February 11, Thursday

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 13, 2014.  He is a graduate of Drexel University (BS) and Columbia International University (M.Div.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Foundational ‘Skills’”

1 Timothy 3:14-16

I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these things to you so that, [15] if I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth. [16] Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.

Learning the foundations or the basics of a sport or a skill often determines one’s future success.  For example, my oldest daughter is now learning how to read, learning the basics of what each letter sounds like.  These foundational skills will be important for her to be a successful reader.   In the sport of basketball, if you do not learn how to shoot or dribble, most likely you will not succeed in that sport.  

Paul calls the church “the pillar and buttress of the truth” (v. 15). Other translations use the word “foundation” in place of buttress, which means that as the church faithfully obeys the Scripture, it lives out the truth and supports its claim that the gospel brings real change. The church is responsible to hold the truth steady against the storms of heresy and unbelief.  It is the pillar and the foundation, the support, the defense, and the buttress of truth.  As its foundation, it is to hold the truth firmly so that it does not collapse under the weight of false teachings.  Furthermore, as a pillar it is to hold the truth up high so that it is not hidden from the world.  In other words, we are to boldly proclaim the truth of the gospel message to the world.   These are such challenging words that Paul gives to young Timothy.  

As you reflect on these verses this morning, take time to pray for the preaching and teaching ministries in your church so that they would be effective in gospel transformation in the lives of people.  Also pray that in our own individual lives, we would hold on to the gospel truth with integrity, along with boldness to proclaim it to the people around us.    

Prayer: Lord, thank you that we see Paul’s heart for the gospel message.  Our prayer is that we would hold on to the foundational truths and at the same time that we would declare the message of Christ unashamedly.  Amen.  

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 47

Lunch Break Study 

Romans 1:16-17: For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. [17] For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Questions to Consider 

  1. Where does Paul’s confidence come from when it comes to the gospel?
  2. Do we see this type of boldness and assurance in lives?    
  3. How is the Lord challenging you through these verses?

Notes

  1. Having confessed his fervent desire to preach the gospel at Rome, Paul goes on to give a reason for his zeal. He has no reservations about his mission. 
  2. The gospel is not a message to be ashamed of even if the world finds it foolish.   The Greek word for “power” (dunamis) is where we get the word “dynamite.” Paul is saying the gospel has power like  dynamite! Do we have this kind of boldness for the gospel?  
  3. Pray for greater boldness and urgency.  

Evening Reflection

We have been reflecting on the importance of biblical truth and boldness in the gospel.  Let’s ask the Lord that we would  live out these truths.  

February 10, Wednesday

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

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Love the Giver Then Thank Him for His Gift”

Psalm 78:23-31

Yet he gave a command to the skies above and opened the doors of the heavens; 24 he rained down manna for the people to eat, he gave them the grain of heaven.  25 Men ate the bread of angels; he sent them all the food they could eat.  26 He let loose the east wind from the heavens and led forth the south wind by his power.  27 He rained meat down on them like dust, flying birds like sand on the seashore. 28 He made them come down inside their camp, all around their tents. 29 They ate till they had more than enough, for he had given them what they craved. 30 But before they turned from the food they craved, even while it was still in their mouths, 31 God’s anger rose against them; he put to death the sturdiest among them, cutting down the young men of Israel.

When we think of God, we often think of a loving Father who is gracious and patient, quick to forgive, desiring to bless His children.  But how often do we think about God’s wrath?  God is not only loving and gracious, but He’s also holy and just.  As a good father, our Heavenly Father loves us enough to be upset when we’re not grateful for his provisions, when we live in continual disobedience, and rebellious to His ways.  

The Israelites incurred the wrath of God because all they cared about was satisfying their earthly cravings.  All they cared about was the gift and not the giver.  And this is why God’s anger arose against them.

Today, let’s begin by worshipping God for who He is.  Meditate on God’s goodness with a heart filled with thanksgiving.  Let’s not be like the Israelites, but fear God and continue to confess our sins and our need for Him.  What blessings has God showered you with?  What has been your attitude toward these blessings?

