29 Sep, 2006
Unspeakable evil!
Police identify gunman in Colorado school shooting
BAILEY, Colo. - The gunman who took six girls hostage in a high school classroom, killing a 16-year-old, had sexually assaulted at least some of them, the sheriff said Thursday.
"He did traumatize and assault our children," Park County Sheriff Fred Wegener said. "I'll only say that it's sexual in nature."
Wegener identified the suspect as Duane R. Morrison, 53, of the Denver area. He said investigators had not established any previous connection between him and the hostages at Platte Canyon High School.
Wegener said that Morrison was from the Denver area but had been living in his car. State records showed he was arrested in July in the west Denver suburb of Lakewood on a charge of obstructing police in another suburb. He was also arrested for larceny and marijuana possession in 1973.
Authorities said Morrison had let four of the hostages go before a police team stormed the classroom where he had been cornered Wednesday.
The gunman fatally wounded one of the girls and killed himself as the deputies charged in with explosives. The other girl escaped.
The victim was identified as 16-year-old Emily Keyes, shown in a yearbook photo as a smiling blonde who played volleyball and was on the high school debate team.
She was pronounced dead at a Denver hospital after Wednesday’s standoff, which reminded many people of the 1999 massacre at Columbine High, less than an hour’s drive away.
story & photo courtesy msnbc.msn.com, 9/28/06
John 8:44
44 You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
Luke 13:1-3
Repent or Perish
13:1 There were some present at that very time who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And he answered them, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans, because they suffered in this way? 3 No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. (ESV)
How does today's God's Story help us understand the evil in our world?
Please know that I am not claiming to have all the answers - only God does - and we won't completely understand them until eternity in Heaven begins.
But today's scripture provides us some insight into the unspeakable evil that occurred in Bailey, Colorado this week. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Emily Keyes.
Obviously, Satan had a role in the evil done by the perverted killer.
Jesus described Satan as an evil murderer who hates all Truth and is the father of lies. We may never know the whole story of the 53-year-old shooter in that high school, but at some point in his life he bought into the lies of Satan. He may have believed the lie that he had been a victim of evil and his action was justified. He may have believed the lie that life doesn't matter. He may have believed the lie that God didn't love him or could not help him. He may have believed the lie that there is no hell or consequences for sin. Now he understands the Devil's lies. Now he knows he is responsible for his sinful choices....forever...
Today's scripture also helps us see that sin has a role in the evil that happened in the Colorado high school. Each of us is responsible for our own sin, but sometimes it is the sinful actions of others that result in pain and suffering for innocent people. That's the point that Jesus is making in Luke 13:1-3. Innocent worshippers were murdered by the sinful action of Pilate.
Emily Keyes and the other girls were innocently going about their day at school. But the evil, sinful action of Duane Morrison has changed many lives forever.
None of this seems fair, but we live in a sinful, evil world where Satan is at work.
Take heart. This won't last forever. Jesus said so.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Talk to God right now. Ask Jesus to use His Truth to help you understand His perspective on why evil things happen in our world. Thank Him for being in control. Thank Him that He welcomes you, His child, to ask questions and listen...
- Pray every day this week for God's Spirit to give you insight into His answers for your questions.
- In your journal, write down your thoughts and questions as you reflect on today's DAILYBIDE.
- Pray for the family and friends of Emily Keyes and the other victims in this horrible event in Bailey, Colorado.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Pray for someone you know who seems to be suffering or going through a painful time, due to Satan's influence or the sinful actions of others. Ask this person how you can help.
- Sit down with other friends in your youth group, at school, at work, or with your family and get their perspective on 'why such evil things happen in this world'? Be ready to quietly trust Jesus to lead you as you share part of your story and/or God's Story.
- With some friends, send cards or emails to the students and families in Bailey, Colorado.
27 Sep, 2006
Don't bite back!
Woman avoids prison for nose bite
St. Cloud, Minn. - A St. Cloud woman avoided going to prison when she was sentenced for biting off a large chunk of another woman's nose.
Crystal Malmanger, 20, had been facing more than seven years in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree assault.
But Stearns County District Judge Kris Davick-Halfen gave her credit for the six months she already has spent in jail, and ordered her to perform 120 hours of community service and pay a fine and restitution.
