My precious treasure is dwindling.

Thursday 2-23-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 12 – 13, Psalm 90 and Mark 2

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ps 90:12 Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom. NLT

O. Other versions translate Ps 90:12 more literally: Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. NIV   These words form a brief prayer that can apply to all people of any nation.

A. But how can I number my days? I have no assurance of tomorrow. At any moment I could leave behind this tiny video clip of eternity called “time” and go where “time” will no longer be counted. I think about it more now that I have passed the 85 year mark. Since I really can’t “count” my days, at least I can value my days, and make every day “count.”

P. Heavenly Father: As I was reading through this psalm, this short prayer seemed to leap out at me. I can flitter away 16 hours far too easily. What I intend to do here on earth, I must do now… for I have no promise of tomorrow down here. When I fix my eyes on the horizon I can almost see the end of my “time.” My “step into eternity” draws closer with every sunset.  For me and for all of us, our “time” is our most precious commodity. God, please help me to use it well today.  Amen.

Ralph

Lord, but they are not part of our church!

Wednesday 2-22-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 10 – 11, Psalm 27 and Mark 1

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Num 11:27-30 A young man ran and reported to Moses, "Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp!" Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses' personal assistant since his youth, protested, "Moses, my master, make them stop!" But Moses replied, "Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his Spirit upon them all!" Then Moses returned to the camp with the leaders of Israel. NLT

O. Moses had called together 70 leaders to help him carry the load of the complaining Israelites. And the Lord took some if the Spirit of Moses and placed it upon these 70 and they began to prophecy.  But two men that had not been in that meeting were found prophesying. Someone reported them to Moses. Even Joshua thought that they should be hushed, but Moses said, “Wonderful! I wish everyone could worship and glorify God this way!”

A. I must recognize that my group of believers is not the only people that God can use. He might even use some teenager to bring many to Christ. God does not require a doctoral degree to be a blessing to others. A degree may prepare a chosen servant to be a great blessing, but God is not limited to our little circle. Can I rejoice when God uses greatly someone outside my denomination? I certainly can and I must! It seems that the Lord chooses the weakest for a great conquest.

P. Lord God: Sometimes we want to place you in a neat little box with our name attached, but You are big enough to use anyone You choose. Your disciples tried to silence a man who was casting out demons in Your name, And You said, “Leave him alone… He is certainly not our enemy.” Jealousy can become a vicious enemy within Your servants. Help me to recognize it immediately if it rises in my own heart. And if I see it in my brother, may I be able to speak lovingly to him or her to help them silence those dangerous, bitter thoughts. You can even use a small child. Amen.

Ralph

Who, among us, belongs to God?

Tuesday 2-21-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 8 – 9 and Acts 28

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Num 8:14 In this way, you will set the Levites apart from the rest of the people of Israel, and the Levites will belong to me. NLT

O. Moses and Aaron were brothers of the tribe of Levi. Jewish Priests were only selected from the tribe of Levi and those Levites that were not chosen to be priests were all involved in things related to the worship of God and the maintenance of the tabernacle.  However, this did not exclude the other eleven tribes from worship. David was of the tribe of Judah, and he wrote many of the psalms and sang them to God, accompanied by the music of his harp. We know his fingers worked wonders on that harp, since King Saul hired him to give him a background of sweet melodies to calm his troubled soul. We are not informed as to the tribal background of the apostles chosen by our Lord to carry His message throughout the world. It is most likely that Matthew (Levi) was a Levite. We know that Paul was from the tribe of Benjamin. Obviously, Jesus was not choosing one from each tribe, since there were two sets of brothers among the original twelve.

A. So today who are the ones that “belong to God”? Jesus showed us a new day when many would be chosen for specific tasks related to His Church, and that any and all of His followers really belong to Him. The Apostle Paul admonishes us to flee sexual impurity saying, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.” 1 Cor 6:19-20 NIV. I am not my own, to do whatever I please. I have been bought with a price… and what a price! … the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, the Son of God on that cruel cross. I belong to God from the top of my head to the sole of my feet.**

P. Lord Jesus: May I never forget the price You paid to redeem me from the depths of sin! If the Levites were a chosen people in the days of Moses, today we have each been chosen to belong to You. You care about me. You watch how things are going for me. Like a son born into Your family, Praise God! I belong to You! Amen.

Ralph

1 Peter 2:9-10 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. NIV

Yesterday, Tuesday, Feb 21, I met with our District World Missions Team.  This was only my second WMT meeting with our new District Superintendent, Bret Allen. During our discussion it was mentioned that Missionaries Mike and Judy Santiago had taken on a new role.  They are picking up where I left off about 8 years ago helping our district churches to get excited and up-to-speed in their partnership with Assemblies of God World Missions.

You gotta meet this couple! They served as Assemblies of God World Missionaries for 50 years… first in Ecuador, South America; then in Panama and Venezuela. Later they accepted the challenge to Equatorial Guinea in Africa, then to Swaziland and finally in Zambia, Africa.  They planted many churches, taught Bible Schools, founded “Charisma Leadership Seminars” and much more.  Mike grew up in New York, when as a kid he skated on the ice for fun.  California doesn’t offer much ice where they live in Roseville, so he has taken up roller blading on the street at a young 80 years old. J Wave at him if you see him zoom by. And you can talk to him in Spanish if you like… Both are bilingual.

