God’s Will for His People in the Church

Introduction: Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we had a manual that we could read that would assure us of pleasing our Lord Jesus as we relate to others in His Church? Well, guess what? We do! It’s called the Bible. While it may sound simple enough, putting it into practice is another story. There’s an old saying that goes like this: “To live with the saints above will be GLORY! But to live with the saints here below is a different STORY!”
 
Our devotion for today will discuss this most important matter, so please take notes and share it with others. Here are two non-negotiable truths from the prison epistle called the book of Philippians.
 
1. How are we to relate to people in the Church? (Philippians 2:1) – “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies.”
 

Check out these key words:

  • “Consolation” (v.1) – The Greek word is παράκλησις (par-ak’-lay-sis), which means encouragement, exhortation, consolation, or even comfort. Basically, another word for this is encouragement. Are you an encourager? Do you need encouragement?
  • “Comfort” (v.1) – The Greek word is παραμύθιον (par-am-oo’-thee-on). The definition of comfort is consolation, exhortation, or persuasion. It is formed from the Greek verb παραμυθέομαι (paramutheomai), which means “to comfort” or “to console.”
  • “Fellowship” (v.1) – The Greek word is κοινωνία (koy-nohn-ee’-ah). This word has to do with fellowship, communion, participation, sharing, or even partnership. Are you in or out of fellowship with the brethren?
  • “Bowels” (v.1) – The Greek word is σπλάγχνον (splangkh’-non). It means compassion, affection, heart, the inward parts; it can be considered the seat of the feelings.
  • “Compassion” (v.1) – The Greek word is οἰκτιρμός (oyk-tir-mos’), which means mercy, pity, compassion, favor, grace, or mercy. Are you known as a person of compassion or as judgmental?
 
2. How are we to equate God’s will with people in the Church? (Philippians 2:2-4) – “Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”
 
  • “Joy” (v.2) – The Greek word is χαρά (khar-ah’), which means gladness or delight. Do you fill the saints with grief or delight?
  • “Likeminded” (v.2) – The Greek word is σύμψυχος (soom’-psoo-khos), which means united in spirit, harmonious, or of one accord. That describes the early Church. Are you likeminded or always argumentative?

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” (Philippians 2:3)

  • “Strife” (v.3) – The Greek word is ἐριθεία (er-ith-i’-ah), which means selfish ambition, rivalry, or self-seeking, a feud, or a faction. Are you finding yourself being selfish when it comes to serving in the Church? Look out for #1!
  • “Vainglory” (v.3) – The Greek word is κενδοξία (ken-od-ox-ee’-ah). It has to do with being empty, conceited, or vain. Basically, it means empty pride. Perhaps this negative trait lies deep down inside most Christians, especially outside the grace of God.
  • “Esteeming” (v.3) – The Greek word is ἡγέομαι (hayg-eh’-om-ahee). It has to do with leading and guiding. Did you notice the next phrase?
  • “Better than” (v.3) – This means to surpass, excel, or be superior—to rise above. In other words, we are to lead and guide others to rise above or to be superior. Can you honestly say that is true about yourself? This is convicting, isn’t it?
 

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” (Philippians 2:4)

We are our brother’s keeper! Once redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ, we are immersed into the body of Christ. Sounds simple? We are all a work in progress. But having Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth will hopefully ensure that our eternal destiny will be more than we even imagined. Are you looking forward to it?
 

Conclusion: What a heart-searching and life-changing passage! Certainly, if this scripture is applied to our lives by the Holy Spirit, it will make a huge difference in the way we relate to others in the Church.

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese
 


Worth More Than a Sparrow

Introduction: Have you thought lately about how much our Lord cares for you? In other words, according to Jesus, you are valuable—worth a lot—to our Heavenly Father. In case you feel a little down these days, this is an encouraging reminder of our worthiness to God. Listen to the words of our Lord:
 
1. Look at the worth of a sparrow! (Matt 10:29) – “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.”
 

This particular bird, called a sparrow, can be seen in every McDonald’s parking lot, under the eaves of house roofs, taking dust baths in fields, and just about everywhere you go. Speaking of these little insignificant birds, historical information reveals that there have been numerous attempts to eradicate these winged creatures. Surprising evidence shows that in some countries, people’s taxes were lowered if they could bring in sparrow heads!