The judge stayed the seven-year, two-month sentence recommended under the state's sentencing guidelines, meaning that if Malmanger violates the terms of her probation, she could be sent to prison for the full term.
The victim's father was in court and told Davick-Halfen his daughter has forgiven Malmanger, Holson said.
"I think Crystal realizes that this is something that's going to affect (the victim) the rest of her life," Holson said. "They were good friends, and Crystal feels absolutely horrendous."
Malmanger told investigators she was drunk and couldn't remember any details about the Feb. 17 fight because she blacked out. Police needed a search warrant to enter the house where the fight happened to recover the victim's piece of nose.
Holson said Malmanger has completed treatment, has been living at a halfway house and has found a job.
story courtesy twincities.com, 9/15/06
Matthew 5:38-39
Retaliation
38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. (ESV)
After reading part of God's Story today, what do you think Jesus is teaching us about revenge?
Yeah I know, Jesus mentioned an "eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth" but didn't say anything about a "nose for a nose".
The nose biter in today's story should be very thankful that her friend, the nose bitee, forgave her. No revenge. Just a little justice and an amazing amount of forgiveness!
Let's be honest. When someone "does us wrong", our first inclination is to get even. This is a practical example of our wanting to give in to the pull of our old sinful nature. Often, we'll do or say something that is stupid, immature and sinful in response. We try to excuse our behavior by thinking or saying, "I was just doing to him/her what he/she did to me."
But Jesus has a different way for us to respond. Our desire should not be to get even but to get loving! "Turning the other cheek" is not natural. We can do this only when we allow the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit in us to control us. The result will be the strength to love, forgive, and serve those who hurt us. We can be Christ-like to them, regardless of how they feel or act toward us.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Talk to God right now. Confess any actions or attitude of revenge that you have done or had toward someone else. Thank God for His forgiveness through Christ's death on the cross. Ask Jesus to empower you to not get even with others, but instead be loving and forgiving to them.
- Memorize today's scripture to remind yourself how to be like Jesus in one of the most common challenges we face almost every day.
- Whenever you look in the mirror the next couple of weeks and see your nose, let Jesus remind you to evaluate whether or not you are following his teaching about getting even in your relationships at school, at home and at your job.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Pray every morning for Jesus to help you get to loving rather than getting even.
- If you need to forgive someone, do it today. If someone needs your forgiveness, give it today.
- Look for those moments when you can be an example and an encouragement to others to not take revenge. It may not be a popular move on your part, but it may open up some conversations which give you the opportunity to learn the stories of others and share part of your story.
25 Sep, 2006
Getting our kicks out of sin
Backup punter accused of stabbing starter in kicking leg
Mitch Cozad, 19, (pictured on left) a walk-on from Wheatland, Wyo., was arrested by police in Evans, a small town just south of Greeley and only a few miles from the school's campus.
Rafael Mendoza, (pictured on right) a junior from Thornton, Colo., was struck in the head from behind and eventually stabbed by an assailant.
Police said interviews with coaches, friends, acquaintances and teammates of the suspect and victim established probable cause sufficient to arrest Cozad on a charge of second-degree assault.
He was kicked off the team and suspended from school Tuesday morning, athletic director Jay Hinrichs said Wednesday afternoon at a hastily called news conference.
"We acted fast, quickly and efficiently with authorities when this situation came to light," Hinrichs said.
The two punters were locked in three-way battle along with Zak Bigelow for the starting job during preseason practices. Mendoza, last year's starter, won the job and averaged 37.6 yards on nine punts in the Bears' first two games this season.
The only apparent motive was the competition for the starting spot, Kessler said.
photo courtesy erin hooley/AP & story usatoday.com/sports, 9/13/06
Numbers 32:23
23 But if you will not do so, behold, you have sinned against the Lord, and be sure your sin will find you out.
1 John 1:9
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (ESV)
This story about the backup punter stabbing the starter has been all over the news. Obviously, he took his selfish desires to the extreme. Unbelievable! But what amazes me even more is that he must have thought he could get away with it! Duh...
What does today's God's Story teach us about "getting away with it"?
Be honest. What were you thinking the last time when you thought you could get away with a little sin? What happened? Do you think you still might get caught some day?
