+Dev+ Michael D. Inman Pastor

Date: November 3, 2014 10:16 PM
Topic: +DEV+  This World Of Sin

This World Of Sin

"...we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies." Romans 8:23

Scripture Focus: Romans 8:18-25

While I love how adoption has made up many families, I realize that the only reason adoption happens at all is because this world is groaning under the weight of and results of sin. Unmarried women get pregnant; parents are killed; "imperfect" children are not wanted; poverty destroys a parent's ability to provide. Out of endless crushing circumstances, people may look to adoption as a solution. 

God put adoption in place to be modeled after the institution He first made: the natural family. But that is modeled after something else: the Kingdom of God in Christ (Russell Moore, "Adopted for Life," 2009). Through the idea of "family," we carry on in a sinful world knowing that we are living out a picture of God's good and just love for us as our Father. He's a Father whose love washes over us no matter what our abilities, deficiencies, skin color, or sex. Our Father's love redeems us and takes us in as His own. So even when earthly families let us down, we eagerly come to Jesus who gave His life to adopt us.

Insight: May you find for yourself, or offer to others, "family" through a family of believers in a local church.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: November 5, 2014 12:52 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Is Jesus Really Yours?

Is Jesus Really Yours?

"And you also are among those who are called to belong to Jesus Christ." Romans 1:6

Scripture Focus: Romans 1:1-6; 8:12-15

"Is she really yours?" and "Do you have any children of your own?" are familiar questions to adoptive parents. Sometimes I have wondered if the inquiries are implying that the “really yours” is not really a family. 

"Am I really in the family?" is an age-old question. Paul often reminded the believers in Rome, Ephesus and Galatia that they were brothers, adopted, and children of God. He told them that the family extended beyond Israel and into the whole Gentile world. They needed to know just as much then as we do now what our identity is in Jesus. We really do belong to Him. 

At times I've been defensive about the "really yours?" question, probably because I have thought that somehow "naturally born" was better than adopted. Does any of us want to admit that in our adoption by Christ we all once were lost, abandoned and enslaved? Yet even Israel was adopted (Romans 9:4), Paul says, and was an abandoned baby (Ezekiel 16:4-6) before the Lord "adopted" her. So are we really His? Yes, and more welcomed than we will ever know!

Insight: "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." (Romans 8:16)

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: November 3, 2014 12:48 AM
Topic: +DEV+  An Adoptive Picture

An Adoptive Picture

"I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." (John 14:18)

Scripture Focus: John 14:15-21

Layered on top of God's birth and marriage pictures of His perfect love for us is another image, that of adoption. I understand being born again; after all, I was born and saw both my daughters when they were born. 

For 38 years of marriage, I have understood more clearly how God is our groom and we are His bride. His assurance to us of comfort through the Holy Spirit carried us through long years of waiting. But when that first baby was placed in our arms and our love was immediate, we grasped deeply what it means to be placed in the family of God, to be wanted and to belong, to be grafted into a new life that we hadn't earned, to have our place in His family finalized and irreversible. 

These facets of our lives as believers in Jesus are made richer through the reality of adoption. Perhaps you know of an adoption story; let it point you to your heavenly Father who has not left you orphaned.

Insight: We have a Father, and he calls us His own!




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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 31, 2014 12:25 AM
Topic: +DEV+  The Jealous Husband

The Jealous Husband

I will rejoice in doing them good and will assuredly plant them in this land with all my heart and soul." (Jeremiah 32:41)
"For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God." (Deuteronomy 4:24)

Scripture Focus: Deuteronomy 4:23-24

Our culture's emphasis on freedom and the right to privacy makes jealousy seem a purely evil notion. But fervent, passionate, single-minded love for a spouse creates a natural and godly jealousy. When his wife of many years left him, one man I knew put his fist through a microwave oven door! God loves His bride so intensely (with all His heart and soul!), that when her heart turns to other gods (idols), He is rightly angry and jealous. 

But the intensity of that love also drives Him to pursue His bride, to win her back. God chose to illustrate that patient pursuit by asking the prophet Hosea to marry a prostitute and to continue loving her faithfully in spite of her subsequent infidelities. God's intense, burning, faithful love for us is what sent Jesus into our world, through suffering and mockery, all the way to death on the cross for us, the unfaithful ones. He rose again, triumphant and vindicated, and now prays for us constantly. May our hearts burn with intense love for such a heavenly Husband!

