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Put It Into Practice

By Steve T. on September 4, 2013

Paul’s letter to the Philippians is one hundred and four verses filled with encouragement and joy. Paul didn’t write this letter to explain deep theology or to deal with any particular sin. Rather, his purpose was to express love for his friends and to encourage them (and us) to live a joy-filled Christian life. In chapter one, Paul encourages us that God’s work in us WILL continue; “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion” (1:6). In chapter two, we are encouraged to “do everything without complaining or arguing” (2:14).

In chapter three, Paul inspires us to be forward-looking in our walk with Christ; “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal” (3:13-14). Finally, in chapter four, Paul writes some of my personal favorites; “Rejoice in the Lord always!” (4:4); “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation” (4:12); and, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength” (4:13).

But buried within these wonderful words of encouragement is probably the most valuable and applicable message for our daily journey with Christ.

Philippians 4:9
“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me – put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Paul had the gospel message living in him and shining through him every moment of every day. But he never would have learned “the secret” of rejoicing and being content in all situations if he had just learned “about” the gospel. Although it’s wise, and very useful, to study and even memorize God’s Word, His peace and contentment – His joy – will never be real until we actually apply His Word to our life on a daily basis: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22).

We must NEVER be just hearers of the Word who become puffed up with Bible knowledge. We must never preach Biblical truths yet fail to apply these truths in our own life and draw ever closer to our Heavenly Father. Jesus accused many Jews of making this same mistake: “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to Me to have life” (John 5:39-40).

Let’s never stop with just loving His Word or His “activities.” Let’s love HIM with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. And let’s express our love by obediently following the leading of His Spirit out into the world, as we take what we daily receive and put it into practice.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Sep 4 Ecclesiastes 7:1-9:18; 2 Corinthians 7:8-16; Psalm 48:1-14; Proverbs 22:17-19

941.95 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1869.88 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Pongámoslo en Práctica

By Steve T. on September 4, 2013

La carta de Pablo a los Filipenses son ciento cuatro versos llenos de ánimo y gozo. Pablo no escribió esta carta para explicar teología profunda o tratar con un pecado en particular. En lugar de eso, su propósito era expresar amor por sus amigos y animarlos a ellos (y a nosotros) a vivir una vida Cristiana llena de gozo.

En el capítulo uno, Pablo nos anima para que el trabajo de Dios en nosotros CONTINUARÁ; “que el que comenzó en vosotros la buena obra, la perfeccionará” (1:6). En el capítulo dos se nos anima a “Haced todo sin murmuraciones y contiendas” (2:14).

En el capítulo tres, Pablo nos inspira para ver hacia adelante en nuestro caminar Cristiano; “olvidando ciertamente lo que queda atrás, y extendiéndome a lo que está delante, prosigo a la meta” (3:13-14). Finalmente, en el capítulo cuatro, Pablo escribe algunos de mis favoritos; “Regocijate en el Señor, siempre” (4:4); “He aprendido a vivir en todas y cada una de las circunstancias” (4:12); y, “Todo lo puedo en Cristo que me fortalece” (4:13).

Pero sumergido dentro de estas maravillosas palabras de ánimo es probablemente el más valioso y aplicable mensaje para nuestro viaje diario con Cristo.

Filipenses 4:9
“Pongan en práctica lo que de mí han aprendido, recibido y oído, y lo que han visto en mí, y el Dios de paz estará con ustedes.”

Pablo tenía el mensaje del evangelio viviendo en el y brillando a través de el cada momento de cada día. Pero el nunca hubiera aprendido “el secreto” de regocijarse y estar contento en toda situación si solo lo hubiera aprendido “acerca” del evangelio. Aúnque es sabio, y muy útil, para estudiar y aun memorizar la Palabra de Dios, Su paz y contentamiento – Su gozo – nunca será real hasta que realmente apliquemos Su Palabra a nuestra vida: “No se contenten sólo con escuchar la palabra, pues así se engañan ustedes mismos. Llévenla a la práctica” (Santiago 1:22).

