+Dev+ Michael D. Inman Pastor

Date: July 3, 2017 at 3:01 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Lamb of God

The Lamb of God

"Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29). You were redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect" (1 Peter 1:18-19). 

Scripture Focus: John 1:18-51 

God sent His Son to be the living link between His heart of love and the people He created. His Son could have been introduced to us in any role: a potentate with vast wealth and power to generate awe in his subjects, a teacher with an incredible ability to attract followers, or a star to display a level of talent that would cause people to swoon. 

But the Son of God came to us an animal -- not a lion, the symbol of strength, but as a lamb -- defenseless, needing care and protection, and destined to be sacrificed for the sins of us all. John introduced Jesus as the Lamb of God! 

God sent His Son to communicate who He is and how much He loves us. The Son of God with all His power and majesty could relate to us in our naked humanness. Jesus would speak to us as dearly loved individuals. He would offer strength for our weakness, light in our darkness, and life that we could never find on our own. And He would deliver this for us by being Himself the sacrificial Lamb who takes away our sins. 

Insight: No matter how people may view you, God loves you and knows your deepest need -- and only the Lamb of God can meet it. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: July 3, 2017 at 3:01 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Lamb of God

The Lamb of God

"Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29). You were redeemed ... with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect" (1 Peter 1:18-19). 

Scripture Focus: John 1:18-51 

God sent His Son to be the living link between His heart of love and the people He created. His Son could have been introduced to us in any role: a potentate with vast wealth and power to generate awe in his subjects, a teacher with an incredible ability to attract followers, or a star to display a level of talent that would cause people to swoon. 

But the Son of God came to us an animal -- not a lion, the symbol of strength, but as a lamb -- defenseless, needing care and protection, and destined to be sacrificed for the sins of us all. John introduced Jesus as the Lamb of God! 

God sent His Son to communicate who He is and how much He loves us. The Son of God with all His power and majesty could relate to us in our naked humanness. Jesus would speak to us as dearly loved individuals. He would offer strength for our weakness, light in our darkness, and life that we could never find on our own. And He would deliver this for us by being Himself the sacrificial Lamb who takes away our sins. 

Insight: No matter how people may view you, God loves you and knows your deepest need -- and only the Lamb of God can meet it. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 29, 2017 at 1:36 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Word

The Word

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:1, 14). 

Scripture Focus: John 1:1-18

The Word. Imagine speaking and then seeing whatever you had said come immediately into being: light, land, living creatures! John writes about the One who is the Word of God made visible, the Word who embodies such creative power that to speak brings forth whatever the Father willed. 

From the furthest reaches of eternity, from before the Creation of the universe, the Word existed in perfect harmony with the Father. Then at a point in earth-time the Father willed that the Word enter the world He had created and become as one of the living persons He had placed on earth. 

The Word came bringing life that has an endless supernatural quality, and light that banishes a darkness that casts shadows over even the happiest human existence. He came because the Father longed to communicate Himself to us. More than that, the Word with all His creative power came to transform us so that we can hear the Word and be so infused with heaven's life and light that we can actually become children of God! 

Insight: It's hard to believe, but God, who has always existed in love and harmony with His Son, has extended that love to include you and me.
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 27, 2017 at 11:42 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Reflection

Reflection

“When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy” (Titus 3:4-5). 

Scripture Focus: Titus 3:3-8 

Titus reminds us that God's love was revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. If we were richly deserving, God's love and kindness would be amazing. But we were not deserving - and in ourselves there was nothing we could do to earn God's love and kindness. 

Jesus changed all that!  From a heart overflowing with love for us, God has poured out “every spiritual blessing in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). “Because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions” (2:4). 

Jesus came to earth to demonstrate God’s holiness and love. He did not come out of a sense of duty but with love that could not be stopped, even though He was despised and rejected by those who should have recognized Him and welcomed Him. 

