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Be Still And Know

By Steve T. on January 9, 2013

The presence of God is a wonderful gift which is available to every believer. No longer is His presence confined to a specific location or available to only a few; “I am with you always, even to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). But the gift of His presence requires discipline in order to receive and maintain. We don’t earn this gift; it truly is a gift! But we live in such a noisy and hectic world that we often simply miss His blessing unless we are willing to actively order our time and priorities…and this takes effort!

We are all given the same 24 hours in every day. Yet most of us generally try to put far too much into this precious time. We become frustrated with the constant busyness, but when given the opportunity we add even more to our schedule. Each of our activities may be good, but the result is often a frantic pace void of the true blessings from God. As our activity level increases, it becomes more and more difficult to hear God and nearly impossible to ponder the meaning of His truth; the contentment of walking in His presence is most often missed. For this reason, God gives us a gentle reminder – actually, He gives us a firm command.

Psalm 46:10
“Be still, and know that I am God.”

There are many things in life which are good – many good people and good activities that require, or at least desire, our time. While God definitely calls us to serve and minister to one another, we must understand that constant busyness hinders our ability to hear God. To maintain effective communication with God and nurture a sense of His peace, we must make time, and put forth the “effort,” to simply stop and rest in His strength.

Perhaps the Psalm writer knew we needed a great assurance and trust in God in order to be still: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging” (Psalm 46:1-3). God will always be at our side as a source of strength. We need not fear being still!

We must never forget that what our Heavenly Father desires more than anything else is for us to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength (Mark 12:30). We must not forget what Jesus says is most important: “…only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Luke 10:42).

As we see our pace beginning to increase, let’s draw near to God by quietly worshipping Him and giving thanks for the awesome gift of His Son. Let’s protect our schedule such that we have time for God’s very best. Let’s receive and enjoy His true blessings as we make time every day to simply be still and know.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Jan 9 Genesis 20:1-22:24; Matthew 7:18-29; Psalms 9:1-12; Proverbs 2:18-22

42.6 miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles

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Quédense Quietos y Reconozcan

By Steve T. on January 9, 2013

La presencia de Dios es un regalo maravilloso que está disponible para cada creyente. Ya no mas está limitada Su presencia a una localidad específica o disponible solamente para un grupo pequeño; “Y yo estoy con vosotros todos los días, hasta el fin del mundo” (Mateo 28:20). Pero el regalo de Su presencia requiere disciplina para poder recibir y mantenerla. No podemos ganar este regalo, pero vivimos en un mundo tan ruidoso y activo que podemos sencillamente sobrepasar Su bendición a menos que activamente y voluntariamente ordenemos nuestro tiempo y prioridades – y esto requiere esfuerzo!

A todos se nos han dado las mismas 24 horas en cada día. Pero la mayoría de nosotros intentamos hacer caber demasiadas cosas en este tiempo precioso. Nos frustramos con las actividades constantes, pero cuando llega la oportunidad agregamos aún mas a nuestro horario. Cada una de estas actividades podrían ser buenas, pero el resultado es frecuentemente un estado frenético de actividades – un estado frecuentamente vacío de las bendiciones verdaderas de Dios. De la manera que nuestro nivel de actividad incrementa, llega a ser mas y mas difícil escuchar a Dios, y casi imposible ponderar el significado de Su verdad. Caminar en el contentamiento de Su presencia se pierde con frecuencia. Por esta razón, Dios nos recuerda suavemente – realmente, El nos da un mandato firme:

Salmo 46:10
“Quédense quietos, reconozcan que yo soy Dios.”

Hay muchas cosas en la vida que son buenas – mucha gente buena y actividades buenas que requieren, o por lo menos desean, nuestro tiempo. Aunque Dios definitivamente nos llama a servir y ministrar uno al otro, tenemos que entender que la actividad constante nos obstaculiza nuestra habilidad de oír a Dios. Para mantener una comunicación efectiva con Dios y alimentar un sentido de Su paz, tenemos que hacer el tiempo, y hacer el “esfuerzo” a simplemente detenernos y descansar en Su fuerza.

