December 23--CALLED TO REJOICE

Daily Reading:
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Monday, December 17—Sing a New Song (Psalm 96: 1-6))
Tuesday, December 18—Joseph and Mary (Mathew 1:18b-21)
Wednesday, December 19—Traveling to Bethlehem (Luke 2: 1-5)
Thursday, December 20—Jesus, Firstborn Son (Luke 2: 6, 7)
Friday, December 21— Angels Proclaim the News (Luke 2: 8-14)
Saturday, December 22— Shepherds Visit the King (Luke 2: 15-20)
Sunday, December 23— Judging with God's Truth (Psalm 96: 7-13)
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Devotional Reading: Psalm 96:1-6
Background Scripture: Luke 2: 1-20

Lesson Text: Luke 2:1-14

December 16--CALLED TO PROCLAIM

Daily Reading:

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Monday, December 10—A Messenger Is Coming (Malachi 3: 1-4)

Tuesday, December 11—Elisabeth Births a Son (Luke 1: 57-61)

Wednesday, December 12—His Name is John (Luke 1:62-66)

Thursday, December 13—God Sends a Powerful Saviour (Luke 1: 97-75)

Friday, December 14— Preparing the Way (Luke 1: 76-80

Saturday, December 15— Warnings to the Crowds (Luke 3: 7-14)

Sunday, December 16— A Powerful One is Coming (Luke 3: 15-20)

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Devotional Reading: Malachi 3:1-4

Background Scripture: Luke 1: 57-80
Lesson Text: Luke 1: 59-64, 67-80

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John was faithful to his call to proclaim. To people who trusted their own goodness and ancestry to save them, John proclaimed repentance. To a nation largely unaware that they sat in darkness, John proclaimed the coming of the Lord. He was the prophet--spokesman--for God.

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God has called His people to proclaim. Lut us be faithful to that call.

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Lord, in the name of Jesus, loosen the self-imposed silence of our tongues so we can be bold to prolclaim Your wonders. Amen.

December 9, 2007 – CALLED TO BE A VESSEL

Daily Reading:
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Monday, December 3—God’s Wonderful Work (Psalm 40:1-5)
Tuesday, December 4—An Unexpected Visitor God (Luke 1: 26-29)
Wednesday, December 4—Mary’s Son’s Future (Luke 1:30-33)
Thursday, December 6—The Miraculous Conception (Luke 1: 34, 35)
Friday, December 7— Nothing is Impossible (Luke 1: 36-38)
Saturday, December 8— Elisabeth Blesses Mary (Luke 1: 39-45)
Sunday, December 9— Mary Sings to the Lord (Psalm 66:46-56)
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Devotional Reading: Psalm 401:1-5

Background Scripture: Luke 1: 26-38

Lesson Text: Luke 1: 26-38
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Remember the 1970 serial drama, “Mission Impossible?” Weekly the heroes were given tasks that were labeled “impossible” for the average person. They were left to their own devises and were even told that if the mission failed, the “authorizing entity” would deny knowledge of the task and the participant. Yet, weekly, the heroes would miraculous accomplish the task. That was TV, of course, but similarly, Mary was given a seemingly impossible task. She was task with being the maternal vessel of the Savior of the world—pregnant yet a virgin—engaged yet unmarried. She would have to endure physical hardship and possible social ridicule. Legally, her fiancé, Joseph, could have had her put to death. She needed to convince her betrothed that she had been faithful to him, yet was pregnant—mission impossible. But this is where reality differs from the TV show. In “Mission Impossible,” the ones given the task was left alone; however, in the reality, when God gives an assignment, He is with us, guiding us, and preparing the way for us every inch of the way. Gabriel also appeared unto Joseph, and assured Joseph that Mary was fit to wed.

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Life Application Discussion Question

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We live in an age where we can make things so easy. Food does not need to be “prepared”—just pop a frozen dinner into the microwave. Need to add two or more numbers together?—use your calculator. Why read a book?—the story is already on DVD. Don’t save your money for a car, furniture, TV or even a pair of shoes—that is what credit is for. It is not popular to suggest that God would want us to step out of our comfort zone. We have the tendency to forget that we are her for God’s pleasure—it is all about Him, not us. God has a purpose and a mission for ALL of us. Though some of these mission may seem difficult or even impossible, all thing are possible through Christ Jesus. .