Moses, the author of Numbers, gets right to the point doesn't he? We can be sure that our sins will find us out. Often, our sin is discovered because we're arrogant and think that we're invincible. Even if we're not caught, or if others don't find out, we must remember that the Lord knows our sin. Sin will always affect us in some way. There are always consequences. We are responsible.
Thankfully, we have a loving God who has graciously taken on the responsibility for our forgiveness. When His Son, Jesus, died on the cross, He made it possible for us to always have our accounts cleaned up.
We can't get away with it, but Jesus died for it. That's God's grace.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Thank God that His Holy Spirit makes you aware of your sin. Claim 1st John 1:9 right now for any sin that is "finding you out". Thank Jesus for His complete forgiveness and ask Him to help you make choices every day that will honor and please Him.
- Whenever you see a football being kicked this fall, remember that you can't get your kicks out of sinning or trying to hide it.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Use today's story as a way to go talk to someone who needs to hear you apologize and ask for forgiveness. Tell this person you realized that you can't get away with "it".
- Use this DAILYBIDE as a topic for discussion with your small group or youth group or forward it to a friend.
- You probably know someone in your circle of influence (storysphere) who is trying to get away with sin. Don't use this DAILYBIDE to judge them or preach at them. Instead, be an example of God's grace as you figure out ways to care and show them unconditional love. They just might open up and talk to you, because Jesus will help them see that He cares and forgives through your example.
15 Sep, 2006
Our indestructible tower
9/11, then and now...
The twin towers of New York City's World Trade Center smolder (top) after terrorists flew two jetliners into them on the morning of September 11, 2001. The towers would soon collapse, killing about 2,750 people and making the Empire State Building (bottom) the tallest building in the city for the first time since 1972.
By 2011 Freedom Tower, built on the site of the former trade center, is expected to surpass the 1931 landmark in height, if not in the hearts of New Yorkers.
photo & text courtesy news.nationalgeographic.com, 9/08/06
Psalm 61:1-3
Lead Me to the Rock
To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. Of David.
61:1 Hear my cry, O God,
listen to my prayer;
2 from the end of the earth I call to you
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I,
3 for you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy. (ESV)
The striking "then and now" photo of the twin towers on 9/11 got me thinking about the "then and now" picture of our spiritual lives. Before we entrust our lives to Jesus we are headed for destruction without God as our tower of strength.
What is the "now" picture we see from David in today's God's Story?
It sounds like David is writing this Psalm away from his home. Obviously God is not limited to any location in the world, because He created it and controls it.
David knows that he can cry out to God because he can trust Him. He wrote this when he was on the run from his enemies - during the days of Absalom's rebellion and Saul's attempts to kill him while hiding in the wilderness.
The terrorist enemies of America destroyed the towers in New York and our country can expect more attacks. No earthly power or might can guarantee our safety.
It's a different story with our Almighty, All-Powerful God. He doesn't promise us an escape from all trouble, every problem, or attacks from our enemy, Satan.
BUT, God promises to be our tower of strength and He is indestructible! Ultimately, we will find eternal refuge in Him. God will always be in the picture for you.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Let the LORD know how you need Him to be your tower of strength right now. Call out to Him for safety by scrolling up to today's passage and use David's words as your prayer.
- Memorize today's scripture or place it where you will regularly see it. Use this to remind yourself to call upon the LORD to be your tower of refuge.
- Spend a couple of minutes in worship. If you've been connected to a church for awhile, you've probably heard the praise song, SHOUT TO THE LORD. Sing it to Jesus right now and/or go to: http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Shout-To-The-Lord-lyrics-Chris-Tomlin/98056044A3424EF348256DF20024CAA8
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Your friends or family who don't know Jesus do not have God as their tower of strength right now. You can help connect them to this part of God's Story by being a source of strength to them in difficult times. It's as simple as caring, listening, and just being there for them.
- If you're in a big city with tall buildings, use it as a conversation starter to share part of your story - that God is your indestructible tower!
14 Sep, 2006
No more sitting around!
What do you see in this picture?
photo courtesy slate.com, 9/11/06 & Thomas Hoepker / Magnum
Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (ESV)
I really don't know what's going on with the young people in the photo above, but when you realize it was taken while the towers were burning on 9/11, it really makes me wonder? None of them are looking at the destruction. What are they talking about? What did they do afterwards? What is their story?