Now that they are officially retired from AGWM, they have volunteered to step into “Missions Awareness” for the District. So when I heard this, I called them and told them that I still have some materials in my garage left over from my time with national MAT.  So last night I packed my car with some boxes and this morning drove to Roseville (Mission Villa) and left all that I had in their hands.  Among the things I gave them are many excellent materials prepared by Missionary Paul Brannan who now serves the Kentucky District as Missions Leader.  Paul is a veritable “machine” for cranking out new materials to promote missions, including many excellent Power Point inspirational and teaching aides. I gave Mike everything I had stored in my garage… and even though I stepped out of that role years ago, I kind of felt like I was “passing the baton” to this capable, younger couple.

Mike and Judy Santiago can be reached at (916) 878-1577 cell or 916) 297-7857 home.  They’ll come and inspire your church to new heights in World Missions.  They receive no salary for what they are doing, so if you want to help with their monthly support or just an offering, they have an account with the Northern California-Nevada District office.

So, Mike and Judy, “Go for it!”  You are no strangers to our wonderful district and we always can use a boost in our world missions vision!

Ralph

In the middle of the storm, can I say, “I believe God?”

Monday 2-20-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 7, Psalm 23 and Acts 27

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 27:22-26 But take courage! None of you will lose your lives, even though the ship will go down. For last night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood beside me, and he said, 'Don't be afraid, Paul, for you will surely stand trial before Caesar! What's more, God in his goodness has granted safety to everyone sailing with you.' So take courage! For I believe God. It will be just as he said. But we will be shipwrecked on an island." NLT

O. The first time Paul spoke, nobody wanted to take him seriously. He was a nobody, just another prisoner in chains. But now after his predictions came true, the prisoner, Paul, basically took control of the ship. Everything was out of control. All hope to survive was lost. So now Paul gets all 275 men aboard together and shouts over the storm, “Take courage, every one of you! I had a visitor from my God last night and he told me that even though the ship will go down, all of us are going to be saved alive!” Then he adds, “So hang in there, boys! Because I believe God!” Without doubt the atmosphere aboard ship changed with that “word” of assurance from God.

A. When the storm rages around me and all hope is lost, can I believe God? Do I need an angelic visit? Isn’t it enough that Jesus gave me His Word assuring me that He would never leave my side?

P.  Lord, I admit it. At stormy times like that, I need a heavenly visitor. I know that You are still there, but I need to hear a personal “Word” rising over the sound of the howling wind. Your special “Word” can change chaos into stability, for now there is hope… for I have chosen to say, along with Brother Paul, “I believe God!” Amen.

Ralph

That tender moment is forever lost.

Sunday 2-19-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 5 – 6, Psalm 22 and Acts 26

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 26:17-20 Yes, I am going to send you to the Gentiles,  to open their eyes so they may turn from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God. Then they will receive forgiveness for their sins and be given a place among God's people, who are set apart by faith in me.'  "And so, O King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to that vision from heaven. I preached first to those in Damascus, then in Jerusalem and throughout all Judea, and also to the Gentiles, that all must turn from their sins and turn to God… NLT

O. Dr. Luke, the author of the book of Acts, must have been present in this solemn occasion, since he transcribes very clearly Paul’s message that day. It was a sermon directed toward these high-class Gentiles and especially to King Agrippa.  Paul discloses that he knows King Agrippa is, not only well acquainted with the prophecies of the Jewish scriptures, but he even believes they are true.  And now, with great passion, he gives this king a chance to meet the King of Kings… the Messiah that was killed and rose again.  The room is charged with Holy Spirit conviction when Governor Festus suddenly interrupts, yelling, “Paul, you are crazy!” It is so typical of the devil that wants to disturb an urgent “altar call” of a loving God for sinners to run to fall at the feet of the resurrected Savior.  

A. It is similar to many occasions while preaching to the lost. The preacher has poured out his or her heart with a passion. The message is heard. The Holy Spirit of God is touching the hearts of some who are balancing in the tender moment of decision… when suddenly someone sets off a volley of fireworks just outside the open windows or a little baby screams and will not be silenced… and an excuse is given for everyone to escape and leave the room without the miracle that Jesus had for them.

P. Oh Lord, I pray for those that “almost become Christians”. They were so close. They felt the tug of Your Holy Spirit, but the enemy of their souls distracted them and gave them the easy option to flee from the scene. Oh God! Please chase them down. Please let Your Word and Your Holy Spirit conviction follow them and trouble them until they crumble at Your feet in surrender. Then they will find a new life walking with You from now into eternity. Amen.

Ralph

You are God’s Chosen Instrument

Saturday 2-18-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 3 – 4 and Acts 25

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 25:22-23 "I'd like to hear the man myself," Agrippa said. And Festus replied, "You shall — tomorrow!" So the next day Agrippa and Bernice arrived at the auditorium with great pomp, accompanied by military officers and prominent men of the city. Festus ordered that Paul be brought in. NLT

O. Governor Festus has succeeded Felix and immediately the Jewish leaders hound him about Paul, still wanting him killed after two years in Felix’s prison. Festus asks Paul if he is willing to go for a hearing to Jerusalem as the Jewish leaders insist. Paul refuses. He knows that they will be lying in wait to murder him. Since he sees that he can get no justice from this lower court, he appeals to the Roman Emperor Caesar, himself.  King Agrippa comes to town to welcome Festus and wants to hear Paul’s case personally.

Here they come, King Herod Agrippa II and the new Governor Festus with “great pomp” along with a huge entourage of all the elite… coming to hear the words of a prisoner named Paul. The word for “pomp” here in Greek is “fantasias”. These are the cream of society who live in a fantasy world. But they are voluntarily coming to hear Paul preach about Jesus Christ. Go for it, Brother Paul!

