DECEMBER 13 – FIND YOUR PLACE

 After this (Challenging His followers to find those who were willing to pay the costs of following Him), He named seventy-two people, and sent them out in pairs, each to a place He planned to go. He sent them, saying, “There is a great harvest ready, but so few to work. Pray the Master will produce workers from and for that work. You’ll be like little sheep in a wolfpack. Don’t try to prepare, and don’t get side-tracked. Just go where I send you and say, “I bring God’s prosperity to this place.” (Luke 10:1-5)

                  Can you still follow directions? Sometimes, as people grow older and gain experience, their way becomes fixed. Sometimes, they even begin to think they are too far along to change, so any instruction requiring change may be dismissed as unreasonable and therefore, wrong.

                   Jesus didn’t ask these seventy-two followers to tell Him where they should go nor what they should do, nor how they should do it. He told them, in some detail, about every aspect of the work that was important to accomplish His objective for the work that would be done. He knew what each person needed in their own life, and what those whom they would meet needed as well. You don’t know either of those answers. Your job description still reads, “follow Jesus” even when you lead others.

                   Be sure that today, and every day, you find your place in the work by listening for the Lord’s voice.

DECEMBER 12 – LIVE THE DREAM

 Then, Jesus said privately to his followers, “You are so blessed to be able to see all of this! I want you to realize that the prophets and kings would have loved to see and hear and experience the life you are being given” (Luke 10:23-24)

                   How often do you complain? Do you get up some mornings thinking of the challenges of the day with anxiety or even dread? Or, do you understand that every moment of your life is an opportunity to watch and participate in the great work that God is doing in His world and His people? Are you living the dream or the drudgery?

                   Jesus has just celebrated the return of the seventy-two people He commissioned to go ahead of Him. He had challenged them, sent them, heard the stories of God’s work through their lives. Then, He thank God “full of joy through the Holy Spirit (verse 21).” This was a big deal for Jesus! He was excited. So, He made the effort to get his people to stop and take note; to celebrate their great fortune. They had been chosen by God to be part of His work to change lives. You have been chosen too! Celebrate that great opportunity every day.

                  See your great fortune through Jesus’ eyes. Relish the opportunity you have been given to live God’s dream life for you.

DECEMBER 11 – FOCUS ON WHAT MATTERS

 There are different jobs and different ways of working, but it is all God’s work through men and women. Through His Holy Spirit, He gives to each person the understanding needed for their work and their people. (1Corinthians 12:6-7)

                  When you think of Paul’s promise in Philippians 4:19, “My God will make sure you have all you need…” do you think about wisdom, understanding, perspective, and other measures of competence to do your work? “All” means “all,” correct? Was Paul reassuring his friends that God would make sure the funds they sent him would be replenished, or was he showing them that God had brought them to understand, empathize, and experience the joy of partnership with him in his struggles? Maybe it was both!

                   In this passage, Paul clearly thinks of God’s provision broadly. Here, he speaks directly of provision that is given in order that the work can be completed. This is a powerful message to you. With the assurance that you will not run short of what you need to complete the work God wants you to do, your focus can be on the work, and upon the people who need the work to be done. Most human fear is rooted in worries that his promise eliminates.

                   Live confidently, focusing on the vision and values God has given you. Help others to see that He consistently provides for the work he commissions.

DECEMBER 10 – RULES CAN’T DO IT

 But the results that give evidence of God’s Holy Spirit working in a life are evident in what you see. They are a love for other people, cheerful happiness, an inner calm and peace, a willingness to wait. These people are kind and gentle, consistently good, and are unruffled by challenges. You can’t make these traits appear by force. Rules don’t bring these results. (Galatians 5:22-23)

                  People who lead are often fond of rules. Rules are simple. If you could only list the important dos and don’ts in one place, and then threaten consequences for those who don’t follow that list, it would be so easy…. Well, not really. Remember the Ten Commandments? Like it happens today, the short list didn’t work, so people in power created many more rules that no one followed, not even the leaders. Why not? Why don’t rules work?

                   Paul observes, the important values of God can’t be created with rules. Jesus explained, “It’s from your very core; your heart, that you desire evil ways and hate others. (Matthew 15:19)” Jesus restored your ability to relate to God through the Holy Spirit living in you. With your heart focused on Christ in you, you can live the life that Paul describes.

                   Understand that living God’s values is an issue of the heart. Frame these values as promises from Him and from you - because of His love – not as rules.

DECEMBER 9 – PRAYERFUL SELF-CONTROL

 I am sure that the faith of your ancestors has become yours. We affirmed that gift, and we are praying for you. Charge ahead with that Spirit leading you – just as if it were a consuming fire. Be bold in using that power to discipline yourself and love other people. (2 Timothy 1:5)

                   What controls you? Many people, especially those who have been successful, fear loss or failure or pain. That fear is often what turns their bold thoughts into passing ideas. Living boldly with self-control is a very difficult balancing act for most people. Charging ahead is not usually considered a part of discipline. How do you accomplish this balance and go all out without fear of rejection or humiliation when God calls to you?

                   Paul argues that it is Timothy’s faith in the Holy Spirit of God constantly leading him that will enable him to have this confidence. His act of self-discipline is simply to focus intently on what God tells him to do next. Paul also hints at another helpful constant. Jesus is always focusing His work on people. He always loves you and the other people around you. That orientation will always mark His work in and through your life.

