Daily Lectionary
Thursday, February 2
John 6:60-71 Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil.” (v.70)
Sigmund Freud’s concept of the adult personality is meeting with much disagreement. It states that a person’s character and disposition may, in later years, be altered but not changed. Psychologists now say that a person isn’t really washed up if the first three years of his or her life didn’t quite jell. Carl Jung described personality as a growing process—not what one is, but what he or she is constantly becoming.
Any vacuum can be filled. One never eliminates hate until he pours out a lot of love. One never eliminates anger until he becomes saturated with understanding. One never eliminates greed until he can place another’s happiness on an equal level with his own. Gossip is never eliminated until one starts looking for the good instead of the bad.
Is this not true of God’s mission for His Church? We should understand that even His chosen ones might turn against Him. Let’s eliminate those qualities within ourselves that do not work for the building of the Kingdom.
Genesis 23:1-20; Psalms 70, 71; Hebrews 11:32—12:2
Birthday Today: Frank Tatum
Friday, February 3
John 7:1-13 For not even his brothers believed in him. (v.5)
I saw it happen again yesterday—the old “bonsai treatment.” It’s the world’s worst form of robbery. The sad part is that it is perfectly legal.
The “bonsai treatment” is the best description I can think of to illustrate the censorious actions of a large segment of our population who derive particular delight in finding fault with other human beings. I call it that because the procedure is so similar to the Oriental art of dwarfing trees. It takes a special art to cultivate bonsai trees. Their clever beauty is achieved by painstakingly tying off the trees’ taproots again and again. The end product, just a few inches tall, is an exquisite conversation piece.
Some folks think their role in life is dwarfing people, and apparently, even Jesus’ brothers were guilty. Some Christians take pleasure in limiting the Church. They’ll go out of their way to tell you why you should aim your sights low. Since they consider themselves your friends, they do not hesitate to tell you to be realistic.
Too often, as individuals and as church members, we fail to understand that the power of Jesus Christ is not limited by our small, incomplete concept of reality. The power of faith is in its mystery and in God’s power to transcend our ability to understand.
Genesis 24:1-27; Psalm 69; Hebrews 12:3-11
Saturday, February 4
John 7:14-36 Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment. (v.24)
I have my mind made up!
How many times have we said that? We value self-confidence and it is important, if not essential, in any witness for Christ or in the obtaining of any goal. It is easy, however, to let self-confidence become arrogance. It is also possible to lack self-confidence and become self-obsessed. Whenever one does become so thrilled with his or her own significance (or preoccupied with their insignificance), that person is likely to make judgments on appearances without thinking the situation through or considering others.
Stop. Think it over. Base your decision on right judgments. Never let self-confidence cloud your vision or confuse your thinking. Decisions made on appearances lead to poor choices.
But, no matter how well developed our self-confidence is, we must never lose sight of the fact that our confidence, to be truly effective, must be in God. If we trust God to lead us in the right direction, to guide us to the best answer, then we will be both successful and happy.
We must learn to trust in God’s judgment, not our own. Our trust and confidence must be in God’s power to fulfill His purpose for us.
Genesis 24:28-38, 49-51; Psalms 75, 76; Hebrews 12:12-29
by Lee Miller
Sunday, February 5
Mark 10:13-22 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it. (v.15 NIV)
Entrance into the kingdom of God is not gained through intellectual pursuit; you cannot “study” your way in. Entrance into the kingdom is not gained through a perfect attendance record at church, nor through a voluminous amount of volunteer service in the cause of Christianity. Entrance into the kingdom is not granted through adherence to the rules of a moral society. Jesus himself made it quite plain that the only way to enter is as a child.
Picture a child in the arms of his loving father and you will see love, trust, admiration, and faith in the one who holds him. The child knows that he is loved and will always be protected and nurtured. He trusts and believes everything his father tells him because he knows his father cannot tell a lie. Because he loves his father and is confident of the father’s love for him, the desire of his heart is to obey his father and do what is pleasing to him.
Come to the Father with no credentials other than love, trust, and faith.