These young people probably have a great explanation for the context of the second this photo was taken, but one word came to my mind. Indifference.
Does today's God's Story leave any room for indifference for anyone who is a genuine follower of Jesus?
No, of course not. These final words of Jesus before He returned to Heaven are a command. We don't have the option of sitting around on our Christian duffs if we're serious about obeying Jesus and honoring Him with our lives.
You don't have to be a youth worker, an evangelist, or a missionary in some official way. God has gifted every follower of Jesus to be able to GO and make disciples next door, at the next locker, in the next neighborhood, in another country....
The world around us is full of people who are headed for eternal destruction. Each one has a story. They need to know God's Story of rescue through Jesus. Jesus will use your story to make a difference.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your story?
- Spend a few minutes in quiet reflection with Jesus. Together, look at a snapshot of your life. Have you been indifferent to the lost world around you? Have you taken His command to GO seriously? Talk to Him....listen....
- Take courage in the fact that part of His command in Matthew 28:18-20 includes His promise to always be with you. No matter what, you will never have to go it alone.
- Remember that to GO, you can start with one person. Do you have someone in your circle of influence (friend or family member) who needs Jesus? If not, ask Jesus to begin the process of connecting you with one person.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Pray every day for at least one person who needs to become a follower of Jesus. Ask Jesus to show you how to learn this person's story by spending time together and asking questions and most important - listening! For more on connecting your story and God's Story to their story, click on My Story and Their Story on this 3Story site.
- Use today's DAILYBIDE as a conversation starter and encouragement with other followers of Jesus. Remember - no more sitting around!
13 Sep, 2006
What kind of jeans would Jesus wear?
Put on something new tomorrow!
Are you buying any new clothes for the fall?
Notice the fine print that says "selected lines only".
Colossians 3:10-14
10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator. 11 Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, 13 bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 14 And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. (ESV)
Yeah it's that time of year when we hit the mall for some new clothes! Whether you're looking for something for school or work or for whenever, you want to look good, right?
What does today's God's Story teach us about making a fashion statement for Christ?
Even if you're not into designer labels, if you are a follower of Jesus, you need to know that God, our designer, has a "selected" clothing line for us to wear. Don't worry. Christ's fashion is not seasonal or trendy. Just holy.
What do you think Paul means when he talks about putting on the new self?
Basically, Paul is challenging us to wear our brand new nature which is what Christ gives us when we receive His gift of salvation for our sins. It means that our actions should match our faith. If we claim to follow Christ, our "look" should be like Jesus. Christ-like clothing will not match the world's "look", but Jesus calls us to make a "fashion statement". Besides, wouldn't it be fun to start a new trend?
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Thank God for the new nature He has given you through your faith in Jesus Christ. Ask God's Spirit to daily help you clothe yourself with Christ's holy wardrobe.
- Memorize Colossians 3:10 as a reminder of what to wear every day.
- Paul mentions 7 items of Christ-like clothing. Pick out the one you have trouble "fitting into" right now and make it a daily prayer focus until you look Godly in it.
How can you connect God's Story and your story to others?
- This next week, every time you stand in front of your closet trying to decide what to wear, briefly pray for Christ-like character and for others to see Jesus in your style.
- Listen for conversations about clothes (try to count how many in one week) and listen to Jesus giving you the nudge to share a little about your story and the new "clothing line" He has given you.
12 Sep, 2006
I want what you have!
Courtney Brown was just 15 and he was killed on Lyndale Avenue north in Minneapolis for the jersey he was wearing.
Friday, police announced the arrest of three juveniles in connection to Brown's murder. During a news conference Friday afternoon, Lt. Lee Edwards of the Minneapolis Police Department, said the names and mug shots of the juvenile suspects would not be released. He did say they were 17, 16 and 13.
Brown was gunned down Saturday, September 2nd after he and his brother were confronted by a group who demanded his throwback Morgan State University basketball jersey while he was walking with his brother.
He was attempting to give them his jersey when he was shot.
The teen would have started the new school year on Tuesday at Edison High School.
Genesis 4:1-8
Cain and Abel
4:1 Now Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” 2 And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a worker of the ground. 3 In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, 4 and Abel also brought of the firstborn of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, 5 but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his face fell. 6 The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? 7 If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is for you, but you must rule over it.”