Nevertheless, Jesus compares their unwantedness with their priceless value to our Heavenly Father. Look at what He said these winged creatures could be sold for. The word “farthing” is ἀσσάριον (as-sar’-ee-on), which is a penny, or a small coin equal to the tenth part of a drachma. According to scholars, a drachma was worth about seventeen cents. So, do the math—not much, huh?
 
2. Look at what the God of the Bible knows! (Matt 10:29) – “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.”
 
The word “falls” is πίπτω (pip’-to), which describes a fall, to descend, or to perish. As you can see, not one little insignificant bird—a sparrow—can fall to the earth without our Father knowing about it. Somebody said He attends every funeral! Is that not amazing or what?
 
3. Look at how VALUABLE you are to our Heavenly Father! (Matt 10:30-31) – “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”
 
Don’t miss the words “more valuable.” Here is the meaning: The Greek word is διαφέρω (dee-af-er’-o). It means to excel, to be better, to surpass. In other words, you are more valuable to our Heavenly Father than a sparrow, and yet He watches over them!
 
Conclusion: Hopefully, this devotion has caused you to stop and THANK God for His care for you! According to Jesus, you are very VALUABLE to our Father in heaven. So, what more can we say except… LOVE HIM and SERVE HIM all the days of your life.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Fulfilling God’s Will

Introduction: Why are we here on earth? Are you fulfilling God’s purpose? What is His Purpose? How can we find His plan? Then, how can we follow through in regards to His will?

Listed here are Reasons to Follow Jesus Christ.
 

(4) Reasons:

1. Because we will Stand before Jesus Christ at Bema Judgement! (2Cor 5:10) – “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” 

How will we respond? What will we say?
 

2. Finding Purpose in life! (Rom 8:29) – “29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.”

God’s will is to conform us to the image of Jesus Christ. We all have Rough places that need sanding! I do!!
 
3. Watching Jesus’ Plan unfold in the world! (Acts 17:26-31) – “ 26And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; 27That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 28For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring. 29Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device. 30And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: 31Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.”
 
I love this passage of Scripture! Does this not say it all?
 

4. Talking to others about PEACE & Security! (1Thess 5:2,3) – “2For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 3For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.”

There is a false Peace coming in the future!
 

Conclusion: Here are 4 reasons for fulfilling our Lord’s will. How are you doing? Let’s purpose in our hearts to Fulfill God’s will!

When we get to heaven, we will be glad!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Is Your Worry Winning?

Introduction: Why are you WORRIED? What is it that keeps you in a frenzy, uptight, disturbed, uneasy, and troubled? Is it money? Is it family? Is it your spirituality? What is it? Is it fear about the future? Is it not being in control?

Pinpoint your anxiety. Then take it to the Lord.

Sadly, but truthfully, our WORRY is WINNING! Recently, a Christian man confessed his anxiety. Honestly, those who tell me that they never, never worry are either too spiritual for their own good or not telling the truth. Let’s face it—at times, all of us face worry. But what can we do?
 
1. In order to win over our worry—First, let’s face our worry! (Phil 4:6-7) – “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
 

The word worry in the New Testament is a Greek word, “merimnao” (μεριμνάω), which translates to anxiety. Actually, it is a combination of two words:

  • Merizo, which means “to divide.”
  • Nous, which means “the mind.”
Bottom line: Anxiety divides our mind. Do you ever feel like your mind is going in all different directions? Being under stress can cause your mind to run away. So, face the facts! Then, follow the appropriate steps to alleviate the worry.
 
2. Secondly, in order to win over our worry—we must fight worry! (Phil 4:6) – “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”
 
Did you get that? The way to fight our worry is by prayer! Don’t miss that. Prayer is God’s atomic bomb. Push the button! Pray. Pray. Pray. Be sure to pray the right way!
 