In humble response to Christ’s love and holiness, let's enter the new year in an attitude of worshipful adoration and loving service while we sensitively share His love with others. 

Insight: Ask the Lord to teach you every day more about living in His love and ex-pressing your love to Him in return. 
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 27, 2017 at 1:14 AM
Topic: +DEV+  An Allegory

An Allegory

“Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent” (Revelation 3:19). “Do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you” (Hebrews 12:5). 

Scripture Focus: Revelation 3:19-22

Rebuke and discipline are God's bridle for us. When we become spiritually complacent or indifferent, the bridle snaps. This alerts us to press on. If we're galloping in areas that require caution and discernment, the bridle pulls us back. 

This allegory gives helpful insights.  By nature we'd rather roam around at whim. Who wants the frustration of being saddle broken? We prefer to be free of the restraints of a rider. But God sees beyond our flesh and perceives the heart of a champion destined to win the race of faith. 

Though not an equestrian, I’d guess that through expert training over time, horses would develop an inner sense of anticipating directions so that horse and rider travel as one. 

At time we may grow weary of God’s loving discipline. But when our faith has been tested and the rebuke removed, we are always one step closer to winning our race. Without exception, God's wise correction draws us closer and underscores our kinship through Jesus Christ. 

Insight: As you look to a new year, determine again to submit to the Lord's disciplining love. Let Him train you to be a winner in the race of faith. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 25, 2017 at 9:29 PM
Topic: +DEV+  He Obeyed Dreams

He Obeyed Dreams

“The angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. . . .When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife” (Matthew 1:20,24). 

Scripture Focus: Matthew 1:18-24 

God's law was clear. “If a man happens to meet a virgin pledged to be married and he sleeps with her, you shall . . . stone them” (Deuteronomy 22:23). What a terrible dilemma for Joseph! His heart had been captivated by young Mary, yet she was now pregnant. He couldn't make a public accusation that might lead to her death. Instead, he planned to use Israel's lax divorce laws to protect her. 

As Joseph tossed in troubled sleep, an angel spoke to him in a dream. “Joseph, don't be afraid to take Mary as your wife. This child has been conceived by the Holy Spirit and she will bear a son. You are to name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.” 

Joseph awoke greatly encouraged.  He quickly found Mary, and brought her to his home. After Jesus' birth, a sleeping Joseph received a second angelic visit warning of Herod's murderous plans and the need to escape to Egypt. In the darkness of that same night, Joseph swiftly moved his family to safety (2:13-15). 

Insight: Let's celebrate the courage of this common man who dared to obey dreams. Let's be quick to respond with belief when God speaks to us. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
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Michael D. Inman

Date: June 22, 2017 at 11:58 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Fiat - Be It Done!

Fiat - Be It Done!

“The angel went to her and said, `Greetings, you who are highly favored!' . . . `I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered. `May it be to me as you have said.’ Then the angel left her” (Luke 1:28,38). 

Scripture Focus: Luke 1:30-38 

When the angel visited Nazareth and announced to Mary that she would give birth to a son, she asked, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” Mary knew that the conception of human life required passion, an act of love between a man and a woman. 

Though divine in origin, this conception of the Savior was far from passionless! Redemptive love had waited centuries to be joyously released from the chambers of the Father's heart. This tender young Israelite was being asked by God to not only receive His unfathomable love, but to be totally overwhelmed by Him in her spirit. Translating the Greek, this meant Mary had agreed to being supernaturally enveloped by God's brilliance! 

“Fiat,” she replied. 

What courage was displayed in Mary’s heart.  By her consent to God she faced earthly disgrace and a possible divorce from Joseph. Yet she submitted to God's plan. Mary's faith and humility moved God to honor her with this highest of callings, to give birth to His Son. 

Insight:  When the Lord's voice is calling you, may you respond “Fiat. May my willing obedience bring joy to Your heart.” 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 22, 2017 at 1:17 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Prelude

The Prelude

“The angel said to him: `Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John'“ (Luke 1:13). 