8 Cain spoke to Abel his brother. And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel and killed him.
Galatians 5:19-20
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, (ESV)
I could hardly believe the cold-hearted evil jealousy that led some teenager to kill another over a jersey. But then I remembered that the Bible has a story that makes us shake our heads in disbelief.
What does today's God's Story teach us about jealousy?
The sin of jealousy has been around since Adam and Eve's boys. We often just think jealousy is no big deal, but it obviously is, because it can be deadly!
Though we are not told the exact reason for the LORD not accepting Cain's offering, it does seem that Cain had a problem with his motives and attitude. While Abel brought his best to the LORD, Cain did not. The fact that the LORD confronted Cain about his sin and gave him a chance to do the right thing and Cain refused - proves that he remained jealous. Amazing! Being jealous for God's blessing led to murder!
Paul makes it real clear in the Galatians passage that the sin of jealousy comes out of our hearts when we refuse to follow the Holy Spirit's leading in our lives. Our natural sinful nature produces evil results - one of which is jealousy.
Be honest. What makes you jealous and why?
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
Think through the definition of jealousy - the obsessive desire to have the same as someone else
Are you obsessed with any of the following?
- someone's good looks
- someone's boyfriend or girlfriend
- someone's car
- someone's money
- someone's clothes
- someone's talent, like musical or athletic
- someone's popularity
- someone's family
- someone's knowledge
- someone's spiritual faith
- someone's (you fill in the blank _______________)
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Make a written list of what makes you jealous and keep it handy for the next month. Pray for Jesus to give you victory over the temptations on your list. As you become more aware of jealousy in your life, you will see it in the lives of others. Be careful and ready to forgive, not judge. They may notice a change in your life and you may have the opportunity to share your story.
- Use today's DAILYBIDE with some friends, your small group, or youth group to deal with the problem of jealousy together.
11 Sep, 2006
Remembering 9/11
What do you think about and feel when you see 9/11 images?
Do you wonder where God was on 9/11?
photos courtesy images.google.com
Jeremiah 29:11-13
11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. 13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart. (ESV)
How does today's God's Story give us hope for the future?
Today's passage is written about the time when God's people were captives in Babylon. It's ironic that today's free world is fighting terrorists in modern day Babylon - Iraq. Jeremiah was letting the people know that God had not forgotten them. God loved them and planned to give them a new beginning! Even though they were captives, they could call upon God with courage because God's presence and grace would carry them through this difficult situation.
Today we remember 9/11. You will see many images and be reminded of the stories of heroism during one of America's darkest hours. You will be reminded of this country's lack of spiritual direction as politicians cast blame on each other for the reality of terrorism.
But I encourage you to remember that there is a war going on between Satan and God. Sin is the problem and Jesus is the solution. No matter how discouraging the future of this world may look, GOD IS IN CONTROL!
Are you trusting the loving, sovereign God in spite of the world around you? Are you relying on Jesus in the middle of a difficult situation in your personal life?
God has a promise for you. If you will seek Him with all of your heart, you will find Him no matter what! Call upon Him with confidence because nothing can ever separate you from His love.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
Thank God for His ultimate purpose for your life and this world. Ask God's Spirit to give you the faith you need to seek Him every day with all of your heart. Pray that God will use the difficult situations in your life to cause you to trust Him completely for your future.
Pray that God will use today's anniversary of 9/11 to cause our country and people around the world to seek Him and His Truth.
Pray for the safety of the men and women fighting terrorism. Pray that they will seek God in their difficult situation.
Pray for the Islamic terrorists to seek after the one and only true God - the Father of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Ask Jesus to give you opportunities to share your story and God's Story as your have conversations in school, at work, and at home about the anniversary of 9/11.
- When you talk to someone in the middle of a difficult situation, share the hope you have because of the promise of Jeremiah 29:11-13. Offer to pray with this person.
- If you have a "deep thinker" friend who is questioning God's presence in our world, you may find the following quote from Christian author Ravi Zacharias helpful:
Why does God not make His presence more obvious? Many arguments are offered for why God “hides” in a world that seeks to see Him. The answer is ultimately found in the divine purposes of God. It is not that God has absconded or is absent; it is that there is a divine purpose behind His visibility or invisibility. If one can rightly read the clues, the mystery is opened up in profound ways. Just as evil can be understood only in the light of the ultimate purpose, so also must God’s presence or seeming absence be judged on the basis of His purpose.
