+Dev+ Michael D. Inman Pastor

Date: October 7, 2020 at 12:55 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  The Lord's Wisdom

The Lord's Wisdom

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.” Psalm 111:10

Scripture Focus: 1 Kings 3:16-28

King Solomon asked for wisdom instead of asking for riches, a long life, or the death of his enemies, and the Lord was pleased. The Bible highlights a famous wise decision that Solomon made.

There were two women, both of whom claimed the same living child. Solomon listened respectfully to both stories. Then he introduced the sword. What did he mean to do? Was not the fear of the Lord to include justice, mercy, and humility (Micah 6:8), not violence? These qualities did, in fact, describe Solomon’s wisdom.

The only cutting his sword makes is to the truth. The sword of justice is not in this story to sever and kill, but to decide what is right. Through it he appealed to the compassion of the true mother.

Our human wisdom does not necessarily lead us to make right decisions. I prayed for wisdom all the while I was working in the prisons. Yet sometimes I failed. Jesus does not condemn us for making wrong decisions (John 8:1-11). His examples and laws illuminate our understanding and show us how to have His compassion and wisdom.

Insight: We do not have Jesus’ wisdom, but when we spend time with Him and follow His laws, He directs us in paths of righteousness.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: October 6, 2020 at 12:25 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Christ’s Cure

Christ’s Cure

Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ he said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately he was cured of his leprosy. Matthew 8:3

Scripture Focus: 2 Kings 5:1-15

When a Military hospital nurse told my unit had been exposed to tuberculosis, we were not surprised. I assumed the exposure came from where we were at in the field/villages. Germany tries to control contagious diseases by placing known individuals in separate areas from each other, but we didn’t know where we contacted the bacteria and viruses. We share common latrines (toilet facilities), turn the same door knobs, breathe the same molecules. Fortunately it turned out we had not contracted TB.

In Jesus’ day, those with the disease of leprosy were often separated from society, not only because they had a sickness, but also because it was believed that lepers had committed some sin. The powerful commander Naaman asked God to cure his leprosy, and he received a humble (and humbling) way to cure it.
We are often given small, simple ways to believe in God’s power. He is nearby wherever you are— in a military garrison, in your office, on the street. Turn to Him and be washed in Jesus’ blood. God’s grace is sufficient to break down the walls that imprison us, to snuff out whatever it is that makes us unclean, and to heal us of our sin.
Insight: No one is exempt from sin’s disease. When we come to Jesus, He washes us clean. Only God is powerful to save us.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: October 5, 2020 at 1:24 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful to Bless

Faithful to Bless

I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign LORD. Ezekiel 34:15

Scripture Focus: Ezekiel 34:25-31

In 1883 D.W. Whittle wrote, “There shall be showers of blessing; This is the promise of love; There shall be seasons refreshing; Sent from the Savior above.” The words of this hymn were inspired by the book of Ezekiel. 

Twelve years of exile had gone by since the fall of Jerusalem, and there seemed to be little reason to hope. The spiritual shepherds of Israel had ceased caring for the people and were only taking care of themselves, becoming false shepherds. Ezekiel declared that God Himself would be the Shepherd of Israel. Jeremiah also had spoken words of prophecy to Israel. He instructed them to make a life while in Babylon, building houses, raising families, and planting gardens. Even beyond that, they were to seek peace and prosperity while exiled.
Regardless of the type of “exile” in which we find ourselves, we can look to Jesus who has faithfully blessed us through times of plenty and of want. We can live expectantly, knowing He is always faithful to pour water on the dry ground of our thirsty souls.
Insight: “...I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing.” (Ezekiel 34:26)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Faithful in Generosity

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” 1 Timothy 6:6-7

Scripture Focus: 1 Timothy 6:6-21

Jesus was asked by a young man what must be done to have eternal life. Although having kept all the commandments, he still was missing one thing, Jesus said. He instructed the man to sell his possessions, give to the poor, lay up treasure in heaven, and come follow Him. The disciples were astonished to hear such a teaching. It was more figurative than literal, reflecting an attitude of generosity. By choosing stewardship we acknowledge that all comes from the hand of God. And we are free to be wholeheartedly devoted to Him.

The concept of generosity is threaded throughout Scripture, from various Old Testament stories, to insights in the Psalms and Proverbs about being generous, to accounts of early New Testament believers sharing all in common. In his letters Paul warned that the love of money is a root of evil.