A. Does God care about people in high places? Is He concerned with their lost souls? A humble Christian named Ananias of Damascus had heard the voice of the Lord the day of Paul’s conversion, “For Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.  And I will show him how much he must suffer for me." (Acts 9:15-16) NLT Yes, God cares about those who live in the “fantasy world” and later even took Paul to preach to the emperor himself… the king of the entire known world at that time.  Should I tremble when God gives me a chance to share His message of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, His mercy and love… when He places me before the “fantasy” affluent?

P. Dear Father, Who sits high above all people of high rank, give me a heart to see the elite in their fantasy world as lost. Yes. they can be as lost as that drunkard lying there in the gutter. Their fantasy world will crumble to dust very soon as they approach their last days on earth. May I never forget that I, too, am Your “chosen instrument”… chosen to boldly proclaim Your message to any and all, when given a chance.  Amen.

Ralph

Governor Felix was a wimp.

Friday 2-17-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Num 1 – 2 and Acts 24

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 24:22-25 Felix, who was quite familiar with the Way, adjourned the hearing and said, "Wait until Lysias, the garrison commander, arrives. Then I will decide the case." He ordered an officer to keep Paul in custody but to give him some freedom and allow his friends to visit him and take care of his needs. A few days later Felix came with his wife, Drusilla, who was Jewish. Sending for Paul, they listened as he told them about faith in Christ Jesus. As he reasoned with them about righteousness and self-control and the judgment to come, Felix was terrified. "Go away for now," he replied. "When it is more convenient, I'll call for you again." NLT

O. Governor Felix was a “put it off till another day” kind of leader.  Did he ever call for the garrison commander, Lysias? Apparently not. He was just biding his time until he could pass the decision concerning Paul to his successor… two years later. Felix was a “wimp.” He called for Paul, but not to free him. He was seeking a bribe. And he wanted his Jewish wife, Drusilla to hear this remarkable man. But things got hot as Paul struck close to his sin with a call to right judgment, self-control and the coming day, when he (Felix) would be judged. He stopped Paul’s sermon at the altar call with, “When it is more convenient, I’ll call for you again.”

A. I’ve called myself a “wimp”, too, for I am slow to make important decisions. When the conversation is hot, with emotions running high, I have called for time to think it over alone. I need time alone with the Lord at my side. Even so, sometimes I make errors and the Lord has had to come to my rescue… which, by the way, He always does.

P. Dear Lord, where would I be without You? Certainly, I would have made wrong decisions that would have destroyed my usefulness and happiness. I am again reminded that without You, I can do nothing right. As I return to Argentina in a few weeks there will be many decisions to make. I always feel like a little boy trying to do a man’s job. I pray for Your divine wisdom. I depend upon You. And help me not to put off for tomorrow what I should do today. Amen.

Ralph

Officer Alexander is puzzled

Thursday 2-16-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 26 – 27 and Acts 23

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 23:10-11 Finally, the commander, fearing they would tear him apart, ordered his soldiers to take him away from them and bring him back to the fortress. That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, "Be encouraged, Paul. Just as you have told the people about me here in Jerusalem, you must preach the Good News in Rome." NLT

O. My name is Alexander. I am a Roman military commander. I have been made responsible to take Paul to a Jewish religious court. I do not understand the Aramaic language and much less Jewish religious traditions. The court room is crowded and noisy. Suddenly there is silence as the Jewish High Priest takes his seat as judge. Paul is standing with hands chained behind his back. He is finally allowed to speak. He barely gets out a single sentence and I hear the “judge” bark out a command and the men standing nearest Paul smash him with a blow to the mouth. I find this amusing. But within two minutes the screaming begins. Some who are dressed in the obvious habit of the Pharisees now seem to be defending Paul. Others religious men are yelling something. Some grab Paul from one side are trying to pull him from the mob that is wanting to kill him. They are going to pull him apart. I am forced to intervene. I order my soldiers to drag him out of their reach and back to the fortress. The whole thing only lasted five minutes. I muse to myself, “These Jews make no sense.”  Paul is a little beat up, but cheerful as he is ushered into his prison cell.

The next morning I casually pass by his cell. He greets me, “Good morning, Officer Alexander, I hear it’s a beautiful day out there.” “What’s up with this guy? He’s smiling like he knows something!”

A. Paul has just heard fresh news from a higher power than Caesar. Yeah! In God’s timing, he will be given the privilege of preaching in Rome. He knows something Officer Alexander doesn’t know. I find that my spirit picks up as I am looking forward to something good, like another opportunity to preach. This coming Sunday it will be with the children of Modesto Neighborhood church. That fills me with joy. Then the following week I am scheduled to preach in an exciting Spanish speaking church, in San Francisco. That puts a smile on my face.

P. Lord Jesus, I find great joy as I look forward to coming ministry opportunities. Just the anticipation brings happiness. In a few weeks I will be back in Argentina with unlimited ministry possibilities. Help me to carry your joy and blessing wherever You send me. You do not send me alone. You have promised to go with me even to the ends of the earth. Amen.

Ralph

The land below my feet is Yours, Lord!

Wednesday 2-15-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 25, Psalm 25 - 26 and Acts 22

S = Scripture,  O = Observation,  A = Application,  P = Prayer,  SOAP for the soul.