3. Thirdly, in order to win over our worry, we must experience freedom from worry! (Phil 4:6-7) – “And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
 
Here is the fruit that comes from the root. The root is “care”; whereas, the fruit of prayer brings the peace of God that sets up a fortress around both our minds and hearts. Then comes freedom from the divided mind. Clarity marches in, and confusion and fear have to exit.
 

Conclusion: So, is worry winning?

Remember: Face your worry, fight your worry, and be free from your worry as you apply the truth of God’s Word through the power of the Holy Spirit.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Triple S’s

Introduction: This brief devotion will cover the three S’s in the text. What a message for all of us! Are you suffering? What about persecution? Affliction? Temptation? How should we respond? Study the following:
 
1. Be Steadfast! (Phil 1:27) – “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
 
The word “steadfast” is στήκω (stay’-ko), which means to “stand firm,” stand fast, or even persevere. Are you standing firm in your faith? Are you persevering?
 
2. Be Striving! (Phil 1:27) – “Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”
 
The word “striving” is συναθλέω (soon-ath-leh’-o), which means to strive together or to contend together. It can mean to compete together or cooperate vigorously with others. In this case, Paul is referring to the Church. Do you have a cooperative spirit with others?
 
3. Be Suffering Hardship Like Jesus! (Phil 1:29) – “For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.”
 
Suffering is listed in God’s disciple list. Jesus suffered for us, paying our sin debt. Clearly, we cannot suffer like Him, but we are called to suffer hardships. How are you doing? Comfort, ease, and pleasure are not on God’s blueprint for His children.
 
Conclusion: Being “steadfast” and “striving” together with others during times of suffering is biblical. Do you retreat to an island when suffering? Complain? Blame? May our Lord give us grace to suffer persecution, affliction, and even temptation with a steadfast determination, while our aim will be to honor Him.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


From Vision into Provision

Introduction: Let’s face it, Nehemiah had vision. But not only did he have a vision, he turned it into provision. It seems that today there are a number of people who have “ideas” but the ideas never get off the ground. While brainstorming with ideas is good, oftentimes it becomes nothing more than “hot air!” It’s like clouds without rain, a heater without heat, a fan without air, a CHRISTian without a testimony.
 
For Nehemiah, he turned the vision into a provision. However, it did not happen without much prayer and fasting, along with the drawing influence and favor of the Lord God Almighty. We too can learn from the providential process of Nehemiah’s vision and provision.
 
1. Nehemiah’s God-given Mission! (Neh. 1:4, 11)“And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.” (Neh. 1:11) “Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man. For I was the king’s cupbearer.”
 
We’ve been called to be on missions—that is, God’s mission! Jesus Christ’s mission was to fulfill His Father’s will. In so doing, He became obedient unto death, paying the sin debt for “whosoever” will trust in Him. Our mission is to fulfill our Father’s will. Are you on mission?
 
2. Nehemiah’s God-given Vision! (Neh. 2:3-5)“And said unto the king, Let the king live forever: why should not my countenance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lieth waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire? Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said unto the king, If it please the king, and if thy servant have found favour in thy sight, that thou wouldest send me unto Judah, unto the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may build it.”
 
Like Nehemiah, our goal is to see things from God’s perspective, then cooperate with His resurrection power to accomplish His vision, not ours!
 
3. Nehemiah’s devil-possessed Opposition! (Neh. 4:1-3)“But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.”
 
We should expect critical opposition in doing the work of the Lord. Are you facing any at the moment? Moms? Dads? Servants? CHRISTians?
 
4. Nehemiah’s Division! (Neh. 4:10)“And Judah said, The strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed, and there is much rubbish; so that we are not able to build the wall.”
 
Unfortunately, there will be divisions within CHRISTian responsibilities. However, through prayer and God’s power, these setbacks can be resolved. How are you dealing with these divisions?
 
5. Nehemiah’s God-honoring Provision! (Neh. 6:15-16)“So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty and two days. And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all the heathen that were about us saw these things, they were much cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God.”
 