My parents weathered the Great Depression. I was taught by word and example that frugality and generosity are not incompatible. We can freely give to others because our dependence is on God rather than on money.

Insight: “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” (1 Timothy 6:18)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them
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Michael D. Inman

Faithful to the Weary

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. …Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.” Isaiah 40:29, 31

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 40:28-31

If you’ve been a caregiver of any kind, you know how utterly exhausting it can be, even when the one you’re caring for is a loved one. Robertson McQuilkin, the former president of Columbia Bible College, resigned from his position in 1990 to care for his wife Muriel as she slipped into dementia. His journey began by helping her with all the little things she’d forget. But before long, he needed to tend to every basic need she had. Eventually, she no longer could speak or even recognize him as her husband. Though not denying growing weary, his writings reflect the faithfulness of the Lord to renew his strength. And through that faithfulness, McQuilkin could say, “She is such a delight to me. I don’t have to care for her; I get to.”

Paul exhorts the believers in Galatia to not become weary in doing good, especially when it involves those in the family of God. He says that a harvest of righteousness will come in due time. As you care for others, look to Jesus and thank Him that He never grows weary in caring for you.

Insight: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:29)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 30, 2020 at 1:57 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful in Wisdom

Faithful in Wisdom

“But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.” James 3:17

Scripture Focus: James 3:13-18

The evening primrose is a lovely flower, blooming heartily in most any soil. I encountered one thriving next to the foundation of my friend’s home in Missouri, so I inquired about bringing a few plantings back our home. He firmly warned me not to even consider this because the plant is extremely invasive and could not be contained or destroyed. Oops!

Quarrels can be like that, too. James says that we want something but don’t get it, so we quarrel and fight instead of asking God to meet the need. Taking matters into our own hands may lead to more conflict. “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out” (Proverbs 17:14). Our foolishness can spill out like water over a dam or spread like an invasive plant.

The Spirit of Christ living in us gives us the power to walk the paths of wisdom and righteousness. Let His faithful wisdom take root, grow, and spread.

Insight: “Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:18)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 28, 2020 at 1:45 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Hope for Tomorrow
Hope for Tomorrow

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Scripture Focus: Romans 15:1-13
I listened to someone with stage four cancer speak to his audience. He was facing reality as the doctor stood with test results in hand, saying, “I wish I could give you more hope.” The patient replied, “Oh, I already have hope. I just need help for my journey.” Later, wondering how to answer the “How are you?” question of many caring friends, he formulated this answer: “I am grateful.”
This reminds me a bit of Paul who acknowledged his departure was at hand and spoke words that ring of hope. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

God’s faithfulness to us is so great that we have bright hope for tomorrow. Though dark days loom ahead, His faithfulness sees us through. For all who place their hope in the atoning work of Jesus, He promises to carry us safely home

Insight: “For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.” (Psalm 117:2)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 24, 2020 at 1:55 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful to Cheer & Guide

Faithful to Cheer & Guide

Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:19-20

Scripture Focus: Ephesians 5:8-21

Paul provided much-needed instruction to the early believers for their new life in Christ. He made many journeys to these churches and later continued to teach from the confines of prison. The phrase “putting shoe leather to faith” could well describe his exhortations. He reminded those in Corinth that their old lives were becoming new.

Paul also cautioned the Ephesians not to be foolish. He urged them to be filled with the Spirit of God rather than getting drunk on wine. And He pressed them to submit to God and to one another. You certainly could say that Paul was faithful to cheer on and guide the new believers in Jesus.

He urges us, too, to be glad in our hearts as we “speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs” (v. 19a). These are not outdated words. Even in today’s world you can hearten another person through Scripture verses (as in the book of Psalms) and song lyrics that have spoken deeply to you. Why are we able to do this? Because our Savior is faithful to cheer and guide us.

Insight: “Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide/ Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow/ Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside.” (Thomas O. Chisholm, 1923)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.
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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 22, 2020 at 12:07 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithfully Planted
Faithfully Planted

“But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:2

Scripture Focus: Psalm 1
Nearly all the time we are meditating on or thinking about something. But we have a choice about what we meditate upon. The mind is active; if not directed, it will often seek the lowest level. Worries and fears can occupy our minds fully with very little bidding
Psalm 1 is instructive to us about what we would dwell on. It’s rich in promises to those who choose to make God’s Word their meditation. Stability, fruitfulness, endurance, prosperity, protection, and watchful care come to us when we meditate on God’s Word. Yet we don’t do this under compulsion. Instead, we find genuine delight in the Lord.
Many disciples turned back from following Jesus. When Jesus asked the twelve if they also wanted to leave Him, Peter answered, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We believe and know that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:68-69). Jesus, who Himself is the Word, wants us to refuse the counsel of the wicked and the way of sinners and mockers and be planted forever, faithfully in Him.

