SATURDAY July 27, 2024

Spiritual Warfare

Ephesians 6:10-11

The Apostle Paul saved the best for last! In Ephesians 6, he covered relationships between parents and children, servants and masters. Now he concluded his letter with the final topic––spiritual warfare. In this passage of Scripture, a picture is given of a believer as a soldier.

In Paul’s address to Timothy, a young pastor, we notice that the same analogy was given to him as an exhortation to be a good soldier:

You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier (2 Timothy 2:3-4).

The moment you became a Christian, you enlisted as a soldier into a spiritual battle. New believers experience trials and spiritual warfare, but need help to understand why. The Apostle Peter gives us clarity:

Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy (1 Peter 4:12-13).

When you become a Christian, your life will not become a bed of roses––you have entered into spiritual warfare! Paul taught believers how to do battle from the viewpoint of their position “in Christ.” He knew that before a Christian engaged in battle against Satan and his demons, they first needed to know their fighting position.

Christians cannot fight this battle in their own strength. It has to be fought in the strength and power of the Lord. A believer needs to be equipped for the battle by putting on the whole armor of God. They will become strong in the Lord through daily prayer and the study of God’s Word.

Blessed be the LORD my Rock, who trains my hands for war, and my fingers for battle—
~Psalm 144:1~

FRIDAY July 26, 2024

The Blessings of God

Ruth 2:4

In Bethlehem, Boaz was a man of great wealth. He had many servants gleaning in his fields. As a godly employer, he treated his servants extremely well. He blessed his servants, saying: “The LORD bless you!” In return they gladly blessed Boaz: “And may the LORD bless you!”

Boaz was both wise and kind. When Naomi returned home after the death of her husband and sons, she came with one of her daughters-in-laws Ruth. As they were poor, with the loss of all the breadwinners in the family, Ruth went to work in the fields, but not just any field. The Lord led her to work in the field of Boaz. She worked hard and was soon noticed by him. He inquired about her:

...the servant who was in charge of the reapers answered and said, “It is the young Moabite woman who came back with Naomi from the country of Moab. And she said, ‘Please let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves.’ So she came and has continued from morning until now, though she rested a little in the house” (Ruth 2:6-7).

Boaz was a man who watched over his employees well. He noticed a newcomer reaping in his fields; he was not negligent in his oversight, but very observant. After the discovery of Ruth’s story, her hard work was rewarded. Boaz showed her compassion, saying to his young men: “Let her glean even among the sheaves, and do not reproach her. Also let grain from the bundles fall purposely for her; leave it that she may glean, and do not rebuke her” (Ruth 2:15-16).

Are you a compassionate employer? Are you observant? Do you know what your employees are facing in life? If it is in your power, why not help them? Why not follow Boaz’s example. Bless your employees if it is in your means to do so.

Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so.
~Proverbs 3:27~

THURSDAY July 25, 2024

The Gift of Work

2 Thessalonians 3:10

This Scripture is clear. If a person refuses to work, they do not eat––simple as that. Those who are lazy often try to skate through life. They desire an easy life that does not exert much effort on their part. Some young adults never get a job because they rely on their parents to pay for almost everything! Lazy people need to read the book of Proverbs. There are many warnings and much wisdom given to exhort those who are lazy.

Proverbs 12:24: The hand of the diligent will rule, but the lazy man will be put to forced labor.

Proverbs 13:4: The soul of a lazy man desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich.

Proverbs 19:15: Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, and an idle person will suffer hunger.

Proverbs 19:24: A lazy man buries his hand in the bowl, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.

Proverbs 20:13: Do not love sleep, lest you come to poverty; open your eyes, and you will be satisfied with bread.

Slothfulness and laziness have their consequences, but hard work has its rewards. Are you suffering because of your laziness? If you are a lazy person, why not do better and prosper? I learned early to work hard. I cut lawns, worked newspaper routes, washed cars, and enjoyed being a clerk or box boy in the grocery stores. I loved to go to work.

I encourage you to be disciplined and work hard in life. Otherwise, you will waste time––God’s time––time you can never get back. It is important to value and appreciate the gift of work.