Insight: Give than to God for his intense love that has brought us into his family.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 29, 2014 11:08 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Jesus Came To Serve

Jesus Came To Serve

"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Scripture Focus: John 13:1-17

When the Bible says that a husband is the head of his wife, some people think "dictator." Jesus is indeed the Lord of the church, but He is also her servant! When He knelt to wash the disciples' feet, the apostle Peter was so incensed that he flat out refused. He couldn't fathom how that could be appropriate. If our pride keeps us from allowing Jesus to serve us, we will remain in our sin. When Peter found that out, he quickly begged Jesus to wash not only his feet but his whole body. Jesus spent every day on earth pouring out energy to serve the church and then gave up His life for His bride. He continues to serve us now, as He intercedes for us with the Father. 

Jesus chose a simple action to show His disciples how to serve others. As we serve others in Jesus' name, we have fellowship with Him. Our service to others does not save us. It is a joyful response to the love Jesus lavishes on us. We pray that those we serve will one day sit with us at a heavenly wedding banquet served up by Jesus Himself.

Insight: May we serve others in our marriages and relationships knowing how our Lord came to serve 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 28, 2014 10:15 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Our Protection Cloak

Our Protection Cloak

"...I spread the corner of my garment over you and covered you...and you became mine." (Ezekiel 16:8) 
"Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you..." (Psalm 17:7)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 17:1-8

In the Lord of the Rings, Sam and Frodo hide under an elvish cloak whose magical qualities protect them. Under it they cannot even be seen by their enemy! The Bible speaks of a man spreading his cloak over his wife as he takes her in marriage and protects her. A Christian husband protects his wife not only by investigating strange noises in the night. He also watches over her physical and spiritual state daily; he works to provide a salary; he slows her down when she is overworked or urges her on when she lacks confidence. He insists that the children respect and obey her. He listens to her, anticipates her needs and protects and guards her reputation. 

These qualities are mere human reflections of the protection Jesus provides for us. We have a cloak far more powerful than the elvish cloak. Our heavenly protector has taken us under His cloak of protection and blessing. Though the devil prowls, seeking to devour, he has no power to drag us out from the protection of Jesus' mantle of righteousness.

Insight: "Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings." (Psalm 17:8)

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 27, 2014 10:39 PM
Topic: +DEV+  He Listens to Us

He Listens to Us

"Save us and help us with your right hand, that those you love may be delivered." (Psalm 60:5)

Scripture Focus: 1 John 5:13-15

A person often has to drop rather huge hints about what they’d like for their birthday. You may have experienced that sometimes even blatant clues do not do the trick! Our heavenly Father needs no such hints, because He resides in our hearts by His Holy Spirit. He knows our every whim, discouragement or joy. Out of His deep love, He listens to us. 

Perhaps you are thinking that we need not bother to pray then, if He knows everything already. Not so, Jesus instructed us to pray, not because He needs it, but because we do. We pray because it is natural for us to talk to our husband! Conversation is one means by which relationships grow. God loves to hear us pray and as we pray, He meets us and gives us His strength, peace and wisdom. As we reflect on His Word and pray to Him, we receive everything we need for "life and godliness" (2 Peter 1:3). We cannot weary Him with our sincere prayers. He always has time for us and always answers in ways that do us good and bring glory to His name. No hints needed!

Insight: When you think no one cares to listen to you, the ear of your savior is tuned in to 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 26, 2014 10:10 PM
Topic: +DEV+ What's in a Name?

What's in a Name?

"So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them." (Numbers 6:27)

Scripture Focus: Matthew 22:23-33

Some find offensive the custom of a woman giving up her maiden name to take her husband's, but in the Bible, Jesus seeks a bride (the church) and gives her His name. Christians are baptized in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. That name shows us to be part of the family, the church. 