Light in the Shadow of Jihad: The Struggle for Truth by Ravi Zacharias (Multnomah Publishers, 2002)
8 Sep, 2006
How tall are you?
Nepal boy claims to be shortest in world
KATMANDU, Nepal - Nepal's shortest boy is waiting for word from the Guinness World Records, where he has applied to be named the shortest in the world.
Khagendra Thapa Magar, 14, is only 20 inches tall and weighs 10 pounds.
According to Min Bahadur Thapa, president of the Khagendra Thapa Magar Foundation, they are expecting to receive a reply from London-based Guinness World Records in the next few days. The foundation was set up to collect funds for the boy.
There was no listing on the Guinness World Records' web site on a shortest boy category, but Thapa claimed their closest competitor was 25 inches tall.
The boy and family members are currently touring south Nepal, seeking support for the foundation.
photo & story courtesy news.yahoo.com, 8/30/06
Colossians 4:12
12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. (ESV)
If you're a regular reader of DAILYBIDE, you're experiencing some highs and lows this week. Yesterday, we looked at one of the tallest teenagers in the world and today we're seeing one of the shortest.
Sort of sounds like the Christian life doesn't it? Lots of highs and lows! This is why it's so important for us to keep a focus on abiding in Christ, becasue that's how we will keep growing in spiritual maturity.
What does today's verse from God's Story teach us about growing taller in our faith?
Paul, the writer, is passing on some encouragement from Epaphras who was a hero in the early church. He was a leader who helped keep the Colossian church going during some real highs and lows. His brief greeting was packed with God's truth for us to know and apply:
- we must pray for our growth and the growth of other believers
- God is the One Who brings about spiritual growth in our lives
- we stand tall spiritually when we obey all of God's will
When I saw today's story about the teenage boy in Nepal who is 20 inches tall, my heart broke for him. He will never look normal or mature and he can't help it. A rare disorder has stunted his growth.
We don't have an excuse for being short on Christ-likeness or showing a lack of spiritual maturity. The common disorder of sinful selfishness is what stunts our spiritual growth.
This should break our hearts when we see it in our lives and in the lives of our friends who are Christ followers. Does it?
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Pray right now....talk to God about your spiritual shortness and your desire to stand tall in Christ-like maturity.
- Pray every day for God to grow you and other believers around you.
- Make a list of 5 actions you can take to stand tall spiritually and 5 actions/attitudes in your life right now that are stunting your spiritual growth. Follow through on what you learn.
- Remember how your mom or dad would measure your height and mark it on a wall to keep track of your physical growth? Keep a written journal where once a month you evaluate if you are growing or shrinking spiritually.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Pray for the spiritual growth of three friends or family members every day. Once a month, write them a note or do an act of kindness for them to encourage them. Ask them how you can pray for them.
- If you aren't in a small group with at least 3-4 friends who want to grow spiritually, start one. Show them today's DAILYBIDE with the teenage boy attempting to get in the Guinness Records. The first time you get together, lay on the floor so that everyone is shorter than 20 inches. Agree on a plan to grow together.
7 Sep, 2006
Grow up!
BIG FOR LITTLE LEAGUE
First baseman Aaron Durley (center) stands alongside his Saudi Arabia teammates after defeating Canada 5-0 in a pool-play opener of the Little League World Series on Aug. 18. Only 13 years old, Durley is 6-foot-8 and weighs 256 pounds. (photo courtesy si.com & AP, 8/24/06)
2 Peter 3:17-18
17 You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. (ESV)
The photo of the big little league kid made me shake my head in amazement. Talk about a "man among boys"! Can you imagine the conversations? Kids always compare themselves to each other. This got me thinking about the fact that we do the same spiritually.
What does today's scripture teach us about spiritual growth?
Peter was one of Christ's disciples and had experienced a deep friendship with the Son of God, face to face. He also knew up close and personal what it was like to recognize his own sinful failures and then experience the loving forgiveness of God through what Jesus had done on the cross.
In these verses, Peter is giving both a warning and some essential instruction for all followers of Jesus.