We were created for meaningful work, and one of life’s greatest pleasures is the satisfaction of a job well done.
~John C. Maxwell~

WEDNESDAY July 24, 2024

A Heavenly Master

Ephesians 6:9

As we continue in the book of Ephesians, Paul continued to deal with difficult issues that existed among employers and employees. He had to exhort masters to treat their slaves lovingly, kindly and fairly. They needed to realize that their behavior, good or bad, was seen by God in heaven. A God who is invisible to us sees everything, and there is no respecter of persons with Him. He sees no difference in a slave or a master’s position––they are equal in His sight.

As either an employer or employee, know that we are going to have to work for most of our lives until we retire or go home to be with the Lord. That is a long time! Therefore, an employee must work hard and give their best in their work for their employer. It is the same with an employer; they need to do their best in assuring that their employees are well taken well care of. They should not take advantage of them.

In view that we have a heavenly Master in heaven, we again need to take to heart the Scripture given by Paul to believers in the church of Colossae: And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24). Memorize this Scripture and put it to practice in the workplace.

Parents, if you set a good example in your working habits for your children, when they go out into the task force, they will be hardworking. In all that they do, they will have the knowledge that they are serving the Lord. They will be a light to others in their place of work––a good witness of Jesus Christ.

If a Christian is not willing to rise early and work late, to expend greater effort in diligent study and faithful work, that person will not change a generation. Fatigue is the price of leadership. Mediocrity is the result of never getting tired.
~J. Oswald Sanders~

TUESDAY July 23, 2024

Heart-felt Service to the Lord

Colossians 3:22-24

In the book of Colossians, Paul also addressed bondservants with a very similar exhortation as that written in the book of Ephesians. He instructed them to be obedient to their masters, not only when they were seen by them, but to do their work diligently, even when their masters were not watching. Again, they must have the right attitude. They were to serve their masters as if serving the Lord Christ. In their labor, they were to be aware that God was watching them.

When working, do you have that same awareness and accountability before the Lord? That means as an employee, you are not to be watching the clock so you can leave work as soon as possible. Make sure you put in your whole eight hours and that all your work is done, even if it means staying longer. Then, when you get your paycheck, you will know you have earned it.

In the workplace, seek to establish a trustworthy reputation by not taking extra breaks or extended lunches. There has to be honesty and integrity in the workplace. Some Christians need to be reminded not to witness to people during work hours. Why not do that on your own time? Do not be lazy, murmur or complain. Any work, no matter how humble––sweeping, cleaning or mopping––should be done heartily as to the Lord. Please the Lord! The Lord is the one who is going to reward you!

If you are pleasing the Lord, then you will please your employer. Consider this: Who is really paying your wages? It is God! Understand, He is the One who is blessing you. He is supplying your needs through your employer.

Good duties must not be pressed and beaten out of us, as the waters came out of a rock when Moses smote it with his rod; but must freely drop from us, as myrrh from the tree, or honey from the comb.
~Thomas Watson~

MONDAY July 22, 2024

Consider Yourself a Bondservant

Romans 1:1

Paul considered himself a bondservant of Jesus Christ. He understood his life was in submission to Christ. He also understood his call––separated to the gospel of God. Whatever happened in his life, whether bound in chains or free, Paul was committed to preaching the Gospel to the lost.

What about us? Do you consider yourself a bondservant of Jesus Christ? As Christians, we are to be in submission to Christ and to each other. Read these Scriptures about submission to have the right perspective of submission to Christ, to each other as believers, and in the workplace:

Philippians 2:5-8: Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.

1 Peter 5:5: Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

1 Peter 5:6: Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time....

How do these Scriptures minister to your heart? In what ways have they given you a different view of godly submission? Submission is difficult for some people, but it is needed for unity and harmony in the body of Christ. As believers working in secular jobs in this world, we should submit willingly to our employers. Obedience is the fruit of a heart yielded to God.

There is no limit to what God can do through us if we are a yielded and purified people.
~A.W. Tozer~

SUNDAY July 21, 2024

The Obedient Bondservant

Ephesians 6:5-8

Paul taught Christians who were slaves to be obedient to their masters who ruled over them, as unto the Lord. They were to view themselves with the right perspective––as bondservants of Christ. Their aim in their servanthood to their masters was to please the Lord, and He would reward them.

A slave who willingly served his master was known as a bondservant.

In Exodus 21:1-11, we find a good understanding of someone who willingly became a bondservant. In the Old Testament, a Hebrew served his master for six years. When his time of servitude was completed, the master came to him and asked if he would like to remain his servant. The choice was presented, and he could now choose to leave his master and be free, or he could willingly stay.