Quizá el escritor de Salmos sabía que necesitaríamos apoyo y confianza en Dios para que estuvieramos quietos: “Dios es nuestro amparo y nuestra fortaleza, nuestra ayuda segura en momentos de angustia. Por eso, no temeremos aunque se desmorone la tierra y las montañas se hundan en el fondo del mar; aunque rujan y se encrespen sus aguas, y ante su furia retiemblen los montes” (Salmo 46:1-3). Dios siempre permanecerá a nuestro lado como una fuente de fortaleza. No hay de que temer al estar quietos!

Nunca debemos olvidar que nuestro Padre Celestial desea mas que cualquier otra cosa que le amemos a El con todo nuestro corazón, alma, mente y fuerzas (Marcos 12:30). No debemos olvidar que lo que dice Jesús es lo mas importante: “…Pero solo una cosa es necesaria, y María ha escogido la buena parte, la cual no le será quitada” (Lucas 10:42).

De la manera que nuestro paso incrementa su velocidad, acerquemonos a El alabandole quietamente y dandole gracias por el maravilloso regalo de Su Hijo. Protejamos nuestro horario para que podamos tener tiempo para el mejor de Dios. Recibamos y disfrutemos Sus verdaderas bendiciones mientras hacemos tiempo cada día para simplemente quedarnos quietos y reconocer.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Strengthened By Hardship

By Steve T. on January 8, 2013

On Paul’s first missionary journey, he traveled with Barnabas to Cyprus and then up through several cities in Galatia. After preaching the gospel in Antioch, Iconium, Lystra, and Derbe, they returned back through the same cities so they could strengthen those who had recently placed their faith in Jesus.

Acts 14:21-22
“They returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. ‘We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,’ they said.”

The early church was facing great persecution for simply turning to faith in Jesus Christ. Paul himself faced many hardships and was recently stoned for preaching the gospel. Paul encouraged the churches by letting them know they were not alone in their suffering. But he also seemed to encourage by saying that hardship was a necessary part of the Christian walk.

Those who have placed their complete faith in Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of sin have begun a journey which leads to the kingdom of God. Once we truly begin this journey, we are His child and our place with God has been reserved; “He anointed us, set His seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come” (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).

However, while on this journey, God has a great plan and purpose for our life; “For those God foreknew He also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of His Son” (Romans 8:29). Every step is for the purpose of drawing us closer and conforming us to the image of Christ. And hardship is the tool which seems to best accomplish this goal. We all might prefer that God would shape us through praise and blessings, but we seem to respond best to hardship.

It’s hardship which reminds us of our dependence on God when we’ve begun to trust in our own abilities and understanding. It’s hardship which brings us back to our knees in prayer after long seasons of silence. It’s hardship which develops the character of a mature believer: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything” (James 1:2-4).

As difficult as this truth may be to accept and understand, part of God’s plan is for us to experience some hardship. Not all hardship can be said to come from God; but in our lost and fallen world where we come to God filled with pride and arrogance, hardship is often the only way to humble our spirit and soften our heart. Our Heavenly Father loves us enough to do whatever it takes to draw us closer to His side – even when this means being strengthened by hardship.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Jan 8 Genesis 18:20-19:38; Matthew 6:25-7:14; Psalms 8:1-9; Proverbs 2:6-15

http://gdwm.org/index.php/resources/

42.6 miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles

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Learn How to Fall

By Steve T. on January 7, 2013

When my daughter was beginning to ride her bike she discovered an all-important truth. After a particularly difficult afternoon she came inside and said; “Daddy, you know the hardest part about riding a bike? It’s learning how to fall!” At five years of age she had discovered that falling was an inevitable part of the riding experience; but to have a “successful” experience, she needed to learn how to fall without causing damage to her body.

When we follow the call of God and step into the great unknown, we are ALWAYS successful. We are successful because success is defined as being obedient to His call, regardless of the physical results or accomplishments. We must never evaluate our walk with the Lord based on a worldly criteria. Rather, we walk by a faith which is lived out each day through trust and obedience.