S. Lev 25:23 And remember, the land must never be sold on a permanent basis because it really belongs to me. You are only foreigners and tenants living with me. NLT

O. At God’s command, the Israelites had taken over a land that had been occupied by a people that had polluted the land with horrible, sinful practices, including sacrificing many of their babies to the god of Molech.  God had Joshua divide the land into sections for each of the tribes of Israel. They would live on the land and cultivate it. But now as the Lord presents the concept of the 50^th year, the year of jubilee, and he adds this important revelation. “Your land is not really yours. It belongs to me!”

A. My grandfather William Frank Hiatt was granted a section of land by the government as a homestead in the 1880s.  But there were stipulations.  A home and a farm had to be established on the land within a certain time frame. I often have thought, “Who are we to say who “owns” a piece of land?” Was it taken by force from a former resident? I have the comfort to know that the area where my grandfather homesteaded had apparently never been “home” to anyone. It was a thick forest of trees and wild brush that required blood and sweat, axes and dynamite to clear an area for a homestead. He and his eleven sons and three daughters worked hard to make it into a home.  Maybe, as a Christian family, they had read this scripture and recognized that the land was really not theirs, but belonged to God, it’s Creator.

P. Lord, what might happen to our country if we recognized that You are really the owner of our possessions … not only the land beneath our feet, but of all the trinkets that we call “ours”?  Start with me, Lord. This house is not my own, this computer is not mine, my car is not really mine. You have just allowed me to live here like a foreigner, a tenant and a caretaker of Your property.  What a responsibility I have! Please help me to remember Who the real Owner is. I am only Your steward. Amen.

Ralph

We were invited to glean after the harvest.

Tuesday 2-14-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 23 – 24, Psalm 24 and Acts 21

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Lev 23:22 "When you harvest the crops of your land, do not harvest the grain along the edges of your fields, and do not pick up what the harvesters drop. Leave it for the poor and the foreigners living among you. I, the LORD, am your God." NLT

O. Mixed in among many detailed ceremonial laws, we find that God shows his concern for the poor, the widows and the strangers. They were instructed not to glean** the remnants of their harvests, but to leave the edges and corners of the field and all that had been missed in the harvest for the needy.

This concept is displayed vividly in the book of Ruth who was both a stranger and a widow.

When I was a teenager, although we never knew it, we were among the poor. Oregon is berry country. Each summer we worked all day in the heat, harvesting black berries, strawberries, raspberries, loganberries and boysenberries. One of the farms where I worked belonged to David Tillstrom, known to be a devote Christian. He told us that after we finished the harvest, if we wished we could come back later and “glean” the remaining berries. I brought my father and sisters and carried home enough boysenberries to can them and enjoy them all the following winter.

A. Some very wealthy people carefully count their pennies and find it hard to release their leftovers for the needy.  God reminds us at least four times with these instructions for the farmer… and applicable to all of us: When He blesses us, we should be quick to share our excess with the needy.

P. Lord, You have been so generous with me. Give me a generous heart, like David Tillstrom, ready to share my possessions to bless the needy.  Amen.

Ralph

**Historically the word “glean” means to gather the leftover grain or other produce after a harvest.

** When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. Deut 24:21 KJV

Paul preached all night. What can I learn from that?

Monday 2-13-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 20 – 22 and Acts 20

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 20:7-12 On the first day of the week, we gathered to observe the Lord's Supper. Paul was preaching; and since he was leaving the next day, he talked until midnight. The upstairs room where we met was lighted with many flickering lamps. As Paul spoke on and on, a young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, became very drowsy. Finally, he sank into a deep sleep and fell three stories to his death below. Paul went down, bent over him, and took him into his arms. "Don't worry," he said, "he's alive!" Then they all went back upstairs and ate the Lord's Supper together. And Paul continued talking to them until dawn; then he left. Meanwhile, the young man was taken home unhurt, and everyone was greatly relieved. NLT

O. Brother Paul was feeling the importance of his final message to his beloved friends in Troas. It was Sunday night and they had gathered together all the Christians into a crowded room. Lots of small lamps had been lit as Paul preached into the night. I am guessing that Eutychus was a young teenager, since most adults wouldn’t have chosen to sit in a window sill with a three story drop to the pavement below. But Paul preached on and on.

A. Who among us can stay wide awake when the preacher goes on and on? I wonder how many more were asleep in the dark shadows.  Suddenly there is a loud thump and Paul loses his audience right in the middle of a sentence. Everybody runs down three flights of stairs. Paul was now right behind them. He finds everybody standing around the body of this boy who is not breathing. But Paul is a man of action. He literally throws himself** on the body of Eutychus… who now takes a deep breath and begins to breathe again.  So, they all go back upstairs and Paul keeps on preaching until daybreak. Will he never learn? What can a preacher like me take away from this story? Well, it is always embarrassing when your whole audience suddenly leaves in the middle of your sermon… and worse still when they leave one at a time… until all the seats are empty except for one sleepy guy left nodding on the back row. It just might be time for the final benediction.

P. Lord, many times when I am the visiting speaker, the pastor has told me, “Don’t worry, my congregation is used to long sermons. Just feel free to preach.” But, since they have already sung for a full hour, I know heads will soon be nodding. I just start the introduction when a sister in the back picks up her purse and sneaks out. Help me, Lord, to always be considerate of my audience, since some have to rise early for their work.  Lord Jesus, please remind me of Eutychus when I need it. Amen.

Ralph

** The original Greek clearly says, “Paul fell on the boy and embraced him.”

The devil made an ugly scene and Jesus’ name was greatly honored.