Genesis 24:50-67; Psalms 93, 96; 2 Timothy 2:14-21
Monday, February 6
Hebrews 13:1-16 Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (v.8)
It is a comfort to have a friend that you always know you can count on because, for as long as you’ve known each other, that friend has been consistently kind, patient, loving, and faithful. There is a lot to be said for consistency. You don’t have to worry about that friend betraying you or giving up on you if you have made some huge blunder or mistake, because in your heart you know your friend will always love you, come what may.
It is a rare treasure to have such a friend, and if you think that there is no one like this in your life right now, then you have forgotten the best friend you could ever have: Jesus! He is never-changing in his love for us and his desire for our companionship. His character and characteristics have been the same since before the creation of the world. He stands with outstretched arms to welcome us back when we have wandered away as prodigal sons and daughters. His patience and forgiveness are inexhaustible.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, that we can always count on you.
Genesis 25:19-34; Psalm 80; John 7:37-52
Birthdays Today: Dian Hazlehurst, Judy Rose
Tuesday, February 7
Hebrews 13:17-25 May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. (vv.20-21)
These words are a beautiful concluding prayer in this epistle to the Hebrews, and I find these two verses to be extremely rich. There is an abundance of deep, spiritual truth about Jesus in these verses, as well as some practical application.
I invite you to be blessed—as I have been—by reading this prayer over again, slowly and thoughtfully. In place of the words “you” and “us,” substitute “me.”
Ponder the greatness of the Lord.
Genesis 26:1-6, 12-33; Psalm 78:1-39; John 7:53—8:11
Wednesday, February 8
John 8:12-20 When Jesus spoke again to the people he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (v.12)
There is a universal, common understanding of the difference between light and darkness. (The exception might be a person who has been blind from birth.) Even a newborn child seems to comprehend light and darkness on the purely physical level. But on a spiritual level these concepts become associated with good and evil, Jesus and the Devil. Jesus states here that he is the Light, and in the first chapter of John we are told that Jesus is the Word, and in him is life that is “the light of men” (vv.1-4). In today’s psalm reading, verse 105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
What a wonderful promise we are given in all these references to Jesus as light, summed up in John 8:12, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” I walked, or should I say stumbled, through life in the darkness until my eyes were opened to the great truth that Jesus is the life-giving light for my path. Sometimes I stop focusing on the Light and wander into the darkness. I fall down but Jesus picks me up and sets me back on his path.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for your life-giving light, your compassion, and your mercy.
Genesis 27:1-29; Psalm 119:97-120; Romans 12:1-8
Thursday, February 9
Romans 12:9-21 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (v.12)
When we read God’s word and it gives us instructions that may seem like more than we are capable of following, it is helpful to remember that God never asks us to do anything that He cannot empower us to do. All we have to do is ask for the help of His Holy Spirit, and it is ours. Being able to comply with Paul’s imperatives in this letter to the Romans is not something I can do on my own; I absolutely need the Lord’s help.
If I start by being faithful in prayer, God will give me joy as I hope in him and the patience to endure whatever affliction comes my way. But, I must be “faithful” in prayer, and that means being diligent, persistent, and hopeful. As my faith grows, so does my confidence in God’s Word.
The last verse of this passage tell us, “Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good.” Again, this is only possible by the power of the Holy Spirit working in our hearts and minds, because our natural, sinful self wants to “hit back” or to get revenge. That choice, of course, simply leads to more problems. God’s way is always best. I have lived long enough to see that. After all, love wins.
Genesis 27:30-45; Psalms 83, 146, 147; John 8:21-32
Friday, February 10
Romans 13:1-14 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another. (v.8)
This verse gives us an insight as to how serious God is about wanting us to love each other. It is pictured as something we can never stop doing! If it is continuing and it is something we owe, then it is indeed a lifelong obligation. Other debts are expected to be paid up, but not this one. The first time I thought seriously about the meaning of this verse, I asked myself how love could be thought of as a debt. I did not have a satisfactory answer, but my NIV Life Application Bible gave a wonderful answer in the footnote to this verse that I will quote: “We are permanently in debt to Christ for the lavish love he has poured out on us. The only way we can even begin to repay this debt is by loving others in turn. Because Christ’s love will always be infinitely greater than ours, we will always have the obligation to love our neighbors.”
Love is what God cares most about, I think. “God is love” (1 John 4:8, 16). “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us” (1 John 4:12). “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:16). For more on love, take a few minutes and read the 13th chapter of 1 Corinthians. You will be blessed.
Genesis 27:46—28:4, 10-22; Psalm 88; John 8:33-47
Saturday, February 11
Psalm 90 Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (v.12)
When I was a young adult I never gave any thought to how long my life would be. Even when my father died at age 70, or when my mother died at age 78, I never really focused on my own lifespan. However, I did assume that because I was living a much healthier lifestyle than either of my parents had, I likely would live longer than either of them.
But I now believe that more important than the length of our life or even the healthiness of our lifestyle, is the quality of our spiritual life, which affects how we live in relationship to the Lord and to others. The psalmist’s plea in this verse is for God to teach us to make the most of however many days we have on earth, teaching us to live in righteousness so that our hearts will become wise.
Oh Lord, please guide me to make right choices, and create in me a pure heart, one full of love and wisdom, kindness and gentleness. Whether I have one day or hundreds of days left on earth, please help me to live for You. Thank You, gracious Lord.
Genesis 29:1-20; Psalm 87; Romans 14:1-23; John 8:47-59
by Anna Cash
Sunday, February 12
Mark 10:23-31 Peter said to him, “We have left everything to follow you!” (v.28, NIV)
Eight years ago I spoke these words of Peter to God with bittersweet joy. We were getting ready to leave for the seminary where my husband became a priest. I left a wonderful job, friends who’d become family, a beautiful home, and a ministry to children with life-threatening illnesses that we loved. It was tough to let go, but we were certain of God’s leading and said “yes” without looking back.
As I reflect on this same passage years later, it occurs to me that we’re always leaving something behind when we say “yes” to God. The life of faith is a journey of surrender, of letting go; it must be lived with open hearts to discern God’s will and open hands to receive the blessings that follow. As time goes on, I have become more aware of God’s faithfulness in providing for us. I sense His face shining upon us, and I know Him as a gracious Lord who blesses us with His presence no matter where we go (Psalm 67:1). Thanks be to God!
Genesis 29:20-35; Psalms 66, 67; 1 Timothy 3:14—4:10
Birthday Today: Clare Sprinkle
Monday, February 13
Psalm 89:1-18 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord. (v.15)
Blessed, indeed, are those who have learned to acclaim You, O Lord, for You are their glory and strength (vv.15,17). Since the day that I surrendered to Jesus as my Savior and began to live under his Lordship, I’ve discovered the transforming power of praise. Before that moment that changed my life, I had never experienced praise in quite the same way.
I recall many moments when I’ve chosen to praise God during times of fear, apprehension, or anger. I haven’t felt like praising God, but I’ve learned to ignore my feelings and call Him into my situation. Then, it’s as if I can see Jesus’ hand pulling me up, as when he rescued Peter from sinking into the lake (Matthew 14:29-31). Now, it’s become a habit, and the name of Jesus forms on my lips anytime I have a need. Yes, I have fellowship “with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3) through the Holy Spirit every single time I praise God. What a gift!
Genesis 30:1-24; 1 John 1:1-10; John 9:1-17
Tuesday, February 14
Psalm 99 Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy. (v.9)
It is so healthy, wise, uplifting, and good to worship God and exalt His holy name. I distinctly recall worship times when, within minutes of praising God, it’s as if I’ve been transported to a new place full of clarity, wisdom, and light. Worship is a gift that many never open, and they suffer for it. Yet, so many of us are gifted at exalting our problems, letting our imaginations take over, enlarging our problems’ scope through anxiety, worry, and fear.
Over and over, the Scriptures call us to trust God and not fear. Matthew 6:27 asks, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” Anxiety and worry are not only a waste of time, they drain us of the energy and zeal we need to become actively engaged in solving our problems.
When we worship God and exalt His name way above our problems, our cares return to their rightful place: submitted unto the God who allows difficulties and fulfills His purpose in all things.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
Genesis 31:1-24; Psalms 97, 100; 1 John 2:1-11; John 9:18-41
Birthday Today: Walker Laird
Wednesday, February 15
Psalm 101 ...he whose walk is blameless will minister to me. (v.6b)
This psalm illustrates the active believer beautifully. Our faith is not a passive destination where we arrive, park, and wait. Our faith, if it is real, is firmly founded on a relationship with the living Christ and, like him, it moves, it does, it is alive. A Christ-like life is evidence of the faith in our hearts.