When John the Baptist was in prison he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are you the one who was to come, or should we expect someone else?” (Matthew 11:3). This question indicates some great turmoil. John preached a message of repentance to “Prepare the way of the Lord” (Luke 3:4), and he described Jesus as, “one more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie” (Luke 3:16). And when John baptized Jesus, he heard a voice from Heaven say, “This is My Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). But while in jail, John needed to ask, “Are You really the One?”

Matthew 11:4-6
“Jesus replied, ‘Go back and report to John what you hear and see: The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear… Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of Me.'”

The first part of this reply is what we expect. Jesus is saying, “Of course I’m the One! Don’t you see the evidence?” But then Jesus answers John’s real question with “Blessed is the man who does not fall away on account of Me.” John was doubting because he had been sent to jail for following Christ. He had taken a discouraging fall and was questioning his chosen path. Was it possible that he should experience such hardship if Jesus was really the Christ?

Our walk with Jesus is never promised to be easy – it is promised to be eternal! We are never promised success in the eyes of the world; we are promised the true success which only His peace can give…and also an eternal glory in the presence of God! His plans and purposes are perfect and will most surely include aspects we cannot understand; include times when we become discouraged and appear to fall. These are times we must fall without falling away. In falling we must fall closer to Jesus and learn to trust Him even more. We can have success even through apparent failure, but we must first learn how to fall.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

**** Reading Plan ****

Jan 4 Genesis 8:1-10:32; Matthew 4:12-25; Psalms 4:1-8; Proverbs 1:20-23
Jan 5 Genesis 11:1-13:4; Matthew 5:1-26; Psalms 5:1-12; Proverbs 1:24-28
Jan 6 Genesis 13:5-15:21; Matthew 5:27-48; Psalms 6:1-10; Proverbs 1:29-33
Jan 7 Genesis 16:1-18:19; Matthew 6:1-24; Psalms 7:1-17; Proverbs 2:1-5

http://gdwm.org/index.php/resources/

36.1 miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles

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Aprender a Caer

By Steve T. on January 7, 2013

Cuando mi hija estaba aprendiendo a andar en su bicicleta, ella descubrió una verdad muy importante. Después de una tarde en particular, entró a la casa y dijo; “¿Papi, sabe que es la parte más difícil de andar en bicicleta? ¡Es aprender a caer!” Con solo cinco años de edad, ella había descubierto que caer era una parte inevitable de la experiencia; pero para tener una experiencia “exitosa”, tenía que aprender a caer sin dañarse o herir su cuerpo.

Cuando seguimos el llamado de Dios y entramos al gran desconocido, somos SIEMPRE exitosos. Somos exitosos porque el éxito se define como ser obediente a Su llamado sin importar los resultados físicos o los logros. Nunca debemos evaluar nuestro caminar con el Señor en base de los criterios del mundo. Mas bien, caminamos por fe que se vive cada día a través de la confianza y obediencia.

Cuando Juan el Bautista estaba en la prisión, El mandó a sus discípulos a preguntar a Jesús, “¿Eres tú aquel que había de venir o esperaremos a otro?” (Mateo 11:3). Esta pregunta señala una gran frustración dentro de Juan. Juan predicó un mensaje del arrepentimiento para “Preparar el camino del Señor” (Lucas 3:4), y dijo acerca de Jesús; “pero viene uno más poderoso que yo, de quien no soy digno de desatar la correa de su calzado” (Lucas 3:16). Y cuando Juan bautizó a Jesús, oyó una voz del Cielo diciendo, “Este es mi Hijo amado, en quien tengo complacencia” (Mateo 3:17). Pero ahora mientras que estaba encarcelado, Juan tuvo que preguntar: “¿Eres tú aquel que había de venir?”

Mateo 11:4-6
“Les respondió Jesús: –Vayan y cuéntenle a Juan lo que están viendo y oyendo: Los ciegos ven, los cojos andan, los que tienen lepra son sanados, los sordos oyen, los muertos resucitan y a los pobres se les anuncian las buenas nuevas. Dichoso el que no tropieza por causa mía.”