Yet we are not absorbed into God's name the way a Hindu is absorbed into nothingness, because, amazingly enough, God takes our individual name into His as well! Jesus argued with the Pharisees that if God calls Himself "the God of Abraham," then Abraham must still be alive, for God is the God of the living, not of the dead (Matthew 22:32). God even promises to give us a "new name" and to write His name on us when we are welcomed to our heavenly home. How proud we are to bear the name "Christian," especially because we know that such a privilege was bought for us. And at the very same time, Jesus took on Himself our name, "Sinner," when He "became sin for us" on the cross (see 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Insight: Proverbs 22:1 says a good name is more desirable than great riches. The only truly good name is that of Jesus, and he gives it 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 23, 2014 11:12 PM
Topic: +DEV+  The Best House Ever

The Best House Ever
"I love the house where you live, O LORD, the place where your glory dwells." (Psalm 26:8)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 84

Close your eyes and think of "home." Does a particular house come to mind - the one where you felt the safest, most comfortable, and happiest? I have sweet, strong memories of an old three chimneyed farm home, set on a farm in Salem Missouri. Some of you may never have known a safe, happy home. You can only imagine something that never was a reality for you. Take comfort in knowing that our heavenly Father creates a safe home for us. 

First, it is a home characterized by the safety of His loving arms. Nothing can take that home from one of His children! He also gives us Christian families, where intimacy and trust reign. Those families make a larger home - the church, where we sense God's presence and learn of His love. Finally, our heavenly Husband has gone ahead of us to a country we've never seen, to make us a home so glorious we can't even imagine it. God has opened His front door and invites you in. If you are not already enjoying that hospitality, let Jesus carry you over the threshold!

Insight: "Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere." (Psalm 84:10)

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 21, 2014 10:22 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Marry A Prostitute?

Marry A Prostitute?

"...to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word..."(Ephesians 5:26)

Scripture Focus: Hosea 2:16-3:1

A photographer once offered prostitutes a free portrait at his studio. Interestingly, the women almost unanimously chose from the proposed wardrobe a white wedding dress for the photograph. We, too, are prostitutes in a wedding dress. We are prostitutes in God's eyes, since spiritually we run after other "husbands," lusting for what idols offer us-fame, fun, money, or respect from the "in crowd." 

But Jesus does so much more than the photographer could do! A photograph cannot change our inner state. The women's desire for purity is very moving, but only our husband Jesus truly purifies us, washing our hearts clean and clothing us in His white robe of perfection. "You were adorned with gold and silver, and your clothing was of fine linen and silk and embroidered cloth... You grew exceedingly beautiful and advanced to royalty" (Ezekiel 16:13). 

By faith in His death and resurrection, we spiritual prostitutes can become His pure bride! If you have never accepted Jesus' wedding dress, there is still time.

Insight: Of all the items you could put on, clothe yourself, most importantly, with Jesus christ.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 20, 2014 10:58 PM
Topic: +DEV+  The Bridegroom Woos Us

The Bridegroom Woos Us

"For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost." (Luke 19:10)

Scripture Focus: Romans 8:33-39

A recent film tells of a young man whose wife of five years loses all memory of her husband as a result of a tragic car accident. The husband's sorrow and frustration turn to determination: If he won her hand once, he can do it again! It's a beautiful picture of how God is just such a patient Husband and lover to us. 

He not only wooed us the first time, but goes on wooing us, "with all His heart and soul," in spite of our constant memory loss. He faithfully pursues His people through the halls of history. He sent His Son to a faraway land to search us out and bring us home. He captures the heart of each individual, winning one in the midst of chemotherapy treatment, and another in a moment of quiet fascination with the beauty of a flower. He never gives up, never runs out of patience, and knows each one who is His. His search cost Him a life of suffering, mockery and humble service, and ultimately His life. If He's pursuing you even now, stop running. Turn around and look into your Lover's face.

Insight: Nothing on this earth or anywhere else can separate us from God's unstoppable 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 19, 2014 10:57 PM
Topic: +DEV+  God's Perfect Bride

God's Perfect Bride

"The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, ...but it was because the LORD loves you..." (Deuteronomy 7:7-8)

Scripture Focus: Deuteronomy 7:6-9

Another image God presents is of us as His bride. Have you ever wondered why it is sometimes so hard to answer your spouse if he or she asks you, "Why do you love me?" Ultimately, the answer boils down to the one God gives us: "I love you because...I love you!" 

In the Bible, God sets His eye on a chosen spiritual bride. You and I are part of that bride. That the holy, awesome Creator-God has "set His eyes" on us in love is scary! What will He see? Will our sin put Him off? How can we bear that gaze? God's people in the wilderness were so afraid of that intimacy that they asked Moses to be their go-between, and God said it was a good idea. 

We can only bear the delightful, frightening stare of love because in Jesus' beauty we are God's perfect bride, without a wrinkle or a blemish. He is our go-between. He has made us absolutely loveable and we need never fear losing that love. In Christ, we truly are the apple of God's eye. Absorb and delight in God your heavenly Husband's loving stare today!

