October 25, Sunday

REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, provided by Pastor Ryun Chang (AMI Teaching Pastor), was first posted on March 16, 2014.

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Being a Role Model for Christ”

1 John 3:11

“Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good.”

The former NBA player, the great Charles Barkley, perhaps the only man to slam Shaquille O’Neal to the floor, once said, “I’m not a role model. Just because I dunk a basketball doesn’t mean I should raise your kids.” Many critics, assailing his remark as being irresponsible and evasive, reasoned that professional athletes, whose fans include many impressionable children, have obligations to be positive influences in society. In retrospect, it was a good thing Barkley said that, since he later made headlines for running sizable gambling debts and drunken driving.

Certainly, we need role models, especially children. One Christian author wrote: “Our world is desperately in need of models worth following. Authentic heroes. People of integrity, whose lives inspire us to do better, to climb higher, to stand taller.” No athlete fits that bill better than Tim Tebow, who was previously the quarterback for the Denver Broncos. He thanks Jesus after every victory, has committed to chastity until marriage, and helps the poor, such as building a hospital in the Philippines. Tebow says that for him, the goal of playing football “is to be a great role model that parents can look at their son and say, ‘That’s someone who is trying to do it the right way. . . . He is trying to honor God and do the right thing.’” That’s great and I’m so blessed and challenged to hear that, but if the Bible says anything at all, it is that sooner or later the so-called “heroes of faith” will disappoint their fans.

The case in point is the aforementioned author, a leading Bible expositor in America who, after talking about the need for true heroes, pointed to King David as being such a man. One example he gave to vouch for his character is the time when he crept up unnoticed, and cut off a corner of the robe worn by the sleeping King Saul, a man on a mission to kill David. Afterwards, David, so conscience-stricken by his action, lamented, saying, “The LORD forbid that I should do such a thing to my master, the Lord’s anointed, or lift my hand against him . . . .”(1 Sam 24:6^a). I wonder whether David himself would have felt comfortable with such flattery or with the idea of becoming a role model for people living in the 21^st century. A man who committed murder, adultery, and evasion of responsibility that resulted in the deaths of 70,000 people (2 Sam. 24:12-17) would have probably said, “No, not me.”

It was said earlier that our heroes in the Bible often disappoint us. To that extent, Eugene Peterson offered a refreshingly candid view on David. He wrote: “The narrator refuses to idealize or glamorize him to show that God’s sovereignty works through just such a mixed bag of human failures and sin. . . . The entire biblical story never lets us forget that it is a God’s story of our salvation, not a collection of moral achievements for use as a moral handbook. This is the narrative of what God does to save us, not what we do to please him.” What does this mean? The life of David is intended for us to get excited about God, who continued to love and use him despite of him! If David were to say anything to today’s evangelicals enamored with him, or any other human heroes, even Tebow, he might have said: “Please, I am neither your hero nor your role model, only Jesus is.”

I am sure Tebow would agree with that sentiment as well because he understands, as he said in the aforementioned quote (which I purposely left out), “[I’m] not perfect but everyday [I’m] trying to get better, [I’m] trying to honor God.” Barkley is no hero, not necessarily because of his weak moments on and off the court (for we all have them, including Tebow), but his declaration is to free him so that he could live any way he desires. Tebow’s declaration, on the other hand, is to limit his freedom so that he does not do whatever he pleases; but in order to please his hero, the one whom he calls “my Lord Jesus Christ.” It’s a good thing to try to be a hero to the discouraged and deprived people “just as [we] also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1^b NKJ).

Inasmuch as salty food creates thirst for water, our lives must create a thirst for Jesus Christ who, like an offensive tackle throwing his body to create a path for his running back, gave up his body to save us. So how is your life? Is anyone seeing Christ through your life? Or have you given that up for more freedom to please yourself? It’s something to think about.

Prayer: Lord, I just want the folks around me to see how You still love me even when I fail You. I want them to see how Your unconditional love and acceptance actually change me so that I am no longer the person I used to be. I pray that seeing such amazing grace is why they would want You. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 24

October 24, Saturday

UPDATED Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought is an updated version of AMI QT Devotional first posted on August 4, 2013.