Scripture Focus: Luke 1:5-20

Zechariah joined other priests for their annual duties in the temple. They cast lots to see who would offer incense at the holy altar. Zechariah's heart must have leapt when this honor, which usually came only once in a lifetime, finally fell to him. 

Entering the holy place, he lit the flame on the altar, and the aroma of incense enveloped him.  While adding his prayers to those of the worshipers outside, an angel appeared. Zechariah was terrified! 

“Don’t be afraid,” the angel said.  “Your prayers have been heard. Your wife will bear a son, to be named John.” 

“But we’re too old!” Zechariah stammered. 

Surely the angel was sad as he responded, “I stand in the presence of God. I was sent with this wonderful news, but since you don't believe me, you will remain silent until your son is born.” 

The people stared as Zechariah returned to the court. What had taken so long? But the excited priest could not speak. Indeed, Elizabeth gave birth, and Zechariah's last written sign read, “His name is John.” 

Insight: Ask the Lord to prepare your heart for divine interventions. Ask Him to help you always be receptive to His work in your life. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
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Michael D. Inman

Date: June 20, 2017 at 11:47 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Holy Windbags

Holy Windbags

“Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me” (Jeremiah 9:23-24). 

Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 9:23-26 

How the world loves to boast! We are even told that it’s a necessity to master the art of self-promotion if we want to be truly successful.  But God's ways are not ours. 

The Lord exhorts us not to be boastful.  Are you wise? Submit your intellect to God for His purposes. Are you strong? Use your muscle power to better the lives of others. Has God prospered you?  Invest in things of eternal value and be mindful of the poor. 

There is one kind of boasting that pleases the Lord - namely, boasting of the joy of knowing Him and understanding His ways. The world desperately needs to know that God delights in being loving, kind, and just. People everywhere need to hear that their Creator desires to fellowship with them. 

The world needs to know that our eyes see Jesus reaching out to them in  compassion and mercy. The lonely need to know that in Christ we have found a trusted friend. The sorrowing need to know that God is the ultimate Comforter and Healer. Those who are afraid need to be led to the shelter of His wings. 

Insight: Boast a little today - boast joyfully in the wonder of knowing the Lord and living in the awesome delight of His love! 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 19, 2017 at 10:19 PM
Topic: +DEV+  The Color of God's Spirit

The Color of God's Spirit

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have. . . Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity” (Colossians 3:13-14). 

Scripture Focus: Colossians 3:12-17 

A great miracle took place in South Africa in 1994, and it didn’t come about by diplomatic genius. It was a hard won battle fought by blacks and whites as they came together in prayer for God's help in their violence-marred country. 

On April 17th, over 25,000 people attended a prayer rally in Durban, South Africa. Among those present were provincial leaders who had never before been able to come into unity. 

Behind the scenes in those crucial weeks, Ray McCauley, pastor of Rhema Bible Church in Johannesburg, also played a significant role in influencing Zulu leader King Zwelithini to participate in the open election. 

The world’s gaze was fixed on the expert international mediation teams, but I believe God's eyes were moved by the sight of love and forgiveness displayed by His people as they pleaded for the healing of their land. 

On that day love flowed and there was one color - the color of God's Spirit. 

Insight: Bigotry lurks in the human heart. Only God's love can break down the barriers that divide us. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 19, 2017 at 2:35 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Engraved on His Hand

Engraved on His Hand

“Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands” (Isaiah 49:15-16). 

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 49:13-16

Every time God looks at His hand, He sees us there. Whenever we feel alone or rejected, whenever we are in pain, we can know that we are never forgotten. 

God describes His love for Israel as that of a mother's tender compassion toward her baby. Can she forget this infant she has borne? Of course not. God goes on to say that in addition to engraving us on His hands, our walls are ever before Him. This is His promise of divine protection. 