Insight: You are god's treasured possession, and his loving eyes are upon you.

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

Michael D. Inman

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 16, 2014 11:32 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Are We Resembling Christ

Are We Resembling Christ

"Now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him..." (1 John 3:2)

Scripture Focus: 1 John 2:28-3:3

A child is born, and what does everybody start asking? "Who does he/she look like?" Daddy? Big sister? Grandpa? It's an irresistible game, part of the joy that everyone shares (except for the jaded fellow who said, "Face it. All babies look like Winston Churchill."). 

The apostle John writes repeatedly about our new, spiritual birth. In the middle of his first letter, he suddenly breaks into an expression of wonder: "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" It's as joyful as anything uttered by a physical parent, a truth almost too good for words. 

Then he tells us more about being a child of God. We are growing in resemblance to Christ. We won't physically look like Jesus; we'll resemble Him spiritually. We are being renewed, healed, and eventually perfected to have the moral excellence of the Son of God. He is coming back for us, says John, and when He returns, we will be able to look at Him, unashamed, because "we shall be like Him."

Insight: "Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame." (Psalm 34:5)

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 13, 2014 10:00 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Bring Them In

Bring Them In

"I will say to the North, 'Give them up!' and to the South, 'Do not hold them back.' Bring my sons... and my daughters from the ends of the earth - everyone who is called by my name..." (Isaiah 43:6-7)

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 43:1-7

Friends with seven children told us a classic big-family story. While on vacation they took a lunch break, then headed down the road again. But Dad forgot to take roll call, and sure enough, one young son had been left behind. Everything turned out fine, but you can imagine Dad making the world's quickest U-turn! 

God, of course, never overlooks His children. He calls for them with authority, issuing a command that cannot be refused. In Isaiah's day, God called His people home from exile. But the summons goes beyond that: He is calling people from around the globe whom the Holy Spirit is regenerating - those who have been "born again," as Jesus said. These renewed sons and daughters are called by His name. Not one will be lost; every child will be brought into the family. 

In verse 3 of our passage, God calls Himself "Savior." This is Jesus who died for us. Verse 4 tells us why: "you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you." Born again, called, loved - what greater security is there?

Insight: The same God who spoke the universe into existence is the one who says, "I have summoned you by name; you are Mine."

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 14, 2014 11:38 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Meaning Of Love

Meaning Of Love

"Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God....God is love." (1 John 4:7-8)

Scripture Focus: 1 John 4:7-20

I use the word "love" a lot, and often frivolously: "Love those pictures!" "Love your emails!" "Love that chocolate!" I use it for things that bring out certain emotions: excitement, satisfaction, amusement. 

In our passage, John uses the word "love" twenty-three times, but never frivolously. He writes of God's love for us and our love for fellow believers. It's hard to drum up a natural love for everyone in the church. Too often feelings of indifference, resentment, and jealousy rule our relationships. 

But John isn't appealing to our natural tendencies. He is speaking to us as born-again children. We are new people who have a new ability to love, because "we live in Him and He lives in us." John isn't telling hopeless sinners to love hopeless sinners; he's telling Spirit-birthed children to love Spirit-birthed children. We're not a bunch of unlovable wretches trying to feel good about each other. We're a family brought to life by the work of Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice for our sins.

Insight: Loving each other begins by looking at the cross.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 12, 2014 11:34 PM
Topic: +DEV+  A New Creation

A New Creation

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Scripture Focus: 2 Corinthians 5:11-21

A good friend once told me about his family coming to Christ. He was a teenager when it happened; someone shared the gospel with his parents, they believed it, and they began living for Jesus. I'll never forget the way he described the change: "It was as if the world went from black and white to living color." In their home there were new behaviors, new goals, and an entirely new way of seeing the world. 

Paul writes that a Christian is "a new creation." The old identity is gone. A hopeless, futile life has been replaced with purpose and fruitfulness. We have, in a sense, new eyes that can see new beauties, such as righteous living and communion with God. We enjoy new things, such as Christ's love. In fact, a believer has an entirely different worldview from an unbeliever. We have a new motivation: Christ's love and not people's approval. We have a new goal: to live for God and not ourselves. Most wonderful of all, we have a new account: the credit of Christ's righteousness and not the debt of our sins.