                   Focus on the vision God has given you, and upon the people who are the face of that vision, and then charge ahead. Set your community on fire for Jesus.

DECEMBER 8 – POWERFUL GENTLENESS

 The disciples of Jesus did what Jesus instructed; they brought the donkey and its young colt. Then, Jesus sat on their coats atop the colt. A massive crowd gathered, spreading their coats and tree branches on the road before Him. The crowd burst into praise, surrounding Him and shouting, “Oh, save us Son of David! Celebrate the one coming in the Lord’s name! Oh, save us Most High!” (Matthew 21:6-9)

                  Have you ever noticed – those who truly have great authority, strength, and power don’t really need to advertise it? People who wish to be thought powerful, or to be feared, will often flex their muscles to be sure they are noticed and admired by others. Men and women who are focused on the work, and especially those who are intently focusing on the people who will benefit from their work, don’t really have time to pose and flex.

                  People gave Jesus great authority over their lives because they saw evidence of great power and strength in His actions. But, rarely did Scripture record an action where Jesus raised His voice or became aggressive in any way. The power He exhibited was God’s transforming, healing, restoring strength. It flowed through Jesus with only a simple word or a gently touch. You have that power and strength within you as well.

                  Pursue the vision God has given you with the quiet, gentle confidence that comes from knowing your God is in control of your life and the world around you.

DECEMBER 7 – CONSISTENT FAITHFULNESS

 You are true to your word; faithful from the beginning to the end of all time. Just as you created the earth, and it remains through time. (Psalm 119:90)

                   Do you realize that your best efforts are certain to fall short of perfect? Part of the human condition is inconsistency. Inconsistent behavior makes it a certainty that men and women cannot be and do everything they wish to do perfectly. So, how do you be that person who has the integrity to consistently be and do what you should – faithfully; every time?

                   The psalmist repeatedly observed evidence of God’s consistent faithfulness, both in relationship to him personally, and in the world at large. But, as life’s experience proves, he surely found that it was impossible to emulate that character. Jesus revealed the problem (John 15:4-5). Paul explained God’s answer for that problem, as he said, “Although I can’t do the right things I wish to do on my own (Romans 7:19-24), Jesus lives in me (Galatians 2:20), and that life that Jesus lives in and through me gives me the ability to accomplish God’s purposes (Colossians 1:27).”

                   Don’t do your best. Don’t settle for that. Hold out (wait) for Jesus to live in and through your life as your hope for consistency and faithfulness to God’s will.

DECEMBER 6 – GOODNESS

 And Jesus said, “Why do you say that I am good? No one; nothing except for the Lord, God is good (excellent, virtuous, principled…).” (Mark 10:18)

                  What is your standard for excellence in attitude, thought, and behavior? Do you have a list? Have you worked hard to assemble a self-created code of laws to govern your own conduct and that of your people? If so, you are settling for something that is less than ideal.

                   Jesus is here answering the question, “What must I do to become an heir to the life God offers?” This statement is Jesus’ summary of that answer. He continued with a reference to God’s law and challenged His questioner. Finally, Jesus observed the hopeless condition of a person who thinks he or she can find real life, meaning, and purpose – either here on earth, or eternally – apart from relationship with the living, virtuous God who truly is good. The Lord, God has values. He has a framework designed specifically for your life, and for the life of each of your people. Your list of rules is not adequate to govern you, much less will those rules be enough for the unique, diverse people you will lead. Your words and actions must encourage them to find relationship with Jesus if you are to help them prosper.

                   Don’t settle for human goodness. Put all your hope in the Lord’s complete goodness

DECEMBER 5 – UNFAILING KINDNESS

 (In my despair and anguish) Yet I go back to this – and so I have hope. It is because of the Lord, God – His unfailing love that we have not been killed. His kind mercy comes every morning – always. So, I know the Lord, He is where I live. In Him alone will I hope. The Lord, God cares for each one – each of the people who follow Him. (Lamentations 3:21-25)

                  Are you ready to put this together? Will you try? God is faithful! Place all your hopes and dreams – all your life – in His hands.

                  Lamentations is a unique book. It shows what happens when people rebel against God. This book chronicles the pain and depravity of sin. In the middle of this description of evil and hopelessness, the writer points to the one and only hope; the Lord, God. Apart from His continuing, unfailing, vast reservoir of love, caring, and kindness, there is no hope. Because of that love – while you still have breath – there is hope and opportunity. God created you. He is calling you to enjoy the peace and joy of finding purpose in each moment – not tomorrow, nor when you die – today! God has made you uniquely. He has a plan – a vision – for your life. He has created you to grasp His truth in unique ways, and He will share that values framework with you! He has prepared others to partner with you in the work you will do.

                  Recognize the unfailing kindness of Jesus Christ. Place all your hope in His love today.

DECEMBER 4 – PATIENT PERSEVERANCE

 So, my beloved people, as you await Christ’s return, do everything you can to pursue a close relationship with Him. Persevere in pursuing His way. Be patient, knowing that His patience means opportunity for other people to know His love, just as our beloved brother Paul wrote you from the wisdom that God gave Him. (2 Peter 3:15)

                  Do you ever feel that you are all alone in the battle? Do you get weary and tire of seeking to do the right thing when it is so hard? Do you long for Jesus to return, and bring end to the struggles you face? Should your supply of patience be greater? When you consider Peter’s explanation, does it make you more willing to persevere?