December 2, 2007 -- CALLED TO BELIEVE

Daily Reading:
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Monday, November 26—Sing God's Praises (Psalm 66:1-4)
Tuesday, November 27—Righteousness Before God (Luke 1: 5-7)
Wednesday, November 28—Incense Offering (Luke 1:8-13)
Thursday, November 29—A Ministry Foretold (Luke 1: 14-17)
Friday, November 30— Zechariah Sees a Vison (Luke 1: 18 - 23)
Saturday, December 1— Elizabeth Conceives (Luke 1: 24 - 25)
Sunday, December 2— God Listened to my Prayer (Psalm 66:16-20)
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Devotional Reading: Psalm 66:1-4, 16-20
Background Scripture: Luke 1: 5-25
Lesson Text: Luke 1: 5-23

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Have you ever had your veracity questioned? You tell someone that you are going to do something and your word is doubted—especially after you have proven your ability and faithfulness in the past. You became angry—didn’t you? God is so much more worthy of our trust—not just because He is God (which is reason enough)—but because He is faithful. God has proven Himself—over and over.
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Zechariah was a priest. He studied the Word. He had read of how God had blessed other barren couples. Why would he (of all people) doubt? Yet, he did. But, look at God’s mercy. Even though Zechariah’s doubt brought on the disciplinary action and the identifying sign of temporary silence, Zechariah and wife Elizabeth still received the blessing—the birth of a son—as foretold.
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Life Application Discussion Question
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Think about what God has brought you through. Some of you have been delivered from substance abuse. Some of you have experienced a reconstruction of a shatter relationship. Somebody’s finances have been restored. Someone’s testimony is of deliverance from an oppressive and destructive environment. Then why do you still doubt God’s ability? Is it in our nature? The songwriter wrote, “Oh, what needless pain we bare; all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”

Without faith it is impossible to please God. You MUST believe in God’s Word.

November 25, 2007 -- JACOB BLESSES HIS FAMILY

Daily Reading:

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Monday, November 19—Bring Your Father (Genesis 45:16-20)

Tuesday, November 20—God’s Reassurance (Genesis 46:1-4)

Wednesday, November 21—The Reunion (Genesis 46: 28-34)

Thursday, November 22—A Blessing (Genesis 47: 7-12)

Friday, November 23— Joseph’s Promise (Genesis 47: 27-31)

Saturday, November 24— A Grandfather’s Blessing (Genesis 48: 8-21)

Sunday, November 25—The Greatness and Goodness of God (Psalm 145:1-13)

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Devotional Reading: Psalm 145:1-13

Background Scripture: Genesis 46; 47; 48:1-21

Lesson Text: Genesis 48:11-19


“Like father—like son;” “The acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree;” “He’s a chip off the old block.” There are so many clichés that implies that a characteristically portrayed legacy has passed from one generation to the next. Usually, those axioms refer to a passive inheritance. In this weeks lesson, Israel (a.k.a. Jacob) takes God’s promises that he had inherited from his grandfather and father (Abraham and Isaac) and executes a deliberate (active) transference to Joseph’s two sons.
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Jacob blesses the boys with his name in addition to his forefathers. Now, and henceforth, the triangular moniker, “God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob” becomes part of the legacy. Jacob also, knowingly and with conscience intent, give the greater blessing to the younger Ephraim and the lesser blessing to the older Manasseh, by purposely crossing his hands before administering the blessing—in spite of Joseph’s protest. Tradition dictates that the older son should receive the greater blessing bestowed by the right hand. But looking back, the younger Isaac received the greater blessing over his older brother Ishmael; the younger Jacob received the greater birthright over his older brother Esau; and the younger Joseph was promoted over his older brothers. In blessing the younger Ephraim over the older Manasseh, Jacob was following the format laid out during previous generation.

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In regards to most matters in Egypt, Joseph was so highly ranked that any command he gave would have to be followed, without question, by everyone except the Pharaoh. However the bestowing of blessings is a personal thing. By deliberately crossing his arm, Jacob conscientiously defied man’s law. The law states that the first will receive the greater portion and the last shall receive the lesser. But through the “Cross” the latter receives the greater portion. “So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.”—Matt 20:16
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Life Application Discussion Questions

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Leaving a legacy is a deliberate act. You have the opportunity of choosing both the benifits and the beneficiary. What legacy are you deliberately leaving behind? Young parents, start a simple tradition with your children—such as quoting a scripture at the dinner table for Sunday dinner; or writing a simple statement or paragraph saying for what you are thankful and reading it on Thanksgiving Day. It does not have to be elaborate. Older saints, it is not too late to work on leaving a legacy. Just start doing something simple, like jotting down a wise saying in a journal, on a daily basis.