Insight: How does your worldview, as a christian, differ from an unbeliever's? How has your life changed because of Jesus?

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 9, 2014 12:36 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Our Brother

Our Brother

"Both the one who makes men holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers." (Hebrews 2:11)

Scripture Focus: Luke 15:25-32; Hebrews 2:10-13

In the parable of the prodigal son, there is one unhappy person at the party: the older brother. He's disgusted with his brother, and he's furious with their father. Don't you realize, he says, that you're rewarding terrible behavior? He even claims that his own behavior has been perfect. Where's his reward? 

Jesus, your older brother, is the only son who has always obeyed His Father. Hebrews 2:10 tells us that His perfect earthly life was completed by suffering. He lived and suffered for His brothers. We are the ones who deserve accusations for our ungrateful, proud and sinful living. But Jesus let Himself be accused. We deserve to perish for our sins. But Jesus gave Himself in our place, took the judgment, and was crucified. 

Jesus, "The one who makes men holy" (vs.11), will never be ashamed of us. We are "of the same family" with Him. Yet unlike the brother in the parable, He has no animosity towards us. In fact, He invites us to a celebration: praising God with countless brothers in heaven.

Insight: The brother in the parable would have utterly refused to share his part of the inheritance. But your older brother, Jesus, freely shares with 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 9, 2014 10:26 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Food for Newborns

Food for Newborns

"Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation." (Peter 2:2)

Scripture Focus: 1 Peter 1:23-2:3

Think of a breastfed baby. From almost its first breath, perfect food is offered. This milk contains the ideal nutrients to help a brand new person thrive. And it's always available - no waiting. In fact, a breastfeeding mother knows that if she keeps her child waiting, she'll hear about it - quite loudly! 

Christians are like newborn babies. We constantly need spiritual food. Peter explains that the perfect nourishment for our growth is God's "living and enduring" Word. The Bible is rich provision for our souls: it reveals our holy Creator, exposes our sin, records God's faithfulness, and spotlights our Savior. Forgiveness, peace, joy, eternal life...all are offered in its pages. 

One way we "grow up in our salvation" and take in this "pure spiritual milk" is by gathering as a congregation to hear faithful, biblical preaching. We are a family after all, and each of us is equally dependent on the eternal Word for our salvation and our growth. Is it any wonder that Peter urges us to "crave" it?

Insight: Ask your gracious Father to increase your appetite for His word. He loves you and truly wants you to taste His goodness.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 7, 2014 11:22 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Are You Welcomed At Home?

Are You Welcomed At Home?

"...While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him...." (Luke 15:20)

Scripture Focus: Luke 15:11-24

The holidays are coming, and with them comes time with family. But for many, "family" means broken relationships. They dread walking through that front door because inside, shame, abuse, and criticism are waiting. 

No one dreaded going home more than the lost son in Jesus' parable. He knows he's wrecked the family fortune and offended his father immeasurably. He thinks, if I offer to be a servant, maybe I'll be taken in. If I just work really hard, maybe I can make up for the dishonor I brought to the family name. 

Before he can even make it to the front door, his father comes running down the road to greet him. "Let's celebrate!" he cries. Quickly, he orders the best for his son: a robe, a ring, a feast. And he says nothing about his son's sins. 

You have a home like this. In fact, you have an honored place there, because God has chosen you to receive His love and to share His wealth. You may feel your life is a wreck. But God, like the father in the parable, says, "Everything that I have is yours."

Insight: If you are hesitating to read his word or pray, remember your honored place. Your Father rejoices to have you in His family.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 5, 2014 9:55 PM
Topic: +DEV+ The New Birth

The New Birth

"To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God - children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God." (John 1:12-13)

Scripture Focus: John 1:10-14

Early in our marriage, we wanted to start a family. But we were anxious: Being over seas, would labor go well?Would we carry a child to term? Would our child be born healthy? Would we be able to provide? Nothing seemed certain. Many questions and no answers.

Sometimes we believers feel anxious about our own salvation. How can we be sure of it? The opening verses of John's Gospel reassure us: our new birth is absolutely certain! It isn't some divine prediction, nor is God making a mere attempt or a hopeful wish. The eternal Creator planned our new life in Christ "before the foundation of the world" (Ephesians 1:4). Our salvation wasn't accomplished by "human decision," but by the will and power of the infallible Holy Spirit. And from the moment of our new birth, everything we needed for success in the Christian life was provided, because not only are we made new, but the Father "has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3).