                  Peter has written two letters. Both have urged personal holiness; obedience to the leadership of God’s Holy Spirit – consistently. He has provided the reasons for such faith and he has recited the benefits of that obedience. He has also warned of the dangers and problems that come when people turn away from God defiantly. As Peter closes this second letter, he has come to value perseverance. Interestingly, he includes Paul in his words. Maybe he was reminded of how hard it was for him to keep dealing with Paul, patiently asking God to show them the way to unity. Maybe he is reminding the readers, “I have had struggles too, but with God’s help, I have made it through to my end.”

                  When you are ready to give up, ask God to give you the love for others that will help you to patiently persevere.

DECEMBER 3 – RIVERS OF PEACE

 Aggressively chase after peacemaking with everyone while you seek the personal holiness that enables your relationship with the Lord, God. (Hebrews 12:14)

                  When someone wrongs you, do you understand that the Lord wants you to pursue peace with that person? Do you see that your right-living; your holiness, is closely connected with your relationships with your people? Remember, it is God who has brought these people into your life. There is a purpose. How can you obey His vision for your life if you cannot make peace with the people He gave you to help you in that work?

                  The writer of Hebrews repeats these two challenges – repeatedly (Hebrews 10:23-28, 10:34-38, 13:1-6,13:16). They seem to be a very import part of his values framework. He joins the two values at every opportunity. Could this be one disciple’s effort to wrestle with the words of Jesus when He said, “Love the Lord you God with everything in you – heart, soul, and mind…. And… love your neighbor in the same way you love yourself? (Matthew 22:37,39)” Reading this letter, it also seems he has found a paradox. By peacemaking with others, the writer sees a pathway to right-living and inner peace that he desires for himself. Such insight is available to you if you take the values framework God gives you seriously and ask Him to increase your understanding of His will for you.

                  Find the peace the Lord provides as you grow in relationship with Him.

DECEMBER 2 – WHY UNUSUAL JOY?

 Think of it as joy; be glad brothers, when you find yourself in very tough situations. You can be sure that this test of your faith will build your ability to patiently endure. These trials work to bring you to maturity, sound and complete in every way. So, keep going until God brings you to completion. (James 1:2-4)

                  It is very important for you to have a strong command of the values framework that God is giving you. Words, especially words that describe values, are often viewed differently – sometimes with great emotion attached - by different people. People often define words differently too. So, it is very important that you clearly state, define, and live your values without the confusion of mixed messages.

                  James’ value of being joyful in tough situations is not one most people would choose these days. Some psychologists say everything people do is motivated by a desire to avoid such pain. See how James painted the picture for his reader to help them understand his ‘Why?’ The ‘why?’ is very important when you are arguing for a value that goes against another person’s perceptions.

                   Consider your values and their definition in view of how they will be received by your people. Recognize that your actions and policy can be an important part of defining them. And, don’t forget to tell your people the ‘why?’ of your values

DECEMBER 1 – VALUES FORM A FRAMEWORK

 8-9Love does not ever fall short. Other important things may not always be part of the work. God may not give you a prophetic word. Your gift of tongues may be restrained. Your knowledge may not be enough. Because, what we know today, and what we understand about tomorrow are incomplete…13In summary, the big three: faith, hope, and love; but the biggest is love. (1Corinthians 13:8-9,13)

                  What are values? Most people understand that values are principles that define morality and serve to encourage ethical behavior. You hold many values – but some values you ‘value’ more than others. As a follower of Christ, you have a few concepts that form your framework for understanding your relationship with Him. These values, whether you have paused to identify them or not, have been given to you to help you grow in your relationship with God.

                  Paul had three parts to his framework. Throughout his writings he defined faith, hope, and love for his people with both his words and his actions. For much of this understanding, the Holy Spirit awakened in him the Scripture he had studied all his life. It seemed to fit best into these three values as he had come to define them.

                  Pray today that the Lord will speak to you, and that He will give you clarity as to the values that are most important to you and your people. Ask the Lord to help you articulate and define this framework for you and your people.

NOVEMBER 30 – POSITIVE MEASURES

 Finally - my family - let transparency, integrity, innocent holiness, purity, gratitude, and kindness consume your thoughts and inform your hearts. Project your desire to be an excellent servant. (Philippians 4:8)

                   Paul was given vision by God. He saw a future where many people would decide to follow Jesus. His words before and after this passage (vv. 4-9) describe these followers living life on God’s terms. Moreover, Paul was able to tell these people, his people in Philippi, to emulate his actions, and to do the things he had encouraged them to do because he had consistently pursued that vision. Note that all these admonitions are stated in positive terms.

                   Do you focus your efforts on pursuing the vision God has given you? Do you lead your people in a positive way toward pursuing that vision in unity together? This is not to suggest that you should ignore difficult or negative circumstances. However, your focus should be primarily on the positive ends that you pursue. Paul said elsewhere in this letter, “I am pursuing the goal so that I can accomplish what God has called me to do in Christ Jesus.”

                   Pursue the goal (vision) God has called you to accomplish. Point your people toward that goal with positive encouragement.

 

NOVEMBER 29 – WHO IS IN CONTROL?