Insight: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 21, 2020 at 1:55 AM CDT
Topic: +DEV+  Faithful to Quench Thirst

Faithful to Quench Thirst

“But whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:14

Scripture Focus: John 4:1-26

In this passage Jesus is resting by Jacob’s well in Samaria, waiting for His disciples. Those living in Samaria knew that Jews and Samaritans simply did not associate with one another. But this didn’t prevent Jesus from asking the Samaritan woman—who quickly reminded Him of that custom—to draw water to quench His thirst.

The conversation turned quite naturally to water. Her water jars needed to be filled, but Jesus saw the emptiness of her soul and spoke of a water so satisfying that she would not need to return to the well again and again. Jesus exposed the truth of her life that, having had five husbands, she now was with yet another man. Then Jesus revealed that He is the Messiah. Believing, she left her water pots and ran back to the town to proclaim what she knew. Many believed in Him because of her testimony.

People chase after fuller, richer lives in all sorts of ways. Share the Living Water, Jesus Christ, with those thirsting for hope and meaning. In no other place will their deep thirst be satisfied.

Insight: “Now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.” (John 4:42)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 18, 2020 at 1:27 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful Humbling

Faithful Humbling

My heart is not proud, O LORD, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. Psalm 131:1

Scripture Focus: Psalm 131

Daniel records the history of King Nebuchadnezzar who was so enamored with himself and his accomplishments that he wanted to be worshipped. A frightening, prophetic dream interpreted by Daniel brought fear to the king’s heart and later became reality.

As Nebuchadnezzar was praising himself and his achievements, a voice came from heaven declaring that he would enter into a period of insanity. He’d be driven from his people and would eat grass among cattle. Proverbs 16:18 came alive: “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” In time, Nebuchadnezzar’s sanity was restored, and his pride was gone.

Not one of us is outside the reaches of pride. We struggle with it daily, sometimes walking dangerously close to utter breakdown as with Nebuchadnezzar. We need Paul’s warnings against it and Peter’s reminders that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Jesus condemned the teachers of the law for their pride. Then He, being in very nature God, humbled Himself and became obedient to death for our sakes.

Insight: The Lord will humble the proud. When you’re tempted to walk in haughtiness and pride, choose to walk in humility instead.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 17, 2020 at 1:51 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful Gardener

Faithful Gardener

He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. John 15:2

Scripture Focus: John 15:1-4

Colonial Williamsburg is known not only for being a seat of national history but also for its spectacular gardens. Walking among them awakens the senses and inspires those who enjoy creativity in gardening. However, the pruning season in the fall is not the best time to view the gardens. The process looks brutal; the loveliness is destroyed.

Jesus describes His Father as the Gardener, cutting away branches that are unfruitful for those abiding in the Vine. Have you experienced His painful pruning? It is easy in our goal- oriented society to fill our lives with much that is good while crowding out what is best. Life becomes chaotic, confusing, and disappointing. It is His faithfulness alone that comes to rescue from the tyranny of the urgent.

His pruning is an act of love, meant to bring quietness to the soul and greater purpose to life. It may hurt now, but He will make you more fruitful later. Perhaps most of all, this agony in your life is His call to submit to Him while He pours on the oil of His love.

Insight: “He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love.” (Zephaniah 3:17)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 14, 2020 at 1:45 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful to Speak

Faithful to Speak

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22

Scripture Focus: James 1:19-27
Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan, and it has been the subject of countless sermons, lessons, and books. Once when I taught from that passage, I passionately challenged my class to have eyes and hearts opened to those beaten, broken, and left for dead.

Then—as people often do—it seems I forgot that lesson entirely. I traveled to a large city and stayed in a lovely hotel across from a library which was beautifully designed with a protective overhang. From my window I could see a gathering of homeless people there looking for shelter from the cold and rain. Instinctively, I felt judgmental of that city for its neglect.