Sunday 2-12-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 18 – 19 and Acts 19

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 19:14-17 Seven sons of Sceva, a leading priest, were doing this. But when they tried it on a man possessed by an evil spirit, the spirit replied, "I know Jesus, and I know Paul. But who are you?" And he leaped on them and attacked them with such violence that they fled from the house, naked and badly injured. The story of what happened spread quickly all through Ephesus, to Jews and Greeks alike. A solemn fear descended on the city, and the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honored. NLT

O. The word was getting around. Well-known Jewish priests, excursionists, the Seven Sons of Sceva” were traveling in this area casting out demons. Apparently, they were not true believers in Christ as their Messiah. But they had heard from reliable sources that believers in Jesus saw powerful results by using the words, “Come out! In Jesus name!” Probably their normal incantations were not working on this demon possessed man. So, they decided to try the power of “Jesus name.”

A. The final result was that the name of the Lord Jesus was greatly honored. One of the best way to convince a skeptic, an agnostic or an atheist is for him or her to witness the power of the devil in action as he fights back trying to resist the power in the name of Jesus. When they see their friend suddenly tearing at their clothing, falling and writhing, screaming in terror as the demon fights back… even an atheist suddenly becomes aware of a dark, invisible spiritual dimension that responds violently to the name above every name, the name of Jesus. The great successes of Carlos Annacondia’s crusades is partly due to the fact that this brother uses the power of Jesus’ name to force the demon powers of hell to reveal themselves in a public arena.

P. Lord Jesus, I do not like to see the devil in action for it is often ugly. But if You allow such a violent scene to convince a skeptic… and if that skeptic surrenders to You, I guess it is worth the mess. I am so glad that I have the wonderful power of Your name on my side of the equation. Nothing to fear… for Your perfect love casts out all fear.  Amen.

Ralph

God says, “Many people here in this city belong to me!”

Saturday 2-11-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 15 – 17 and Acts 18

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 18:9-11 One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision and told him, "Don't be afraid! Speak out! Don't be silent!  For I am with you, and no one will harm you because many people here in this city belong to me."  So Paul stayed there for the next year and a half, teaching the word of God. NLT

O. What was Paul’s goal as he traveled from city to city? I think he was hoping to leave in each city a body of believers forming an infant church. He apparently left Athens with only a handful of believers with no mention of a church being established. Now in Corinth and faced with heavy opposition from the Jews, the Lord speaks to him in a night vision to enlarge his expectations and encourage him to stick around for a while. So, he stayed a year and a half.

A. There is certainly something to the principle: “According to your vision will be your results.” I entered into the La Boca ghetto with very limited anticipation.  After seven months of nightly meetings, God had to bring Pastor Claude Qualls all the way from West Virginia to speak the “Jesus vision” into my soul. I was literally changed. It was as though God had spoken. I did not have any more money or a larger congregation. I was still crowded in a 12’ x 12’ room, but God had enlarged my vision. Joy filled my heart. By faith I saw where God was taking us. And in His time, God gave us a great church. 9 years later I was driving around another area of the great city of Buenos Aires. By my side was a young enthusiastic convert, Osvaldo Carnival, freshly graduated from Bible School. He poured out to me his God-given vision of thousands of converts. I didn’t want to dampen his vision, but it sounded impossible to me. I was still learning that God is big enough to fulfill the gigantic vision He gives us… and often He even far exceeds the limits of that vision.

P. Oh Lord, I am still slowly learning that You can to fulfill any vision You give me. Keep me tuned in to Your voice. It seems I hear You saying You are not through with me yet. Just keep me truckin’ and on track. Don’t let me run ahead or lag behind. My joy is to follow You to new visionary heights just ahead. Amen.

Ralph

Godly men and important women

Friday 2-10-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 13 – 14 and Acts 17

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 17:2-4 As was Paul's custom, he went to the synagogue service, and for three Sabbaths in a row he interpreted the Scriptures to the people. He was explaining and proving the prophecies about the sufferings of the Messiah and his rising from the dead. He said, "This Jesus I'm telling you about is the Messiah." Some who listened were persuaded and became converts, including a large number of godly Greek men and also many important women of the city.   NLT

O. In every city a few Jews listened to Paul and Silas and became believers, but it seems that the Gentiles that frequented the synagogues were the most ready to accept the ‘Jesus message’.  The description ‘godly men’ hints to me that these Greeks may have converted to Judaism or at least were studying the Old Testament and trying to live by its message of godliness. And ‘important women’ perhaps suggests social standing. These probably became the elders and leaders of this newborn church in Thessalonica. They rushed Paul and Silas down to Berea to save their lives, but somehow in time this church grew into a generous healthy church.**

A. I have been amazed at how God can use a faithful, honorable man or woman who has barely taken their first steps in the Lord Jesus.  In Argentina, many of our Pentecostal churches were started after some salvation and healing crusade. Someone had received a notable miracle and returned to their neighborhood, displaying their miracle to all their neighbors. Others were attracted, were saved and healed, and without special training, soon that layman or woman was leading a baby church.  I remember hearing a religious man of standing looking down at these ‘ignorant tiny churches’. He called them “Kioskos”, something like a hot-dog stand on the corner, unworthy of being called churches. Yet, many of these today are large powerful churches.  Every church I helped to plant started out with only a few new converts.

P. Lord Jesus, I believe you are pleased every time a group of new believers gather around Your Holy Word. They usually do not go astray when they believe and honor Your Word. Many years ago I heard a Presbyterian pastor speak that had recently visited the underground churches in China. He said every one of them displayed all the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues. Lord help me to be true to Your Word, to leave a firm foundation everywhere I have an influence for You. Amen.