Then, His people came to Jesus asking, “Who gets the highest position in your kingdom?” Jesus called a little child to stand before them and He said, “Listen, unless you change your perspective; see yourself as the immature children you are, you’ll never even see the kingdom. The one who humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:1-4)

                  Many of your people today have no connection to a cultural values framework. Your choice is to either establish detailed rules, or else to establish and define shared values for your community. If that community is going to encourage an environment of trust, fairness, and consistency, as perceived by your people, your group needs the right values. How do you create that list? How do you know which values are most important, and how to clearly communicate these mutual promises to your people?

                  In this story, the disciples were really asking Jesus, “We want to earn our way to the top of your kingdom.” How surprised they must have been to hear Jesus say they must start with humility! And, He used a child as His object lesson. Children look to adults for direction, and they trust what they are told. They assume the parent knows best. That is what Jesus wants for you, both personally, and as you lead others.

                  True discernment, the kind that leads to a change in culture and health, comes only from God. Let Him have control of your decisions and your every action.

NOVEMBER 28–MEASURING & ACCOUNTABILITY

 When Cephas came to Antioch, I confronted him directly – face-to-face. I saw that he was acting hypocritically; bringing condemnation on himself and leading others away from truth. (Galatians 2:11)

                  When you see a friend messing up in a way that will harm that person and others around them, will you step up to address it? Do you feel a responsibility for praying; asking God to give you direction? Do you act when the Holy Spirit moves you to speak? There is great risk – to relationships, self-interest, even to the entire group, when someone falls short of the community’s stated values. It is a big deal.

                  Paul and Peter (Cephas) were two of the most visible leaders of the early church. Conflict between them was a serious issue that carried a high degree of risk. Paul must have wondered how it would end, when he decided to confront Peter with his failure. Fortunately, we know from Peter himself that he and Paul continued to have a solid, perhaps better, relationship (2 Peter 3:15), but Paul could not have been sure of this ending when he approached Peter. Fortunately, Peter did listen, and the church community was strengthened.

                   Measuring your own performance, and the actions of your people is important ongoing work. Holding them, and yourself accountable in humility is a critical part of creating a strong values-based culture.

NOVEMBER 27 – THE METRICS OF COMMUNITY

 And the Lord, God said, “I am the One who has rescued you. You will have no other gods to rival Me. Nor will you worship anything in the sky, on land, or sea… Don’t misuse my name… Remember I created the Sabbath day – observe it… Honor your parents… Don’t murder, commit adultery, steal, or lie about another person. And don’t wish for what other people have.” (Exodus 20:1-17, abbreviated)

                  Do you know what is important to you? Can you tell someone what matters from your perspective? To be a thoughtful person with integrity, you must identify what attributes you value. Certainly, if you will lead your people well, you must communicate and define these values. Without that explanation, there is no fair measure for your evaluation of their conduct. And, experience teaches that what the leader says and does is what the followers will do.

                  God clearly explained to the Israelites these values. This law; the ten commandments, became the standard for their conduct. Jesus communicated these truths and other truth about God and His Kingdom using statements of values, and through His own actions. In the absence of good consistent communication about your expectations, there can be no accountability in your group. With clearly defined values, fair evaluation can be a reality.

                   Give your people understanding of the values that the Lord gives you to communicate. Lead them to prosperity as you measure each other by these standards each day.

NOVEMBER 26 – COMMUNITY REQUIRES TRUTH

 You are truly blessed of the Lord God when you recognize your poverty, and you rely upon God for everything. With this understanding, you hold the keys to the kingdom. (Luke 6:20)

                  Are you poor? Does this verse make you uncomfortable? At what point do you have enough (money, intellect, power) relative to other people, so that you believe you are secure and self-sufficient? Do your words communicate arrogance or a humble heart that understands all you possess – except your relationship with God – is temporary?

                  Jesus may have been thinking of God’s word through Isaiah when He spoke these words. Isaiah had said, “Don’t you remember I made everything? I am looking for the person who knows his or her place; who hangs on my every word. (Isaiah 66:2). The fundamental truth; the “I AM” of history, is God. God is all-powerful, always present, all-knowing, both loving and just. He is the creator, sustainer, and the source of all truth. Compared to Him, no person has a reason for pride, apart from God’s involvement in his or her life. Nothing you have will give you security. You are not self-sufficient. Accepting this, and recognizing that only God is your security, is a fundamental truth for you if you will be effective.

                  Grow in the humility that sees God as the source of all strength and power. Embrace your role as a carrier of that gift through the Holy Spirit’s work in your life.

NOVEMBER 25 – A COMMUNITY RESPONDS

At every opportunity; whenever someone asks you for anything, offer what you have. And, even when they take something that is yours, don’t ask them to return it. Be creative – find ways to do for them what you dream others would do for you. (Luke 6:30-31)

                   Do your people treat the people around them like family? Do you give to one of your group as easily as you would give to a spouse, a parent, or a child when they have a need? Do other people trust that you will try to help when someone has a problem or a need?

                   Jesus is describing here the attitudes that His people should have. He describes the value of generosity that caused Him to explain at other times that giving rather than receiving is the way to real joy (Acts 20:35). Generosity, as Jesus taught and lived it, was not limited by self-preservation, nor what others would call wise restraint. The only limitation for Jesus was He would not give enough to hurt the other person. With genuine empathy He considered what was best for each situation, and then gave without limit.