My brain often fails me when it comes to remembering names. This has caused me several embarrassing moments. But I never have to fret about God forgetting my name. It is written forever on the palm of His hand. Nor do I have to fear the future, for God's eyes are ever on me, guarding the walls of my life. 

In my most difficult moments my heart may tremble, but then I hear His loving whisper in my heart, “Fear not. . . . I have summoned you by name; you are Mine” (Isaiah 43:1). 

Insight: God's love for you is wonderfully personal. Rejoice in His intimate care and protection. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
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Michael D. Inman

Date: June 16, 2017 at 1:14 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Least of These

The Least of These

“No longer will a man teach his neighbor, or a man his brother, saying, `Know the Lord,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest” (Hebrews 8:11). 

Scripture Focus: Hebrews 8:10-12 

God's laws are now written in our hearts and in our minds; therefore, if we but ask, Jesus will reveal Himself to each of us. Rich or poor, lovely or unlovely, God's love knows no such distinctions. 

I met a remarkable young man at a pastors conference whose story impressed me. He had been abandoned by his wife and left to raise their young children alone. Rather than becoming bitter, he received God's healing love and opened his home to foster children. Over time, dozens of little ones flourished under his loving care. 

Years later, one of these young charges came back to visit him. Hesitantly he told him that he was dying of AIDS. Then he added it would be okay if he didn't open the door to him. He immediately embraced him, crying, “Welcome home, Son!” 

Unlovable?  Unacceptable?  The least among us? Not to this man, who demonstrated God's grace as he nursed him for two years. This young man accepted Christ before he died. His sins were forgiven and forgotten. 

Insight: Ask the Lord to help you really understand that no one stands outside the boundaries of His love. Let Him enlarge your heart! 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
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Michael D. Inman

Date: June 13, 2017 at 2:27 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Do I Have To?

Do I Have To?

“I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:27-28). 

Scripture Focus: Luke 6:27-36 

I find it significant that our key verses open with Jesus’ words, “I tell you who hear Me.”  Often we must quiet our shouts of anger, hurt, spite, and self-righteousness before we can hear His whisper. 

I’ve learned volumes about this command due to a former member of a church We used to go to. They passed on harsh judgment against us to the new pastor, a man whose opinion of us meant too much. I was convinced he would believe their criticism. 

We had sincerely extended ourselves to this person, and I was angry! 

The Spirit reminded me, “Bless those who curse you and pray for those who mistreat you” (v. 28). 

“Give me a break!” I’d reply, pouting inwardly before bending my knee before God. 

One night I dreamed this person and I were both chained to the walls of a cold, empty chamber.  It was my heart! The message was obvious. Unless I unlocked our shackles with the key of pardon, we'd both remain prisoners of my foolish bitterness. 

Insight: It is not within our power to offer forgiveness to someone who has badly hurt us. But Christ can give us the key of forgiveness and will help us use it. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.
We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman


Date: June 14, 2017 at 12:15 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Love Gone Wrong

Love Gone Wrong

“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For everything in the world . . . comes not from the Father but from the world” (1 John 2:15-16). 

Scripture Focus: 1 John 2:15-20 

Some believers have escaped into reclusive lifestyles because they feared the world.  Yet God doesn't speak of fearing the world, but of not loving it. How do we reconcile worldly separation with godly compassion for people loved by Him? 

Satan’s plan is to use the world system to align hearts to himself. This world he heads is more a spiritual system than a place. How happy he would be if we chose to timidly cloister together awaiting rescue, rather than walking out in the bold assurance that Jesus has overcome the world! 

We need to recognize two points lest we dash foolishly unto uncharted waters. First, we need God's revelation of the spirit of this world so that we grasp the real danger we are being exposed to. 

Second, as we live in this world and interact with its inhabitants, we need to rely on the Holy Spirit's power rather than on our own skills, strength, and wisdom. His anointing rests on us no matter where we go so that we will illuminate the world with His pure light. 