La primera parte de esta respuesta es lo que esperamos. Jesús esta diciendo, “¡Por supuesto, que soy El! ¿No ves las evidencias?” Pero después Jesús contesta la pregunta verdadera de Juan con “Dichoso el que no tropieza por causa mía.” Juan estaba dudando porque había sido encarcelado por seguir a Cristo. El había caído y ahora estaba cuestionando su camino escogido. ¿Era posible experimentar tanta persecución si Jesús era verdaderamente el Cristo?

Nuestro caminar con Cristo nunca promete ser fácil ¡promete ser eterno! Nunca nos promete éxito ante los ojos del mundo nos promete el éxito verdadero que solamente Su paz y contentamiento se puede proveer…y también una gloria eterna en el Cielo! Sus planes y propósitos son perfectos y seguramente incluirá aspectos que no podemos entender incluirá tiempos cuando nos frustramos y parecemos caer. Estos son momentos en los cuales debemos caer sin alejarnos de El. En las caídas, debemos acercarnos a Jesús y aprender a confiar en El aún más. Podemos tener éxito aún a través de un aparente fracaso, pero primeramente debemos aprender a caer.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Resolve To Be Transformed

By Steve T. on January 3, 2013

In the days immediately preceding and following the first of the year there is always talk about resolutions. I’m surprised at the number of people who speak ill about making resolutions. The discussion is usually focused on how resolutions always fail. It seems wrong, or at least unwise, to set goals when you are just being set up for failure. While I agree that making resolutions carries a risk of perceived failure, I would also make the case that attempting some resolutions can be a grand adventure; and some resolutions may actually be accomplished.

On New Year’s Eve, 2002, I made a resolution to run 500 miles in 2003. This was a significant resolution as I had never been a runner. On January 1, I went out for my first run of the year and struggled to run one mile. But I stuck with it for the entire year and by the end of the year I had run 1508 miles. Yes, it was a grand adventure. I continued running in 2004 but then completely stopped and have only recently begun to run again with my daughter. My resolution for 2013? I would like to run 1509 miles. I’m ten years older (53), but everything seems to work relatively well and I praise God every day I’m able to plod down the road. I’ll post my miles at the bottom of every message. There will probably be an increased motivation in knowing I have announced my resolution to thousands of people around the world. This ought to be fun.

But there is a type of resolution which carries much more significance than running. There are definitive things we can do which have eternal significance. Jesus said it well as He admonished the Pharisees: “You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. First clean the inside…and then the outside also will be clean” (Matthew 23:25-26). Most of us make resolutions which are focused in some way on the external, things like exercise or diet. Few resolve to make the more important changes.

The Bible speaks about the initial transformation which occurs when we become a “new creation” in Christ. Of course, we call this Salvation and it is ALL by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). But the Bible also speaks about the on-going transformation as we draw closer to God and achieve the peace and contentment found only in His presence. This process is called sanctification.

Romans 12:2
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.”

At the beginning of 2012 I began to include the daily readings for the One Year Bible at the bottom of each message. I followed through this plan and completed the final reading on the first of January. If you began this plan in 2012 and did not finish, please do not view this as a failure. Rather, consider what you accomplished and simply continue. It really makes no difference if you finish the Bible in one year or in two or three. But a habit of reading and studying God’s Word can make a lasting transformation in our life.

This reading plan is posted on my web site as Reading Plan Number 5 at:

http://gdwm.org/index.php/resources/

There are many other eternal types of resolutions. So on our list of things to do differently this next year – our list of resolutions – I pray we include more time with God in prayer, more time in His Word, more time loving Him with ALL our heart, seeking His presence, and earnestly desiring to know, and do, His will. Let our prayer for one another be that we draw ever closer to our Heavenly Father and experience His love new and fresh every day. In this new year, let’s make eternal resolutions as we resolve to be transformed!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Jan 1 Genesis 1:1-2:25; Matthew 1:1-2:12; Psalms 1:1-6; Proverbs 1:1-6