                   Invest yourself generously. By this action you will grow a community of people who will also respond without reservation to the needs of the people around them.

NOVEMBER 24 – A COMMUNITY OF LEADERS

(Those who rejected Jesus failed yet again) But you – believers – followers – God picked you! You are Priests. As His own, favorite people, you can be Holy – part of His royal family. Show other people the way to this Jesus; the Christ who rescued you from a meaningless existence to give you His magnificent purposes. (1 Peter 2:9)

                   Is your group a community full of leaders? Are you working toward that end? Would you like to have more of your people growing to love and care about others?

                   Peter was serious about rocks. Maybe it was because Rock (Cephas) was the name Jesus gave to him as a replacement for Simon (God has heard) when Simon first identified Jesus as the Christ (Matthew 16:16). In a way, this was Jesus explaining to His followers the truth that Peter tells others here. Jesus is that rock on which prosperous lives must be based. When you are adopted into His Holy family, you begin to follow Him. As you grow in that relationship, you inherit His purpose of providing others help in restoring their relationship with God and with each other.

                   Help your people find their identity as a co-rock; a partner in God’s purposes. It will provide meaning in your life and in the lives of those whom you are called to lead.

NOVEMBER 23–DECEIVERS USE THEIR WISDOM

 The person who is sure his intellect and emotions will tell him the right thing to do – that person is stupid. But, the person who follows the Lord’s path finds wisdom, and that person will be rescued. (Proverbs 28:26)

                   How do you make decisions? Are you confident that your experience, intellect, and intuition are going to render sound decisions? The Bible repeatedly says that this state of self-reliance is foolish pride. The world tells you that it is the way to be wise. Who will you believe?

                   The statements in this passage assume that life is filled with challenges beyond the capacity of human intellect and rational thought. The passage argues for a relationship of dependence on God for your decisions each day. The greatest deception of Satan is found here; the one that we call “original sin” (Genesis 3:15) shows it clearly. The root decision of your personal life is, “will you trust in God or trust in yourself?” You cannot carve out segments of your life where you are in charge. You cannot give God the big issues, and you handle the details because that would imply you can determine which issues are big.

                   Don’t deceive yourself on this point. Then, help your people to see and live in truth with you. You nor your people are competent to live a prosperous life without God’s constant involvement. Give all your decisions to Him.

NOVEMBER 22 – DECEIVERS NEED A REASON

 (God’s plan to make us different) is so there will not be splits and battles among you; so that you will each be concerned about the other person because their contribution is so important to the group’s welfare. (1Corinthians 12:25)

                  Do you see others in your group as valuable, unique partners in pursuing God’s vision? Do you remind your people often that each person, you included, is dependent upon the others for the prosperity of the whole? Or, do you believe you, or another leader, are more important than the rest, and so foster fear and selfishness among your people? If you help your people see relationships from God’s perspective, you will prepare them to thrive as a group.

                  In Paul’s time, as today, the default attitude for everyday people was to see other people as rivals, competitors for vital resources, and as enemies. Paul’s explanation that the Lord designed us to be mutually dependent and cooperative was – and is – exactly the opposite of the world’s expert opinions. This world’s dog-eat-dog existence gives opportunity for a person to rationalize almost any behavior under a mistaken idea that their self-preservation demands an extraordinary action. That’s how thieves bring themselves to steal and murderers to kill. In God’s world, people see abundance, but here in this world there is never enough to go around.

                  Lead your people to embrace the unity and trust in God that dispels fear and prevents a selfish perspective.

NOVEMBER 21 – DECEIT NEEDS OPPORTUNITY

 The reason I wrote was to see if you are found to be trustworthy and are obeying all God requires of you. (2Corinthians 2:9)

                  A strong relationship of trust is not about benefitting and then abandoning the person while wishing them the best. Extending trust genuinely requires valuing a person enough to love them into a mutually accountable relationship. That investment of your time and energy to provide or plan for feedback and help to navigate uncertain, new paths is often the costliest action you can take. Will you pay that cost?

                  Paul knows that you can trust a person too much; so much that they will be harmed by your refusal to continue accepting the responsibility for your people’s welfare. The Corinthian people were part of Paul’s responsibility, and he continued to monitor and encourage them regularly. With constant temptation, and the cares of everyday life, your people need for you to love them enough to stay involved in their lives. As you grant them authority, they do become responsible for their part, but you continue to bear responsibility for obeying God’s command to love them. In the absence of accountability, your people will often deceive themselves as they are left to measure their own actions.

                   Love your people enough to help them avoid this deception. Give them the accountability they need to continue pursuing God’s vision for their lives.

NOVEMBER 20 – FRAUD PREVENTION

 Therefore (since we please God, and we find His peace and joy through obeying Him – v.17), let us seek peace and what helps one another. Don’t get in the way of what God is doing for personal gain. There are many things you can choose to do, but you choose what helps rather than hurts another person. (Romans 14:19-20)

                   It is one thing to accept that some pain may come your way, but to choose to deny yourself an indulgence – even when there’s nothing immoral or unethical about doing it – that is another issue altogether. Have you ever consciously chosen not to do something you really wanted to do, just because it may hurt someone else?