When I returned home, having enjoyed wonderful travel experiences, I took a prayer walk to quiet my heart. I remembered the Good Samaritan story and realized I had not been a doer of His word. Never once did I cross the street to take a cup of hot coffee, a bottle of water, or a word of hope. In my deep repentance, I did receive mercy and forgiveness. But I also was chastened and changed

Insight: “Whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.” (Matthew 25:45)
If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 11, 2020 at 2:12 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Unfailing Love

Unfailing Love

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad in our days. Psalm 90:14

Scripture Focus: Psalm 90:14-17

Is God really enough? Almost fifty years ago, I attended a retreat whose speaker shared a personal example in answer to this. Hers is a story I’ve shared with others repeatedly and whose truth I embrace.

The Speaker and his wife, partners in ministry, had planned an event that required much work and preparation. On the day of the big event, she said that she’d be unable to participate, leaving him to carry the load alone. After completing the necessary tasks, he was dismayed when his wife said that she was choosing not to be present. He felt betrayed and forsaken. He cried out to the Lord about his hurt and disappointment. And then he came to his senses, declaring by faith that God is enough. After all, wasn’t the event for His glory? He was able to move through the important occasion with joy.

When human relationships disappoint—which they undoubtedly will do—we can press into our heavenly Father. We can rest in His sufficiency, knowing He will satisfy us in the morning with His ever-faithful and unfailing love..

Insight: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: September 10, 20

Topic: +DEV+  Faithfully With Us

Faithfully With Us

My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love. Psalm 31:15-16

Scripture Focus: Psalm 31:19-24

Anne S. Murphy wrote in 1908 the hymn, “Constantly Abiding”. “There’s a peace in my heart that the world never gave; A peace it cannot take away; Though the trials of life may surround like a cloud; I’ve a peace that has come here to stay!” The chorus contains the promise of Jesus: “I will never leave thee.” There will never be an end to proclaiming how God is faithfully with us.

In Psalm 31 David, pursued by enemies, declared it is possible to find shelter in God’s presence. His life as a warrior was danger-ridden with no guarantee of his life being spared. Yet he used such terms as refuge, high tower, and strong fortress to give a picture of a protected place. Not a physical place, but the very presence of God.

The trials of life will come, and you’ll feel hemmed in on every side. Like David, you’ll feel trapped, afflicted, and cut off. But the promise of the Lord’s presence becomes a reality in the darkest of times. We see how great His goodness is which He has stored up for those who believe in Him (see vs. 19).

Insight: “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?’” (Hebrews 13:6)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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 feel led to become a prayer partner 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

Or contact us by replying to this email.

Michael D. Inman

Date: September 8, 2020 at 1:22 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Faithful in Love

Faithful in Love

“And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him.”

1 John 4:16

Scripture Focus: 1 John 4:7-21

Last May another royal wedding took place in England. It was like a fairytale, awe-inspiring with pageantry and splendor. It’s estimated that 1.9 billion people worldwide watched the event.
There seems to be a universal longing for a story of true love with a happily-ever-after ending. But in the course of life—even in the most devoted relationships—love is tested. Irritations and resentments can creep in and overshadow what used to be feelings of warmth and affection. Human love alone will not suffice for the journey of life we face.
Bishop Michael Curry delivered the homily at the recent royal wedding. I was struck by the phrase “unselfish, redemptive, sacrificial love” used in his charge. He began to talk about the power of God’s love that could make that kind of love possible in ordinary life. The faithful, unbreaking love of the Lord runs so much deeper than fairytale love or any earthly love. We know it and rely on it above all else. It flows right into our troubled relationships and restores harmony.

Insight: “Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4:7)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.
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 feel led to become a prayer partner 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

Or contact us by replying to this email.

Michael D. Inman

Date: September 3, 2020 at 1:10 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  A Prepared Place

A Prepared Place

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.”

Scripture Focus: John 14:1-14

Though Jesus’ disciples were privileged to experience His actual physical presence, they still had fears and doubts. And after traveling for three years with Jesus to familiar places, they still were puzzled when He spoke of going away, wondering where that could be. If I’d been one of His disciples, I would have wondered about it, too.

John 14 begins a long discourse which must have slowly brought some understanding. Jesus explained that He is the Way and the Truth and the Life. He told of how He would leave this world and go back to His Father. He promised a place in the eternal realm for all who choose to come to the Father through Him.

Most of us gave very little thought to death when we were younger. But with the passing of years, we think about it more and more. We long for some assurance that there is more to life than what we’ve experienced on planet earth. Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we have complete assurance that there is more. And one day, all believers will enter into that glorious reality.