NUNCA debemos ser solo oidores de la Palabra quienes están inflados con conocimiento Bíblico. Nunca debemos enseñar las verdades Bíblicas pero fallar en aplicar estas verdades a nuestra propia vida y acercarnos aún mas a nuestro Padre Celestial. Jesús acusó a muchos de los Judíos alrededor de El de cometer el mismo error: “Ustedes estudian con diligencia las Escrituras porque piensan que en ellas hallan la vida eterna. ¡Y son ellas las que dan testimonio en mi favor! Sin embargo, ustedes no quieren venir a mí para tener esa vida” (Juan 5:39-40).

Nunca nos detengamos con tan solo amar su Palabra o Sus “actividades”. Amemosle a EL con todo nuestro corazón, alma, mente, y fuerza; y expresemos nuestro amor a través de la fe en Jesucristo y la obediencia a la dirección de Su Espíritu, mientras que tomamos lo que a diario recibimos y pongámoslo en práctica.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Follower or Fool

By Steve T. on September 3, 2013

In the message “Arise And Walk” we were reminded that as God answers our prayers He does so in a manner which is “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (Ephesians 3:20). He answers according to our true need driven by His divine good. This is a difficult concept but God’s view of this world, and certainly His view of our life, is much grander than our own; “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:9).

This passage in Isaiah occurs as God is calling people to trust Him in ways they do not understand; “Give ear and come to Me; hear Me, that your soul may live” (Isaiah 55:3). God’s path to the greater good – which we must understand is the same as the path to our very best – is the path which follows Him in absolute faith, even when we do not understand.

The story of Jesus and the young rich man gives an example of someone who could not accept this truth. In this story a rich man asked Jesus, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mark 10:17). After first telling the man to obey the commandments related to how he treated others, Jesus gave the man a directive which caused him to turn away.

Mark 10:21
“Jesus looked at him and loved him. ‘One thing you lack,’ He said. ‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.'”

To understand this story we need to realize that terms like kingdom of God, eternal life, and salvation, do not simply refer to a ticket to heaven – they refer to that and so much more. When asked by the Pharisees about the kingdom of God, Jesus answered, “the kingdom of God is within (or among) you” (Luke 17:21). Eternal life can begin now! The kingdom can begin now! Salvation can begin now! Yes, there is also a future realization, but let’s not miss the now. The rich man accepted some of what Jesus said but refused to believe that Jesus truly knew what was best and loved him enough to call him to obedience.

God’s very best, His kingdom reality, is available right now. But it is only available through faithfully following His way of truth and not our own. When we choose to walk our own way, contrary to God’s word, we have chosen the path of a fool; “The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice” (Proverbs 12:15). God’s path is never contrary to His word; He will NEVER lead us to lie, cheat, steal, dishonor, slander, or commit adultery. Choosing such a path is choosing the path of a fool and is guaranteed to miss out on God’s best!

Receiving our ticket to heaven might be a one time event, but choosing to live right now in the kingdom of God requires daily choices to live by following the ways of God. So today, and also in the many days to come, we must make the choice: Will we live as a follower or fool?

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Sep 3 Ecclesiastes 4:1-6:12; 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:7; Psalm 47:1-9; Proverbs 22:16

941.95 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1827.28 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Arise And Walk

By Steve T. on September 2, 2013

To grow as a Christian means to become closer and develop a more intimate relationship with God. This relationship begins when we are born into His family – when we ask Him to forgive our sins through faith in Jesus and begin what is intended to be an eternal communion of love. He desires for us to trust Him in ALL things and pray to Him on all occasions; “In everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6).

Jesus promised that our prayers will be heard and answered; “Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete” (John 16:24). But as we lift up our requests, we can sometimes become confused by God’s response. We often perceive His answers to be slow in arriving, or we are disappointed with His reply; we may even begin to doubt if God even hears our prayers.