Insight: When you feel uncertain about your salvation, remember that it didn't happen by your human effort, but by the perfect work of God himself.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 2, 2014 10:07 PM
Topic: +DEV+  The Rebirth

The Rebirth

"Jesus declared, 'I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.'" (John 3:3)

Scripture Focus: John 3:1-8

The Bible gives us word pictures to grasp how we are a part of God's family. The first image we'll look at is rebirth. Nicodemus pictured Jesus' words graphically: a grown man crawling back up the birth canal and into his mother's womb. What a disturbing and impossible image! If seeing the kingdom of God depends on that kind of human act, no one will ever make it. 

For a long time I understood salvation the way Nicodemus did, that it depended on some effort of my own. I longed to be a different kind of person, but no matter how I tried, I failed. My goodness wasn't consistent enough; my will-power wasn't strong enough. At best, I was frustrated; at worst, despairing. 

Jesus listened to Nicodemus and said, "I tell you the truth." He was describing a very different kind of experience, one of “spiritual” birth, done by the Holy Spirit Himself. Nicodemus misunderstood, yet in a way, he was right: no man can give himself new life. But God can, and it's a life far greater than the one that happens in the flesh.

Insight: What God has done for you is more amazing than you can imagine, and beyond anything you could accomplish on your own.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 2, 2014 1:18 AM
Topic: +DEV+  A Miracle

A Miracle

"The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.'" (Matthew 28:5-6)

Scripture Focus: Matthew 28:1-10

During His earthly ministry, Jesus revealed His identity, authority, and power through teaching and miracles. For more than three years, He showed the people God in flesh as He met their physical and spiritual needs. 

Still, our greatest need was for One who would save us from sin and death, and restore the broken relationship with our holy Creator. Jesus is that Savior. While some believe, others do not. But how could those who believe be sure Jesus is who He said He is? What guarantee do we have that the payment for sin is paid in full? 

The proof is in Christ's resurrection - the ultimate miracle. Death is conquered, sin is atoned, and the tomb is empty. Even more, His resurrection assures us the grave is not the end. We can also look forward to resurrection. 

Until that day, the power that raised Christ from the dead is the same power that dwells in us through the Holy Spirit. We can spend our lives searching for signs, wonders, and miracles, or we can rest in the greatest miracle of all!

Insight: Have you been searching for a miracle in your life? Celebrate and walk in the power of the resurrection - The ultimate miracle!




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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 30, 2014 12:39 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Gratitude?

Gratitude?

"One of them....threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him - and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, Were not all ten cleansed? ...Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" (Luke 17:15-18)

Scripture Focus: Luke 17:11-19

If we were to count all the requests the Lord has granted to us, would they equal all the times we have expressed our gratitude? Probably not. 

Of the ten lepers who asked to be healed by Jesus, all ten took Him at His word. They obeyed His command to show themselves to the priests, even though they had not yet been healed. However, only one returned to say thank you when the healing actually occurred. It's not that the others were ungrateful. They just seemed more concerned with getting on with their lives than they were with honoring the One who made it possible. 

Before we criticize these nine men, perhaps we should examine ourselves. Do we thank the Lord as often as we present our requests? If we spend a month appealing to God for a particular request, do we thank Him for at least that long? Or do we move on to our next appeal, His mercy taken for granted without a second thought? 

Gratitude is not just an attitude. It is an antidote against seeking God's hand without also drawing near to His heart.

Insight: How often do you thank the Lord for His mercy? Add a "gratitude list" to your quiet time and draw near to His 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 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 28, 2014 10:34 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Are We Heavenly Minded?

Are We Heavenly Minded?

"Jesus said to her, 'Your brother will rise again.' Martha answered, 'I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.' Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life...'" (John 11:23-25)

Scripture Focus: John 11:17-44

Life does not always turn out the way we would like. As Christians, we can console ourselves with the reminder that a heavenly future awaits us. But if we are too heavenly minded, we may forget that what we believe matters today, as well. 

Lazarus's sister, Martha, knew that one day all believers will experience a resurrection to eternal life. Yet it seems she did not think of the resurrection as relevant to her current situation. In her mind, the promise of new life belonged to a future day. 

Jesus reminded her that He “is” the resurrection and the life, not that He “will be.” Her belief in Him was not just for an eternity that would begin after death. Eternal life begins now and extends across death. "Whoever lives and believes in me will never die" (vs. 26). Then He proved His power over death by bringing Lazarus back to life. 