Perhaps as a slave, he was treated well. He may have grown to love his master, and for the rest of his life, he would freely serve him. If so, the master of the house would take his servant to the doorpost of his house and pierce his right earlobe and place an earring as a sign that his servant was now a bondservant. He willingly would serve his master by his own free will.

Understand, as we serve our employers, we are ultimately serving Jesus Christ. It does not matter how kind or bad-tempered an employer may act, continue to set an example in your service to them. If they do not know Christ, the Lord can use you to bring them to Christ. Pray diligently for them, the company, and the rest of the employees.

The passion of Christianity comes from deliberately signing away my own rights and becoming a bondservant of Jesus Christ. Until I do that, I will not begin to be a saint.
~Oswald Chambers~

SATURDAY July 20, 2024

Christian Work Ethics

Ephesians 6:5-8

Paul turned again to the subject of relationships. He had already addressed husbands and wives, instructed fathers in their relationship to their children, and exhorted children to obey their parents. Now he addressed working relationships––employers and employees.

When Paul wrote his epistle to the Ephesians, Rome ruled the world. It has been estimated that Rome enslaved about 5,000,000 people. Men, women and children were owned by the Roman Empire. However, Roman citizens living in an affluent Roman society were encouraged to seek freedom from labor. It was considered below their dignity to work. This concept led to the expansion of slavery.

Rome enslaved many different people during their conquests. Although many were unskilled, others were of high class, and some even held high- level political positions. Those found guilty of any crime were enslaved. A family in need of money could sell a family member as a slave. This was an accepted form of credit.

A slave became the sole property of his master. He could either be treated as one of the household members with certain privileges, or he could be beaten, abused or killed. A master had the power of life or death over them. If they ran away and were caught, they were branded for life.

Paul spoke to Christians who were both slave and free. He taught them good, Christian work ethics. They were to be obedient to their masters. Paul referred to himself as a slave of Jesus Christ (Philemon 1) and was able to relate to their position of servitude, but he wanted them to view themselves in the light of being a slave of Jesus Christ.

The only freedom that man ever has is when he becomes a slave to Jesus Christ.
~R.C. Sproul~

FRIDAY July 19, 2024

A Father’s Wise Counsel

1 Kings 2:2-3 NLV

Although King David had his failures as a father, in this instance, he did well. He desired to give his son wise counsel. Solomon would be the next King of Israel, and if he was to be successful, he needed to know the importance of obeying the Lord. He needed to rule righteously, following His precepts.

As a young man, Solomon sought God for His wisdom to rule the nation of Israel:

“Now, LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (1 Kings 3:7-9 NIV).

God answered Solomon’s humble prayer. He gave him a discerning heart and the ability to rule with justice and equity: “I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be” (1 Kings 3:1-15). His wisdom was matchless among men. God gave Solomon this promise: “And if you walk in obedience to me and keep my decrees and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life” (1 Kings 3:14 NIV).

Although Solomon also had his failings, as a father he gave his son wise advice: The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction (Proverbs 1:7).

As a father, give wise counsel to your children, but be a living example of a man who walks with God.

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the LORD.
~Psalm 1:1-2~

THURSDAY July 18, 2024

The Consequences of Favoritism

Genesis 25:27-28 NIV

Fathers and Mothers, it is never wise to favor one child above another. In the Bible there are several stories that relate to the foolishness of favoritism. One of them was when Isaac favored Esau, and Rebekah favored Jacob––it completely divided the home.

When Jacob, with the help of his mother, connived to get the blessing––the eldest son’s birthright––from his father, the family became divided. When Esau found out, he became enraged. Favoritism caused Esau to hate his brother. Taking his mother’s advice, Jacob fled from him:

So Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father blessed him, and Esau said in his heart, “The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then I will kill my brother Jacob” (Genesis 27:41).

Rebekah thought Esau would cool off after a few days, and her son Jacob would be able to come home (Genesis 27:44). That did not happen! Imagine, Jacob stayed away from his home for 20 years because of Esau’s anger. In fact, when he was on his way home with his family, he was still fearful of his brother’s anger and prayed to the Lord:

“Deliver me, I pray, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau; for I fear him, lest he come and attack me and the mother with the children. For You said, ‘I will surely treat you well, and make your descendants as the sand of the sea, which cannot be numbered for multitude.’ ”

God did go before Jacob, and the brothers had a wonderful reunion. Sadly, there is no record of a reunion with Rebekah. It is thought she died before Jacob returned. Rebecca was a mother who decided to meddle in her son’s affairs. The consequences were terrible––she never saw the face of her beloved son again.