Jan 2 Genesis 3:1-4:26; Matthew 2:13-3:6; Psalms 2:1-12; Proverbs 1:7-9

Jan 3 Genesis 5:1-7:24; Matthew 3:7-4:11; Psalms 3:1-8; Proverbs 1:10-19

13.1 miles in 2013 : Goal 1509 miles

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Determinamos Ser Transformados

By Steve T. on January 3, 2013

¿Que haremos diferente este año? Durante la primera semana de Enero, habrán mas dietas comenzadas y mas intentos de varias formas de “auto-mejoramiento” que durante cualquier otro tiempo del año. Yo confieso que he tomado una resolución de correr mil millas este año. También confieso que no he comenzado muy bien – solamente he corrido dos millas en las primeras cinco dias, pero los mantendré informados. [Nota: Este mensaje fue escrito el 6 de Enero de 2003. Corrí la milesima milla el 15 de Septiembre y terminé el año con 1508 millas! Gloria a Dios!!]

Sin importar cuando se lea este mensaje, hoy es el principio de un año nuevo. La mayoría de resoluciones con buenas intenciones pronto estarán olvidadas, pero algunas harán cambios permanentes para mejorar. Si le requiere un compromiso de una resolución del Año Nuevo para liberarse de un habito malo, restaurar una relación destruida o mejorar su salud, entonces de cualquier manera haga la resolución!

Pero durante este tiempo cuando casi irresistiblemente reflejamos para atrás y miramos hacia adelante, enfoquemos unos de nuestros esfuerzos en hacer cambios con importancia eterna. Jesús dijo bien cuando les regañó a los fariseos: “Limpian el exterior del vaso y del plato, pero por dentro están llenos de robo y de desenfreno. ¡Fariseo ciego! Limpia primero por dentro el vaso y el plato, y así quedará limpio también por fuera” (Mateo 23:25-26).

La Biblia habla acerca de la transformación inicial que ocurre cuando llegamos a ser “nueva creación” en Cristo. Pero también habla acerca de la transformación continua mientras nos acercamos a Dios y logramos tener paz y contentamiento encontrada solamente en Su presencia.

Romanos 12:2
“No se amolden al mundo actual, sino sean transformados mediante la renovación de su mente. Así podrán comprobar cuál es la voluntad de Dios, buena, agradable y perfecta.”

La renovación de nuestra mente es un cambio interno donde nos estamos “conformados a la imagen de Su Hijo” (Romanos 8:29). Es un proceso de cambiar nuestros pensamientos, prioridades, y metas para estar alineados con aquellos de Cristo; “La actitud de ustedes debe ser como la de Cristo Jesús” (Filipenses 2:5). La mente de Cristo era pura, enfocada en el Padre, y determinada a hacer Su voluntad: “Mi alimento es hacer la voluntad del que me envió y terminar su obra” (Juan 4:34).

En nuestra lista de cosas por diferente por hacer en este año nuevo, Yo oro que incluyamos mas tiempo con Dios en oración, mas tiempo en Su Palabra, mas tiempo amandole a El con TODO nuestro corazón, buscando Su presencia, y honestamente deseando conocer, y hacer, Su voluntad. Que nuestra oración el uno por el otro sea que nos acerquemos mas que nunca a nuestro Padre Celestial y experimentemos Su amor nuevamente cada día. En este año nuevo, hagamos resoluciones eternas mientras determinamos ser transformados!

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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Off The Throne

By Steve T. on January 2, 2013

After the birth of Jesus, Magi (wise men) came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews?” (Matthew 2:2). When King Herod heard about this he became greatly disturbed. Herod had been appointed King of the Jews by the Roman government; but he was only partially Jewish and not well accepted by the people.

King Herod knew of the Jewish scriptures and how the people were waiting for the Messiah; “The government will be on His shoulders” (Isaiah 9:6). He heard the words of the prophet which told where the new ruler would be born; “Out of you {Bethlehem} will come for Me one who will be ruler over Israel” (Micah 5:2). Herod viewed the news of this new ruler as a great threat. How would this affect his right to be king? Would he lose power? prestige? control? …comfort!? The potential harm was unbearable so Herod decided to take action.

Matthew 2:16
“He gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under.”

Many people today are not much different than Herod. Even when they recognize Jesus and clearly see their need, they fear losing the ability to direct their own path. They may not actually take steps to destroy Christ, but the thought of releasing control seems unbearable. Somehow, they’ve been taught that submission equates to failure. But the reality is that true “success” is only found in Christ, and true comfort is only obtained by being set free from the power of sin and the entanglement of this world.

Jesus was, and always will be, very threatening to those who insist on sitting on a throne. It’s foolishness to think Jesus will accept the position of Co-King. Those who attempt to enter a relationship with Jesus while trying to maintain their “right to rule” will never really know Him, and certainly never experience His peace.

Jesus will give Himself to “whoever believes in Him” (John 3:13). But in return, He asks for our total devotion: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30). We give Him proper worship – the worship He deserves – only as we submit and exalt Him above all else; “He must become greater, I must become less” (John 3:30).

As we begin this new year, let’s ensure our relationship with Jesus is aligned with God’s plan. He is the rightful Ruler and King – the Savior and Lord! Let’s trust and worship Him with all our heart, and refuse to be threatened by His right to lead. Let’s decide once and for all to relinquish control and get our pride-filled self off the throne.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

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Bajemonos del Trono

By Steve T. on January 2, 2013

Después del nacimiento de Jesús, llegaron tres magos a Jerusalén y preguntaron, “¿Dónde está el rey de los judíos, que ha nacido?” (Mateo 2:2). Cuando el Rey Herodes oyó esto se puso muy turbado. Herodes había sido nombrado Rey de los Judíos por el gobierno Romano; pero solamente era parcialmente Judío y no fue muy bien aceptado por la gente.

El Rey Herodes sabía de las escrituras Judías y como la gente estaba esperando un mesías; “y el principado sobre su hombro” (Isaías 9:6). El había oído las palabras del profeta quien contó donde iba a nacer el nuevo líder; “Pero tú, Belén Efrata, pequeña para estar entre las familias de Judá, de ti me saldrá el que será Señor en Israel” (Miqueas 5:2). Herodes vió las noticias de este líder nuevo como una gran amenaza. ¿Como afectaría esto su derecho de ser rey? ¿Perderá poder? prestigio? control?…comodidad!?

No podía soportar el dolor potencial y por eso decidió tomar acción.

Mateo 2:16
“Mandó matar a todos los niños menores de dos años que había en Belén y en todos sus alrededores.”

Muchas personas ahora no son tan diferentes que Herodes. Aún cuando reconocemos a Jesús y vemos claramente nuestra necesidad, tememos la perdida de nuestra habilidad de dirigir nuestro propio camino – a controlar nuestro propio destino. Quiza no tomemos paso para destruir a Cristo, pero el solo pensar de rendir control completo a Cristo parece insoportable. De alguna manera, hemos sido enseñado que la sumisión equivale al fracaso y comodidad reducida; pero la realidad es que el “exito” verdadero solamente se encuentra en Cristo, y comodidad verdadera solamente se obtiene a través de ser liberado del poder del pecado y las distracciones de este mundo.

Jesús era – y siempre será – una gran amenaza a aquellos que insisten en sentarse en un trono. Aquellos que intentan entrar a una relación con Jesús mientras sigan tratando de mantener su “derecho a gobernar” nunca lo conocerán verdaderamente, y ciertamente nunca experimentarán Su paz.

Jesús se dará a Si mismo a “todo el que cree en él” (Juan 3:16). Pero en cambio, El espera nuestra devoción total: “Y amarás al Señor tu Dios con todo tu corazón, y con toda tu alma, y con toda tu mente y con todas tus fuerzas” (Marcos 12:30). A El le damos alabanzas apropiadas – alabanzas que El merece – solamente de la manera que nos sometemos y le exaltamos encima de todo lo demas; “Es necesario que él crezca, pero que yo mengüe” (Juan 3:30).

Mientras celebramos el nacimiento de nuestro Salvador, aseguremonos que nuestra relación con El está en linea con el plan de Dios. El es el legítimo Lider y Rey – el Salvador y Señor! Confiemos en El y alabemosle a El con todo nuestro corazón y neguemos el ser amenazados por Su derecho de dirigir. Decidamos una vez y por siempre a renunciar el control y bajemos nuestro ser orgulloso del trono.

Tenga un Dia Centrado en Cristo!

Steve Troxel
Ministerios La Palabra Diaria de Dios

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End of Year Financial Update

By Steve T. on December 27, 2012

It’s hard to believe that 2012 is coming to an end. Each year I allow myself one message to specifically ask for additional support…and this is the one. I apologize if this is one of the first messages you are receiving from this ministry; honestly, I only do this once a year.

Like most ministries, we are funded by both one time donations (especially at the end of the year!) and regular monthly contributions. Our regular contributors continue to be remarkably faithful, but each year there are several who need to end their support. I need 25 additional people who are able to commit to regular donations in 2013.

One time donations as well as regular monthly contributions can be made using credit card or paypal through our web site at:

http://gdwm.org/index.php/support/

You can also mail donation or send bank checks to:

God’s Daily Word Ministries
PO Box 190
Lorena, TX 76655

If you are able to make regular donations by check, please send me your mailing address and I will send you a set of pre-addressed envelopes. This has proven to work very well for those who are able to make monthly contributions.

A final option for donations is stock transfer. This has only been done a few times but it is easy to do and has an added tax advantage for the donor. Please contact me if you would like more information.

This is a relatively small ministry, but God seems to use us in big ways all around the world. We are increasing our involvement and commitments in Kenya. I will continue to write update messages about these projects throughout the year; however, in this message I want to highlight the email portion of the ministry. Email continues to be a vital portion of what we do and continues to show good fruit. Here are several feedback messages which represent the type of notes I receive almost every day.

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Since being introduced to your email God’s Daily Word now that I am on assignment to Russia, I feel ever closer to God.
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I would like to thank you Steve for your wonderful messages every day. You have giving me insight to God that I never knew.
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From South Africa A month ago I sent you a message on how troubled I was and the challenge at my work place, You sent me words of encouragement and ever since I have so much peace. The daily word that you send me everyday is pruning me. I share the daily word on my facebook. People comment positively; your ministry is touching lives.
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There is no way except God that I read this email at just the moment I needed it…I’m struggling with feelings of being a horrible mom. I have four daughters two that are grown and two in elementary school. And I like so many others am struggling just to keep the lights on and clothe the younger two. I had just confessed to someone how I don’t think I should be a mom considering our current circumstance and then went online to check my email…thank you.
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GDW gives me great encouragement to come back to the Lord where I was back slided for more than 20 years. God Bless You and Your Works.
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I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping me keep my faith and never forgetting that God is God, he is the God of all.
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Brother Steve thank you so much for allowing Jesus Christ to use you. Yesterday I was on the edge to do something wrong but Jesus sent you to strengthen my faith and lead me in the way. A big Amen – God bless you!
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My family has been going through a major crisis, and God’s Word has been a lifeline for us! I appreciate what God does through you. May God continue to bless you and all you do to inspire and transform lives.
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I just want to say Thank you for sharing the Words of Life. They have LITERALLY SAVED ME! Your work makes so much difference than you can possibly imagine… The way you share the word is Awesome! The WORD IS AWESOME!
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Greetings to you and your family from Ethiopia. I just wanted to say thank you and God bless you for the work that you are doing and the life changing devotional materials you are unceasingly producing every day. This is beyond understanding and am one of those beneficiaries of this daily devotional materials now for the past six to seven years.

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I am blessed to receive this kind of feedback. I know we are making a difference as I send out over 40,000 email messages four or five times each week. I believe God wants me to continue this ministry and I am blessed to be able to do so.

Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, your financial support, and for allowing me to walk with you on this journey of faith. May God receive all the glory through the reporting of this end of year financial update.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Posted in Devotional, Update Message | Leave a response

The Last Unopened Gift

By Steve T. on December 26, 2012

Did you see it? You may have missed it…but it was there. Don’t feel bad; most people overlook this one, but there is still time. Today, before the new year gets here, before all the decorations are put away, before all the other gifts are set aside, open it!

Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The gift of God. Why do so many people miss His gift? One reason might be the rather ordinary wrapping; “He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him” (Isaiah 53:2). And you can’t get less majestic than being born with the animals; “He made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness” (Philippians 2:7). Yes, such a great gift in such common wrapping could be easily missed. But perhaps there is something else, something in the very makeup of our nature which keeps us from opening His gift.

A prince does not have a problem accepting a gift meant for a prince. And a common person does not have a problem accepting a gift which is common. But a common person can be quite uncomfortable accepting a gift meant for a prince. We know what is inside the gift – eternal life! A gift meant for a prince. And deep down we know we are so very common, so unworthy! This gift is too great, too much above what we feel we deserve. This gift makes us feel uncomfortable: “If we accept the gift will we then feel a debt? How could we ever repay such a debt? Maybe it’s best to ignore it and just leave it wrapped under the tree.”

I suppose we shouldn’t be too hard on ourselves. This is a natural reaction to such a gift. Ever since the gift was first made available, people have felt unworthy and refused to open or even give it much notice. They would rather try to somehow work and feel deserving; “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). But the gift cannot be earned, and working does not make us more deserving.

Jesus Christ came in ordinary wrapping. He died for the forgiveness of our sin. Why? So we could be given the greatest gift of all, the gift of eternal life! Let’s not let another day go by without receiving His gift. Sure we might feel uncomfortable. Sure we might feel a debt we can never repay. But His gift is given in love and is worth it all. Let’s honestly examine what is keeping us away. Let’s humbly recognize our need, and in the quiet of our heart let’s be sure to receive the last unopened gift.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

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A Lifetime of Waiting

By Steve T. on December 24, 2012

Sixteen years ago God nudged me down a path which changed my life. The email ministry which began as an idea for the distribution of encouragement has taught me much, blessed our family, and provided many unique opportunities. But there have also been frustrations with seeking clear direction. We have usually only been able to see the next small step down the road. The result has been a continual asking of God, an on-going preparation to follow, and a difficult process of waiting. Looking back we can clearly see His loving Hand of guidance in every step, but looking forward we try to not grow impatient as we seek, trust…and wait.

Why is waiting so difficult? I’m afraid our “get-it-now” society doesn’t prepare us very well for waiting. Many around the world have a different concept of time and seem to live a much more relaxed and patient life, but most of us are taught, almost from birth, to expect immediate gratification. We want, we get; we want some more, we get some more. Accomplishment is defined by running and spinning; but the result is usually just a spinning out of control.

Our world hasn’t always been this way. There was a time long ago when people truly knew how to wait on the Lord.

Joseph and Mary were devout Jews who followed the laws of Moses. Therefore, forty days after Jesus was born they “took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord” (Luke 2:22). This was done in recognition of God’s command, “The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to Me” (Exodus 13:2). They also offered a sacrifice as a burnt offering and sin offering, “a pair of doves and two young pigeons” (Luke 2:24).

This was the process all Jews followed when a child was born. But when Joseph and Mary entered the temple court, holding the baby Jesus, something stirred in a man called Simeon.

Luke 2:25-26
“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”

Simeon approach Joseph and Mary, held Jesus and gave a wonderful praise and prophesy. But let’s not miss what was said about this man called Simeon. He was devoted to God, and he was waiting. How long was he willing to wait? Well, the only time frame he was given was that he would have his answer sometime before he died. He did not know if this would mean days, months, or many years, but he was willing to wait.

We need to regain this ability, this trust which is content to wait for God’s direction. The promises of God are that He will reveal His direction, He will lead, comfort, and “renew {our} strength” (Isaiah 40:31), but we must be willing to wait and continue to do what we know we have already been given to do. During this Christmas season, let’s renew our trust in the God who has so perfectly revealed Himself through the birth of Jesus. Let’s commit to following Him all our days and be determined to trust Him through a lifetime of waiting.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Posted in Devotional | 1 Response