Martha learned that her faith in Jesus Christ is not just for the future. Faith in Him makes a difference in our present, earthly lives, too. Eternity actually begins today.

Insight: Has compartmental thinking discouraged you in your present situation? Know that our faith is relevant to both our earthly life and our heavenly one!

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 25, 2014 10:38 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Task Or People Oriented?

Task Or People Oriented?

"On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit....Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God." (Luke 13:10-11, 13)

Scripture Focus: Luke 13:10-17

Are you task-oriented or people-oriented? In any situation, do you first think of getting the job done? Or is your priority the people involved? 

As long as Jesus stuck to the teaching agenda, the religious leaders in this passage were fine. But Jesus was more concerned with people than with rules and tasks. He never seemed to mind getting "sidetracked." He saw a woman who had been crippled for 18 years. With a word and a touch, Jesus made her whole. 

The leaders were annoyed that their rules had been disrupted. They rebuked the people for wanting to be healed on the Sabbath. But Jesus rebuked them. If their legalism made an exception for watering animals on the Sabbath, surely one of God's chosen people was just as important, if not more so. 

Most of us have daily to-do lists that grow and spill into the next day. The result can be a concern for agendas and tasks while neglecting the people in our lives for whom Jesus died. God is more concerned with people than with tasks. We should be, too.

Insight: Is your ministry schedule so full that you don't have time for individual people? Allow the Lord to interrupt your schedule with his priorities.




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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 24, 2014 11:45 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Jesus: The Light of the World

Jesus: The Light of the World

"Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind? Neither this man nor his parents sinned, said Jesus, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." (John 9:2-3)

Scripture Focus: John 9:1-11

Why do bad things happen? The easy - or not-so-easy - answer is sin. Because of sin, God's perfect creation, including humanity, has been corrupted. 

So it was natural for Jesus' disciples to blame this man's blindness on sin. But who sinned, they wanted to know. Since the man was born blind, could he have sinned in his mother's womb? If he was not the guilty one, then was it his parents? The disciples took this difficult question to Jesus, the One who had answered other questions about God's nature and His ways. 

Jesus told them there was one more option to consider. In this case, the reason for the man's blindness was not the consequence of his or his parents' sin. This blindness was to illustrate the glory of God in a powerful way. Jesus would bring light to one man so that all men would give glory to God. 

You and I still have an opportunity to give glory to God. We may not be able to cure physical blindness, but by our words and deeds we can point people to the Light of the world each day.

Insight: Is there something in your life that seems purposeless? Ask God to use it for his glory, then watch him do 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 24, 2014 11:45 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Jesus: The Light of the World

Jesus: The Light of the World

"Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind? Neither this man nor his parents sinned, said Jesus, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." (John 9:2-3)

Scripture Focus: John 9:1-11

Why do bad things happen? The easy - or not-so-easy - answer is sin. Because of sin, God's perfect creation, including humanity, has been corrupted. 

So it was natural for Jesus' disciples to blame this man's blindness on sin. But who sinned, they wanted to know. Since the man was born blind, could he have sinned in his mother's womb? If he was not the guilty one, then was it his parents? The disciples took this difficult question to Jesus, the One who had answered other questions about God's nature and His ways. 

Jesus told them there was one more option to consider. In this case, the reason for the man's blindness was not the consequence of his or his parents' sin. This blindness was to illustrate the glory of God in a powerful way. Jesus would bring light to one man so that all men would give glory to God. 

You and I still have an opportunity to give glory to God. We may not be able to cure physical blindness, but by our words and deeds we can point people to the Light of the world each day.

Insight: Is there something in your life that seems purposeless? Ask God to use it for his glory, then watch him do 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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 25, 2014 10:38 PM
Topic: +DEV+ Task Or People Oriented?

Task Or People Oriented?

"On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit....Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God." (Luke 13:10-11, 13)

Scripture Focus: Luke 13:10-17

Are you task-oriented or people-oriented? In any situation, do you first think of getting the job done? Or is your priority the people involved? 

As long as Jesus stuck to the teaching agenda, the religious leaders in this passage were fine. But Jesus was more concerned with people than with rules and tasks. He never seemed to mind getting "sidetracked." He saw a woman who had been crippled for 18 years. With a word and a touch, Jesus made her whole. 