Finally, the goals and vision turned into provision. That makes it worthwhile! Are you getting close to the provision? Hang in there!
 
Conclusion: How much can we learn from Nehemiah’s mission, vision, opposition, and provision? Are you laboring in the vineyards of the work of the Lord? Clarify your mission. Study your vision. Get ready for opposition. But rejoice in the Lord’s provision!
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese

 



Thank You for Giving to the Lord

Introduction: Can you look back on your life and see how God has used people to influence your relationship with Jesus Christ? This devotion should motivate every Christian to yearn to serve our Lord. Why? Because “Only one life will soon be past, and only what’s done for—through—Christ will last!”
 
While you’ve probably never heard a message written about this man, he epitomizes a true and faithful servant. Please notice the making or process of a servant who makes a difference while fulfilling God’s purpose. Interestingly enough, his name means “in the shadow of God.”
 
1. We have been “PICKED OUT” to serve our Lord Jesus! (Exo. 31:1) – “And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah.”
 
The word “called” is קָרָא (kaw-raw’), which means to call, proclaim, read, or even name. Basically, it means to call out to. Is God calling out to you? Our Lord calls whom He chooses. He chooses whom He wants to use. Are you usable?
 
2. We have been “POURED INTO” by the Holy Spirit to serve our Lord Jesus! (Exo. 31:3) – “And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.”
 

The word “workmanship” is מְלָאכָה (mel-aw-kaw’). It means occupation or craftsmanship. Plus, its application has to do with service. Furthermore, the word covers deputyship or even ministry. Finally, workmanship can mean employment.

Bottom line: If the Holy Spirit does not “pour into” us, then we operate in the energy of the flesh. It is imperative that we depend on the power of God to get the job done! Do you need to depend on the Holy Spirit more? Are you a candidate for “fresh oil”?
 
3. We will be able to “PULL THROUGH” in serving our Lord Jesus! (Exo. 38:22) – “And Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, made all that the LORD commanded Moses.”
 
Hopefully, you did not miss the word “ALL”! Bezaleel was dedicated, dependable, and determined. He faithfully finished his task.
 
4. We can expect to be “PAID UP” for serving our Lord Jesus! (Rev. 22:12) – “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
 
Payday—someday!
 

Conclusion: Bezaleel is traced to Judah in Chronicles through five ancestors—Uri, Hur, Caleb, Hezron, and Pharez. This would be Judah’s son by Tamar.

So, if you are reading this devotion and feel like a failure or if your family has failed, remember—God delights in using our “availability,” not our “ability.”

Besides that, if you were to do some research, you would discover that Bezaleel’s descendants can be traced to an incestuous relationship between Judah and Tamar. Other “losers” He has used—amazingly, the God of the Bible used the harlot Rahab to be part of the ancestral lineage of Jesus Christ.

So, no matter how marked your past may be, our Lord has a bright future ahead as you trust Him.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese

 



Triumphant in Troubled Times

Introduction: Do you ever feel overwhelmed? What can you do? How about when you’re going through a “TROUBLED TIME”? Can we find strength in the Lord Jesus to overcome? Is His grace sufficient? Can any good come out of bad situations?

A resounding “Yes!” comes echoing back to these questions. Be encouraged as you read these choice Scriptures. May our Lord fill you with faith, hope, and love. Remember, because Jesus Christ overcame, we too can overcome through His mighty resurrection power!
 
1. Troubled but not hopeless! (2 Cor. 4:8) – “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair.”
 

Trouble comes knocking on our door regularly. But we can send Jesus to answer it! Actually, we have the Holy Spirit, who both comforts and empowers us. So don’t forget—there is overcoming power available for every believer.

By the way, the word distressed means “hemmed in.” A feeling of despair is facing hopelessness. But in Jesus, there is always hope! Trust Him now.
 
2. Distressed but not giving up! (1 Sam. 30:6) – “And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.”
 
When all else fails, the Lord will never fail! He is a steadfast, unmovable Rock! Plus, He knows how to lift us up when we are down. Look to Him.
 