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Consider what legacy of blessings you intend to leave for future generation?

Nov 18, 2007 -- GOD PRESERVES HIS PEOPLE

Daily Reading:

Monday, November 12—Restoration of God’s Favor (Psalms 85)
Tuesday, November 13—Food in Egypt (Genesis 42:1-20)
Wednesday, November 14—Jacob’s Difficult Decision (Genesis 43: 1-15)
Thursday, November 15—Dining Together (Genesis 43: 16-34)
Friday, November 16— Joseph Tests His Brothers (Genesis 44: 1-13)
Saturday, November 17— Judah’s Plea (Genesis 44: 1-13)
Sunday, November 18—Brother’s Reconciliation (Genesis 45: 1-15)
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Devotional Reading: Psalm 85
Background Scripture:Genesis 42:1 – 45:45
Lesson Text: Genesis 45:1-12

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Forgiveness—what a wonderful force. Sadly, many people (even Christians) have a misconception of what “forgiveness” actually is. Some believe that it is saying that the offensive behavior of a person is “OK” and therefore the offender is permitted to continue the questionable action. Others feel that forgiveness means that the culpable person(s) need not be held responsible for harmful actions. But that is so untrue! Forgiveness is saying, “I refuse to let what YOU did to me, continue to rule my life.” That is right. When you decide not to forgive a person of a wrong (real or perceived), you have made a decision to enslave yourself to the offense. Unforgiveness blocks your own happiness, peace, satisfaction, and even love. You victimize yourself, daily. It harms the "unforgiver" much more than it harms the "unforgiven."
On the other hand, Forgiveness liberates the forgiver. When you forgive someone, you break free of their assault, and you avenge yourself of the offense. They may have hurt or damaged you by actions or words, but the victory comes in not letting what that person did, hinder you from enjoying a victorious life.
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Joseph was definitely wronged by his brothers. From the worldly perspective, he had every right to hold a grudge. Can you imagine him saying, “So what, if you are starving! You all tried to kill me! I will never forgive you!” Could Joseph have been used by God if he harbored such animosity—no. Joseph loved his brothers. Did that mean that what they did was “OK?”—No. Did that mean that Joseph forgot what they did? Definitely, not. Joseph remembered, but he refused to continually be victimized by the memory. He freed himself so that God could use him for the Greater Good.
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.Life Application Discussion Question

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Are you having trouble forgiving someone—a sister who betrayed you—a father who neglected you—a mother who abused you—a stranger who assaulted you—a drunk driver who killed your love one? Are you expected to forgive them? Yes. Why? First, for their sake—the more sinful the act, the more the perpetrator is in need of forgiveness. Second, for your sake—do not give an offender permission to continually victimize you. Your life is way too valuable to sacrifice it to the memory of an offense. And, thirdly, for God’s sake. “‘Vengeance is Mine,’ sayeth the Lord.” God has it all under control. You must believe that God is greater than anyone who has wronged you. No one is “getting away” with anything. Sin has consequences. God knows what He is doing. Let go, and let God handle His business.
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Forgiveness is a decision. It will be one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. Be like Joseph. Forgive—and let God turn the evil act around for the good.

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#11 - Nov 11 --- JOSEPH IS EXALTED

Daily Reading:
Monday, November 5—In Potiphar's House (Genesis 39: 1-6a)
Tuesday, November 6—Joseph Refuses (Genesis 39:6a -10)
Wednesday, November 7—Revenge (Genesis 39: 11-20)
Thursday, November 8—Pharoah's Dream (Genesis 41: 1-8)
Friday, November 9—Joseph the Interpreter (Genesis 41: 25- 36)
Saturday, November 10—Second in Command (Genesis 41: 37-45)
Sunday, November 11—God's Wonderful Works (Psalm 105: 16-22)

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Devotional Reading: Psalm 105: 16-22

Background Scripture: Genesis 39 - 41:45

Lesson Text: Genesis 41:25-40

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“Every time a higher position becomes available, management fills the position with one of those newly-graduated college students—who I trained. It isn’t fair!”
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“I was cruising through the park with my friends. The police pulled us over (and to make a long story short), they arrested us on ‘suspicion of something or other.’ You know what the real deal is—they don’t like ‘our kind,’ and they are always harassing us. Why won’t they leave us alone?”