Insight: “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me...” (John 14:3)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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Michael D. Inman

Date: July 24, 2020 at 12:07 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  The Gift of Patience

The Gift of Patience
"I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life."

Scripture Focus: 1 Timothy 1:16   

I wish I could erase the times I have been impatient with others, especially with my kids. I remember one morning in particular my daughter was taking too long to get ready for school. I yelled down the hall to her and said some very harsh things. She poked her head out of her bathroom and said calmly, "That's not how Jesus would have done.” 

She was shocked by my impatience, as was I. Although I apologized, I carried the shame of my reaction for quite some time. Patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit that can be nurtured into a powerful and beautiful character strength. The problem is, though the fruit of patience may grow and develop in us, at times we still will fail. We will show impatience again. We need a Savior! Thankfully, Jesus will never lose His patience with us. God was patient with His people throughout the Old Testament though they fell short again and again. 

And when the time was exactly right, He sent His Son to be born. "Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation" (2 Peter 3:15) for us!

Insight: Jesus, I pray that someone will come to know You more fully by my patience. Thank You for Your gift of patience with me. Amen

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: July 23, 2020 at 2:04 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Professional Worrier

Professional Worrier

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7  
Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:25-34

Attorneys are sometimes called "professional worriers." Though I'm not an attorney, I am prone to worry in the face of suffering. But you don't have to be in a profession whose job is to protect against worst-case scenarios to struggle with anxiety. For many of us, worry is our default mode. 

Since I broke my back, I find myself with many concerns: What if I am never able to do anything again? What if I can't improve my stamina to walk any long distance again? Will I ever be able to hike in the countryside again? And will life ever feel "normal" again? As these and other questions circle around in my head, I turn my attention to Matthew 6:25-34. The causes of our anxiety come from so many directions and in so many different ways, but here Jesus gives us several reasons why we should not be anxious. I am grateful that one of those is that if we put HIS kingdom first, God has promised to carry our burdens (vs. 33). 

I do not need to be a professional worrier because I have a "professional" Savior!

Insight: His purposes will ripen fast; unfolding ev'ry hour; the bud may have a bitter taste; but sweet will be the flow'r. (William Cowper, 1774)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: July 22, 2020 at 3:03 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Counting the Days

Counting the Days
"Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12  

Scripture Focus: Psalm 90 

Since I broke my back, in times of reflection, I catch myself wishing God would take me back to time before I broke my back so I could correct some of my shortcomings. Have you ever been lost in thoughts like that? You long for a do-over. This is sort of thinking is regret, not numbering our days. 

I believe God wants us not to look back with regret, but to look forward, making our days count for Him and for His glory. Looking forward, we remember, "God created me-and you-to live with a single, all transforming purpose-namely a passion to glorify God by enjoying and displaying his supreme excellence in all spheres of life" (John Piper, 2007). Reflecting on time leads us to see how weak we are and how short our lives are. Our years pass quickly like a mist (James 4:14) or like a breath (Psalm 144:4). We're as fleeting as grass that soon withers (1 Peter 1:24), here one day and gone the next. 

Even as we suffer, we can ask our eternal God- the One who is above the time that He created- to help us to learn to make every day count for His glory.

Insight: "Teach us to count the days; Teach us to make the days count; Lead us in better ways; Somehow our souls forgot; Life means so much." (Chris Rice, 20
If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: July 21, 2020 at 1:50 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+ Overflow with Hope

Overflow with Hope

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13   

Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

We hold onto that which gives us hope. But in times of suffering, it can seem like hope is slipping away. While I used to be full of plans and hopes, I see that now I often feel quite hopeless. Holding tightly to hope is shown in the story of Natan Sharonsky, a Jewish Russian who was a Soviet prisoner for nine years near Siberia in the '70s and '80s. Confined to an 8'x10' cell, Sharonsky one day saw a copy of Pravda which condemned Ronald Reagan for calling the Soviet Union an "evil empire." 

This news spread like wildfire through the prison; ecstatic prisoners tapped it out on walls and found other covert means to communicate it. "Finally, the leader of the free world had spoken the truth-a truth that burned inside the heart of each and every one of us" (1988). 

We have a word of truth to carry us through forever: the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection. It burns a hope inside our hearts so that while we suffer, our hope in Christ is unshaken. Through Him, not only will we survive, but also we'll overflow in hope.