Insight: Rely on the Lord to keep you close to His heart as you serve Him in the darkness of a perverse world system. 
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 12, 2017 at 12:44 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Master Builder

The Master Builder

“I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt. . . . Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful” (Jeremiah 31:4). 

Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 31:3-6 

Though not a builder by profession, my father found great satisfaction making and repairing things with his hands. From garages, to furniture, from constructing wooden steps helping toddling grandchildren reach something too high, to crafting rustic picture frames, his skills grace our lives. 

The thrill of seeing useful things taking shape or someone else's junk becoming a thing of beauty motivated him. The smells of wood shavings, stains, and varnish always bring Dad to mind. 

Isaiah’s prophetic words in today’s Scripture reading were spoken to the Israelites when they were exiled in Babylon. They were slaves, yoked and chained, crying out in terror and despair. Babylonian junk! But God saw them through the eyes of the Master Builder, and He set out to restore them. 

“I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness,” He declared (v. 3). He ached to see them pick up the tambourines again and dance with full joy in their hearts. 

Insight: God's heart doesn't change. He calls to you today, “Don't despair! I will work with a skilled hand, and your life will be rebuilt.” 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
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A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm


Michael D. Inman

Date: June 9, 2017 at 12:48 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Prescription for Life

Prescription for Life

“Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment” (Matthew 22:37-38). 

Scripture Focus: Matthew 22:34-40 

Once again the Pharisees were plotting against Jesus.  They chose an expert in the Law to ask Him a question which they hoped would trick Him into giving an inadequate answer, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment?” 

The question did not trick Jesus.  He replied with infinite wisdom in today's verse. Have you questioned why God commands us so often to love Him with such abandon? As a new Christian, I secretly thought that this was a bit vain of God. 

As my spiritual understanding grew, I realized that it was for my good that God asked for my unreserved love. For when my heart is turned toward Him, my own woundedness is healed. When I cry out, “Bless the Lord, O my soul!” in the midst of my problems, hope is revived. As I consider the goodness of God, my mind is cleansed of harmful earth clutter. 

The Greek word used for commandment in today's verse implies an authoritative prescription. Joyfully loving our God is a great spiritual remedy indeed! 

Insight:  Let's acknowledge God's pure heart, eternally void of human vanities, and offer Him our deepest love. 
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 8, 2017 at 12:55 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Listen for the Music

Listen for the Music

 “The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17). 

Scripture Focus: Zephaniah 3:14-17 

We could savor today's verse for weeks and taste only a morsel of the splendid promises it reveals. Each phrase should satisfy our souls with joy and wonder. 

When God says He will do something, He keeps His word. Do you agree? Then you must accept the fact that God absolutely delights in you! The Hebrew word for “delight” used here means to be filled with glee. 

God’s love for us in Christ allows us to enter into His rest. He becomes our peace, the refresher of our souls. Earthly turmoil and personal pain melt away as He quiets our hearts with assurances of His love. 

He expresses in happy music how much He cherishes us. The song God sings over us is not a soft melody, but a joyful shout of triumph! 

Low self-esteem and fear will flee when the Holy Spirit breathes this liberating truth. Let's revisit this verse until we believe it enough to personalize it and count on it in circumstances that could cause us to question God's precious commitment to us. 

Insight: Draw close to the Lord. Ask Him to enlarge your heart to receive His incredible acceptance of you. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 6, 2017 at 10:37 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Rising as the Sun

Rising as the Sun

“On that day Deborah and Barak . . . sang this song. . . . So may all your enemies perish, O Lord!  But may they who love you be like the sun when it rises in its strength” (Judges 5:1,31). 

Scripture Focus:Judges 5:28-31 

Deborah and Barak sang a victory song after the Lord gave them a stunning defeat over Sisera, commander of the army of the king of Canaan. These Israelite leaders were thrilled with the strength they had received from their God to win the battle. 