                   It seems that Paul is encouraging initiative here. “Do what the Lord tells you to do, and then look around for ways you can encourage others (and refrain from derailing them). Paul knows that you can’t make decisions for other people, but he is saying, “Even when you extend trust enough to love and care for other people, don’t trust them with things that may harm them.” You can often keep people from fooling themselves. That is the fraud that will hurt them the most.

                   Care for others like Jesus cares for you. Let their needs inform and motivate your actions.

NOVEMBER 19 – YOU WILL GET HURT

 Even though people are terrible, and they will lie about me, I’m going to obey what you tell me to do with all my heart. Even though others won’t understand, I will embrace this pain, and all that goes with it, if I can learn to live life your way. (Psalm 119:69-71)

                  Do you love God enough to obey Him when it hurts? Can you overcome your fear of pain or loss with your trust in Jesus and His promises? The difficulties are inevitable when your work requires extending trust to people. Are you willing to embrace this difficulty as a necessary part of the job?

                   Scholars have said that the basic principles of God; His values, are repeated often throughout Scripture. If this is true, there is suffering for each person who would live life on God’s terms. Jesus explained that suffering has long been a part of obeying God, and that such suffering is part of following Him (Matthew 5:11-12). Paul, Peter, and others explain that your willingness to accept personal loss is an important part of both showing God’s love to others, and of growing in understanding of His love for you. Just as physical pain can teach lessons to every person, the suffering you experience because you follow Jesus is part of bringing you to spiritual maturity.

                   Understand and trust that God’s love for you will be worth the costs of following His way.

NOVEMBER 18 – BUT TRUST IS GOOD, RIGHT?

 There’s nothing to trust about mere mortals. Men can’t save you. When a man dies, so do his plans. And, he returns to dust. Real help and blessing – that comes from God. The Lord of Jacob who made everything is the trusted judge who helps those who suffer. (Psalm 146:3-7)

                  Here again, you are advised by Scripture not to expect men and women to be trustworthy. How often have you wondered, “can I trust this person who needs my help?” Maybe you’re worried that, “they will just waste this opportunity. Why should I invest in them (again)?” If so, you are in luck. This passage gives both correct answers to your questions.

                  Absolutely, no! Men and women aren’t even capable of insuring that they will do what they say. They are not trustworthy. And, absolutely, yes! The Lord, God – who created them – loves them (and you). He provides real help and blessing. He can be trusted. Jesus came to find and rescue hopeless, helpless people who were otherwise headed for self-destruction (Luke 19:10). Paul recognized that this purpose becomes your purpose as you follow Christ. He said, “this love of Jesus compels us. (2 Corinthians 5:14)”

It compels you to extend trust to those who don’t deserve it – people just like you.

                   Place your trust in God alone. But, extend His love - in that trust – to other people each day as He leads you.

NOVEMBER 17 – MIXED SIGNALS

Do not look for support from a friend, nor place your trust in a companion. Careful even with one who sleeps in your arms. Even the son dishonors his father, and a daughter opposes her mother. (Micah 7:5-6)

                   Have you ever been betrayed? Have you been victimized by fraud? Have people you held in esteem ever shaped “facts” to influence or persuade you to agree with or to benefit themselves? If you have graduated from kindergarten, your answer is probably yes.

                   Micah concludes his prophetic word from the Lord with a few observations. His verdict on Israel was not flattering. He concluded that none of those people were trustworthy. So, you shouldn’t be surprised that you find those around you to be the same. People will let you down. There are frauds all around. In this world, you will even see that you can’t trust yourself! Fortunately, Micah’s conclusion brings hope for people as well. God can be trusted, and He is compassionate to His people.

                   Recognize that God alone is trustworthy. All others will ultimately fail to be a faithful friend to you at times. God should be at the top of your list of valued relationships. God alone is the person who will always bring value to your life.

NOVEMBER 16 – SIGNS: INVITE NOT FORCE

 For this reason (because Jesus has given us the work of bringing others to Him), we are His representatives. It’s like God Himself is inviting people through us as His way to communicate with them. So, we invite you, even beg earnestly and humbly that you, on Christ’s behalf. Please, please choose God. Let Him transform you! (2 Corinthians 5:20)

                  Do you ever rush about, trying to do the things that will accomplish God’s work of saving people? Do you think and plan and try to figure out what is the best way to reach them in a way they will respond? If so, where is your attention? Is it on your creativity and wits, or do you look for the things other people are doing? Or, are you paying attention to God, looking for Him to give you the plan, and waiting for Him to show you the person you are to invite?

                  Listen to Paul as he explains to the people at Corinth. He says it so well. “God is inviting people through us.” This much is clear, God is choosing the time, place, person, and the means of contact and invitation. It is as if Paul is saying, “all we have to do is deliver the invitation to you.” He does this as well as he can, with passion and love, but he does only what God leads him to do. He knows anything else would be to try and force God’s hand.

                  Trust that God loves you enough to include you. Believe that he will give you meaningful work. Wait expectantly for Jesus to show you whom to invite

NOVEMBER 15–SIGNS:UNDERSTAND NOT QUOTE

 “This is my promise to my people after those days” (when Jesus conquers sin by His atoning sacrifice allowing God’s people to relate to Him as He has always intended) says the Lord and Master God, “I am going to place within them – at their core and etched into their minds – My truth and what I want from them.” (Hebrews 10:16)

                  There is another choice to be made if you will be this sign for your people. Will you learn about God, memorize and quote His words and decide which of His written laws you will follow? Or, will you pay attention to Him, listen to the Holy Spirit as you read His word and live in His world, and seek to recognize Him and His works in the people around you?