To have regard for one person over another and to show favoritism is not good....
~Proverbs 28:21 AMP~

WEDNESDAY July 17, 2024

A Choice to Make

Joshua 24:15

Before Joshua died, he gave the children of Israel a serious charge: “...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve....” The people agreed to serve the Lord, but they failed to teach their children about the Lord. When Joshua and his generation died, the book of Judges leaves us with this tragic record:

Now Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died when he was one hundred and ten years old. ... When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the LORD nor the work which He had done for Israel (Judges 2:8-10).

The consequences of the parents not teaching their children about the Lord were disastrous. Without any spiritual leadership, the children of Israel became idolaters: Then the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served the Baals... (Judges 2:11).

Israel’s failure was a direct result of not teaching the next generation about the Lord and His marvelous acts performed among them. Christian parents need to learn from Israel’s failure. As parents, will you diligently take up Joshua’s charge? Answer his challenge, “...choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve....”

Joshua, as a spiritual leader, made his choice clear to the nation of Israel: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Will you do the same? Before God, fathers and mothers have a great responsibility to teach and nurture their children in the ways of the Lord.

Let no Christian parent fall into the delusion that Sunday School is intended to ease them of their personal duties. The first and most natural condition of things is for Christian parents to train up their own children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

TUESDAY July 16, 2024

Tell Your Children About God’s Mighty Works

Joel 1:3

Parents, it is crucial to pass on the knowledge of the Lord to your children so that they pass it on to their children, and their children’s children. If there is a failure to teach your children the Scriptures, then when your children grow to become parents themselves, they will fail to pass on the knowledge of the Lord to their children––sad.

What happened to the children of Israel when the parents of that nation failed to teach their children about God? After Joshua died (the man called to be the spiritual leader of Israel after Moses), the Scriptures record that a godless generation arose:

When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the LORD nor the work which He had done for Israel (Judges 2:10).

What had the parents and grandparents failed to do? They had failed to pass on, from one generation to another, the knowledge of God. They failed to teach their children and grandchildren about God’s mighty works in their deliverance from Egypt––all the miraculous events––the ten plagues and the crossing of the Red Sea on dry ground!

The responsibility to teach children God’s Word lies squarely with the parents. Teach your children the Word of God so they can grow up knowing and trusting God. Children who are left to themselves will grow up without knowing God. What hope do they have?

Parents, in what ways are you actively passing on the knowledge of the Lord to your children?

We will not hide them [the knowledge of God] from their children, telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.
~Psalm 78:4~

MONDAY July 15, 2024

Diligently Teach Your Children God’s Word

Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Fathers and mothers have a great responsibility to teach their children about God’s ways. They are to pass on the knowledge of the Lord to the next generation. From the many stories in the Bible, children need to learn lessons of faith and how to call on the name of the Lord.

Fathers can learn important lessons about fatherhood by studying the many examples of fathers in the Bible. Some successfully passed on the knowledge of God to their children, while others failed in their duty to disciple their children. Eli’s sons were unrestrained by their father. He never disciplined them for their wickedness (1 Samuel 2:12-14, 22). In judgment, the Lord cut their lives short: For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he [Eli] knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them (1 Samuel 3:13).

David did not correct either of his sons––Amnon and Absalom. Amnon raped Absalom’s lovely sister, his half-sister (2 Samuel 13:1-22). For two years, hatred festered in the heart of Absalom because of what Amnon had done to his sister. Although David was angry, he did not do anything! His failure to discipline Amnon had terrible consequences. Absalom took matters into his own hands and had his brother killed (2 Samuel 13:28-29). Absalom rebelled against David and tried to take his throne. In the end he was killed by David’s captain and his men (2 Samuel 18:14-15).

Can you see why children need godly discipline from a strong father in the home? Avoid the tragic mistakes of the priest Eli and King David. Teach the Word of God to your children and discipline promptly when needed. Use every opportunity to instill God’s percepts into their young hearts––when you sit in your house, as you walk with them, at bedtime, and in the morning. Be faithful in praying for them.

Correct your son, and he will give you rest; yes, he will give delight to your soul.
~Proverbs 29:17~

SUNDAY July 14, 2024

The Happy Father

Ephesians 6:4

Fathers have a big responsibility in the home. They are to build up their children in the Lord. Encouragement instead of criticism goes a long way. Consider how many children in this world are left discouraged and broken because of fathers who are always tearing them down, instead of building them up.

Fathers are to diligently teach, admonish, and lovingly discipline their children. Take time to pray and communicate with them. Be sensitive to their needs. Children are starving for love and affection. Are you taking time to play with them? Do you get involved with their sports and activities? Do you listen to what they have to say?

Children are described in Scripture as a gift from God. They are not to be viewed as a burden, but a reward and a blessing from Him:

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are the children of one’s youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate (Psalm 127:3-5).

Understand, the greatest disciples in your home are your children. Children are referred to as arrows. An arrow is carefully sharpened and balanced, so when it is released, it goes straight and hits the target. When our children are diligently and tenderly trained by the Word of God, their lives are sharpened, and in spiritual warfare their aim is straight. They make an impact for Christ in the Kingdom of God.

Father’s, be an example to your children. Let them see your godly conduct, your longsuffering, your love, and your patience. Surrounded by your children and grandchildren, you will be a happy man!

The greatest tribute a boy can give to his father is to say, “ ‘When I grow up, I want to be just like my dad.’ ” It is a convicting responsibility for us fathers and grandfathers.
~Billy Graham~

SATURDAY July 13, 2024

The Blessings of Obedience

Ephesians 6:1-3

A father and mother are commanded to train a child: Train up a child in the way he should go... (Proverbs 22:6). However, in the Bible there are also specific commandments given to children. They are to honor and obey their parents. In Exodus 20:12, children are commanded: “Honor your father and your mother...” In the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul reiterates this important command given by God.

In Colossians 3:20, we find another exhortation written to children: Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. Young boys and girls need to be taught to live a life of obedience because, in doing so, they please the Lord. This teaching shapes their lives because they learn early the priority of pleasing the Lord in everything.

In the book of Exodus, as well as in Ephesians 6, did you notice the blessings of obedience? Children are promised longevity in life: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you.” God desires to bless the obedient child.

There is so much wisdom for children to gain from their godly parents. Proverbs 1:8-9 encourages: My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother; for they will be a graceful ornament on your head, and chains about your neck. It is as if a child’s life will be adorned with the treasures of wisdom.

As a young adult, do you appreciate your godly parents and all they have done for you? Honor them and show them the respect they deserve.

Children, honor your parents in your hearts; bear them not only awe and respect, but kindness and affection: love their persons, fear to do anything that may justly provoke them; highly esteem them as the instruments under God of your being....
~Jeremy Taylor~

FRIDAY July 12, 2024

Keep Christ in the Center of Your Marriage

Colossians 3:18-19

When God designed marriage, He brought a man and a woman together as one. When two people marry, they are joined together before Him. It is important that God remains in the center of their relationship. Both husband and wife must walk with the Lord, seeking God's will together.

Notice, a wife does not have to submit to sin––she submits as is fitting in the Lord. She is never to submit to any abusive behavior. A wife will willingly and naturally submit and respect her husband if she is loved. Therefore aim to love and protect her. Help her to see and trust in your love for her with what you say and do.

A husband must not act in a way that causes his wife to think that he is bitter towards her. Bitterness will always show in a husband’s emotions, words and actions. Again, never act that way. If a root of bitterness grows between you and your wife, then you will grow apart and begin to dislike each other. Where is the love of Christ in your marriage?

If you have said things in anger or made cutting, hurtful remarks to your wife, then make things right with her. Pray and ask God to help you lay aside your pride and humble yourself in admitting your faults and asking for forgiveness. The Holy Spirit will help you to love and care for your wife, unconditionally.

Love and respect in a marriage go hand in hand. Know this: God’s plan for marriage is best. Read the Scriptures and apply them to your marriage and be united as one. Christ must be in the center of your marriage. It has sometimes been said that Christ is the third cord in your relationship.

...a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
~Ecclesiastes 4:12~

THURSDAY July 11, 2024

Wives, Respect Your Husbands

Ephesians 5:33

In Ephesians 5:33, the verse finishes with an exhortation to the wife––she is to respect her husband. In doing so, a wife will build up her marriage. As God has given your husband a position of spiritual leadership, show him honor, respect and the consideration he deserves. Your husband has been given a huge responsibility; therefore, always look for ways to build him up in the Lord, and do not tear him down.

It is important not to treat your husband disrespectfully, especially in front of others. Never treat him like a child. You cannot mother him. You have to respect him! When you degrade your husband, especially in front of your children, you are destroying the very foundation of your home. Take heed to this important Proverb: The wise woman builds her house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands (Proverbs 14:1). Seriously, decide what kind of wife you want to be!

The word respect in the Hebrew language means “to reverence.” As a wife, there needs to be an attitude of humble submission and respect toward your husband. A Christian wife must let her husband be the head of the home, even if he makes mistakes, because he can learn from them.

I like what Pastor Chuck Smith said about respect:

“If there is an aggressive woman in the home, and the husband becomes passive and allows her to become aggressive toward him, it will influence the children. When they rebel in their teenage years, the mother may ask her husband to correct them. He cannot! Why? The children have no respect for their father. How can they? The wife has always disrespected him in front of them.”

God desires that a wife respect her husband. If you want to have a successful marriage, obey God’s Word.

The only really sound marriages are those based on mutual respect.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY July 10, 2024

Love’s Mystery

Ephesians 5:32-33

Again, we see in Scripture the exhortation for a husband to love his wife. It is a constant theme running throughout this portion of the epistle. The mystery of God’s love is revealed to us, in that Christ gave His life for the Church––every individual believer in Christ: This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us (1 John 3:16 NIV). Are you willing to lay down your life for your wife? Are you willing to deny yourself to care for her and love her? As a husband, Christ becomes the example for you to follow.

What did Jesus reveal in His prayer to the Father before the ultimate sacrifice of Himself on the Cross? It is the same great mystery of oneness we have with Jesus Christ, that He has with the Father:

Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are” (John 17:11).

Remember what God had said about the union of a man and wife: Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). In marriage, a husband and wife become one. Between Christ and the Church is the mystery of a marriage union whereby they are one:

“Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb [Christ] has come, and His wife [the Church] has made herself ready.” And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints (Revelation 19:7-8).

God desires that a husband loves his wife. If you do, you will have a blessed marriage.

If I wanted to find out whether a man was a Christian, I wouldn’t go to his minister. I would go and ask his wife. We need more Christian life in the home. If a man doesn’t treat his wife right, I don’t want to hear him talk about Christianity.
~D.L. Moody~

TUESDAY July 9, 2024

Making Your Own Home

Ephesians 5:31

God in His wisdom commanded, Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). The word joined means “to cling,” “to stick,” “stay or keep close,” “follow closely,” “to cleave,” or “to adhere.” When two people marry, they are joined––literally glued together before God for life.

When you become married, you are to leave your father and mother’s home and become a separate family. A husband should financially be prepared to leave his parents’ house and start a new home with his wife. You are to be joined to her––glued together––spending time with her. As a husband, work on building an intimate relationship with your wife.

I have seen that if married couples fail to leave their parents’ house, they will have marital issues. The same problem exists if you are always spending time at your parents’ house––something is wrong. How can you be glued to your wife if you are constantly not home? It is the same problem if your wife is constantly at her parents’ house.

However, Young Couples, keep in mind that your parents are not to be cast aside. They should not be forgotten. Your parents are to be loved, respected and cherished. Also take into account that your parents and grandparents have a lot of wisdom to help you in your new marriage. It is good to listen to godly advice.

“Home is the grandest of all institutions.”
~C.H. Spurgeon~

MONDAY July 8, 2024

Love’s Oneness

Ephesians 5:28-30

Most husbands like to maintain themselves physically. They go to the gym or work out at home, taking the necessary time and effort to care for their bodies. Think about it. How much time do you spend on yourself? Why not devote the same amount of time and effort in loving and caring for your wife?

In Ephesians 5:33, another final exhortation is given: Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself…. Can your wife see clear evidence of your love for her in your words and actions? Even the little things you do for her really matter. Take care of your wife, nourish her, love her, and enjoy being alone with her. You are one!

A husband who fails to obey the Scriptures to love his wife as Christ loves the Church can begin to despise her as she grows older. Instead of drawing closer to her in their final years together, a husband can begin to lose interest and move away from her. His time and interests are invested in other things.

Seriously, if you feel you have lost your love for your wife, then pray and even fast a meal, asking God to renew your love for your wife. God can heal your marriage and give you a brand-new passion for her.

Love...is not merely a feeling. It is a deep unity, maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by (in Christian marriages) the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God. They can have this love for each other even at those moments when they do not like each other; as you love yourself even when you do not like yourself.
~C. S. Lewis~

SUNDAY July 7, 2024

The Pattern of Love

Ephesians 5:25-27

A husband’s duty is laid out plainly and simply––Husbands, love your wives… (Ephesians 5:25). I cannot say this enough; love your wife! If a wife feels loved, then she will naturally and willingly submit to your leadership.

Christ has set a pattern of love for the husband to follow: just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.... The word love in the Greek language is agapao, meaning “to love” in a social or moral sense or “to prefer, have a preference for, wish well to, and regard the welfare of.” This kind of love is seen through a husband’s actions toward his wife. Embrace God’s will by choosing to obey His Word to love your wife, unconditionally. When you become Christ-like you will genuinely care for your wife. One way to do this is to read the Word of God with her.

Symbolically, a marriage relationship is a picture of Christ and His Church––the Bride of Christ. Jesus takes care of His Church––His Bride. When you look at your wife, do you see her as the Bride of Christ? You must aim to love her just as Christ also loved the Church and gave Himself for her (Ephesians 5:25). Consider for a moment how Jesus sacrificially gave His life for His Church!

As a husband, it is important to die to self. Loving your wife means taking care of your wife’s needs. Again, Jesus is a pattern of self-denial for you to follow. Place God first in your life, and His Holy Spirit will enable you to sacrificially love your wife as Christ loved the Church.

The Christian should take nothing short of Christ for his model. Under no circumstances ought we to be content unless we reflect the grace which was in Him. As a husband the Christian is to look upon the portrait of Christ Jesus, and he is to paint according to that copy. The true Christian is to be such a husband as Christ was to His church.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

SATURDAY July 6, 2024

Submission in Marriage God’s Way

Ephesians 5:22-24

Paul turned his attention to teaching about godly submission in the marriage relationship. Before we move forward into the subject about the husbands and wives’ roles, it is good to remember what was first taught in Ephesians 5:21: ...submitting to one another in the fear of God. Any submission to one another is to be done in reverence to the Lord.

As Christians, we are to first submit to God and the Holy Spirit. The word submit is actually a military term. It is the Greek word hupotasso, “to be under submission,” as in position or rank. Consider who is over us. It is Jesus Christ! If both the husband and wife are in submission to Jesus Christ, then they will both have the fear of the Lord. In their reverence toward God, they will love and respect each other in everything they say and do.

Being submissive to God and walking in the fullness of the Spirit is the only way a husband and wife can really get along. Some husbands have the wrong concept of marriage. They try to demand their wives’ submission. I would ask them, “What version of the Bible are you reading?”

There is no way a wife can submit to her husband if he is not loving her. As a husband, consider your role in the marriage: Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her... (Ephesians 5:25). Ask the Lord to help you do just that––love your wife.

A husband should love his wife with a constant love, for thus Jesus loves His Church. He does not vary in His affections. He may change in His display of affection, but the affection itself is still the same ... A true husband loves his wife with a hearty love, fervent and intense. It is not mere lip-service.
~C.H. Spurgeon~

FRIDAY July 5, 2024

Are You Led by God’s Spirit?

Romans 8:14

As a son or daughter of God, it is so important to be in submission to Him. In our relationship with the Lord, our submission is never forced. We yield to God because we love Him. We never do things for Him because we have to; we serve Him willingly. Again, never by force.

Understand, in this life, a person either serves God or Satan. If a person serves Satan, they are under his influence, and their life is controlled by their fleshly desires and appetites. They face death, the judgment of God, and eternal separation from Him for all eternity. Paul really got this point across in Romans 8:5-9:

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. Now if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.

When the Spirit of God is controlling your life, you are in submission to Him, and you will live a life pleasing before Him. It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that you can walk in harmony with God. As you walk a life led by God’s Spirit, you will not be a walking contradiction. Your life will align to what God has said in His Word.

When we come to Christ, He begins to work out His best for our lives. We can make such a mess of our lives; but when we surrender ourselves to Christ, He can work amazing things through a life in full submission to Him.

God being Who and What He is, and we being who and what we are, the only thinkable relation between us is one of full Lordship on His part and complete submission on ours.
~A.W. Tozer~

THURSDAY July 4, 2024

Independence Day

Psalm 33:20-22 NIV

These are dark days in our nation. The United States of America, as an independent nation, has enjoyed its freedoms, but now they are at risk. As of June 7, 2024, the US national debt was $34.67 trillion. Yet on our currency, we have placed the words “In God we trust.” There is where our help lies––in God. Our Founding Fathers held deeply to the belief of a nation founded upon biblical principles, and it is to those principles we must return.

“We have this day restored the sovereign to whom all men ought to be obedient. He reigns in heaven and from the rising to the setting of the sun, let his kingdom come." Samuel Adams (as the Declaration of Independence was being signed)

“The Bible is the cornerstone of liberty. Perusal of the sacred volume will make us better citizens, better fathers, and better husbands. The practice of morality being necessary for the well-being of society. He has taken care to impress its precepts so indelibly on our hearts that they shall not be effaced by the subtleties of our brain." Thomas Jefferson

Every year on July 4, we are reminded of the high cost of our liberty. Thirteen colonies united in their cause against the tyrannical rule of King George III and high taxation. Although there were differences among the colonies, there was no division among them in the war against the British––a war that lasted about seven years.

On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence. It was written by godly men who recognized the Supreme Judge of the world––God. On September 3, 1783, a treaty was signed in Paris, whereby Britain agreed to recognize the sovereignty of the United States and to formally end the war.

The Declaration of Independence laid the cornerstone of human government upon the first precepts of Christianity.
~John Adams~

WEDNESDAY July 3, 2024

Be Filled With the Spirit

Ephesians 5:18-21

The Apostle Paul gave the Ephesian believers good counsel. They were to be filled with the Spirit. It was a command to be filled with the Spirit. Dwight Moody said: “God commands us to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and if we are not filled it is because we are living beneath our own privileges.” That is, we are not in full submission to God. He expects us to obey––not to disobey. This applies to all Christians, not just the select few. Submission to God is probably one of the hardest things for us to do, but we are to be in complete submission to Him and to each other.

Christians think about the Holy Spirit’s power when it is used in preaching, teaching, witnessing and evangelizing, but God’s Spirit is used in all areas of our lives. The word filled means “to keep on being filled.” It is not just a one-time filling––it is a daily filling of the Holy Spirit. We cannot fill ourselves; the Holy Spirit fills our hearts and minds. The word filled also refers to “the will, mind and emotions.” They all have to be under the constant control of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit dominates our lives.

The Apostle Paul stated there are four evidences of being filled with the Holy Spirit. God has given us power, the dunamis power of the Holy Spirit in our lives: ...be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). God has given us joy in worship, which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. When we sing, God does not care what we sound like. I like that. He hears our voices, and we sound beautiful to Him. Being thankful in everything is yet another evidence of His indwelling Spirit. The final evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit is seen in our submission to one another.

Through the Spirit of God, are all these evident in your life?

The church can have light only as it is full of the Spirit, and it can be full only as the members that compose it are filled individuals.
~A. W. Tozer~

TUESDAY July 2, 2024

Sober Mindedness

Ephesians 5:18

When a person is walking full of the Spirit, they will be sober-minded. Their mind is sharp. They are able to worship God fully and completely. There are so many Christians these days, and even pastors, who feel they have the liberty to drink alcohol, but are they using their liberty at the expense of another brother’s conscience? The Bible teaches us not to stumble others. Let these Scriptures minister to your heart:

1 Corinthians 10:23-24 NLT: You say, “I am allowed to do anything” —but not everything is good for you. You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is beneficial. Don’t be concerned for your own good but for the good of others.

Romans 14:13, 21-22 NLT: Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall. ... It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or do anything else if it might cause another believer to stumble. You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God.

There are so many warnings about drinking in the Bible. One reason we should not drink is very sobering:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 NLT: Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.

Are you willing to lose your salvation over your drunkenness? Are you that foolish? Perhaps you feel you have the liberty to have a drink, but what about your children? Will it stumble them? Be careful!

Wine is a mocker, strong drink is a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
~Proverbs 20:1~