Deborah and Barak expressed in song their longing for the Lord's enemies always to be as thoroughly crushed as Sisera and his forces had been that day. The prayer they sang called for believers to rise up in strength like the early morning sun which causes the darkness of the night to disappear as it lightens up the sky in the east. 

Where do we get courage to face the enemy? How do we command our souls to be strong when the horses' hoofs of our enemies thunder in our ears? Once again, it is the power of love. 

Our love for God carries us through and gives us faith to summon the angel of the Lord to pick up his sword of deliverance. 

Insight: Are you facing a battle today? Stir up your love for the Lord, and He will surely come to your aid. You will see His mighty deeds in your life. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 6, 2017 at 1:59 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Filled to Overflowing

Filled to Overflowing

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). 

Scripture Focus: Matthew 9:35-38 


If God's love gushes forth into our hearts by the power of the Holy Spirit, how can we possibly contain it all? We can't. The overflow creates a longing to share Christ, to reach out to those who don't yet know the Good Shepherd. 

God frequently called for His people to extend compassion to foreigners who lived among them. Ellie Laehn, of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, feels called to serve God in this unique way. She has conducted Friday night Bible studies at North Carolina State University for the international students. “It's amazing to see how eager they are to know about God,” she says. “Most are Asian students who have heard very little about Jesus in their own countries.” 

The students consider North Americans to be highly independent, while their Asian cultures stress a “giving up” for the sake of the group. North American Christians intrigue them by their sincere concern for others. What makes them so different? 

God has channeled Ellie’s overflow to be a call to salvation for 1,200 foreign students on the campus. 

Insight: What might be the result if you were to ask the Lord to increase His love in you so that it flowed like a river to reach the lost and hurting? 
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 5, 2017 at 2:23 AM
Topic: +DEV+  More Than Loving

More Than Loving

“Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (1 John 4:8). 

Scripture Focus:1 John 4:7-12

God's love is so powerful that nothing can separate us from Him. Neither death, life, trials, our future, our past, demons, persecution, famine, poverty, danger, nor war can sever the love bond that connects us with the God of heaven and earth. That bond is sealed by the blood of Christ. The depth and extent of God's love defies measurement. 

How do we even begin to grasp the essence and reality of His love? A big step is to digest the fact that He is more than loving.  God is love. He gives us peace and stability beyond comprehension.  No human emotion or commitment will ever come close, and certainly can never exceed the holy passion and perfect fidelity of our God. 

About 30 years ago, the Holy Spirit spoke clearly to me, “You will find wholeness in direct proportion to how much you allow God to reveal His love for you.” 

It isn’t selfish to pray, “God, show me how much You love me.” As we bare our souls to His consuming love, all facets of our lives will be transformed. 

Insight: Wait in God's presence as you ask Him to prepare your heart to receive His radical love.
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 4, 2017 at 1:20 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Knowing Christ

Knowing Christ

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death” (Philippians 3:10). 

Scripture Focus: Philippians 3:10-14

The apostle Paul had been a believer for over 25 years when he spoke these words, “I want to know Christ. . . .” He talked about a deeper knowing, a divine understanding of absolute clarity. Paul had acquired a consuming soul thirst for the Lord. He longed to see Jesus' face. 

When I was a new believer, I remember reading this passage and impulsively responding, “Oh yes, Jesus! I want to know You, too!” It was a naive prayer of excitement, anticipation of spiritual adventures -- but not a soul thirst. Much “stuff” had to be removed from my life. Many goals had to be realigned from a Scriptural perspective. As the hindrances fell, the desire to know Christ held my heart captive.

Paul had lots of time while under house arrest in Rome to consider his life as a Christ follower. He saw Jesus clearer each day. All else became rubbish in comparison. It's the Spirit's concern that we all come to this conclusion. If your hopes and dreams don't include Jesus -- lay them down. If you're not drawing nearer to Him -- find out why.