                  The writer of Hebrews is quoting Jeremiah here, as he argues that a person can never know so much about God and what God wants, that He can determine what is important each moment. Without the Holy Spirit, active in your life, it is impossible to behave in a way that will please the Lord. Instead, Jeremiah argues that Jesus has created a new way (vv. 20-25) that requires only that you be attentive to the Lord in community with your people, so that you may encourage and help each other. God now takes the responsibility for your prosperity if you will lead your people to Him.

                   Point your people not to what you tell them about what God says, but to the Lord, God Himself.

NOVEMBER 14 – SIGNS: LIFE NOT DEATH

 All the world is witness today. I’m giving you a choice – right out in the open – life or death; prosperity or ruin. Choose life – live – love your Lord, God and do what He says. Hang on to Him because He is your very life! (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

                   Do you concentrate on the after-life or the now life? Do you dwell on controlling the impulses to sin and doing the things that the someone else says that you’re supposed to do, or do you focus on Jesus and what He is doing right now? Is what He wants you to do most important to you? There is great value in Scripture, a church family is helpful, even critical to provide accountability and encouragement. You should oppose sin and your flesh, and the life to come will be ecstasy. All of this is true. But, God’s call is to relationship – and life in Him – today!!!

                   Moses is calling on his people to pursue prosperity rather than destruction and death (Deuteronomy 30:15). He poses a clear choice. He argues very forcefully. The way you and your people will find prosperity is the same way. Prosperity – from the time of creation up through today – is found in “loving the Lord your God, walking in obedience to Him, and keeping His commands to you.”

                   See life – live God’s prosperity by answering Him always, “yes, Lord.” Just, “yes!” Choose life!

NOVEMBER 13–SIGNS: TALKWITH, NOT TALK AT

 Even while I travel through the most difficult times of life I can’t be afraid, because you are right here next to me. Your power and provision allow me to relax. (Psalm 23:4)

                  Is it your way to tell your people what they must do, and how they must do it? Could they ever come to see you as someone who talks “at” them rather than with them? Everyone, whatever their circumstances or status, wants to be listened to; moreover, they want to be heard. From your position of relative strength or wisdom or resources, will you walk with them even when it means you must walk through their difficulty without solving or their problems or fixing them? Are you willing to let it cost you to be used as God’s sign for another?

                  King David had some very dark, difficult times. He trusted God to calm his fears and go with him through all those challenges. If you are to be God’s sign to your people, it is unlikely that He will change His nature to accommodate your desire to stay in your position of comfort and safety. And, by the way, your people do not want you to tell them what they should do from that lofty position. If you are going to talk with them, you must go to them – where they are.

                   It’s clear that God calls you to go down with your people to the valleys where their hardships beset them. There, in that valley, He will show you how to lead them to the safety of His love.

NOVEMBER 12 – SIGNS REQUIRE A RESPONSE

 But Mary; she added sign to sign. She brought it all together in her heart. It began forming at her core. The shepherds went home, and as they went they were praising God for everything He had done. God had not let them down. (Luke 2:19-20)

                  The shepherds saw the light. They returned to their place; changed. And, Mary – she had received many signs. The angel spoke to her. Surely Joseph told her of the sign given to him. She visited with her aunt. Now the stunned shepherds were sent by thousands of angels, affirming all the other signs. All these people were changed by the one thing – the baby that would be the way for a clueless world to find meaning and be restored to right relationship with God.

                   What about you? Do you ever take time to think about what God has done in your life? Have you ever taken the time to add up all the signs He has given you? That is what you must do if you will let Jesus become your life. If you settle that He is the answer for your life, and you focus on what He has said and done, and what He continues to say and do in your life today, you can be used to move your people toward Him too.

                   Today is the best day to determine that you will settle the issue in your heart. Add up the signs and act on God’s call to you.

NOVEMBER 11 – GOD’S SIGNS TRANSFORM

 After living through this amazing experience, they began to tell others about God’s great message concerning the child. Each person who heard was astonished. They all wondered about what all this meant to them. (Luke 2: 17-18)

                  God’s work is to communicate through signs and to provide for His people. Paul says you are what God makes; His work (Ephesians 2:10). So then, you are a sign, and a provision for God’s people. As you are affected, it is to affect others. As the anointed one, Jesus was created and gave His life for you. As God makes you with His transforming power, you – being transformed – will become an agent of His transforming work. As He has given you signs and experiences leading to that change, you will be made to be a sign for others. Your life will communicate God’s truth to your people.

                  Scripture tells that the shepherds went away from Bethlehem changed; prepared to work with, and to be the work of, God. And you see that, as a result, other people were changed too. They were astonished. They wondered. They understood this was not just a fabulous story told by deranged shepherds. Armed with God’s truth, their passionate communication led to transformation.

                   That is God’s plan for you as well. Your action, upon God’s call to you, prepares you to be a part of His work in others through your continued obedience to Him. You are His sign. You are His mission.

NOVEMBER 10 – SIGNS CAN BREED FEAR TOO

 So, right away they went to Bethlehem, and they discovered Mary and Joseph. There was the baby, lying in the manger just as God promised. (Luke 2:16)

                   In the relationship you have with the Lord, God, where He communicates His sign to you while anticipating you will accept His invitation to work together, you have two choices. Each time, you will have opportunity to answer, “yes!” joining with Him, and doing exactly what He is calling on you to do. Otherwise, you will create an alternative response that you will argue is, “enough.” No matter how risky and dangerous the way forward appears to be, when you consider God’s way, the alternative is much more perilous. God does not negotiate. He is God. The choice is His way, with His provision, or else you are choosing to go your way – alone. He will let you fail.

                   Right away, the shepherds went to Bethlehem. They found Jesus! They could have hidden under the rocks, hoping the sky full of angels would not return. If they worried about how risky it would be to leave the sheep, and how dangerous it is to travel at night, and had they not gone, they would have missed out on what God was doing.

                   Don’t let fear keep you from experiencing everything that God has prepared for you. Choose to do what He asks – right away!

NOVEMBER 9 – SIGNS CALL FOR ACTION

 After the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds talked among themselves. They decided, “God showed us this sign. We should go to Bethlehem to witness this great thing He has done.” (Luke 2:15)

                  God explained through Isaiah that He is not limited by the constraints of time. “I tell you from long ago things that will happen tomorrow” (Isaiah 46:10). God has an outcome that is fixed. He takes responsibility for that outcome (46:11). God IS integrity. What He says is what happens. He gives signs to encourage His people to move toward His purposes for each of them. How willing are you to be attentive to those messages? Are you ready to act upon them?

                   Given the logic that God expects to see a response to His signs, one who is attentive to God’s signs should interpret the communication in the same way as these shepherds did. Not only did they consider the meaning, but they also sought to determine their proper response to the message. What should they do? This is your relationship with God at its very best. He invites you to join in the work He is doing. You join Him because you love Him and want nothing more than to be part of that work with Him.

                   When God speaks, listen for the immediate, specific action He places in your heart. Understand that His signs call for your action.

NOVEMBER 8 - TAKEN IN CONTEXT

 Suddenly, surrounding the messenger, the sky filled with angels. All of them at once were praising God, announcing to the world, “Glory to God who reigns on high! He sends peace and prosperity to mankind; showing His great kindness and favor. (Luke 2: 13-14)

                   Signs don’t occur in a vacuum. Where and when a sign is given is part of the communication too. That is a reasonable, intuitive conclusion you may draw very quickly. But, how (how many times, how much, how loud, how…) is also a part of the context. God very often chose to communicate definition for the same signs to multiple people, multiple times, in striking and spectacular ways. Talking animals, pillars of salt, rising flood waters, and such gave added significance to God’s signs.

                   Only once in recorded history has the sky been “filled” with angels, all loudly proclaiming their praise to God, and announcing the birth of a special child. Possibly the shepherds may have questioned if the single angel were maybe a figment of their tired minds at the end of a challenging day. Thousands of angels in a dark sky, singing a deafening chorus would be very hard to dismiss.

                   Pray for the Lord to give you understanding of the time, the place, and the how of His messages to you.

NOVEMBER 7 – WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?

 Today, in David’s hometown a deliverer has been born to you. This is the anointed one; the Christ! And this is the sign that will tell you it is Him. This baby will be wrapped in layers of fabric, and He will be laying in a feeding trough. (Luke 2:11-12)

                  Have you ever looked for signs in Scripture? One of the greatest God-signs in all of history is found in the story of Jesus’ birth. To bear significance, a sign must have meaning. Just as words must be defined for you to understand language, signs must also be defined if they are going to communicate a message.

                  Many would say that having an angel announce the birth of the anointed one would, alone, be enough to give meaning to the sign he explained. But, as is often the case with God’s signs, there was yet another layer of meaning. The shepherds no doubt would be very familiar with the practice of wrapping the first-born lamb with cloths and laying it in a manger, so it would not harm itself or become blemished. Hearing the angel’s words, while imagining the perfect sin sacrifice gave them greater understanding of God’s communication, and greater significance to this great event.

                   Scripture is filled with such definitions, giving you insight into events of your world. Read, and listen for the voice of the Holy Spirit as God defines His signs for you.

NOVEMBER 6 – GOD’S ENDS ARE SIGNIFICANT

 

So, don’t worry about what you’ll be eating and drinking, and the style of your stuff. People who don’t know God are consumed by these things. For your father, God, these are details – He knows your needs. Invest your attention on the Lord and His work. You’ll find that you have what you need. (Matthew 6:31-33)

 

                  Have you noticed that God has chosen to do things differently? In this world, negotiation is important. Therefore, most business communication is cloaked in and hindered by the pretense that masks selfish motives. Will you be like those people whose every word; every action is carefully calculated and crafted for personal advantage? Or will you focus your attention on the needs of others, trusting Christ to provide what you need?

 

                  Here, Jesus explains that in God’s Kingdom economy, there is provision rather than a need for constant negotiation. Real trust in a faithful God allows you to live freely. Your changed life will then become one of the Lord’s signs for others. You will become one of the living words of God’s sign language that speaks hope to the men and women you encounter.

 

                  Very few of the things of this world are significant. Each of those things is found in Christ. Focus on Him so you will always be about significant pursuits.