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Three Thoughts and Three Questions for Today”

Luke 1:76

“And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways . . .”

I am not sure why John is commonly known as John the Baptist in our days since the true baptizer is none other than Jesus Christ (Luke 3:16; Acts 2:33). Instead, John is called “the prophet of the Most High”, meaning John’s calling was to “prepare the way of the Lord” (Matt. 3:3b) by way of speak boldly about the coming Messiah. Once the long-awaited Christ came, John stepped aside for him, saying, “He must become greater; I must become less” (Jn. 3:30).

In view of that, is it okay that you are not in the spotlight? Are you truly content just with Jesus?

Luke 1:68-79

Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people 69 and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, 70 as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, 71 that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; 72 to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, 73 the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us 74 that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, 75 in holiness and righteousness before him all our days. 76 And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, 77 to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins, 78 because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high 79 to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.

Zechariah’s song can be divided into three parts: first, what God does for His people through Jesus Christ (vv. 68-75); second, how God uses his servant to prepare others to meet Jesus (vv. 76-77); third, what God provides for His people who place their faith in Jesus Christ (vv. 78-79).

Which part of the song do you want God to do in your life?

Without sounding so impious, I would like to say, “Sometimes God is predictable.” Sending Jesus Christ was never an afterthought. God acts according to what He promised (Luke 1:70-75). Read the entire passage again. We are able to serve God (v. 74b) because God rescued us from our enemies (vv. 71, 74a).

What is keeping you from serving the Lord these days?

Prayer: Lord, help me to be content with my life as long I have You in my heart. Dear Jesus, help me to sing songs of joy because of You. Christ, remind me to be thankful for Your faithful and predictable love for me. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 22-23

October 23, Friday

REPOST Today’s AMI Quiet Time, provided by Pastor Peter Yoon of Kairos Christian Church in San Diego, is an updated version of his blog first posted on May 23, 2014. Peter is a graduate of University of California, Riverside (BA) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Divisiveness in the Church”

Titus 3:10-11

Warn a divisive person once, and then warn them a second time. After that, have nothing to do with them. 11 You may be sure that such people are warped and sinful; they are self-condemned.

Although a common theme in the NT is unity (both Jesus and Paul prayed for unity), a weapon of choice that can effortlessly undermine unity is gossip. The author of Proverbs noticed that gossip served itself on a platter and was eaten as delicious morsels by its participants (Prov. 18:8), yet all gossip creates a culture of distrust, suspicion, doubt, and ultimately disunity.

Unfortunately, a divisive person is not easy to recognize in the church. The person may appear to carry the best intentions as he/she shares some “constructive criticism” about the church, the small group, the worship team, or the pastoral staff. The listeners begin to take notice of what once seemed to be trivial matters but has somehow quickly escalated into a matter of urgency and great discontentment. What was once a small church fighting for unity, a small group gaining momentum, or a worship team working harmoniously, is now a combative group—mean towards one another or at best stand-offish so that they merely put up with one another.

A divisive person is not to be tolerated in the church. His/her attacks are often taken in the shifting shadows where it is not easy to catch them in the act. Paul knows that the gospel is at stake if the church becomes fractured by divisive and toxic conversations that tear down rather than build up. The divisive person must be identified and warned sternly once, then a second time.

Do you sometimes try little too hard to justify your discontentment with your church? Do you, therefore, find yourself talking with anyone who is willing to listen to your complaint while not saying hardly anything to the leaders? You may say things like, “I brought up this matter to see if my thinking is off; what do you think? It could be that you are trying to get that person to your side. The best thing to do is to speak to the leaders of the church directly. In fact, in any relationship, the direct approach is always the best. Try it today.

Prayer: Dear God, use my tongue to build up and edify the church rather than divide and hurt the church. Today, I pray for the leadership of my church asking that You will bless them and their families. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 21

Lunch Break Study

Read Luke 9:46-48: An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. 48 Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.”