But we must remember that we have entered into an eternal relationship with the Sovereign Creator of the Universe! Underlying all our prayers must be the firm belief that “in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). God always has a plan, and His plan is very, very good! His plan is that we draw closer to His side and joyfully be conformed to the image of His Son. We must trust that His answer to our prayers will meet our true need, and fulfill our deepest desire, much better than we could ever imagine (Ephesians 3:20).

A short time after Jesus was crucified, Peter and John were confronted by a crippled man sitting beside the Temple gate begging for money.

Acts 3:6
“Then Peter said, ‘Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.'”

Until that day, the crippled man had never walked a single step. In his limited view of the world, the only hope he had for a better life was to be given a little money by those passing by. His request was limited by what he could see and understand – limited by his faith.

Our loving Father always hears our prayers; and He always answers. His answer to prayer is either yes, no, or wait…and sometimes He answers with, “Here my child, I have something much better for you.” And sometimes, God answers by simply giving us more of Himself.

God’s view of our needs (and His view of the entire world) is much higher and grander than our own. We generally see our need as the solution to some short term problem, but our true need is always to grow by drawing closer and loving Him more. Let’s take our eyes off the crutches we think will “fix” our problem and look instead to the One who is calling, to the One who patiently says, “Trust Me and come into My presence as you arise and walk!”

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Sep 2 Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22; 2 Corinthians 6:1-13; Psalm 46:1-11; Proverbs 22:15

933.84 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1827.28 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Levántate y Anda

By Steve T. on September 2, 2013

Crecer como Cristiano significa acercarnos más y desarrollar una relación más íntima con Dios. Esta relación comienza cuando nacemos en Su familia – cuando pedimos el perdón de los pecados a través de la fe en Jesús y comenzamos lo que tiene la intención de ser una eterna comunión de amor. El desea que confiemos en El en TODAS las cosas y oremos a El en toda ocasión; “sean conocidas vuestras peticiones delante de Dios en toda oración y ruego, con acción de gracias” (Filipenses 4:6).

Jesús prometió que nuestra oración sería escuchada y contestada; “pedid, y recibiréis, para que vuestro gozo sea cumplido” (Juan 16:24). Pero mientras elevamos nuestras peticiones podemos a veces ser confundidos por la respuesta de Dios. A menudo percibimos su respuesta como lenta en llegar, o estamos decepcionados con Su respuesta; aún comenzamos a dudar si Dios escucha nuestras oraciones.

Pero debemos recordar que hemos entrado en una relación eterna con el Soberano Creador del Universo! Subyacente en todas nuestras oraciones debe estar la firme creencia que “a los que aman a Dios, todas las cosas les ayudan a bien” (Romanos 8:28). Dios siempre tiene un plan y Su plan es muy, muy bueno! Debemos confiar que Sus respuestas van a dar solución a nuestras verdaderas necesidades (y satisfacer nuestros deseos mas profundos) mucho mejor de lo que jamás hubiéramos esperado o imaginado.

Corto tiempo después que Jesús fue crucificado, Pedro y Juan fueron confrontados por un hombre inválido sentado a lado de la puerta del templo pidiendo dinero.

Hechos 3:6
“Mas Pedro dijo: No tengo plata ni oro, pero lo que tengo te doy; en el nombre de Jesucristo de Nazaret, levántate y anda.”

Hasta ese día el hombre inválido jamás pudo dar ni un paso. En su visión limitada del mundo, la única esperanza que tenía para una mejor vida era recibir algún dinero de aquellos que pasaban. Su petición era limitada por lo que el podía ver y entender – limitado por su fe.

Nuestro Padre amoroso siempre escucha nuestras oraciones – y El siempre responde. Su respuesta a la oración puede ser si, no, o espera…y a veces El contesta con, “Hijo mio, tengo algo mucho mejor para ti.”

La visión de Dios de nuestras necesidades (y Su visión del mundo entero) es mucho más alta y grande que la nuestra. Nosotros generalmente vemos nuestra necesidad como la solución a algún problema de corto plazo, pero nuestra verdadera necesidad es siempre crecer acercándonos y amándole más a El. Quitemos nuestros ojos de las muletas que pensamos que van a “arreglar” nuestro problema y veamos en su lugar al Único que nos está llamando, “Confía en Mi y ven a Mi presencia mientras que te levantas y andas!”

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Return to Give Thanks

By Steve T. on August 29, 2013

One day when Jesus was traveling from Galilee to Jerusalem, ten men with leprosy approached Him and called out; “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:13). Jesus didn’t immediately heal the lepers; rather, He gave them a simple instruction; “Go, show yourselves to the priests” (Luke 17:14).

A leper would only present himself to a priest if he believed the leprosy was gone. The priests had the authority to declare a diseased person ceremonially clean and allow them to return home (Leviticus 14). Therefore, the lepers demonstrated great faith when they followed Jesus’ command; “And as they went, they were cleansed” (Luke 17:14). Notice that the lepers had to take action before they were healed – their action was a demonstration of their faith.

Though all ten lepers had been cleansed of their terrible disease, only one returned to give thanks; “He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked Him” (Luke 17:16). Jesus responded with a very convicting question.

Luke 17:17
“Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?'”

I wonder if we really understand the degree to which we have been healed and made clean; “God made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgression” (Ephesians 2:5). We were DEAD, and He made us alive with Christ – that’s serious healing!! Our Heavenly Father reached down in love and provided a way for complete restoration when we did not even have the ability to cry out for help; “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8) – that’s serious love!!

His Hand guided us toward healing through His Son and His Hand continues to heal in countless ways on our daily walk. Every time relationships are restored, His hand has healed; when conflicts are resolved, His hand has healed; and when He lovingly welcomes us back after we have wandered from His presence, His hand has healed.

But do we return to thank Him? Or are we as the other nine lepers who go on our way and forget the One to whom we owe our very lives.

The one leper who returned threw himself at Jesus’ feet. If we knew how deathly ill we are without Christ and how completely He has healed our soul, we would not only throw ourselves at His feet, but we would remain and refuse to ever leave. Let’s live each day in the presence of God and continually come before Him with hearts overflowing with thanksgiving and praise. Let’s remember our divine healing and ALWAYS be the one who will return to give thanks.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Aug 29 Job 31:1-33:33; 2 Corinthians 3:1-18; Psalm 43:1-5; Proverbs 22:8-9
Aug 30 Job 34:1-36:33; 2 Corinthians 4:1-12; Psalm 44:108; Proverbs 22:10-12
Aug 31 Job 37:1-39:30; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:10; Psalm 44:9-42:17; Proverbs 22:13
Sep 1 Job 40:1-42:17; 2 Corinthians 5:11-21; Psalm 45:1-17; Proverbs 22:14

907.30 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1786.10 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Regresa a Dar Gracias

By Steve T. on August 29, 2013

Un día cuando Jesús estaba viajando de Galilea a Jerusalén, diez hombres con lepra se le acercaron y le dijeron; “¡Jesús, Maestro, ten misericordia de nosotros!” (Lucas 17:13). Jesús no sanó su lepra de inmediato, en lugar de eso les dio una simple instrucción; “Id, mostraos a los sacerdotes” (Lucas 17:14).

Un leproso solo se presentaría a un sacerdote si el creía que la lepra se había ido. Los sacerdotes tenían la autoridad para declarar a una persona enferma ceremonialmente limpia y dar su aval para que regresara a casa (Levíticos 14). Por ello los leprosos demostraron gran fe al seguir la instrucción de Jesús; “Y aconteció que mientras iban, fueron limpiados” (Lucas 17:14). Noten que los leprosos tuvieron que tomar acción antes de ser sanados; su acción fue una demostración de su fe.

Aún cuando los diez leprosos fueron limpiados de su terrible enfermedad, solo uno regresó a dar gracias; “y se postró rostro en tierra a sus pies, dándole gracias” (Lucas 17:16). Jesús respondió con una pregunta muy condenadora.

Lucas 17:17
“Respondiendo Jesús, dijo: ¿No son diez los que fueron limpiados? Y los nueve, ¿dónde están?”

Me pregunto si realmente comprendemos el grado al cual hemos sido sanados y limpiados; “aun estando nosotros muertos en pecados, nos dio vida juntamente con Cristo” (Efesios 2:5). Estábamos MUERTOS, y El nos dio la vida con Cristo – esa es una sanación en serio!! Nuestro Padre Celestial nos alcanzó en amor y proveyó una manera para la completa restauración cuando ni siquiera teníamos la capacidad para pedir ayuda; “siendo aún pecadores, Cristo murió por nosotros” (Romanos 5:8) – ese es amor en serio!!

Su Mano nos guía hacia la sanidad a través de Su Hijo y Su Mano continua sanándonos de incontables maneras en nuestro caminar diario. Cada vez que las relaciones son restauradas, Su mano ha sanado; cuando conflictos son resueltos, Su mano ha sanado; y cuando El amorosamente nos da la bienvenida después que nos hemos extraviado de Su presencia, Su mano ha sanado.

¿Pero, regresamos a darle gracias? ¿O somos como los otros nueve leprosos que vamos en nuestro camino y olvidamos al Único al que debemos nuestras vidas?

El leproso que regresó se derramó a los pies de Cristo. Si sabemos que tan mortal es nuestra enfermedad sin Cristo y que tan completamente ha sanado nuestra alma, no solo nos derramaríamos a Sus pies, sino que nos mantendríamos y rechazaríamos el dejarlo. Vivamos cada día en la presencia de Dios y continuamente vengamos ante El con nuestros corazones rebosantes de agradecimiento y adoración. Recordemos nuestra divina sanidad y SIEMPRE seamos aquel que regresa a dar gracias.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Tools of The Teacher

By Steve T. on August 28, 2013

In the days of the prophet Jeremiah, God’s chosen people had turned away to worship other gods. But God longed for His children to return and worship Him as the One True God. The Israelites had been warned for many years and now God used a foreign king as His tool for discipline and instruction.

Jeremiah 27:6
“Now I will hand all your countries over to My servant Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; I will make even the wild animals subject to him.”

God reminded the people that He alone was almighty and in control of world events. But He also revealed their sinful pride as He required them to yield to His discipline in order to survive; “Bow your neck under the yoke of the king of Babylon and you will live” (Jeremiah 27:12). Many chose to die rather than to trust God and submit to His instruction.

Nebuchadnezzar did not even acknowledge God at this point in his life; and yet, God called him “My servant.” It was God’s plan to use this non-believing foreigner to teach His children some very important (and painful) lessons. God’s Hand of discipline is firm, but His Hand is always directed with a loving purpose. Pride was keeping His children away, and it needed to be removed by any tool available.

Being adopted into God’s family through the gift of Salvation is a one time event. Through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, we receive His grace and become “a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). However, learning to truly live for God and become “conformed to the likeness of His Son” (Romans 8:29), is an on-going process which will last all the rest of our days.

There is so much our Heavenly Father desires for us to understand – so many lessons He wants us to learn – and yet, all the lessons seem nearly identical. He desires a continual and intimate fellowship; He wants us to learn to trust Him and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30).

As we open our life to God’s teaching, we must allow Him to instruct us using the tools of His choice. His lessons are often taught using the most unlikely messengers and through the worst of circumstances, but His lessons always contain a lasting sweetness.

No matter what we face today, let’s look for the lesson God is teaching. Circumstances in our work, home, or even place of worship may often become hot with friction; but these sources of abrasion may very well be the tools God is using to mold us and draw us closer to His side…because He loves us and desires for us to learn to trust and love Him more. Let’s praise Him for His continued loving instruction. Let’s embrace the shaping process and be thankful for ALL the tools of The Teacher.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Aug 28 Job 28:1-30:31; 2 Corinthians 2:12-17; Psalm 42:1-11; Proverbs 22:7

907.30 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1743.64 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Herramientas de El Maestro

By Steve T. on August 28, 2013

En los días del profeta Jeremías, La gentes escogida de Dios se había vuelto a adorar otros dioses. Pero Dios anhelaba el regreso de sus hijos para que le adorasen a El como el Único Dios Verdadero. Los Israelitas habían sido prevenidos por muchos años y ahora Dios usó a un rey extranjero para disciplinar e instruir.

Jeremías 27:6
“Y ahora yo he puesto todas estas tierras en mano de Nabucodonosor rey de Babilonia, mi siervo, y aun las bestias del campo le he dado para que le sirvan.”

Dios le recordó a la gente que solo El era todopoderoso y en control de los eventos mundiales. Pero El también reveló su orgullo pecaminoso mientras El les pedía que se sometieran a Su disciplina a fin de sobrevivir; “Someted vuestros cuellos al yugo del rey de Babilonia, y servidle a él y a su pueblo, y vivid” (Jeremías 27:12). Mucha de la gente eligió morir en lugar de confiar en las instrucciones de Dios.

No hay evidencia de que Nabucodonosor siquiera reconociera a Dios en este punto de su vida – y aún así Dios lo llamó “Mi Siervo.” Era el plan de Dios utilizar a este extranjero no-creyente como una herramienta para enseñar a sus Hijos algunas muy importantes (y dolorosas) lecciones. La mano de disciplina de Dios es firme, pero Su mano es siempre controlada con un propósito amoroso. El orgullo estaba alejando a Sus hijos, y tenía que ser removido con cualquier herramienta disponible.

Ser adoptados dentro de la familia de Dios a través del regalo de la Salvación es un evento único. A través de la fe en el sacrificio de Dios para el perdón de nuestros pecados, recibimos Su gracia y nos convertimos en “una nueva creación” (2 Corintios 5:17). Sin embargo, aprender a verdaderamente vivir para Dios y ser “hechos conformes a la imagen de su Hijo” (Romanos 8:29), es un proceso que durará por el resto de nuestros días.

Hay mucho que nuestro Padre Celestial desea que comprendamos – muchas lecciones que El quiere que aprendamos – y aún, todas las lecciones parecen casi idénticas. El desea una íntima y continua relación; El quiere que aprendamos a confiar en El y amarlo con todo nuestro corazón, alma, mente y fuerza (Marcos 12:30).

Mientras abrimos nuestra vida a las enseñanzas de Dios, debemos permitirle a El que nos instruya usando las herramientas de Su elección. Sus lecciones a menudo son enseñadas usando los más improbables mensajeros y a través de las peores circunstancias; pero sus lecciones siempre contienen una dulzura duradera cuando son aprendidas apropiadamente.

No importa lo que enfrentamos ahora, busquemos la lección que Dios nos esta enseñando. Circunstancias en nuestro trabajo, nuestro hogar, o aún nuestro lugar de adoración podría con frecuencia volverse caliente de fricciones; pero estas fuentes de tensión podrían perfectamente ser las herramientas que Dios esta usando para moldearnos y atraernos a Su lado – porque nos ama y desea que aprendamos a confiar y amarlo más. Adorémosle a El para Su continuo amor e instrucción. Abracemos el proceso de formación y estemos agradecidos por TODAS las herramientas de El Maestro.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Personal Psalms

By Steve T. on August 27, 2013

The one hundred and fifty psalms in the Bible were written by several different people; we believe that David wrote many but certainly not all. The psalms were meant to be set to music and sung as a way of praising the glory of God, but also as a way of expressing the deeply honest emotions which are certain to appear when one submits their life to the leading of God.

The psalms, as given in the Bible, represent the true heartfelt longing, frustration, anger, confession, and praise of the individuals who wrote about three thousand years ago. If we were to write psalms today the language might be a little different, but the emotions would remain the same. Perhaps our psalms would be expressed something like this:

A PSALM OF PRAISE

1. O Lord, I will praise you through all of my day;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.

2. I will praise you when I rise;
for you have given me rest and breath.

3. I will praise when I eat my morning meal;
for you have given me time before my family goes their ways.

4. I will praise you when I send my children to school;
for you have given resources and intellect for them to learn.

5. I will praise you when I work;
for you have given both ability and opportunity to produce.

6. I will praise you when I observe, though all too infrequent,
the beauty of the trees and grass, the river and the park;
for you have given a creation, though fallen, as a reminder of your majesty and love.

7. I will praise you when I return home;
for you have given comfort and a love to share.

8. I will praise you when I lie down;
for you have given me warmth and peace.

9. Yes, Lord, I will praise you through all of my day;
and I will praise you for ALL of my days;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.

10. I will praise you in my youth;
for you have given me strength and health and energy.

11. I will praise you in my mid years;
for you have given me family and understanding of your ways.

12. I will praise you in my aging;
for you have given guidance and protected me from selfish gain;

13. Lord, you are my love, my life, my all in all;
I will praise you at the end;
for you have given of yourself so I might live.

14. So I praise you all through my day and for all of my days;
for you have given me so many reasons to praise.
A PSALM OF LAMENT

1. Lord, the heavens and hills declare your glory;
but your people wail and cry in despair;
who can blame them for failing to see?

2. Who can blame the mother who fails to see your glory,
when her child is torn from her arms and beat?

3. Who can blame the father who fails to see your glory,
when he is unable to even feed his family?

4. Who can blame the children for failing to see your glory,
when their father leaves and their mothers dies an early, painful death?

5. Who can blame the nations for failing to see your glory,
when corruption, war, and disaster strips away all hope?

6. Who can blame your people for failing to see your glory,
when the stars do shine but evil and heartache reign?

7. Who can blame anyone for failing to see your glory,
when you allow all of this?

8. Oh Lord, return your glory to this land;
what is declared in the heavens declare again among your people.

9. It is not the time for a silent God who withholds direction;
your people are lost and wandering in need of a shepherd.

10. Now is the time for the heavens to shine in the lives of your people,
for your people to be transformed, walk in your ways, and praise your name.

11. Now is the time for your voice to be heard with thunderous clarity,
for the paths to be strained until only one remains.

12. Hear our cry! Why will you not shine? Why will you not thunder and strain?
Who can blame us for failing to see?

13. And yet, Oh Lord, your glory does shine,
and I will trust in you, in you alone, though I fail to see.

From the psalms we learn about a posture of honesty before God. Yes we pray we will one day be able to “Rejoice in the Lord always” (Philippians 4:4), but it is natural for portions of our journey to contain seasons of wrestling where we cry out for understanding. So whether we are in a season of wonderful praise or a season of painful lament, God is there and would love to hear our personal psalms.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Aug 27 Job 23:1-27:23; 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:11; Psalm 41:1-13; Proverbs 22:5-6

903.30 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1743.64 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

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Misplaced Trust

By Steve T. on August 26, 2013

In the message “Secure In His Presence” we were encouraged to guard against anything which takes away from our complete dependence on our Heavenly Father. We saw how worldly security can sometimes cause us to close our eyes and ears to God’s leading. Becoming secure in the world means we are placing our trust in the things of the world. David made this mistake and it cost him dearly.

God described David as “a man after My own heart” (Acts 13:22). David clearly saw God working in his life. When he went to fight Goliath with only stones and a sling, he knew to trust in the strength offered by God; “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47). God continued to protect David through his trials with Saul and later led him through many military victories as the king of Israel. But toward the end of his reign, David began to trust the world’s definition of power and might.

1 Chronicles 21:1-2
“Satan rose up against Israel and incited David to take a census of Israel. So David said to Joab and the commanders of the troops, ‘Go and count the Israelites. Then report back to me so that I may know how many there are.'”

God allowed Satan to tempt David because there was still deep rooted pride in David that needed to be revealed. There was nothing inherently wrong with counting the people. When God led the nation of Israel out of Egypt, He told Moses; “Take a census of the whole Israelite community” (Numbers 1:2). But David had become very “self” reliant and had placed his trust in his own strength and abilities. He became focused on his resources – the number of men who were able to fight – rather than keeping his eyes and ears on the true Commander of ALL battles.

David recognized and confessed his sin: “I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now, I beg You, take away the guilt” (1 Chronicles 21:8). Though David’s sin was forgiven, God still enforced severe consequences; “So the Lord sent a plague on Israel, and seventy thousand men of Israel fell dead” (1 Chronicles 21:14). As the leader of God’s chosen people, David was expected to set a clear example of complete trust.

God wants and expects the total devotion of our heart. Devotion will always mean love and worship; but it also must include our sustained and unwavering trust. Our Heavenly Father establishes our path and provides all the necessary strength to achieve the victory He desires. He simply asks that we trust only in Him and continue to follow where He leads. Let’s give Him ALL the glory and honor as we keep our eyes forever focused on Christ and guard against the sin of misplaced trust.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Aug 26 Job 20:1-22:30; 2 Corinthians 1:1-11; Psalm 40:11-17; Proverbs 22:2-4

895.08 Run Miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles
1743.64 Bike Miles in 2013 : Goal 3000 miles

Posted in Devotional | 1 Response

Confianza Equivocada

By Steve T. on August 26, 2013

En el mensaje “Seguros en Su Presencia” fuimos animados a guardarnos contra cualquier cosa que nos aleje de nuestra completa dependencia de nuestro Padre Celestial. Vimos como la seguridad del mundo puede en ocasiones hacer que cerremos nuestros ojos y oídos a la dirección de Dios. Volvernos seguros en el mundo también pone nuestra confianza en las cosas del mundo. David cometió este error y le costó muchísimo.

Dios describió a David como “varón conforme a mi corazón” (Hechos 13:22). David claramente vio a Dios trabajando en su vida. Cuando el fue a pelear con Goliat con solo unas piedras y una honda, el supo confiar en la fuerza ofrecida por Dios; “Y sabrá toda esta congregación que Jehová no salva con espada y con lanza; porque de Jehová es la batalla” (1 Samuel 17:47). Dios continuó protegiendo a David a través de sus pruebas con Saúl y más tarde lo llevó a muchas victorias militares como el rey de Israel. Pero hacia el final de su reino, David comenzó a confiar en la definición del mundo de fuerza y poder.

1 Crónicas 21:1-2
“Pero Satanás se levantó contra Israel, e incitó a David a que hiciese censo de Israel. Y dijo David a Joab y a los príncipes del pueblo: Id, haced censo de Israel desde Beerseba hasta Dan, e informadme sobre el número de ellos para que yo lo sepa.”

Dios permitió que Satanás tentara a David porque había un profundo orgullo en David que necesitaba ser revelado. No había nada de malo con contar a la gente – después de todo, cuando Dios sacó a la nación de Israel fuera de Egipto, le dijo a Moisés; “Tomad el censo de toda la congregación de los hijos de Israel por sus familias” (Números 1:2). Pero David se había vuelto muy “independiente” y había puesto su confianza en sus propias fuerzas y habilidades. El estaba enfocado en sus recursos – el número de hombres que podían pelear – en lugar de mantener sus ojos y oídos en el verdadero Comandante de TODAS las batallas.

David reconoció y confesó su pecado: “He pecado gravemente al hacer esto; te ruego que quites la iniquidad de tu siervo, porque he hecho muy locamente” (1 Crónicas 21:8). Aún cuando el pecado de David fue perdonado, Dios hizo cumplir severas consecuencias; “Así Jehová envió una peste en Israel, y murieron de Israel setenta mil hombres” (1 Crónicas 21:14). Como el líder de la gente escogida de Dios, se esperaba que David estableciera un claro ejemplo de completa confianza.

Dios quiere y espera la total devoción de nuestro corazón. Devoción siempre significará amor y adoración; pero esto también debe incluir nuestra sostenida y nunca vacilante confianza. Nuestro Padre Celestial establece nuestro camino y provee toda la fuerza necesaria para obtener la victoria que El desea. El simplemente pide que confiemos solo en El y continuemos siguiendolo a donde El nos conduce. Demosle TODO el honor y toda la gloria mientras mantenemos nuestros ojos siempre enfocados en Cristo y guardémonos contra el pecado de la confianza equivocada.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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