Insight: Knowing God requires earnest seeking, enduring, learning, and rejoicing. Dare to take one step closer to Him today. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: June 1, 2017 at 12:19 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Don't Give up!

Don't Give up!

“For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (2 Chronicles 16:9). 

Scripture Focus: 2 Chronicles 16:7-10

As a young monarch, King Asa's heart was fully committed to God. He had removed Judah's idols, repaired the altar of the Lord, and returned the gold and silver to the temple. Why did he now reject prophetic words, even imprisoning the prophet? 

Under military threat from Israel, Asa now sought Ben-Hadad of Aram, rashly using the temple's precious metals to form an alliance. Did he forget God's earlier promise, “I am with you when you are with me. Be strong and don't give up!” (see 15:2) Why did Asa now trust Ben-Hadad rather than God?

In physical distress, the aged Asa ignored the power of prayer, relying solely on the skills of physicians. His foot disease was severe, and there is no mention of relief through earthly remedies. Why did Asa not seek the Healer who once filled his heart?

The picture of God’s eyes scanning the earth to strengthen those who seek Him is profoundly inspiring. Are you troubled? In pain? Where is your heart turned? Don't give up. Never stop seeking God.

Insight: Passion for God is not meant to fade or flicker with the passing of years. His eyes continually seek spiritual fire. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Topic: +DEV+  Not Even Death

Not Even Death

“For I am convinced that neither death nor life . . . neither the present nor the future, nor any powers . . . will be able to separate us from the love of God” (Romans 8:38-39). 

Scripture Focus: Romans 8:35-39 

Awaiting for Tom to finish showering to go to the Dr.s office, Scott sat on the chair waiting. Our friend Tom came out and sat on the sofa. Suddenly Scott turned toward Tom, who was slumping forward with a gasp. CPR and emergency team efforts proved futile in reviving Tom from an apparent heart attack.  Later proved to be a viral infection he had picked up while in Chicago a few days prior.

Some of us have advance warning that death is imminent, and there's time to prepare spiritually and relationally. Chronic illness can prod others into accepting the distinct possibility of a shortened life. In Tom’s case, death came abruptly, leaving family and friends breathless with grief. But, no matter how our life ends, God's radical love for us is uninterrupted by the event. His grip on our soul is sure.

One of Jesus’ missions was to destroy the fear of death. When we receive Him as Savior, eternity is planted in our hearts. The Holy Spirit assures us that we are now children of God, pulsating with Christ's resurrection power. Death's sting is stilled. Mortality's terror is routed by inseparable love.

Insight: When we know God we can face life and death with quiet dignity and bold confidence. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

Michael D. Inman

Date: May 31, 2017 at 3:17 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Spirit-Leveled Ground

Spirit-Leveled Ground

“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love. . . . Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground” (Psalm 143:8,10). 

Scripture Focus: Psalm 143:6-10 

Contemporary life is marked by anxiety and uncertainty. Lifetime employment for a job well done is no longer a given. Good investments today evaporate tomorrow. Household incomes shrivel through sudden death or disabling disease. Political turmoil boils, spewing constant threats to peace. 

King David trusted God’s Spirit to lead him through the snares and hardships of life. No matter how treacherous the way appeared, he knew there was level ground ahead. He understood there was a path for his life in keeping with God's purposes. Was it carefree? No. But it was walkable because God was in the lead. Though surrounded by dangers and heartbreak, David's harp was never silenced.

Our paths may wind unexpectedly, causing us to echo David's cry, “Oh Lord! Let the morning bring me word of Your love!” That's our hope. Always expecting God's presence and power to break through, bringing sense, order, joy, and contentment. When skies darken, we lift our souls and whisper, “Come, Jesus. . . come with love in the morning.”