The psalmist vows to “be careful to lead a blameless life” (v.2). The only way to do that is by being indwelled by the spirit of Jesus himself, the only blameless one. As he ministers to our deepest needs, we are cleansed and empowered to live a genuine life of faith—beginning in our homes (v.2). We choose to guard our eyes (v.3a), to flee from ungodly influences (vv.3b-4, 7), to confront evil (vv.5, 8) and, as we live out our faith, we continue to abide in Jesus, the faithful and blameless one (v.6).
How we live and what we do matters a great deal to God. Every choice moves us closer to Him or farther from Him. “...faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17).
Genesis 31:25-50; Psalm 109; 1 John 2:12-17; John 10:1-18
Thursday, February 16
1 John 2:18-29 See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. (v.24a)
Recently, while enjoying a quiet family dinner, our six-year-old suddenly stood and shared that day’s summer camp devotion. Coach Mike had shared his powerful testimony of giving his life over to Christ at a young age. Holding back tears, our daughter searched our faces for evidence that we understood the importance of her words. It was so moving!
I’m always blessed to recognize my children’s faith, and touched by how their faith strengthens ours. Sharing Christ and a love for God’s Word is a gift that returns to you a thousand-fold. We often hear our children apply something they learned at Sunday School, just as Jesus told his disciples would happen. “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit...will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26).
Jesus said that the Holy Spirit would teach us all things and remind us of his life-giving words. I don’t know about you, but I still have much to learn! I’m so glad the Holy Spirit is my companion, my teacher, and the best counselor anyone could have. Thank You, Lord!
Genesis 32:3-21; Psalm 105:1-22; John 10:19-30
Anniversary Today: David and Julia Nailling
Birthday Today: Chima Oleru
Friday, February 17
John 10:31-42 And in that place many believed in Jesus. (v.42)
Do you recall “that place” where you came to believe in Jesus? How glorious it is for me to remember that sweet moment! The seed of Christ’s love had been planted in my heart through years of worship and theology training in school. Although I often sensed Jesus’ presence with me, years passed before I said a final “yes” to him.
In College, I attended church services of different faiths, including Christian. I was the naysayer, skeptical member of a Bible study led by two very patient women. This was mostly an intellectual exercise and, when I became busier in medical school and residency, church attendance became rare. But years later, in the midst of a crisis, my intellect acquiesced before the needs of my aching heart, and my heart cried out to God. I asked Jesus to reveal himself—if he was real. He did, and everything, absolutely everything changed in that instant.
My place of coming to believe in my Savior was utter despair bordering on hopelessness. What a purpose God accomplished through that pain and suffering. He saved my soul! Praise Him!
Genesis 32:22—33:17; Psalm 102; 1 John 3:1-10
Saturday, February 18
John 11:1-16 This Mary, whose brother Lazarus now lay sick, was the same one who poured perfume on the Lord and wiped his feet with her hair. (v.2)
Are we like Mary, pouring our best unto Jesus, or are we like the soldier who gave him a bitter drink (John 19:29)? Right after Jesus was offered vinegar on the cross, he gave up his spirit. Yes, the cross was a bitter drink, the blameless one crucified for the sins of many. His willing sacrifice defies explanations—and deserves a response.
Mary’s response is what I’m after. I want to pour out my best unto Jesus. As with Lazarus, I want my life to reveal God’s glory. I want to walk out of every grave that keeps me in the dark, take off the grave clothes of insecurity and fear, and walk in newness of life. I want my life to be a living sacrifice. I desire nothing less than to be like Jesus.
Thomas Merton said that our desire to please God pleases Him. Although that is a wonderful starting point, I want my actions to please Him. Help me, Lord, to please You not just with my desire to do so, but with daily choices that reveal my love for You. Help me to pour my very best unto You, to the glory of Your name.
Genesis 35:1-20; Psalms 107:33-43, 108; 1 John 3:11-18
Anniversary Today: Frank and JoAnn Gillingham
Birthdays Today: Phylis Anyango, Ricardo Psungo
by Amaryllis Sánchez Wohlever, MD
Used with permission from the BIBLE READING FELLOWSHIP
PO Box 380, Winter Park, FL 32790
www.biblereading.org