He had been discussing the danger of false teachers. There were "religious" leaders who liked God's forgiveness so much that they had no problem with "christians" continuing to practice their favorite sins.
So Peter's warning is that we need to look out for those who twist God's Truth. His unconditional love and forgiveness does not give us a free pass to sin. Rather, this should motivate us to follow Christ more obediently.
How? By growing in the special favor and knowledge of Jesus! This instruction from Peter is God's desire for each of us. The better we know Jesus, the less desirable "religious" truth twisting will be.
Sometimes I find myself rationalizing my own sinfulness by comparing myself to other Christ followers. If I see myself spiritually BIGGER than others, I must be OK, right? Wrong.
No matter how long we've been a follower of Jesus or how spiritually mature we might be, there's always room for growth.
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- Pray right now. Thank God for His amazing grace! Confess any way in which you have been twisting God's Truth or flirting with the world rather than growing in intimacy with Jesus. Thank Jesus for forgiving you and growing you.
- Memorize 2 Peter 3:18 as a reminder of how essential it is to keep growing with Jesus.
- Write down three ways you are more spiritually mature now than you were six months ago. If there hasn't been growth or you've shrunk, make a plan for how you will get to know Jesus better...consistent time with Jesus...study the scriptures...get involved in a small group and/or your youth group...serve Christ by volunteering to serve others....ask someone to hold you accountable...
- Whenever you see pictures of yourself and see changes, let this remind you to let Jesus change you to be more like Him.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Look for people shorter than yourself so that you can stand out (just kidding!). Watch for the times when those in your storysphere (circle of influence) are feeling "small" about themselves. Offer to listen and then encourage them. It's a small thing to do, but it could make a BIG difference in their lives.
- Share today's DAILYBIDE with a friend, your youth group or your small group. Compare your thoughts and needs. You will grow together.
6 Sep, 2006
Sting of death!
‘Crocodile Hunter’ Steve Irwin killed by stingray
by Brian Cassey
CAIRNS, Australia - Steve Irwin died doing what he loved best, getting too close to one of the dangerous animals he dedicated his life to protecting with an irrepressible, effervescent personality that propelled him to global fame as television's "Crocodile Hunter."
The 44-year-old Irwin's heart was pierced by the serrated, poisonous spine of a stingray as he swam with the creature Monday while shooting a new TV show on the Great Barrier Reef, his manager and producer John Stainton said.
News of Irwin's death reverberated around the world, where he won popularity with millions as the man who regularly leaped on the back of huge crocodiles and grabbed deadly snakes by the tail.
His signature was an explosion of exclamations in his thick Australian drawl, typically "Crikey!" when in awe, "Gorgeous!" when showing off some reptile's charms or "Danger! Danger! Danger!" when even he knew it was wiser to keep a distance from an aroused animal.
photo & story courtesy duluthsuperior.com, 9/4/06
1 Corinthians 15:50-57
Mystery and Victory
50 I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51 Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. 53 For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. 54 When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written:
“Death is swallowed up in victory.”
55 “O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting?”
56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (ESV)
What does God's Story teach us about facing the sting of death?
First of all, these verses are sort of difficult to understand in the ESV translation, so you might want to read them in another translation like the NLT. Click on: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20corinthians%2015:50-57;&version=51;
In this passage, Paul is talking about the future resurrected bodies of believers and the return of Christ.
Any followers of Jesus who are alive on earth when this happens will not experience death but be instantly transformed! A heavenly trumpet blast will introduce God's new heaven and earth. Can you imagine how incredible this second (that's all it will take!) will be?
These believers will be united with all of Christ's followers who have already died and everyone gets to enjoy new eternal bodies - without disabilities - ready for eternal life with God's family in Heaven!
How is this possible? Because Jesus Christ is alive! Without the resurrection of Christ, the sting of our sin would be eternal death.
Steve Irwin was helpless against the deadly barb of a stingray piercing his heart.
You and I would be helpless and face eternal death in hell if Jesus had not taken the sting of sin for us. He willingly allowed his body to be to be pierced upon the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. When Jesus rose from the dead, He guaranteed victory over sin and death!
If we receive God's gift of forgiveness by trusting Jesus to be our Savior, we don't have to fear death. Jesus overcame it and as His followers, we will do the same!