Questions to Consider

What does this potentially divisive argument among the disciples reveal about our human nature?
How are the disciples to cultivate authentic humility as servants of God’s Kingdom?
In what ways do you make deliberate attempts to cultivate humility as God’s servants? Do you deliberately spend time with those with the “least” status?

Notes

Luke addresses the issue of status. The synonym of “status” for most people is “power,” and its antonym is “lowliness.” But Jesus calls us away from pursuing status and power. Viewed spiritually, the opposite of status is humility. Such an attitude is fundamental for the disciple. There is an intense irony here: as Jesus discusses the Son of Man’s approaching rejection, the disciples are consumed by their own discipleship rankings.
Jesus points to a child, a person with little status in the ancient world. Jesus does not view children as insignificant. For him every person counts. Bringing the child to his side, Jesus says, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me.” Jesus’ point is that everyone, even the lowest person on the ladder, is important. Receiving a child is like receiving God.

Evening Reflection

Were you able to bless, encourage, and edify others with the use of your tongue today?

October 22, Thursday

NEW Today’s AMI QT Devotional is prepared by Pastor Jason Sato who, 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.).

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“The Small, Menial Ways”

John 1:26–28 (ESV)

John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, [27] even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” [28] These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.

John the Baptist is very aware of who he is. He knows he is a prophet, the very fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy. He calls the Israelites to repentance, baptizes them, and rebukes the Jewish leaders with boldness.

John the Baptist is also very aware of who he is not. When the Jewish leaders ask him who he is, John is clear in His response. “He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, ‘I am not the Christ’” (John 1:20). He tells them he is not the prophet Elijah, brought back into the world. He is also not the Prophet who is to be like Moses. John knows he is not the Word, the Life, and the Light. He declares that he is, in fact, unworthy to untie the Messiah’s sandals.

In the Ancient Near East, disciples were expected to do everything for their rabbi that a slave would do. There was one exception. He did not need to clean his rabbi’s feet, for this was considered the lowest possible task. John the Baptist states that not only would he do this menial job, but he is actually unworthy to do so. It would be a great privilege and an unexpected blessing to be able to serve his Lord in this humiliating way.

In Japan, the gospel is going forth but its progress is often slow and appears small. Spiritual warfare is real and the ministry is not very glamorous. However, it is not a burden, but the Lord’s blessing and favor to allow His people to serve Him in a difficult place.

In our workplaces, churches, and homes, the Lord is daily giving us opportunities to serve Him in small, menial ways. There are tasks to do and people to love that that the world says are beneath us. May we not miss these opportunities to bring Him great glory.

Prayer: Father, may I know who I am in You – a beloved child of God. And may I know who I am not – the King of glory. You are worthy of my daily, hourly worship and obedience. Give me the joy of serving You well. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 20

Lunch Break Study

Read 1 Corinthians 4:1–4 (ESV): “This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. [2] Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. [3] But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. [4] For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.”

Question to Consider

Paul is an apostle, yet how does he call us to regard him?
What is required of servants and stewards?
Who judges the faithfulness of Christ’s servants?

Notes

Paul wants his readers to consider him to be a servant and steward of Christ.
Faithfulness is the most important characteristic of a servant or steward.
God alone judges. The world and even the servants themselves do not determine who is faithful and who is not.

Evening Reflection

Reflect on your day. What opportunities were there to serve the Lord in humble ways? Did you take advantage of those opportunities? Why or why not? Ask the Lord for forgiveness for missed opportunities and thank Him that He will give you more tomorrow.

October 21, Wednesday

REPOST Today’s AMI Devotional Quiet Time, provided by Christine Li, was first posted on August 1, 2014. Christine, a graduate of University of Pennsylvania, serves as a deaconess at Remnant Church in Manhattan, New York. Congratulations to Christine for her recent nuptial.

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“The Gospel at the Crossroad of Pleasing God or Man”

Galatians 1:10

“Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.”

What does “trying to please men” have to do with sharing the gospel? As we share with our unbelieving friends ever so tactfully, at some point or another we may wonder, “Am I saying things so the person will like me or think that I am clever? Am I truly being a servant of Christ in my life, actions, and speech?”