Prayer: Father, I declare that You are completely holy and just.  I praise and thank You for not only the blessings in my life but also Your discipline, for I know that both come from Your love and grace.  I confess that I need You more today than ever.  Teach me to live in gratitude and thanksgiving.  Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 46

Lunch Break Study

Read James 4:7-10 (NIV): Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. 

Questions to Consider

  1. What happens when you resist the devil? 
  2. What results when you come near to God?
  3. Place yourself in a setting where you are able to draw nearer to God with all of your mind and your heart.  

Notes

  1. When we resist the devil along with his enticing temptations while submitting to God, the devil will flee from us. Rebellion against God is a serious matter. The devil is the greatest rebel of all time, and he is in the business of persuading God’s people to join him in rebellion. If we rebel against God, we are submitting to the devil.  
  2. As you draw near to God, He will draw near to you. The most urgent and important business for each of us is to draw near to God each day, each week, each season of our lives. In His presence, we draw strength to face our circumstances in life. 
  3. Instead of being angry with others, submit to what God is doing in your life, accept that things will be difficult for a while, and don’t sit in judgment on others (4:7-12). Don’t demand that things be done to suit you, either in your personal life or in the church. Accept that your circumstances may be sorrowful for the time being. Submit to how God has fashioned things, and he will eventually lift you up (4:7-10).

Evening Reflection

How did the Spirit of God help you in resisting the devil and his schemes to bring about severe damage to your life?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I believe in Your love and affection for me as Your child. Help me to see the beauty of Jesus Christ so that I would draw closer to Him. Amen.  

February 9, Tuesday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT blog, written by Pastor Mark Chun of Radiance Christian Church in S.F., was originally posted on September 12, 2014.  Mark is a graduate of University of California, San Diego (BS) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.). 

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Redeeming Capitalism”

Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (ESV)

He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves wealth with his income; this also is vanity. 11 When goods increase, they increase who eat them, and what advantage has their owner but to see them with his eyes? 12 Sweet is the sleep of a laborer, whether he eats little or much, but the full stomach of the rich will not let him sleep. 13 There is a grievous evil that I have seen under the sun: riches were kept by their owner to his hurt, 14 and those riches were lost in a bad venture. And he is father of a son, but he has nothing in his hand. 15 As he came from his mother’s womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand. 16 This also is a grievous evil: just as he came, so shall he go, and what gain is there to him who toils for the wind? 17 Moreover, all his days he eats in darkness in much vexation and sickness and anger. 18 Behold, what I have seen to be good and fitting is to eat and drink and find enjoyment in all the toil with which one toils under the sun the few days of his life that God has given him, for this is his lot. 19 Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God. 20 For he will not much remember the days of his life because God keeps him occupied with joy in his heart. 

In an interesting essay on the topic of greed by Julian Edney, a Yale economics professor who is not a Christian, he noted that Americans don’t see greed as an immoral practice and don’t recognize the social problems that arise as a result.  He went on to cite some startling facts about life in America.   The Department of Agriculture in its survey of the population has found out that nearly 4% of our population or 4.4 million American households sometimes go hungry for lack of money.  An estimated 2 million children are homeless at some time during the year.  The most alarming trend is the fact that there are whole families who have full and part time jobs who are unable to afford the cost of living in many of our cities and find themselves out on the streets.  These people, for the most part, are trying to make a living, but they cannot keep up with the escalating cost of living caused by the unequal distribution of wealth in our society.  Edney makes the point that while the rich are getting richer, the poor are getting poorer.  Unfortunately, an economy that is based on competition and survival of the fittest will have its winners and its losers.  It is designed in the long run to produce inequality.

Although I see the value of capitalism, unless it is tempered by the Christian virtues of generosity and charity, it can produce many social evils.  In this passage of Ecclesiastes, we are also reminded of the personal consequence of greed. Our hunger for money and material wealth can never be satiated.  John D. Rockefeller, the late 19th century tycoon, was once asked, “How much money is enough?” to which he replied, “Just a little bit more.”  Solomon saw this as a grievous evil because all of our wealth can be taken in a moment’s notice.  The underlying lesson is to see everything as a gift from God, which we can use and enjoy while we have it.  When we see our material blessings as simply a product of our hard work, we will naturally become anxious and worry over our finances, which left unchecked can lead to greed.  It is far better to rejoice in the fruit of our labor and to give God the glory for whatever comes from his hand.  