You can take that to heart! It's part of God's Story of love!
How can you connect today's God's Story to your life?
- If your story already includes Jesus in your life as Savior, take a few minutes right now and express your gratitude, love, commitment and celebration to God!
- If you are reading this and you recognize that you have not yet invited Jesus to come into your life as Savior and remove the sting of your sin, let God change your story right now. You can begin your personal relationship with God by simply expressing yourself to God through prayer right now:
Dear God, I know that my sin has separated me from You. Thank You that Jesus Christ died in my place and rose again to be my Savior. I turn from my sin and trust Jesus to forgive me. Come into my life and lead me. Thank You for giving me a relationship with You forever. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Great news! If you are choosing to follow Jesus with your life, your life story has just changed now and forever! Please contact us at http://3story.org/start/index.php?option=com_contact&Itemid= to let us know so that we can send you some helpful resources to help you grow spiritually!
- Another lesson learned from the death of Steve Irwin is that we should stay away from whatever is deadly. Though Jesus has removed the eternal deadly sting of sin, you will live with greater joy and serve Him more effectively if you avoid anything that is harmful to your daily abiding in Christ.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Look again at this quote from today's story: News of Irwin's death reverberated around the world, where he won popularity with millions as the man who regularly leaped on the back of huge crocodiles and grabbed deadly snakes by the tail. Pray every day for Jesus to fill you with His compassion and courage, so the story of His death and resurrection can be reverberated around the world.
- The story of Steve Irwins's death will be in the news all week. It could give you many opportunities to use today's DAILYBIDE to connect your story and God's Story to their stories.
5 Sep, 2006
It's back to school time!
How about five of David Letterman's Top Ten Signs Of A Kid Having A Bad First Day At School?
....Already voted "Least Likely to Succeed."
....Lunch was whatever he could scrape off the bottom of his desk.
....His school bus driver made him ride on the outside of the bus.
....Got tackled twice in gym class--three times in algebra class.
....You know the kid everyone picks on? He got picked on by that kid.
photo courtesy images.google.com & text cbs.com/latenight
John 3:1-7
You Must Be Born Again
3:1 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ (ESV)
What does today's God's Story teach us about being teachable?
Nicodemus was a Pharisee. Jesus often went after this group of religious leaders because they rejected the truth of His message and led the Jewish people away from His good news of forgiveness. Nic was probably nervous about what his peers would think if they knew he was hanging out with Jesus. So he went searching for Jesus after dark, because he believed that Jesus had the answers to his questions.
Nic (at nite) was very intelligent and well educated, but he went to Jesus to be taught. He was teachable. That's the great lesson in today's God's Story.
Are you teachable? Do you go to Jesus with an open mind and heart so that His Spirit can teach you the Truth about God's Story?
After Nic learned the Truth, he became a follower of Jesus. No more sneeking around in the dark! Nic became a bold spokesperson for Christ! (See John 7:50-51.)
You might say that Nic had a really good first day at Jesus' school!
How can we connect today's God's Story to our lives?
- Be honest. Are you teachable? God already knows the answer to this question. Do you?
- Pray right now.....Thank God for His Truth. His Truth is absolute and never changes! Ask Jesus to give you a teachable attitude so that you might learn God's Truths and grow to become more and more like Christ.
- Write down a list of questions you have about God's Story and abiding in Christ. Keep it handy and keep digging in the Word until you discover Jesus' answers. Go to your youth leader or pastor or another follower of Jesus for help. (Do this during the day, because they need to sleep at night!)
- Be like Nic - speak up for Christ and share His Story and your story. God will use you to help answer to the questions that others have about His Truth.
- Read the rest of the story about Nic in John 3:1-21.
How can you connect today's story, God's Story and your story to others?
- Since today is probably the first day of school for most of you, ask Jesus to give you a teachable attitude toward God and toward others in your school. Remember that others will be more willing to learn about God's Story if they see that there's something positive about your story.
- Use the start of the new school year as a conversation starter to learn more about the stories of others around you. You can start with simple questions about what they like and don't like and then you can probe deeper with questions about their feelings, their fears, their need for help in some way....
- Use David Letterman's (five of the Top Ten) as a humorous way to find out some signs that your friends really are having a bad day at school.