Since this is not always black-and-white, frequently examining our motives behind witnessing seems reasonable. As for me, I have a friend in particular who is very difficult to speak to about God. Because my friend has experienced a lot of hurt from the Church throughout his life and, as a result, lives in a defiant manner, I try to be careful when talking about Christ and the Church. I find that in order to keep both the friendship, but feel like I am still being a witness, I’ll try to seed the idea of Christ in his mind by talking a lot about unconditional forgiveness or about being made whole in Christ, but I avoid any talk about how we are deserving of condemnation for our sins without Christ.

I put forth this example because how we exhibit the gospel in our daily lives often falls into those gray zones. Sometimes, I am unsure if I am being wise about the timing of preaching the gospel to him, or if I am sacrificing truth so that I may maintain this friendship by presenting a “vetted” Christianity that will intrigue my friend. Is this okay if it’s a temporary foray into introducing Christ to my friend, or is this an example of secretly trying to win the approval of man rather than God?

While it is still somewhat unclear, I know this much: if my heart seeks approval of men at the cost of the truth, then I am a poor steward of the truth and testimony that God has given me. Three things I do ask for us all is this: first, that God would give us clarity and wisdom about preaching the gospel; second, may He give us the boldness to preach the complete truth to those around us; and third, may He supply our obedience to work in a manner pleasing to Him.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your grace and love in my life; I know that without it, I cannot even live. I confess that I am not always a good steward of Your truth, and I need Your help against the fear of man. Help me to understand Your truth more deeply and not compromise it in my life or in my speech.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 19

Lunch Break Bible Study

Read Galatians 1:11-24: We know that Paul is responding to accusations from others: they question the gospel he preaches and also the apostleship that he has. Significantly, it is the Jewish Christians who yearn to keep the people in line with the Jewish law that most often lobby the accusations against Paul.

Questions to Consider

In vv. 11-12, what is significant about what Paul says about his faith?
How does Paul’s inclusion of his testimony bolster what he says about his commission and the gospel that he preaches?
Read vv.23-24. What does this say about the way God may choose to use us and even our past? Do you allow Him to use your personal testimony in this manner?

Notes

Paul’s understanding of the gospel comes from God alone – the highest authority! While not all Christians must have a “dramatic” conversion experience, our confession of faith comes when we are faced with the gospel, the totality of our sin and our great need for Jesus Christ. For Paul, his conversion came with a great commission for his future work.
Paul is reminding them of his previous lifestyle, crusading against Christ and Christians, and his great zealotry as a Jew. To have received the gospel of Jesus Christ and be commissioned to preach it to the Gentiles was not his doing; it can only be attributed to God’s grace and direction.
It’s so encouraging to see that God used Paul’s testimony as a militant unbeliever to make others praise God! Likewise, it strengthens our faith that God can restore every bit of our past.

Evening Reflection

Did you come across a situation today where you felt like you were tempted to compromise your faith? Let’s pray over it and ask God to redeem the situation, as well as for wisdom to better speak the truth next time.

October 20, Tuesday

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“None Like Him”

John 1:9–16 (ESV)

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. [10] He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. [11] He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. [12] But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, [13] who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. [14] And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. [15] (John bore witness about him, and cried out, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.’”) [16] For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.

Imagine a freed slave after the Civil War who just met President Lincoln. Would he try to shake his hand or spit at his face? Imagine a prisoner in a Nazi death camp who just met their liberators—the Allied soldiers. Would he try to shake their hands or spit at their faces? Too easy to answer? You just wait.

In the first eight verses of John 1, we were introduced to the Word, the true light that has not been overcome by the darkness. He is greater and more glorious than anyone or anything.

But when the source of all life and light comes into the world, He is rejected. Verse 10 tells us that the people of the world did not know the one who had created them. In fact, His own people did not receive them. These are the people whom He had personally delivered from slavery in Egypt. He had given them the Promised Land, the Law and the Prophets. He had been faithful to them for generations, despite their own unfaithfulness. Yet, they did not receive Him.

If we are familiar with the Bible, we can hear about this and not be that surprised. But this is truly insane. This is like a freed slave after the Civil War refusing to shake President Lincoln’s hand. This is like a prisoner in a Nazi death camp spitting at the Allied soldiers who came to free them. That would be crazy.

But God is not simply a nice stranger who has saved us. He did not simply stumble upon us. The Word of God is our Creator, the giver of life, the giver of every good gift we have. He has pursued us constantly. We have been created to know and love Him. No one knows us better or has been more faithful to us, but in our sin, we have rejected Him.

If you and I met and then twenty years later you did not remember who I am, that would be understandable. If my children grow up and pretend that they don’t know me, that’s a very different thing.

So what does this rejected King do? He has been shamed and dismissed. His own people are openly rebelling against Him.

“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” (John 1:12). The rejected King takes our hatred and disdain and comes to dwell among us. He comes with grace and truth. He comes to show us the face of the invisible God and to give His life to adopt us into His family.

There is no other god like this. We could not make up a god this good if we tried. But He is real. He is the one true God and he invites us to know Him, to belong to Him, to taste and see that He is as good and, in fact, better than we have heard.

Prayer: Lord, there is no God like You. None so gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. I cannot imagine why You would patiently pursue me. I open my heart and life to You for You alone are good. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 18

Lunch Break Study

Read Hosea 2:14–15 (ESV): “Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak tenderly to her.[15] And there I will give her vineyards and make the Valley of Achor a door of hope. And there she shall answer as in the days of her youth, as at the time when she came out of the land of Egypt.”

Question to Consider

In response to Israel’s sin, the Lord declares that He will discipline her. Verses 14-15 explain the Lord’s overarching purpose. What is God’s desire?
What happened at the Valley of Achor? See Joshua 7:20-25.
How did the people respond to the Lord when they first came out of the land of Egypt? See Exodus 24:3.

Notes

To draw His people back to Him and that they might regain their first love for Him.
Achan had disobeyed the Lord’s command and taken spoil following victory over Jericho. Achan was stoned to death at the Valley of Achor, but here the Lord promises to transform this place of judgment into a door of hope.
They committed themselves to obey His law and serve Him only.

Evening Reflection

Reflect upon your day. Were there moments when you were tempted to take sin lightly? Were there moments when you were aware of the Lord’s remarkable goodness? Ask God for eyes to see His surprising love for you.

October 19, Monday

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“Intro 101 to Jesus”

John 1:1-8 (ESV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. [2] He was in the beginning with God. [3] All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. [4] In him was life, and the life was the light of men. [5] The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. [6] There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. [7] He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. [8] He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light.

When we are learning something new, we tend to go through stages. Let’s use physics as an example. In Stage 1, I don’t understand physics and I know I don’t understand physics. In Stage 2, I take a few physics courses and learn a few things but in reality, I still don’t understand physics. Only now, I don’t realize I don’t understand physics. In Stage 3, I learn enough physics to realize how little I understand and while I am growing in competence, I know I have a vast amount to learn.

These stages of learning may unfold when we learn about a new topic like health care or crime or when we are learning a new skill like playing the guitar or programming. They can also occur in the context of relationships. We can begin to imagine that we have figured out a friend, colleague, or parent and stop listening when in fact we are really in Stage 2, unaware of our ignorance.

Tragically, this can also happen with our relationship with Jesus. According to John 20:31, the Gospel of John was written so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ and have life in His name. With this in mind, the apostle John begins his gospel introducing Jesus, and he essentially says, “You do not know who I am talking about.”

John tells us that in the beginning was the Word. The Word was with God and the Word was God. The Word is the Creator of all things. He is Life itself. He is the Light that is not overcome by the darkness.

Then the apostle John goes on a strange tangent. He says, “There was a man…” This man is not the light. His name is John the Baptist. Now we must understand that John the Baptist is not only the prophet who came before Jesus. He is the greatest prophet in human history. In fact, according to Matthew 11:11, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist.

No one greater! Consider great people of human history. Great conquerors like Genghis Khan and Napoleon. Great geniuses like Einstein and Newton. Great spiritual leaders like Mother Theresa and Gandhi. John the Baptist is greater than all of them, but he is most certainly NOT the light!

The greatest person in human history is nothing compared to the true light who was coming into the world. This true light is not only worthy of affection but of all-consuming devotion. He deserves not only respect, but reverent, everlasting worship. He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He is the Lion of Judah, the Lamb of God, and the Savior of the World.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, may I never grow familiar with You in such a way that I lose my sense of awe and wonder. There is no one like You. You are above and beyond what words can express. Thank You that You receive my worship. You are worthy. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 17

Lunch Break Study

Read Isaiah 6:1–7 (ESV): In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. [2] Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. [3] And one called to another and said:“Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” [4] And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. [5] And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!”[6] Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. [7] And he touched my mouth and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.”

Question to Consider

How do the seraphim demonstrate their reverence toward the Lord?
What is Isaiah’s response to the glory of God?
How is Isaiah able to remain in the presence of the Lord?

Notes

The seraphim cover their faces and feet before the Lord and they continually declare God’s holiness.
Isaiah is terrified and calls down curses upon himself, aware that as a sinner he cannot be in the presence of a holy God and live.
One of the seraphim touches Isaiah’s unclean lips with a burning coal to take away Isaiah’s guilt and atone for his sin. Likewise, we are only able to come into the presence of God by the cleansing and atoning blood of Jesus.

Evening Reflection

Reflect on your day. Were there thoughts or circumstances that made Jesus appear small and ordinary? Were there moments when Jesus’s glory began to shine? Ask the Lord that He might reveal Himself to You and thank Him that He is eager to do so.

October 18, Sunday

REPOST Today’s AMI QT Devotional, provided by Jabez Yeo who formerly served at Remnant Church in Manhattan, was first posted on October 19, 2014. Jabez is a graduate of University of Pennsylvania (BS) and Columbia International University (M.A., Muslim Studies).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“Measure of Success”

Jeremiah 7:27

“When you tell them all this, they will not listen to you; when you call to them, they will not answer.”

For most of my Christian life, I measured success in my service to God either by growth in attendance or the number of people accepting Christ. In one particular year, the Bible study I served in rarely had people attend (besides our leadership team), which made me feel dejected, wondering what exactly I was doing wrong. But the next year, I helped to start a new Bible study, and we had 20-25 people attending weekly with some coming to know the Lord. I would be lying if I said that some pride did not creep into my heart about my “awesome” leadership skills; which was especially ironic since I had spent the same amount of time and energy serving during both years!

As we think about successful service to God, a good case study to consider is the prophet Jeremiah. He received the call to prophesy at an early age (Jer. 1:4-8) and faithfully preached the message of repentance to Judah. Sadly, he did not witness spiritual revival nor repentance; but instead, the wicked prospering (12:1-6), two deportations from Jerusalem (24-25), Jerusalem’s destruction (39), and an ill-advised escape to Egypt (43:1-7). Even more tragically, Jeremiah himself was not exempt from these trials but had to suffer the consequences of his people’s actions (43:6-7).

Was Jeremiah ineffective because of unconfessed sin? This seems unlikely since he interceded for his people and included himself among the guilty (14:19-22). Then, was he not being faithful? This would definitely not be true since he gave 40 years of service and ministered to the last five kings of Judah. Furthermore, he was single by God’s command and did not have any children to carry on his name (16:2). He was beaten, placed in the stocks (20:2), thrown into jail, and into a cistern by his enemies (37-38). In terms of social persecution, he was plotted against (11:18-20; 26:7-15), mocked (20:7) and even the scroll which contained his prophecies was burned by King Jehoiakim, who was unwilling to listen to God (36). All things considered, the case could easily be made that Jeremiah was one of the most faithful men to have ever walked on this earth.

From Jeremiah’s life, it is clear that faithfulness and obedience doesn’t always translate to the results or the “success” that we want. And as we enter into a new season of serving God, this might be a lesson that some of us will experience. While some will be called to fertile ground, to people who will come to know Christ, others will be called, like Jeremiah, to hard soil, to a people who will not listen to us even as we call (7:27). Wherever God leads us to serve, let us remember that He is ultimately the one who brings spiritual growth (1 Cor. 3:5-7). All we can do is obey His commandments and calling in our lives; let us surrender the rest to Him.

Prayer: Lord, help me to surrender to You, not as a way to obtain Your favor so I can impress others with my ministry, but to reflect Your love and humility and truth to the people around me. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 16

October 17, Saturday

REPOST Today’s Spiritual Food for Thought, provided by Pastor Peter Yoon of Kairos Christian Church in San Diego, is an updated version of his blog first posted on May 17, 2014. Peter is a graduate of University of California, Riverside (BA) and Talbot School of Theology (M.Div.).

Spiritual Food for Thought for the Weekend

“When God ‘Rudely’ Interrupts My Well-Planned Day”

Luke 1:38

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”

God is no respecter of our schedules. The timing of the angel’s visitation to Mary could not have been any worse for Joseph and Mary (see Matt 1:18-21). To the church, the “virgin birth” has become a doctrine to defend. We make the confession of the creed each Sunday without giving much thought to the statement, “I believe in the virgin birth….” But for Mary, a pregnancy before her wedding could have sent her life into a vicious cycle of shame and rejection by her family, her town, and her community. And yet, she declares, “I am the Lord’s servant.” Her response challenges our contrived notion of what it means to be God’s servants, but her response also reveals to us that we are most blessed when we simply yield to the Lord.

One Sunday, a homeless man walked into our service. He worshipped with us and cordially greeted those who were brave enough to make their way towards him following the service. It was obvious that he had been on the streets. Now, to greet, shake hands, and say cordial greetings with a smile, most of us can do, but what do you do when he says, “I’m hungry. I only have 40 cents in my pocket. And the clothes that I’m wearing are the only things I own. I’ve visited numerous churches and have received the cold-shoulder treatment. And frankly, I’m just so tired.”

A faithful brother, who leads the Homeless Ministry took charge. Or should I say, the responsibility just landed on his plate? He is a brother just as busy as you and me, who also would much rather “fellowship” with the believers on Sunday. In addition, he, too, had meetings to attend and ministries to oversee. Surely, God could have used him in other ways on that Sunday and not ruin his entire day with this inconvenient visitation, does He? Besides, Homeless Ministry nights were scheduled for MONDAY nights, not Sundays.

Well, that Sunday, he ended up spending about $90 on some new clothing, dinner, and a food gift card. He also offered to cut the man’s hair, and a hot shower at his place, even as the homeless man took his sweet time. With each passing hour and each cancellation of his plans, Sunday was turning out to be a rather frustrating day. Finally, at 9PM, the man was dropped off at a location where he would find some shelter for the night. Upon reflection, he writes:

“I had many conflicting and bitter thoughts but was extremely challenged by him and even my own unwillingness to help him joyfully and was wondering whether I (& the American church in general) have become so removed from love and mercy that I’m only willing to go to a certain extent in helping someone before ultimately passing them off. It’s a sad and frustrating truth that I am still wrestling with. Regardless, I believe the Lord is taking me to new levels of obedience, and though I felt incredibly irritated that my whole Sunday was ‘wasted’ (though it really wasn’t, but in a time sense that’s what it felt like), I’m grateful that God is teaching me not only what ‘ministry’ really is, but also of my own rigidity and paralysis to my ‘schedule that I tried to keep to’. It’s funny because I was thinking, I could have really caught up on my Systematic Theology class (learning about God) when God was telling me I’m teaching you about myself through this experience.”

At times, God hardly seems interested in your Google calendar. Does God have the right to interrupt your plans so that he can bless you? When He does, decide on the front end that you will also respond as Mary did, “I am the Lord’s servant.”

Prayer: Dear God, I am so afraid to say, “Interrupt me anytime; I am always ready to serve You.” After all these years, I am still unable to let go even though You have been so faithful and good to me. Be patient with me as You always have been. Interrupt me anyti . . . Help me, Lord. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 14-15

October 16, Friday

NEW Today’s AMI QT Devotional is written by Pastor David Son who pastors the Thrive Church in Taipei. He is a graduate of University of California, Berkeley (BA) and Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary (M.Div.). Stay up to date with the church plant by following them here: https://www.instagram.com/thrivechurchtaipei/

Devotional Thought for This Morning

“We Have a King”

Hebrews 5:7-12

In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.

I received my absentee ballot in the mail this morning, and I was reminded that even though I am far from America, it’s my duty as an American citizen to submit my vote. Somewhere, deep in my consciousness there is an idea that was planted long ago through education and culture: Democracy is beautiful, and to be American is to vote!

It is true that there is some value in democratic principles: the people get a voice, and no one person or group gets to decide what policies will guide our lives. The idea certainly sounds right to us. But how come it often feels so frustrating in practice? Especially in this election, why does voting – something that’s supposed to be so right – feel so… wrong?

It may come as a surprise, particularly to Christians of Western culture, but democracy is not in the Bible. Voting is also not in the Bible! I know, I was shocked too. The system of government in the Kingdom of God is not built on elections, or the balance of power. (If this is sounding extremely un-American to you, then you’re getting the right idea.) Instead, the Kingdom of God is exactly that, a Kingdom, in which a King rules supremely. This means whatever He says, goes. Perhaps this is difficult to understand because America has never had a king before. But under a king, obedience is not an option. To be part of this Kingdom is to obey!

This passage from Hebrews sheds light on some poignant truths. First, even Jesus, the Son of God, learned obedience. Now, when it says “learned” it doesn’t mean Jesus was disobedient and then became obedient. Rather, it means that Jesus, like us, had to actively experience full submission to the will of God the Father. Secondly, Jesus became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him. Let me make one more clarification: Our salvation is by God’s grace, not by our obedience. This is crystal clear in the Scripture. But this is also clear: having been saved, we are now living in the Kingdom of God. And this Kingdom is no democracy; there is a Good King (i.e., a benevolent dictator, if you will), and we must learn the beauty of obeying Him.

So, in this election, let us thoughtfully and prayerfully cast our vote according to our conscience. This is part of our responsibility as exiles in this country. But as Christians, we must not put our ultimate hope in democracy. The Kingdom of God does not advance through voting, but rather through the daily obedience of the children of God. I pray that these truths offer you hope and encouragement in the midst of dark and frustrating times.

Prayer: Father, give us wisdom and clarity of mind to cast a vote that is honest and consistent with our consciences. Give us hope by reminding us that Your Kingdom is advancing and will one day come in fullness. Finally, give us boldness to live day-by-day in obedience to You. Amen.

Bible Reading for Today: Acts 13

Lunch Break Study

Read 2 Timothy 2:23-3:5: Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will. But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

Questions to Consider

According to Paul, how should we approach controversies?
According to this passage, what are some characteristics of a servant of God?
What kind of people does Paul warn Timothy to avoid?

Notes

Paul says to “have nothing to do” with foolish and ignorant controversies. There are some controversies worth engaging, and in those we ought to be patient and gentle (v 24-25). But there are some controversies that are foolish. We ought to avoid those.
As Christians, we must not be quarrelsome, but kind to everyone. This doesn’t mean we are passive, because Paul follows this by saying, “able to teach, patiently enduring evil, and correcting opponents with gentleness”.
Paul writes a long list of unpleasant characteristics. Unsurprisingly, it seems that all of these things are on the rise days. Social media has certainly done its part to expose and even exacerbate these sins. Paul says to “avoid such people”. But does he mean that we should cut off connection with anyone who doesn’t seem to be “put-together” in the Christian sense? Not entirely. If you continue reading this passage, Paul is talking specifically about those whose intent is to oppose God and the Truth. In other words, there are certain people who purposefully live an anti-God lifestyle and teach others to do the same. We should avoid such people.

Evening Reflection

Have you been obeying God in your daily life? Spend a few moments reminding yourself that God is your King. Submit yourself to Him, as Jesus also did.