Insight: Lord, may the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection burn inside of us and be the source of our daily hope, even as we suffer. Amen.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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: July 20, 2020 at 3:31 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Increasing Faith



Increasing Faith



"[Jesus] replied, If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, Be uprooted and planted in the sea, and it will obey you." Luke 17:6 



Scripture Focus: James 1:2-18  



As Christians, our faith in Jesus is our foundation (Ephesians 2:8-9). It is how we are justified or made right with God (Romans 3:28). Faith is so powerful it can move mountains (Matthew 21:21) or plant an uprooted tree in the sea (Luke 17:6). We know that without faith we cannot please God (Hebrews 11:6), and whatever is done without faith is sin (Romans 14:23). So of course we would like God to increase our faith. 



But few things increase our faith like suffering, and none of us longs for that. We find ourselves begging as the disciples did, "Increase our faith!" (Luke 17:5) Pastor and author John Piper says, "One of the primary purposes of being shaken by suffering is to make our faith unshakable." He explains how this happens. "Faith is like a muscle tissue; if you stress it to the limit, it gets stronger." However, as I know, having your faith pushed to the limits is difficult and cannot be faced without God's strength. 

Turn to Jesus in your pain, and let the hardships of your life cause your faith to increase.

Insight: When our faith is tested, we can pray like the father of the demon-possessed boy, "I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24)

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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,
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Michael D. Inman

Date: July 17, 2020 at 2:44 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Thanks in Everything

Thanks in Everything

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Philippians 4:6   

Scripture Focus: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24

Most people today would not readily link thanksgiving and suffering together. But Paul did. And so did Corrie ten Boom in her book The Hiding Place where she describes deep thanks even in the face of awful circumstances. For hiding Jews in their home, sisters Corrie and Betsie were sent to the Nazi concentration camp, Ravensbruck. Often they were overcome by the conditions in the camp which included fleas in their beds. Betsie reminded Corrie that 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says to give thanks in "all circumstances," not just in pleasant ones. 

She suggested that "fleas are part of this place where God has put us." So after thanking God for the fleas, the sisters discovered that they were free to have normally-forbidden Bible studies in their barracks only because the guards would not step through the door and come near those fleas! There is a bigger picture to our suffering. We may not see it all, but we can thank God for His faithfulness and love, manifested in fleas or any other of life's challenges and tragedies.

Insight: Above all, remember God is faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9) and loving (John 15:13) through difficult times.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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: July 16, 2020 at 12:06 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  The Precious Word

The Precious Word

"For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12  

Scripture Focus: Psalm 119:66-71 

Ravi Zacharias shares a story about being strengthened by God's Word during suffering. In 1971 when he ministered in Vietnam, his interpreter was a young Christian named Hien. After the war, Hien was imprisoned and was pressed by his captors to renounce his faith. As he was about to give up, he was assigned the duty of cleaning prison latrines where he found a page of the Bible that someone had used as toilet paper. 

After cleaning it, he read Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him." God provided the most relevant passage imaginable for this struggling Christian! After this, Hien requested latrine duty so he could find Bible pages, clean them, and then study them. Since my stroke, even while writing these devotions, many times and in many different ways, God has provided relevant verses from His Word to me and my family to teach and encourage us in our faith. 

As we suffer, we can pray that God will direct us to His precious Word which gives us knowledge and comfort.

Insight: Would you go to extremes to keep the Word of God in your life? It's the lamp for your feet and the light to your path.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them
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: July 13, 2020 at 1:37 AM CDT

Topic: +DEV+  Deep Roots

Deep Roots

"We also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts." Romans 5:3-5a  

Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 5:10-11

A researcher from Rutgers University found that in times of drought, some tree roots probe hundreds of feet deep and even break through cracks in rocks searching for water. In a similar way, as we search deeper in the Bible in times of suffering and lack, our relationship with God grows. John Piper observed this truth as a pastor. "I have never heard anyone say the really deep lessons of life have come in times of ease and comfort. 

But I have heard many saints say every significant advance made in grasping God's love and growing deeper with him has come through suffering" (2012). Very few of us could begin to compare our life's afflictions with those of Martin Luther or of Charles Spurgeon, but listen to their words: "Whoever does not know God in suffering does not know God at all" (Luther, 1527); "I am certain that I never grew in grace one-half so much as I have on the bed of pain" (Spurgeon, 1871). 

Let these words, born out of great pain but staked on a great belief in a loving God, go deep into your heart today.

Insight: Father, as we go through the drought of suffering, help our roots to grow deep in you and your Word. Amen.

If you have prayer requests for anything please email us and we will pray for them.

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