And one more thing: be generous today.  

Prayer: Father, we confess that it is easy to worry about our finances and even to become selfish with our money.  We ask that you would make us better stewards of all that you give us.  Help us to see that you have blessed us so that ultimately we can be a blessing to others.  Amen.  

Bible Reading for Today:Genesis 45

Lunch Break Study  

Read Matthew 6:24-34 (ESV): “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. 25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? 27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? 28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, 29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? 31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. 33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble. 

Phil. 4:19 (NIV): And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Questions to Consider 

  1. What does Jesus teach as our proper attitude towards money in comparison to our love for God?
  2. Why can we trust God more than the security that money provides?
  3. Where can we productively channel our efforts to overcome our anxiety? 

Notes

  1. 1Jesus uses some very strong terms in regards to our attitude towards money.  In light of our love for God, it should be as if we despise and hate money.  The pursuit of riches should never get in the way of our relationship with God, and where there is a choice, God should be the priority without a second thought.   
  2. God can be trusted because just as he feeds the birds and clothes the lilies, he will not leave us destitute.  Though we may go through difficult times, we should never think that God doesn’t care.  If we know that he cares for every bird and flower, how much more does he care about those who are made in his own image (James 3:9)?  
  3. Instead of simply working harder to make more money in order to cover our worries, Jesus commands us to seek first the kingdom of God.  This verse comes with the amazing promise that if we do this, all that we need in life will be provided for (Phil. 4:19).   

Evening Reflection

What are you anxious about?  Why are you worried?  Spend some time reflecting on all the good things that God has given you.  Take a moment to confess your anxieties to the Lord and pray, asking God to reveal his care and compassion for you.  

February 8, Monday

UPDATED Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 10, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Sharing the Good News”

Philem. 1:6

“I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.”

Probably, sharing the gospel in Mexico (culturally Catholic) is easier than in the State (culturally secular and postmodern).  Only one or two persons refused the gospel tract that I frequently handed out while doing my daily run.  But once at a park in California, a mother sought me out to return a rather benign tract that I gave to her son.  That is probably why many don’t share their faith: afraid of being embarrassed when rejected like that.  Yet, by not sharing and never experiencing leading someone to the Lord, we miss out on the kind of joy (a good thing indeed) that materializes only when that happens.  It’s like men who cannot experience the ultimate joy of childbirth from the mother’s standpoint. 

While I was studying at a university in the 1980s, I met a graduate student from China who was having a difficult time putting her ideas into proper English.  After befriending her, I spoke to her about many things, including my faith in Christ.  She was quite sad, however, when she did poorly on her take-home mid-term.  So, I helped her with the final exam; as a result (I think), she received an A.  And on the final day of the quarter, I popped the question (no, not that one): “Do you want to believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.”  She said, “Yes.”  Frankly, I don’t know who was more joyous, her or me.  

On that day, I once again realized that one of the good things we have in Christ is the ability (i.e., knowledge of the gospel and being able to communicate) and opportunities to change someone’s eternal destiny.  Now, that is significant.  So, get going; don’t miss out.  What about fear?  It partly stems from not really knowing what we truly believe; therefore, study and learn.  Ultimately, this fear must be replaced with love for the lost soul (1 Jn. 4:18a: “There is no fear in love.  But perfect love drives out fear. . . .”) and boldness through prayer. (Eph. 6:20b: “Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should.”)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, sharing the gospel is not something I have done much in the past and isn’t exactly something I look forward to doing.  Nevertheless, I’m your child because someone took the time to tell me about your Son.  So Lord, open my eyes to see the person whom I need to share your love, and give me the boldness and articulation to share the gospel in a gentle and respectable manner.   Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 44

Lunch Break Study

Read Daniel 2:45-47: “This is the meaning of the vision of the rock cut out of a mountain, but not by human hands—a rock that broke the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver and the gold to pieces.  ‘The great God has shown the king what will take place in the future. The dream is true and its interpretation is trustworthy.”  46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell prostrate before Daniel and paid him honor and ordered that an offering and incense be presented to him. 47 The king said to Daniel, ‘Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery.’”