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“I like what I do, but this work environment is deplorable! Everyone here seems to have so much Hell in them, that it is hard to maintain my Christian attitude. They’ve got just one more time to provoke me; and then they are going to see the ‘old me’ come out. You got to remember—I ain’t always been saved! They better ask somebody.”
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Can you relate to any of these scenarios? Perhaps you are in a different type of situation that is undesirable, unfair, or just not right. How should you respond?
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In this week’s lesson, Joseph repeatedly found himself in undesirable situations. The background reading shows that first he was sold into slavery. Then he was sexually harassed. Next, he was falsely accused and imprisoned for a crime he did not commit. But look! Joseph was ultimately exalted! Joseph found favor with God in each of his “undesirable” situations by remaining faithful to God and Godly principles. In slavery, Joseph became top administrator for Potiphar. In spite of being sexually propositioned by Potiphar’s wife, Joseph maintained his respect for Potiphar’s household (costing him his job). Even in prison, Joseph’s work ethics earned him a respectable position of authority. What was going on throughout these trials and tribulations? Joseph was developing skills and abilities that would be necessary in his preordained position as Pharaoh’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Egypt. God was getting Joseph ready.

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LIFE APPLICATION DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

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Are you in an unpleasant or undesirable situation or place in your life? Of course, you are praying for deliverance, but how are you responding in the mean time? The darker the room—the brighter your light should shine. If you are in a coveted position at this time, can you look back to see how previously undesirable positions have prepared you for where you are, now? Even if it seems that everyone else has forsaken you, God has not forgotten you. You are still on His mind, and your destiny is still on His agenda. Share your story to encourage others.

#10--Nov 4--JOSEPH IS MISTREATED

Daily Reading:
Monday, October 29—The Favored Son (Genesis 37:1-4)
Tuesday, October 30—The Jealous Brothers (Genesis 37:5-11)
Wednesday, October 31—The Messenger (Genesis 37: 12-17)
Thursday, November 1—The Dreamer (Genesis 37: 18-24)
Friday, November 2—Sold into Slavery (Genesis 37: 25-28)
Saturday, November 3—A Father’s Distress (Genesis 37: 29-36)
Sunday, November 4—A Prayer for Deliverance (Psalm 70)


Devotional Reading: Psalm 70
Background Scripture: Genesis 37
Lesson Text: Genesis 37:5-11, 19-21, 23, 24a, 28

Examine a seed for a large, strong plant—like an oak tree. In spite of its miniscule size, it has (within itself) the promise of becoming something great. But, the seed cannot attain its potential destiny unless it is buried, covered with dirt, fertilized with waste, discards its outer coating, and develops into its promised form. It is not a quick process. It takes decades. Quite often, it is difficult, if not impossible, to notice anything is happening—it seems like everything has come to a halt. But, God is still at work—as is evidenced by the finished product—the mighty oak tree!

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In this week’s lesson, Joseph, as a teenager, has received revelation (through dream) that he was destined for a high ranking leadership position. The position would be so great, that not only would his older siblings bow down to him, but his parents would also be inclined to genuflect to him. Joseph’s brothers were already jealous of the preferential treatment Joseph received from his father. Seeing how Father Jacob had received (or stolen) his older brother’s, Esau’s, birthright, perhaps the older brothers were afraid that history would repeat itself—unless they intervened. Joseph revealing his dream to his family served to fan the flames of hatred and envy—causing the brothers to plot Joseph’s demise.

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The intervention of the older brother, Rueben, prevented the other brothers from murdering Joseph. At the suggestion of brother Judah, Joseph was sold into slavery to the Ishmaelites (descendants of Jacob’s uncle—Ishmael). No doubt, the brothers’ concluded that this action would put an end—once and for all—to the threat of their brother rising above them (or anyone else). None of them, not even Joseph, realized that the brothers had put into action the very process that would later serve to bring Joseph's dream of superiority to reality. They had planted the seed. God was at work.

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Generations ago, the old folk had a saying, “Delayed is not denied.” The God-given potential in you may seem like it has been thwarted by enemies; but God is still at work. It may take weeks, months, years, decades, or generations; but if it is pre-destined by God, the trials and tribulation of the journey will only serve to direct you toward the perfected destination.
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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

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Have you ever experienced a time where it seemed like your life took a detour from your intended aspirations? Parents, do you have a child or children that appear to be traveling (intentionally or unintentionally) down a path that is different from the vision you have for them? Let us share our stories to encourage each other that God is still in control.