that Barnabas believed in Mark, who no doubt felt very bad about deserting Paul and Barnabas in their first missionary trip.  The road to restoration begins with someone going the extra mile to believe in those who feel like a failure, all because Christ has accepted him (Rom. 14:3).
  3. By this time, it was apparent to Paul that Mark was no longer the same person; perhaps he had already penned his gospel by now.  Regrets?  I would be surprised if Paul hadn’t any.  He probably thanked God that Barnabas had hung onto Mark so that he would grow into a man of God.

Evening Reflection

How was your day?  Did you get to encourage anyone?  Perhaps tomorrow, you can touch someone with a gesture of love and with words of encouragement from God’s word.  Take a moment to pray.

January 28, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, written by Pastor Doug Tritton of Symphony Church in Boston, was first posted on June 18, 2015. Doug is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BA) and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (M.Div.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Grace Already”

1 Kings 6:11-14: 

Now the word of the Lord came to Solomon, “Concerning this house that you are building, if you will walk in my statutes and obey my rules and keep all my commandments and walk in them, then I will establish my word with you, which I spoke to David your father. And I will dwell among the children of Israel and will not forsake my people Israel.” So Solomon built the house and finished it.

When I read this passage while writing this devotional, I thought about skipping it. I thought to myself, this does not really show grace. This passage seems to imply that we need to obey God before He comes to us, that we need to earn His presence. But as I reflected on this, I realized, that is certainly not the case.

God’s grace was already at work. He was the one who rescued Israel from Egypt and brought them to the Promised Land. He protected them from invaders during the time of the Judges and gave them a king when they asked for one.  God was always giving and giving towards the people of Israel.

So by the time God asks Solomon to follow His statutes, God had already given grace upon grace to the people of Israel. What really is happening here is that God’s grace had opened up a way for His people to know Him more, through obedience. 

When we obey God, we know Him better because obedience opens our heart to Him more. God has already shown grace; we see that on the cross.  But in response to that grace, we obey and thus we come to know God even better. His presence becomes sweeter, and our intimacy with Him grows.

Obedience should not be seen as a chore; rather, it’s a means to know God more. God gives us grace, over and over and over again. How will you respond to that grace?

Prayer: Lord, thank You for giving grace. Who am I to deserve that grace You displayed on the cross? Yet still You died for me. May my heart yearn to know You more because of what You have done for me. May my heart be willing to obey You in response to what You have done for me. You gave it all for me; help me to now give my life to You.

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 31

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 John 5:3-4: For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome. For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.

Questions to Consider

  1. How do we show our love for God?
  2. Why will God’s commands not be burdensome?
  3. What is the role of faith in this?

Notes

  1. Love for God is shown through obedience to Him. We do not blindly follow God’s commands, but rather follow them as overflow of our love for God. When we love someone, we do anything to please that person. We can please God by following Him and obeying His commands.
  2. God’s commands will not be burdensome because through Christ, we overcome the world! It is God who works in us to obey through the power of the Holy Spirit who comes to us when we are born anew. Praise God that He is the one working through us!
  3. It all starts with faith! Faith is what leads to the new birth which brings the Holy Spirit who enables us to overcome the world. If we try to obey God without faith, we are deluding ourselves. Our ability to follow God is 100% dependent on the faith we have in Christ. 

Evening Reflection

Take time to repent for any ways in which you have not obeyed God. Think through things God may have asked you to do that you did not do. Pray for the faith to obey, even if it may seem costly. Pray for strength to live a life of obedience to God.

January 27, Wednesday

UPDATED Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Matt Ro who formerly pastored Journey Church in Atlanta, was originally posted on May 22, 2013.  Matt is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BS) and Biblical Theological Seminary (M.Div.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning  

Satisfying our Hunger and Thirst

Psalm 63:1 (ESV)

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

Are you hungry?  Are you thirsty?  What will satisfy your hunger and thirst? The following is how David dealt with it, when he felt utterly abandoned.  

Psalm 63 indicates that it was written when David was in the desert of Judah.  He was either fleeing from King Saul or from his son Absalom.  Probably that latter since he refers to himself in v. 11 as the king (but he was not yet king when he was fleeing from Saul).  

Separated from God’s sanctuary in Jerusalem, David is longing for the presence of God.  Verse 1 is the heartbeat of our relationship with God.  David sees himself as thirsting for God as a man might thirst in the desert where there is no water.  C.S. Lewis wrote this regarding his reflection of Psalm 63: “These poets knew far less reason than we for loving God.  They did not know that he offered them eternal joy; still less that he would die to win it for them.  Yet, they express a longing for him, for His mere presence.  They long to live all their days in the temple.  Their longing to go up to Jerusalem and appear before the presence of God is like a physical thirst.  Lacking that encounter with him, their souls are parched like a waterless countryside.”

This hunger for God must be found today.  It isn’t the things that we do for God, but the hunger for God that matters the most.  Are we seeking satisfaction in other things?  Are we cultivating His presence?  There is no better way to start each day than by earnestly seeking god’s face through personal Bible Study, meditation, and prayer.

Prayer:  Father, fill my heart with a longing for You.  It is Your presence that I hunger for.  Forgive me for seeking my relief for hunger in the things that do not satisfy.  I pledge today to pursue You and Your will through Your word.  I want to rest in Your presence and grace.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today:  Genesis 30

Lunch Break Study

Read Ephesians 5:1-2(ESV): Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. 2 And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Questions to Consider

  1. What is the command in v. 1?  What do you think that means?
  2. What aspect of “walking in love” does Paul point us towards in v. 2? Or, in what ways did Christ walk in love?
  3. This passage in Ephesians calls us to follow Christ’s example and walk in love, but it is important to note that he begins by saying “as beloved children.”  Spend five minutes today thinking how much God loves you (ask Him for a revelation of how much He enjoys you) and see if it does not awaken and unlock your heart to love Him more. 

Notes

  1. Paul bluntly tells us that we must be imitators of God.  The word for imitators in Greek means to mimic.  He is telling us to follow the pattern or example of God.  A simple translation would be “be godlike.”  That doesn’t mean we can be God.  Only He has attributes reserved for Himself.  There can be only one God.  But to be godlike means to reflect Him in our lives.  To be godly is the means to be godlike.  What will you be like if you are godlike?  Is there strength that you need to live out?  Is there a change in the object of happiness that you need to seek?  Will we be wise and kind?  
  2. Through all the works of God, there is one main focus: He redeems.  To walk in love as Christ loved us means that we love sacrificially and redemptively.  We must be willing to love in a way that reflects Christ’s love for us.  This means that if we are to be godly, we must be selfless and consider the needs of others even above our own needs.  It is through this sacrificial love that the world will be attracted to Christ.  Ask yourself today, “Am I walking in love towards others as Christ walked in love for me?”  That is the greatest way that we can godly, or to be imitators of God.  We must learn to live to the fullest of humanity, to learn how to love, to heal, and to restore and bring together things that are scattered and fragmented.  
  3. The greatest two commandments found in Matthew 22:37-40 (love God with all heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbor) are intrinsically tied. It is only as we gain a revelation of the depth of His love, that we are able to truly walk in the way of love, loving God, and loving others. 

Evening Reflection

Prayer:  Father, help me to be godly.  Teach me to the wonder and satisfaction of godlikeness.  May this desire for godlikeness begin with an understanding of your love for me and then spill out to love towards others.  Amen.

January 26, Tuesday

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Hooray to Social Justice but Whose Justice?”

Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 (ESV)

Again I saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun. And behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them! On the side of their oppressors there was power, and there was no one to comfort them. 2 And I thought the dead who are already dead more fortunate than the living who are still alive. 3 But better than both is he who has not yet been and has not seen the evil deeds that are done under the sun. 

In the last decade, there has been a growing awareness and concern about matters of social justice.  Many people assume that this is a positive trend, a sign that humanity is progressing into a kinder and gentler world.  Yet, the book of Ecclesiastes presents a far more realistic picture of the injustice that is a part of our daily existence: Oppression is something that is deeply embedded into the very power structure of our societies and their governments.  Solomon who had the resources of an entire nation at his disposal saw very little hope in seeing a just world in his lifetime.  In the face of his own helplessness, he was left with two emotional responses to the situation: sorrow for the oppressed, and indignation towards their oppressors.  

Solomon reminds us of our responsibility to do what is within our power to help the victims of injustice, but also to realize that the ultimate source of comfort comes from the hand of God; that He will one day wipe away all our tears.   

Today, there are many models and paradigms of social justice that are being taught in our universities and by secular sociologists.  And many of us think that any model of social justice that alleviates the pain and the suffering of individuals is good, whether it is secular, Christian, Buddhist, etc.  But is important for us to consider that the only valid model of social justice is one that is centered around the teachings of Christ.  A good starting point is to understand that our righteous acts are but filthy rags before God (Isaiah 64:6).   

Our concern for the poor and everything that we do for the underprivileged and the oppressed does not merit any sort of right standing before God or men.  This is vitally important because I have met many people (Christians and non-Christians) who are caught up in the self-deception that all their good works somehow make them a better person.  It is so easy to gain our sense of self-worth and significance from tackling these noble causes; and when we do these things for all the wrong reasons, we glorify ourselves instead of glorifying God.   

The warning of Christ is clear: be careful of doing your works of righteousness before men and to not allow your left hand to know what your right hand is doing.  In its essence, Jesus is teaching us that we need to be completely unaware of ourselves when we go out to feed the poor and clothe the naked.  It is not about you and how good you are; rather, it is about God and how good He is.  

Prayer: Lord, we confess that it is so easy to overlook the needs of the poor and the oppressed as we go through the daily routine of life.  Help us to have a heart of compassion as we interact with those who suffer from an unfair system of wealth and power.  Keep our hearts from being calloused so that we can minister with the same love that you showed to us.   Amen.  

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 30 

Lunch Break Study  

Read Isaiah 58:6-12: “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? 7 Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? 8 Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you; the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. 9 Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, ‘Here I am.’  If you take away the yoke from your midst, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, 10 if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. 11 And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. 12 And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.

Questions to Consider 

  1. How is fasting and social justice connected?   
  2. What are the spiritual benefits of caring for the poor and hungry?
  3. Think of ways you can personally participate in social causes.    

Notes

  1. When you fast, you become acutely aware of the basic human needs- specifically the need for food and water.  Fasting can be used as a reminder that there are many people who don’t have access to the basic requirements of life.  To fast with no concern for others is a contradiction in terms.  
  2. The blessings of having our prayers answered and causing His glory to fall upon us are the great rewards for living a life of compassion.   As Jesus points out, we shine our light to the world through the good works that God has created for us to do, and as a result, we give glory to our Father in heaven.  
  3. Personal response

Evening Reflection

Take time to reflect on this excerpt from the Lausanne Covenant on Christian social responsibility:

We affirm that God is both the Creator and the Judge of all men. We therefore should share his concern for justice and reconciliation throughout human society and for the liberation of men from every kind of oppression. Because mankind is made in the image of God, every person, regardless of race, religion, color, culture, class, sex or age, has an intrinsic dignity because of which he should be respected and served, not exploited. Here too we express penitence both for our neglect and for having sometimes regarded evangelism and social concern as mutually exclusive. 

Have you spent time praying for the injustices that you see around you?  Pray for fellow Christians who may be going through difficult times, especially those in the persecuted church.  Intercede on behalf of our missionaries in places like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia where the fight for human rights is a struggle.  

January 25, Monday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 8, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

Philem. 1:4 

“I always thank my God as I remember you in my prayers.”

Eph. 6:18b 

“Be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

I often room with this pastor whenever I travel with AMI pastors.   We’ve gotten so used to each other’s habits (both good and bad—no details please) that there are no surprises or odd moments between us.  For instance, since I am unable to sleep for too long whenever I am on the road, I am up quite early to pray; to avoid waking up the pastor, I pray in the bathroom where I stay for some time.  Once, while I was praying, I heard the door being opened and then quickly close.  Knowing that my roommate, not wanting to bother me, left the room to look for a restroom, I quickly got out to tell him to come back.

There are many people whose prayer life is much richer and longer than mine but I do try to pray at least an hour a day since Christ expected his disciples to pray that long (Matt. 26:40).  For those who run out of things to pray in about five minutes, that might seem too long.  One reason some people can pray two to three hours a day is because they understand the art of intercessory prayer.  Just as Paul prayed for his disciple Philemon, we pray for other people, consistently and specifically.  

During the Vision Trip of 2013, I met a vibrant young lady from California, who belongs to the Screen Actor’s Guild, and is looking for a role in a sitcom.  One day, I abruptly asked her to give a short speech after winning an imaginary Emmy.  Not quite sure of what I was up to, she, nevertheless, went along, thanking the production crew, her families, and finally, Jesus Christ.  Upon hearing that, I said, “Since you plan to give glory to Christ, I will pray that you will soon get a role.”  Thus, I have been praying for her consistently ever since.   

When you add to your daily prayer the prayer needs of others, that’s how you can end up praying for an hour or longer daily.  And there is a lot of joy, and even a sense of fulfillment that comes from consistently praying for people whom you know, as well as those who you don’t know as well, like missionaries.   I invite you this morning to pray for someone, with all your heart.  

Prayer: Dear God, I cannot fathom at this point how I can pray for five minutes daily let alone an hour.  But I do want to and need to pray, not only for myself but also for others.  Lord, help me to understand the importance and the beauty of intercessory prayer; motivate me to actually do it consistently.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 29

Lunch Break Study

Read Col. 4:12: “Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.”

Matt. 26:38b, 40-1: “‘Stay here and keep watch with me’ . . . Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. ‘Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?’ he asked Peter. 41 ‘Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.’”

Eph. 6:18-9: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. 19 Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel.”

Questions to Consider

  1. What are some prerequisites in order for us to engage in consistent intercessory prayers?
  2. What are some specific things that we can pray for others?
  3. Is your prayer life adequate?  What keeps you from disciplining yourself to pray consistently?

Notes

  1. Those who have wrestled know that that sport demands intense conditioning.  During a match, there is no time to think about other things except to wrestle the opponent.  Likewise, to pray consistently, we need to focus and avoid doing things that would take away the desire to pray (like mindlessly watching TV or surf the internet).
  2. Epaphras prayed that the Colossian believers would become more mature and assured in their faith. Since Jesus told the three disciples to pray in order to not fall into temptation, we can pray for others that they do not succumb to it as well.  Jesus himself asked them to support him in prayer during the most agonizing moment of his life prior to the crucifixion. 
  3. For most people, it begins with a lack of will and absence of desperation; they have become too comfortable with the things as they are.  We don’t pray for others because of our self-adsorption has rendered us indifferent to their needs.  Overall, we have no real plan to establish a prayer life.  It would be helpful to have a designated place and set time to pray.

Evening Reflection

Before you go to sleep today, pray for at least three people whose needs you are well-aware of.  And then, write a short prayer asking God to help you to pray more diligently for others.