The leaders were annoyed that their rules had been disrupted. They rebuked the people for wanting to be healed on the Sabbath. But Jesus rebuked them. If their legalism made an exception for watering animals on the Sabbath, surely one of God's chosen people was just as important, if not more so. 

Most of us have daily to-do lists that grow and spill into the next day. The result can be a concern for agendas and tasks while neglecting the people in our lives for whom Jesus died. God is more concerned with people than with tasks. We should be, too.

Insight: Is your ministry schedule so full that you don't have time for individual people? Allow the Lord to interrupt your schedule with his priorities.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
- "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: September 22, 2014 11:34 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Everything Is Possible

Everything Is Possible

"'...But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.' 'If you can?' said Jesus. 'Everything is possible for him who believes.' Immediately the boy's father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'" (Mark 9:22-24)

Scripture Focus: Mark 9:14-29

Many of us have prayer lists that grow daily - sometimes hourly. “Lord, can you heal this cancer? Lord, please restore this marriage. Lord, can you save my child?” We ask, but do we really believe God can do what we need, when we need it? 

A desperate father came to Jesus on behalf of his son. The disciples could not drive out the evil spirit, but the father refused to give up. Maybe the Master could help where the servants had failed. Still, the man's faith had taken a beating, so he began his request with, "If you can...."

“If”. Endless possibility is wrapped in that tiny word... possibility accessed by faith in the One who makes all things possible. At Jesus' prompt, the father recognized his own limitations. "Help me overcome my unbelief!" 

Like the disciples, we may spend just enough time with Jesus to think we have all we need to handle anything that comes our way. But all things are possible only when we recognize the limits of our own abilities and rely on His power to do the impossible.

Insight: Are you facing an impossible situation today? Recognize your need to trust the one for whom all things are possible.

 

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

 Date: September 23, 2014 11:41 PM
Topic: +DEV+  Account-Paid in Full

Account-Paid in Full

"But so that we may not offend them....Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours."  (Matthew 17:27)

Scripture Focus: Matthew 17:24-27

Taxes. We love to complain about them...and people have been complaining about them for thousands of years! 

When Peter was asked if Jesus paid the temple tax, he answered without first checking with the Lord. Because He is God's Son, Jesus should have been exempt from the tax, right? Yet even though He did not need to, He gave Peter the means to pay for them both. 

We still dislike paying taxes. Many of us look for loopholes to avoid or reduce our payment. But there's a more severe debt we owe than mere taxes we must pay: death. Death is the consequence of sin and there is no loophole. However, like the temple tax, Jesus made a payment He did not have to make. God's Son lived a sinless life, died a substitutionary death, and rose in victory to conquer sin and death... for us! 

He did not owe the payment. We did. Sin obligated us to die, but He died for us. Jesus paid the temple tax with a miracle; He paid for our salvation with another miracle. God became man and purchased our salvation - paid for it in full.

Insight: Are you looking for a way to avoid sin's eternal consequences? No need to search further. Jesus did it all: account-paid in full.

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

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."

Date: October 24, 2012 9:38 AM
Topic: +DEV+  Spiritual Clarity

Spiritual Clarity

"He looked up and said, 'I see people; they look like trees walking around.'  Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes.  Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly." (Mark 8:24-25)

Scripture Focus: Mark 8:22-26

Digital autofocus cameras have made it easier to take flawless photos. The camera locks onto the subject and the result is a picture that is perfectly focused. 

Today we read about another kind of focus. In the Bible, physical blindness often signified spiritual blindness. Unlike some other people healed by Christ, this blind man received his sight in stages - a picture of our own spiritual lives. 

Young or old, when we come to know Jesus as our Lord and Savior, most of us don't fully understand all that this new life entails. God “justifies” us at the moment of new birth by declaring us righteous. But for the rest of our earthly lives, the Holy Spirit works to “sanctify” us - to make us more like Christ in our thoughts, words, and deeds. As we grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord (2 Peter 3:18), we understand more of His Word; our trust in Him increases. 

Like this blind man, the Lord's touch in our lives brings increasing clarity to our spiritual sight until we, too, can "see clearly."

Insight: Is there an area in your spiritual life that is unclear? Surrender to Christ's touch and allow him to bring spiritual clarity in that area.

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

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Michael D. Inman

- "Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing." John Stuart Mill, 1867
- "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." Thomas Jefferson
 - "If the First Amendment fails, use the Second one."