3. In agony but not alone! (Matt. 26:38-39) – “Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.”

At last, Jesus blazed the trail before us, being obedient even unto death. Why? Because it was the Father’s will from eternity past. After all, our Father knows best. Therefore, we can have confidence in His will.
 

Conclusion: Herein lies the key to “Triumphing through Trouble.” Resolving in our hearts to do God’s will is essential to being victorious.

Have you confessed, “Not my will, but Your will, O Lord”? Why not do it right now?
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Angels Watching Over Us

Introduction:  Do you realize angels are all around us? You might be entertaining an angel unaware!

In his inspired letter to the Corinthians, the apostle Paul reminds those believers, as well as us today, that the apostles suffered, but they were not alone. The Lord dispatched His angels to be with them during a time of martyrdom. This verse describes the scene. Several learning lessons emerge:

  1. The suffering of the saints is inevitable!
  2. We are not alone!
  3. Angels or messengers are watching!
  4. They are sent by God to minister to the Church!
  5. Angels are powerful, personal, and purposeful!
 
“For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.” (1 Cor 4:9) 
 

The word “spectacle” is θέατρον, which means a theater, a semicircular stone building, or an open area to the sky. It literally means a spectacle or a show.

Perhaps Paul’s intention here is a reference to the Roman Coliseum—an open theater where Christians were martyred for their courageous faith in Jesus Christ. Meanwhile, both “men and angels” witnessed their death.

Some understand this verse to describe both evil angels as well as elect angels.

Standing at the very top of the Roman Coliseum while filming a video from a cell phone, this Pastor was reminded of this verse of Scripture. Unable to contain my emotions, with a crowd all around, it was both disturbing and disappointing to hear the guide deny the horrendous bloodshed of those martyrs. What a travesty!

At the same time, the Holy Spirit confirmed this Scripture, refuting this blatant denial. Angels are watching over us in life and death!
 
“For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are made a spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.” (1 Cor 4:9)
 
Remember, you are not alone!
 
Conclusion: What an encouraging truth! Take comfort, my friend, in knowing and trusting that angels are all around.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Daily Manna

Introduction: Do you know how we are to trust our Lord? One day at a time! Overthinking and overplanning can lead to overwhelming! While we should tentatively plan, saying, “as the Lord wills,” as James wrote, taking on unnecessary worry about tomorrow can zap us from enjoying our daily bread. Instead of being consumed by tomorrow’s troubles, our Lord wants us to trust Him day by day. Are you overwhelmed? Overloaded? Over-anxious? What can you do? What should you do?
 
Just as the children of Israel had to learn to depend on God for their daily bread, so should we.
 
1. Israel and Daily Manna! (Exodus 16:1-33) – “Then said the LORD unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in my law, or no.”
 

Complaining against God does not really help the situation, but that is what the people of Israel did following their miraculous deliverance from the tyranny of the Egyptians. So the Lord instructed Moses that He would rain down “Angel food” from heaven. Once again, He provided.

Can you look back in your life and see how the Lord has met your needs? Don’t forget how He healed your sick body, brought in necessary resources from unexpected sources, restored broken and strained relationships, comforted your grieving heart, and blessed you with abundance! Praise the Lord!
 
2. Jesus Christ is Heavenly Manna for Every Believer! (John 6:1-53) – “And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”
 

Jesus is bread for the hungry. Are you hungry? He is water to the thirsty! Are you thirsty? He is rest to the weary! Are you tired and weary?

Jesus made it crystal clear that if a person wants a relationship with Him, he or she must assimilate Him into their very being. Check out His words speaking to those who were following Him for a free lunch—another miracle. This was after feeding several thousand.

(John 6:53) “Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.”

Thank God for Peter’s response to continue following Him. Are you desiring a miracle or a free lunch, or is your love for Him deeper than just what you can get from Him?
 
Conclusion: Will you stop right now and pray? Tell your Heavenly Father that you want to trust Him. Admit if you’ve been overly anxious about tomorrow or if you have not been trusting Him daily. Thank Him for His provisions.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese