My Daily Pause

Category: In 100 Words

  • Some Days You’re the Shoe and Some You’re the Bug

    beetle-info0Every Christian I’ve ever asked has wondered why God allows atheist and evil people to materially prosper. It is apparently an age old question going back at least to David in Psalm 10. He seems to think that they are so spiritually poor that the riches never really satisfy them, yet it becomes their main pursuit.

    Jesus said to lay up our treasure in heaven, not here in this life where it will decay away (Matthew 6:19-21). God will settle the accounts in the end (1 Thessalonians 1:3-10). If we concentrate on God’s work, the rest will take care of itself. (Matthew 6:25-33)

  • Growing from Temptations

    Growing from Temptations

    Temptation of Christ - 16th Century - Simon Bening (circa 1483/1484–1561)
    Temptation of Christ – 16th Century – Simon Bening (circa 1483/1484–1561)

    Jesus came to earth to live as a man, including the trials and temptations man faces. Luke 4:1-12 is rich with examples we can apply to our lives:

    • Jesus resisted each test to show us the standard of living
    • Jesus already had everything Satan promised him
    • Satan will wait for an opportune time
    • Scripture can be twisted against you.

    This challenge complete, Jesus begins his ministry on earth in earnest. In this same way, we can grow from the sins, challenges and hardships we face every day. James said to let these things be a joy to us (James 1:3-4)

  • The Sound of My Cry

    The Sound of My Cry

    In Psalm 6, David is apparently surrounded by his enemy, but he knows that God will hear his prayer. He knows God detests the wickedness of His enemies and will ultimately destroy them.

    Like David, we face the enemies of God at every turn.

    Like David, we can ask the Lord to make the way straight for us.

    Like David, we can rejoice that we have a loving God to care for us.

  • The Lord Delivers

    The Lord Delivers

    In Psalm 4, David shines light on the state of man’s heart. (v2) Why does one seek out the pleasure of fleshly things when in the bottom of his heart he knows he needs God?

    James called these people – these friends of the world – the enemy of God. (James 4:3-4)

    David reminds those who are friendly with the wrong things that God only hears the prayers from the godly. A good question to ask is if we are seeking the right treasure. When this is true for us, we can “lie down in peace and safety.” (v8)

  • Hope is Coming

    Hope is Coming

    What if from today, you followed David’s example in Psalm 4:1-4?

    When you are having trouble that seems bigger than you, turn to God rather than try to handle it on your own.

    He has everything under control!

  • Generous Measure

    helpinghands

    The Lord hates both these things:
    dishonest weights and dishonest measures. – Proverbs 20:10 NCV

    The Lord hates dishonest weights,
    and dishonest scales do not please him. – Proverbs 20:23 NCV

    The Lord gives based on how we give:

    give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. – Luke 6:38 ESV

    Do the standards you measure your deeds against match His?