Insight: Spirit-leveled ground provides room for both quiet joy and laughter in the midst of pain and trials. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman

Date: May 30, 2017 at 2:26 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Dazzled by God

Dazzled by God

“Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy” (1 Peter 1:8). 

Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 1:3-9 

According to poet Vachel Lindsay, General William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, died blind and yet his eyes were still dazzled by the ways of God. General Booth's faith loosed him from earth's limitations to gleefully experience the presence of his Savior. Peter describes this kind of joy as “inexpressible.” No words capture its depth. 

We only see through a glass dimly -- catching glimpses of Christ through His Word and Spirit - yet we choose to adore Him. This is a miracle of grace! Our steadfast love for the unseen Lord of Glory is the proof of His reality that so haunts an unbelieving world longing to ignore Him.

Seeing Him so incompletely, we still choose to believe He exists. The Spirit witnesses to our hearts that God is alive and well, and we cry, “Amen!” Some have believed to the point of suffering, loss, and death. This brilliant transmillenial march of saints, willing to risk all for the sake of knowing and serving Christ, is a holy testimony to faith-filled eyes seeing their God.

Insight: The salvation of our souls is much more than a future promise. It's being made free now to see and believe. 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm


Michael D. Inman

Date: May 29, 2017 at 2:05 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Flawed Impressions

Flawed Impressions

“Then the man who had received the one talent came. `Master,' he said, `I knew that you are a hard man. . . . So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground’” (Matthew 25:24-25). 

Scripture Focus: Matthew 25:24-28

The servant in our Scripture passage had a tragically flawed impression of his master. He perceived him as a hard man, someone to be greatly feared. Before going on a long journey, the master had entrusted this servant with a talent. It was a coin of the highest denomination, worth the equivalent of about $1,000. Isn't this an act of a generous, affirming master? 

He had given each man money “according to his ability” to multiply the investment. So, he was not a man who overburdened his servants. He was holding realistic expectations. The master's gracious response to the other servants who had wisely invested their talents also opposes the image of a harsh man.

How had this third servant so misjudged his master's true nature? Had he no previous interest in cultivating a closer relationship? Had he avoided his master's presence? His false assumptions revealed he didn't know his master at all. A shovel of contempt was the bitter response to the master's trust as the servant carelessly buried his valuable coin.

Insight: Are we harboring false impressions of God? Have we wisely invested the gifts and talents He has released to us? 

Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:    http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm

Michael D. Inman

Date: May 26, 2017 at 1:19 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Hilarious Giving

Hilarious Giving

“Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). 

Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 9:6-9 

Our attitude toward giving is an excellent indication of knowing God. The amount we give is irrelevant. What feelings are triggered as the collection plate approaches our row? How quickly are our wallets opened? How easily do our pens gain access to our checkbooks? 

The word translated “cheerful” doesn’t quite capture the Greek hilaros in describing the kind of giver God loves. It actually forms the root for hilarious! Hmm. Just how hilarious are we as the ushers turn to face the congregation? I visited a church that accurately interpreted biblical giving. Impromptu applause accompanied their offering time!

How sad for God to observe us being coaxed into parting with our resources. Who can dispute He really doesn’t need our treasures? He made the earth! It's for our ultimate blessing He privileges us to give.

Hilarious generosity reflects an accurate grasp of the divine riches that have been showered on us. God's overwhelming grace and love can't be contained. Let's appreciate every opportunity to bless Him back.

Insight: Stinginess is an absurd response to God, who withheld nothing from us -- not even His only Son. It’s not How MUCH, but simply HOW we give.
Please feel free to use this devotional to send on to your friends or share with your church fellowship and Bible study groups.

We are in urgent need of Prayer and financial partners,
If you would like to become a prayer partner and or a financial partner with monthly or one time gifts.
A freewill offering to Restoration Ministry may be made via PayPal at our web site:   
 http://www.rollanet.org/~restore/donations.htm
Michael D. Inman