Questions to Consider

  1. What happened as a result of Daniel’s successful interpretation of a mysterious vision that this pagan king had?
  2. What did Daniel do here as well as in his later dealing with another pagan king Darius who declared, “The God of Daniel . . . is the living God ad he endures forever” (Dan. 6”26b)?  Implications?
  3. How do you think Daniel felt after seeing that his presence in the nation that exiled him led to converting these kings, who then proclaimed the God of Daniel throughout their empires?

Notes

  1. Nebuchadnezzar, who was furious that none of his advisers could resolve this vision (Dan. 2:10-2)  became a believer of Daniel’s God.
  2. In both occasions, Daniel shared his faith despite of the great risk in doing so.  One implication: Daniel knew that the main purpose behind being placed in a high governmental position was to have access to mighty people and to share his faith at an opportune time.
  3. Humanly speaking, Daniel’s life was sad but in times like that, he, no doubt, realized that his pain and disappointment in life had a real purpose—to reveal God’s greatness among the pagans.

Evening Reflection

In reviewing this day, did you see anyone who seemed to need God’s love more urgently than others? What made you feel that way?  Write out a prayer on his (her) behalf; plan to share the gospel as you build a relationship with that person.  

February 7, Sunday

UPDATED Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought is an updated version of AMI QT Devotional first posted on August 5, 2013.

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“What God’s Sovereignty Should Mean in Our Lives”

Luke 2:1-7

“In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.”

Who is ruling the world?  If our answer is anything other than “God,” then, I know this about us:  When facing temptations or trials, we will look to everything else other than God for help.  We may be fearful because of the economy or the possibility of contracting COVID but let us place our trust in God’s sovereign hand to watch over you. 

Throughout the history, we see that God is sovereign over the highest authority of nations.  In order to fulfill the prophecy where Christ was to be born, God’s hand had to be upon Caesar Augustus (v. 4).  It is comforting to know God is sovereign.  

So, to those who are disappointed by the result of the recent election, take heart, for God is in control.  And to those who are overjoyed by the same election that brought in a new administration, don’t put your faith in men but in God. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, remind me and help me to place my trust in You.  May Your unfailing love rest upon me as I trust in Your holy name.  Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 43

February 6, Saturday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, prepared by Pastor Jason Sato, was first posted on April 26, 2014.  Jason, along with his wife Jessica, is currently serving in Japan as a missionary.  Jason is a graduate of University of California, San Diego (BS) and Westminster Theological Seminary (M.Div.). 

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Are You Impressed with Jesus?”

Matthew 13:31-33

He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. [32] It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” [33] He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

It seems that as we get older, we become less and less surprised, having less amazement and wonder. Instead, we tend to become more skeptical. With these parables, Jesus surprises His hearers by declaring that the Kingdom of God may appear to be unimpressive, but it is, in fact, amazingly glorious: The Kingdom of God “is like a grain of mustard seed” (v. 31); “It is the smallest of all seeds” (v. 32); and it is also like leaven, hidden in an enormous bag of flour, nearly invisible to the naked eye (v. 33).

This is not the kingdom the Israelites were expecting. They anticipated a kingdom of military power like that of David’s, and longed for a kingdom of unimaginable peace and prosperity like Solomon’s. Instead, they encountered an uneducated, carpenter’s son from Nazareth; and he wasn’t even good looking.

Perhaps the appearance of Jesus was not impressive, but we might think that the miracles of Jesus would practically compel a sense of awe and wonder. While many were brought to a place of worship, some saw the miracles and remained unimpressed. In fact, though Judas saw more miracles in three years than most of us will witness in our entire lives, he was completely disappointed with Jesus and His Kingdom.

We need to understand that Judas was not an evil villain from a Disney cartoon. He lived with the disciples, and he fit in. And that’s why others were surprised at his betrayal. But Judas’ heart was very hard. He may have thought to himself, “Sure, seeking and saving the lost is nice, but what does that have to do with destroying the Roman army?” Or perhaps, “It’s neat that you can walk on water, but that doesn’t help my family that is being oppressed at all!”

We, too, are tempted to be bored or disappointed with Jesus and His Kingdom. Though we hate to admit it, we ask, “What good is the love of God if I can’t get a [job, girlfriend, etc.]?” We wonder, “How impressive can this Kingdom be if I still have the same hardships and struggles?”

Jesus does not answer all of our prayers or fulfill all of our desires. More than giving us a better version of our current lives, He makes us new people – people who can know and love Him. Jesus does not offer us circumstances or possessions: He offers us Himself.

Prayer: Lord, I need to be satisfied only with you, but the sad truth is that I am not.  Change that for me, please. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 41-42

February 5, Friday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on January 7, 2014.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“What Sound Do We Hear?”

Philem. 1:3

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” 

One sound that I don’t like is the ringing phone.  It all started in Mexico when most of the calls for me meant another invitation to teach and preach and all I wanted to do on Sundays was rest after a week of constant talking and writing.  That tendency continued as I began living in the States but for a different reason.  As a family, we are not phone users; when calls are made, it is usually because something happened, like a car accident, stolen wallet or not feeling well.  Today, I received a call from my mechanic who informed me that an additional $200 is needed to buy another part; without it the gear will not shift properly.  Just another bad news! 

Now, when we open the Scripture, what “sound” do we hear?  Is it bearing good or bad news?  “Grace to you” (plural in Gk), says Paul to all who believe.  To those worn out from trying to accrue enough merits to earn God’s approval, this is indeed good news for, “it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—not work by works” (Eph. 2:8-9a).   Yes, we’ve freely received a wonderful gift of salvation because Christ did all the “heavy lifting” (i.e. paying the penalty of sin by dying on our behalf). 

Then Paul adds, “Peace to you,” which implies hostility existed between God and man prior to this declaration.   Doesn’t God love us?  Yes, but something got in the way; it’s called sin and it always stirs up the wrath of God whose nature demands that all who violate His Law must be punished; thus, “we were by nature objects of wrath” (Eph. 2:3b).   But Paul could declare, “Peace” only because “we [have been] saved from God’s wrath through [Christ]” (Rom. 5:9b), who became sin for us in order to undertake God’s wrath on our behalf. 

I know of no other news that ought to get us out of depression or discouragement than what God did through Christ, to be able to offer his grace and peace to the undeserved.  We are truly loved!  Now, have a great day in the peace and the grace of God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ!

Prayer: Lord, during the course of a hectic day at the office, school or home, I often forget what I have in you.  And after hearing bad news and anticipating more of the same, I become discouraged and fearful.  But I am reminded today that your love for me came at a cost so that my life can be lived in your grace and peace.  Thank you.  Help me to be always mindful of what you did for me in Christ. Amen. 

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 40

Lunch Break Study

Read John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you.  I do not give it to you as the world does.”

Eph. 2:14: “For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility; Luke 12:51: “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth?  No, I tell you, but division”; Matt. 10:34: “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.”

Questions to Consider

  1. When comparing Jn. 14:27 and Eph. 2:14 with Matt. 10:34 and Lk. 12:51, what can you conclude?
  2. Obviously, these passages are addressing different human situations or conditions.  So, in what sense does Christ gives us peace?
  3. In what sense does Christ take away our peace, instead, giving us division and sword (conflict)?

Notes

  1. It appears to be a total contradiction.  The way to solve this dilemma is to understand each within its proper context without synthesizing the two apparently contradicting meanings; in other words they mean different things.  
  2. As alluded in the morning QT, Christ broke the barrier of hostility between God and man by suffering the consequence of sins that we committed on our behalf.  In this way, God reconciled us to himself through Christ (2 Cor. 5:18-9).
  3. The peace alluded in Lk. 12:51 and Matt. 10:34 is the type of peace that the world gives based on a false sense of security rooted in wealth, power and useful relationships.  Christ is willing to break down that façade so that we yearn for the peace that he gives. 

Evening Reflection

How peaceful was your day?  Were you being gracious to others?  Summarize your day around those two themes.   We can always improve but only through the strength that God provides; and that comes from earnestly praying in humility.  So pray! 

February 4, Thursday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT blog, written by Pastor Mark Chun of Radiance Christian Church in S.F., was originally posted on September 9, 2014; 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

“The Two Mistakes to Avoid”

Ecclesiastes 4:4-7

Then I saw that all toil and all skill in work come from a man’s envy of his neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind. 5 The fool folds his hands and eats his own flesh. 6 Better is a handful of quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind. 7 Again, I saw vanity under the sun: 8 one person who has no other, either son or brother, yet there is no end to all his toil, and his eyes are never satisfied with riches, so that he never asks, “For whom am I toiling and depriving myself of pleasure?” This also is vanity and an unhappy business. 

Throughout the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon tells us that all of our toil is meaningless.  Many of us who are in the workplace can relate all too well with this sentiment.  We wake up every morning, tired of the monotony of our work and wonder whether we are getting anywhere with our life.  Amid this sobering reality, we tend to make one of two common mistakes.  The first is that we use our envious desire of other people’s lifestyles to motivate us and drive our ambitions.  It seems like things that were once considered to be luxuries reserved for the wealthy are now marketed as necessities for the common man.  Gourmet dinners, extravagant vacations, and designer clothes that mimic the lifestyles of the famous have become the constant temptations that cause us to live beyond our means and to justify why we have to work so hard.  Solomon tells us that this is like chasing the wind.  It will never end.  

The second mistake is to realize that it is impossible to reach this level of wealth and decide to give up on work.  Solomon tells us that the person who folds his hands and refuses to work is actually a bigger fool than the man who works out of his envy.  He is a greater fool because he will eventually cannibalize his own life.  In the end, a man’s laziness eats away at not only what he has but who he is.  In time, idleness will erode a person’s self-image, self-control, and self-worth.  So this passage describes two equal and opposite errors.  As one commentator puts it, “As toil can be all-consuming, so idleness is self-cannibalizing.”  

So what is the solution?  In one word, it is contentment!   To want what God has given to someone else, instead of being thankful for what he has specifically given to you, is the very definition of vanity.   To the man who has two hands full of toil and the man who has his hands folded without any toil, Solomon wisely gives the counsel to have one handful of quietness.  In other words, we should work diligently, but with the right motivation-that is, not trying to grab everything we can.  At the end of each hard day of work, we should find contentment in what God has blessed us with.   

Prayer: Lord, teach us the secret of finding contentment in both, times of plenty and in times of want.  Help us to look at the example of Christ, who had little material blessings, but was filled with an unspeakable joy.  Keep us from the dangers of envy and idleness and to be grateful for every gift that you give.   Amen.  

Bible Reading for Today: Genesis 39

Lunch Break Study  

Read Philippians 4:10-12 (ESV): “I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. 12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. 13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” 

Questions to Consider 

  1. Why is Paul rejoicing?   
  2. What is the secret to a life of contentment?
  3. Are you able to be content in every season and circumstance of life?      

Notes

  1. Contrary to what we might think, Paul was not rejoicing simply because of the monetary contributions of the Philippians.  He was not so utilitarian in his dealing with people; and when he was writing to them, he had no personal need for their financial gifts.  Paul was far more overjoyed about the renewing of the friendship between them.    
  2. The word translated as “content” is a Greek word used by the Stoics to describe a life that is lived above need and abundance.  However, the difference is that the Stoics found contentment in their self-sufficiency, while for Christians our source of contentment is Christ who strengthens us.
  3. Personal response

Evening Reflection

How was your day of work? Were you mindful to be content with what God has given you?  How were you a witness or an example of the gospel to your coworkers, neighbors, and other non-Christians around you?  Take some time to be quiet before God and to reflect on areas of your life where you are struggling with contentment.  

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.)?