Ralph

** Paul later writes to this church: “You became imitators of us and of the Lord; in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord's message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia-your faith in God has become known everywhere”. 1 Thess 1:6-8

NIV

24 hours in the life of Mr. Jailor

Thursday 2-9-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 10 – 12 and Acts 16

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 16:34 Then he brought them into his house and set a meal before them. He and his entire household rejoiced because they all believed in God. NLT

O. Just 24 hours in the life of an unnamed jailor who was just doing his job: The city of Philippi was in an uproar. Paul and Silas, stripped and beaten with rods, bloody and bruised are now turned over to this warden. Jailors are not known for their tender treatment. He curses as yanks them around mercilessly forcing them into the innermost, secure cell and anchors their feet in the stocks. He knows that if these two men escape, or any other prisoner, he will die.

“Goodnight scum! Enjoy your stay in the Philippi Hilton!” They hear “Slam! Slam! Slam!” as each section’s door is closed and locked. Paul breaks the pitch dark silence, “Well, bro, it looks like we’re not going anywhere tonight.” Silas starts singing a chorus he learned as a kid, “I’ve got the joy, joy, joy down in my heart, down in my heart… yeah! Down in my heart!” Paul follows with, “Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me bless His Holy Name!” In the next cell one criminal mutters to another, “Nobody’s going to sleep tonight.”  And they were right. Next, Mr. Jailor awakes to an earthquake, all doors are wide open, all chains broken, stocks unlocked. He flips the light switch and it doesn’t work. “Rats, I was born in the wrong century!” It is pitch dark and he draws his weapon to kill himself… when Paul yells. “Hey, don’t harm yourself, we are all still here!” He runs in through wide open doors and asks the key question for every sinner: “What must I do to be saved?” Now, a few hours later, Paul and Silas, all washed and clothed are sitting at breakfast along with Brother Jailor and his whole, believing and baptized family… as Paul leans over and says, “Silas, why don’t you ask the blessing.”

A. Less than 24 hours had passed and now everybody was singing with Paul and Silas. Maybe I need to learn to sing, when the car won’t start, or the spare tire is flat, or the bridge is washed out and there is a two hour detour on a dirt road.

P. Oh Lord, worship is a wonderful exercise when your servant is feeling beaten down and discouraged. At times like this, You probably are checking the gauges on my “emotion dash board” when “joy” is on empty and the warning light is blinking on “hope”, for it is almost gone. Teach me to sing with a heart filled with genuine worship and praise even when the lights go out. For You make bad things turn out for good, in Your time. Amen.

Ralph

Christian songs break chains.

Amazing! I don’t have to wait!

Wednesday 2-8-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 7 – 9 and Acts 15

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Lev 9:23-24 Next Moses and Aaron went into the Tabernacle, and when they came back out, they blessed the people again, and the glorious presence of the LORD appeared to the whole community. Fire blazed forth from the LORD's presence and consumed the burnt offering and the fat on the altar. When the people saw all this, they shouted with joy and fell face down on the ground. NLT

O. The portable “temple”, called the “tabernacle” or the “tent of meeting” had been completed. With the multitude of Israelites standing watching, Moses sacrificed the required animals, placing them on the altar. Then presented the priestly robes, sashes, the ephod with precious stones, each decoration with special meaning. Now with Aaron and his sons dressed in this special attire, Moses anointed them and ordained them as priests.  At the climax of it all, Moses and Aaron enter the tabernacle and then come out to bless the huge congregation. Suddenly Jehovah God reveals Himself to all these people like an explosion of blazing fire that consumed the animals on the altar.  At this display there was a shout of joy and everybody ended up face down on the ground.

A. Early this morning I listened to the song “I can only imagine”.** Part of that song almost describes the scene above:

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

How will I react when my eyes behold His glory? I can only imagine.

P.  Oh Lord, it may not be long now until I find myself ushered into Your glorious presence. Will I be able to stand? Will I be able to sing? Will I be able to even speak?  Or will I shout, “Hallelujah”? Wait! Wait! What is this that is sweeping over my being at this very moment? Silent worship pours out in a river of tears!  Oh God, I don’t have to wait! You are here revealing Yourself to me this morning! Jesus! Emmanuel! God with us! Yes, God with even me! Hallelujah! Amen!

Ralph

** I Can Only Imagine

Bart Millard

I can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk, by your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When you face is before me
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

Surrounded by You glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for you Jesus
Or in awe of You be still
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

I can only imagine when that day comes
When I find myself standing in the Son
I can only imagine when all I would do is forever
Forever worship You
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for You, Jesus
Or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine hey ya ah

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel
Will I dance for You, Jesus
Or in awe of you be still
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees will I fall
Will I sing hallelujah
Will I be able to speak at all
I can only imagine
I can only imagine hey ya ah

I can only imagine yeah yeah
I can only imagine

I can only imagine ey ey ey
I can only imagine

I can only imagine when all I will do
Is forever, forever worship You
I can only imagine

I guess I’d rather be a wimp.

Tuesday 2-7-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 4 – 6 and Acts 14

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 14:15 Friends, why are you doing this? We are merely human beings like yourselves! We have come to bring you the Good News that you should turn from these worthless things to the living God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and everything in them. NLT

O. The man had been lame from birth. He had never walked a single step. Paul had been preaching about the miracle working Jesus and when he saw faith in lame man’s eyes. He yelled, “Hey, you!” “Who? Me?” “Yeah you! Stand up!” You can almost hear the crowd gasping, “Oooohhh”. 

You know the old line… “All religions are good. They all lead us to God. Our religion is better than yours! Just look at our pretty temple with the angel and trumpet on top of the spire.” Within minutes the local priests of their Greek god, Zeus had a religious act in full motion. These were very religious people. Their priests could already see this would be good for business for their Temple. But when Paul and Barnabas saw it… they came running. “No! No! Stop! Look! We are not gods!” So, the crowd used their mob spirit to stone Paul and here is Barnabas with a friend or two dragging the motionless body out of town leaving a trail of missionary blood. Then the few new believers circled him and prayed. A swollen black eye opened and now Paul was up and walking back into town for more. 

A. I get discouraged too easily. Somebody denounces me. “You didn’t do that right.” I get a sinking feeling in my gut. The devil sneaks up to tell me I am a failure. No rocks, no clubs, just words and here I am whimpering. J I should be rejoicing.

P. Lord, I haven’t been stoned lately. Or if I have, they missed. The only blood I have spilled on the mission field was when I skinned my knee. When the devil used a demon possessed man to take me out of commission with his fists, You raised an invisible shield. Probably You protect me because You know that I am such a wimp. Really, I prefer to not be strong like the Apostle Paul. I can live without action stories about beatings, shipwrecks, floating on a board at sea a night and a day, chased, chained and chastised and years in prison. I think I’d rather be a wimp, thank You. Amen.

Ralph

Farthest spot on Earth from Jerusalem

Monday 2-6-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Lev 1 – 3 and Acts 13

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 13:46-49 Then Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and declared, "It was necessary that this Good News from God be given first to you Jews. But since you have rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life — well, we will offer it to Gentiles. For this is as the Lord commanded us when he said, 'I have made you a light to the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth.'" When the Gentiles heard this, they were very glad and thanked the Lord for his message… NLT

O. The Apostle Paul almost always went to the Jewish synagogue first if there was one in town. These were men and women that had been raised with knowledge of the Old Testament laws of Moses, the concepts forgiveness through the sacrifices of innocent animals as substitutes and the prophecies of a coming Messiah.  Now Paul uses the OT scriptures to show that Jesus truly is the Christ, the Messiah, Who God allowed to be sacrificed as God’s perfect Lamb and how He arose from the dead. Some Jews believed, but the Jewish leaders and teachers rejected and opposed this message. So Paul quotes this wonderful scripture from Isaiah (Isa. 49:6 underlined above).

A. What a privilege to be a light to the Gentiles (nations), to bring Christ’s offer of salvation to some of the farthest corners of the earth!

I took down my world globe and using a string I measured where the farthest populated spot from Jerusalem is. I should not have been surprised… it is New Zealand. I confirmed this online. Tauranga, New Zealand is 16,415 Km (10,200 miles) from Jerusalem. There is no city on earth further from Jerusalem.

One of my most favorite young families just moved to New Zealand to shine with the light of Jesus and His love. Would you join me in praying for them?

P.  Lord, I lift up my dear friends, Josh and Meagan, and their three beautiful children, Elisabeth (11), Micah (9) and Caleb (7) as they adjust to a new culture. Thank you, Lord, for fulfilling their dream of teaching school there. May You use them and equally use their sweet children to bless many New Zealanders with Your light, Your message and Your love. Amen.

Ralph

One Chapter, two men dead. One reached heaven and the other…

Sunday 2-5-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Exod 39 – 40, Psalm 15 and Acts 12

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 12:23-24 Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people's worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died. But God's Good News was spreading rapidly, and there were many new believers. NLT

O. This chapter begins with King Herod arresting James, John’s brother… and had him killed just to please the Jews. He is the fifth of six Herods mentioned in the New Testament record, all of the same clan that held authority over sections of Israel during the Roman rule.

1. Herod the Great, killed all the little baby boys in Bethlehem.
2. Herod Archelaus: Herod the Great’s son, Joseph and Mary avoided him.
3. Herod Antipas: Beheaded John the Baptist.
4. Herod Philip of Galilee: Met and mocked Jesus at His trial.
5. Herod Agrippa I: Beheaded James, received praise, died, eaten of worms.
6. Herod Agrippa II: “Almost persuaded” after hearing Paul’s message. 

The Herod clan didn’t have a clean record to say the least. And God the Father got fed up with this Herod in Acts 12 when he accepted worship as if he were a god. God fed him to the worms. What a nasty way to die!

A. I get the idea that God hates pride. I sometimes shudder at the roar of screaming, applauding audiences that practically worship their favorite entertainers. I have to guard my heart as I stand before small and great audiences and witness their approval by their applause. We used to be happy with an “amen” now and then. J

P. Lord Jesus: You deserved “amens” and applause while here on earth, but although many came from great distances to hear You and receive Your healing, transforming touch, we have no record of mass praise and applause… except at Your triumphal entry into Jerusalem only days before Your crucifixion. Guard my heart, Oh Lord. May all praise be directed to You, for You alone are worthy! Amen.

Ralph

Double Blessing

Saturday 2-4-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Exod 37 – 38, Psalm 19 and Acts 11

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ex 38:8 The bronze washbasin and its bronze pedestal were cast from bronze mirrors donated by the women who served at the entrance of the Tabernacle. NLT

O. When Moses asked for voluntary offerings of gold, brass, yarn and all the many other materials to be used in the tabernacle and its artifacts, men and women came bringing items of value that they had carried with them from Egypt and donated them. These women did not have glass mirrors. They had mirrors of highly polished brass. It would be something that a woman might use every day. Can you imagine women voluntarily bringing their only mirror to have it melted down to be made into a sacred wash basin and its stand? 

A. There was a group of women that served at the entrance of the tent of meeting. They were made aware of the need and together choose to give away their mirrors for this project. I think I have met these women. There are some in almost every church. In the early hours before church they are cleaning the pews or vacuuming the carpet and checking the bathrooms. And these are the same women that are quick to respond and sacrifice their belongings when there is a need. 

The women of our Northern California Nevada District maintain and wonderful boutique where our missionaries can shop for free before leaving for their mission destination.  We have stocked up with everything we needed many times… even a box full of tools for us men.

P. Lord, was it a big deal for these women to donate their mirrors?  It must have been because they are mentioned for us all to honor and emulate them.  When have I ever sacrificed anything as useful as my only mirror for Your work? Teach me to be a generous, joyful giver. You said something like, “Giving is more fun than receiving.”  We missionaries are often on the receiving end while in our homeland, but what joy as we sacrifice to give to others when we see the need surrounding us!  We get the double blessing of both gift and givers.  Amen.

Ralph

Brother Bezalel had skills in all kinds of crafts

Friday 2-3-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Exod 35 – 36 and Acts 10

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Ex 35:30-35 And Moses told them, "The LORD has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. The LORD has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, intelligence, and skill in all kinds of crafts. He is able to create beautiful objects from gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in cutting and setting gemstones and in carving wood. In fact, he has every necessary skill. NLT

O. Jacob’s extended family of 75 people with all their flocks and herds moved to Egypt because of the famine. 430 years later 600,000 Israelite men, plus women and children left Egypt. The Egyptians were so anxious to see them go that they loaded them down with gold, precious stones and much more. Now, here is Moses out in the wilderness building a very precise, ornamental tent of meeting with almost every pole overlaid with gold. 430 earlier, Jacob’s family were all shepherds, but during their 4 centuries as slaves many had learned special crafts. Now God chose a contractor named Bezalel. He filled him with great wisdom, intelligence and skills. Moses took of a free will offering of gold, silver, yarn, wood… all the many materials for the tent of meeting and later had to yell, “Stop! Bring no more!”

A. I am amazed as I see a mobile city of over one million people surviving in the desert and now pausing to build a beautifully decorated, luxurious “tent of meeting” and the golden artifacts that were placed in it… and every part of it had to be taken apart and transported to the next location. 

I could never had guessed when I was a teenager learning to draw house plans just for fun, that I would one day be designing church buildings to be approved by professional architects. Then when faced with high winds that often blew down our “circus type” campaign tents, I worked with Missionary Paul Brannan to design a simple, portable “tent of meeting” of iron beams and canvass, that could be dismantled in one day and raised in another location in one day.

P. Lord Jesus, serving as Your missionary has been, and still is, both challenging and satisfying. I feel so honored to have been chosen for this service. Sometimes You have taken the things I entertained myself with as a youth to develop and to bless Your work. I thank You… that You are still choosing, calling and equipping many youth for the enormous task of evangelism and discipleship in this day of ever-changing electronics. Shower them with Your inspired new ideas and the commitment to reach the lost of this world.  Amen.

Ralph

A single miracle can make the difference!

Thursday 2-2-17, Modesto, California

Today we read Exod 33 – 34, Psalm 16 and Acts 9

S = Scripture  O = Observation  A = Application  P = Prayer  SOAP for the soul.

S. Acts 9:32-35 Peter traveled from place to place to visit the believers, and in his travels he came to the Lord's people in the town of Lydda. There he met a man named Aeneas, who had been paralyzed and bedridden for eight years. Peter said to him, "Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you! Get up and make your bed!" And he was healed instantly. Then the whole population of Lydda and Sharon turned to the Lord when they saw Aeneas walking around. NLT

O. Saul, now converted to Christ, was sent back to his home town in Tarsus to protect him from the Jewish leaders who were seeking to kill him. Now Peter starts visiting the followers of “the Way” that have been scattered by the intense persecution. He finds groups of believers springing up in every town. In Lydda the Christians take him to visit Aeneas. Peter tells Aeneas he is healed by Jesus and orders him out of bed. And an entire town and Sharon, the neighboring town, too, become followers of Jesus through this miracle. Next, he goes to Joppa and raises a dead corpse to life again. Peter is on a roll. And Jesus is gaining many new followers.

Saul’s fervent persecution probably left some believers in prison and others tortured and killed, but it made every believing family that fled from Jerusalem, into missionaries. They left their homes, relatives and friends behind and fled to safer ground. Let’s say a shoe-maker arrives with his family in a little town with only a donkey and whatever it can carry. They settle as best they can, gain friends and dare to pray for someone’s dying child and witness a miracle and soon they have a “baby church” going in their little rented house.

A. I have seen it happen dozens, perhaps hundreds of times. Christian families move to a new town for whatever reason, the Word is shared, miracles happen, and soon a new church is born. These are not trained preachers, but they know the power of God. They pray for their neighbors and see miracles. It is part of God’s great plan to take His miracle working power wherever we go. May I not forget it!

P. Lord, when You fill me with Your Holy Spirit, I become a spark just waiting to ignite the hearts that surrounded me. So, I pray, come and refresh my deepest experience with You. Holy Spirit, come, fill me again. Set me aflame so that I can be a fire-brand. You still work wonderful miracles, responding to the faith of Your lowly servants. Lord, just give me courage and faith like that of Peter.  Amen.

Ralph