What would you do? How would you react? Have you given any thought to how you would react if you were commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus?

"And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus." (Acts 4:18)

It's not a contemporary problem … the apostles faced this dilemma during the birth of the church and many across the globe today live under the same laws.

Surely by listening to the news, discerning the time in which we live is not too difficult. An attempt to silence the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ has already been seen in many nations and it's going to get worse. Untold numbers of worshippers have to meet in secret, whispering, hiding, and closely disguising their lives so they can continue to gather as the Body to worship the Lord of lord and King of kings. It's hard to fathom.

What would be your response if a law was passed that prohibited you from speaking about the Lord, mentioning the name of Jesus, and preaching the Christ of Calvary? Would your motivation be fear, causing you to go into hiding and never let it be known that you are a Christian? Or, would your motivation be faith, with wisdom and care leading your life in a way that the light of the Christ you serve shines through you without ever speaking a word?

Regardless of your eschatological views, we all must admit that this is a very real possibility even in our own lifetimes.

Do you have enough of the Word of God hidden in your heart to carry you through a time that you might be commanded not to speak or teach in the name of Jesus?

Ps 119:11
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

Ps 119:16
I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

Ps 119:38
Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear.

Ps 119:105
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Ps 119:114
Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

Ps 119:133
Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.

John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

Acts 4:29
And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

Consider your own "Word-Level". Are you running low or are you well prepared? You don't have to go into battle with an unloaded gun. Open the pages of the precious Word of God and begin loading your weapon. And, if your weapon is already "loaded", make sure your ammunition isn't old and outdated. Keep it fresh daily. Remember, the weapons of our warfare aren't carnal (flesh and blood), but they're mighty through God. His Word is our most priceless possession, but it's not worth a red cent unless we read it, receive it, and recycle it daily.

Father, it's hard for me to fathom not being able to speak the name of Jesus or to teach openly the truth found in Your Word. Forgive me for taking this right and privilege for granted when there are, right now in our world, people who suffer great persecution for gathering together to worship You. Father, help me to be that one who has studied and shown to be approved, the workman that doesn't need to be ashamed but who rightly divides the Word of Truth. Teach me, Lord, and I will obey. Open my heart and I will receive. Open Your Word to me and I will hide it in my heart. In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

© Jan Ross
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Psalm 91 is one of the most-often read of all the psalms. It is also one of the least understood as many don't take the time to truly think about what it means to "dwell in the secret place of the Most High."

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1)

Ask yourself these questions: Are you at home in God, at rest in Him? Are you acquainted with Him throughout your whole being? Is your heart-work the service of God? Do you worship within the veil, loving to be alone with Him and converse with Him in solitude?

Marriage between a man and woman has two faces—one that is seen in public and one that is perceived only in private between the husband and wife. A married couple holding hands, walking arm-in-arm, exchanging winks or touches . . . all these are "public" faces of a marriage relationship; all these are good and necessary but superficial and not intimate by definition. But, that which takes place in the "secret place" need not be spoken of, but the fruit of the intimate relationship can be seen without any word of public testimony.

Have you found that place of true intimacy with the Lord? Do you love being alone with Him, conversing with Him, sharing with Him, learning from Him? Have you learned to set aside some quiet, alone time to be in His presence where an intimate relationship can develop and grow?

Don't take your time with Him lightly, but nurture it and allow it to grow deeper and deeper day after day for if we DWELL in that "secret place" of the Most High, we will ABIDE under the shadow of His wing. No safer place can be found in all of creation!

Father, although our relationship has grown and blossomed since I first met You, I long for a deeper, more intimate relationship with You! I long to find that "secret place" where I can dwell and find my safety under the shadow of Your wing! Lord, help me love You more, know You more, serve You more! Lord, help me surrender to You more and more each day, that our relationship can be seen and perceived by all who meet me without ever having to say a word! Father, be glorified in our relationship today and every day! Amen!

© Jan Ross
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Have you ever tried to pick up something that was too heavy? What was your immediate reaction? Most likely you cried out in pain and dropped it, or kept silent and suffered for it later. Regardless of your reaction, you reacted.

The burden of bitterness is too heavy for anyone to carry. In fact, if we pick it up and attempt to carry it, it will weigh us down and eventually crush us to the point that we will be unable to function. Yet, day after day we pick up bitterness and try to walk around with it strapped on our back.

Can you imagine someone walking around with a huge block of cement on their back, weighing them down while they're singing in the choir or tending the nursery? What if this burdened one is teaching children's church or is an usher at the church? First thing everyone would notice is that they've got a load that they don't need to be carrying. People would immediately be distracted by that huge block of cement on their back before they heard a word that person uttered. They can wear a big smile, beautiful clothing, expensive perfume, but the all attention will be drawn to that burden they're carrying. Preach the best sermon, but the burden shows. Sing the best song but because of the burden, no one hears.

Bitterness does the same thing . . . do you see it? The burden of bitterness is too heavy for us to carry.

What is bitterness? The dictionary defines it as proceeding from or exhibiting strong animosity marked by resentment or cynicism. Interestingly, the Greek word for bitterness has its root in a word meaning "tent" or "pitch". In other words, bitterness plans to stay around for a while – it intends to pitch a tent and take up residency!

• Bitterness divides . . . Jesus prayed that we would all "become one". (John 17:11)
  
• Bitterness pollutes . . . we are to love one another with a pure heart! (1 Peter 1:22)
  
• Bitterness destroys . . . our words are to be as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and health to the bones. (Proverbs 16:24)
  
• Bitterness offends . . . we are to hold our peace. (Proverbs 11:12)
  
• Bitterness is of the flesh . . . we are to live by the Spirit and reap eternal life. (Galatians 6:8)
  

The list obviously could go on and on but it's not necessary. If you are carrying a burden of bitterness, drop it and let it go. Don't entertain it any longer. Don't let it control your life and rob you of abundant life in the Lord Jesus Christ. If someone has wronged you, forgive them. If you feel cheated, misunderstood, used, abused, or hated, drop that burden of bitterness and go on. Carrying the burden of bitterness will keep you from picking up the freedom bought with the precious and priceless blood of the Lamb. Don't allow bitterness to destroy you and destroy your relationship with the Lord and with others. The burden is too heavy to carry and you weren't created to bear it. Don't take another step without dropping it and walking away. Do it for yourself and do it for those you love!

"Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?" (James 3:9-11)

Father, I do have bitterness in my heart toward [fill in the blank] and because of [fill in the blank]. I knew it was there but didn't really consider it to be a burden too difficult to carry . . . I thought I was handling it but I see now that I'm not. Lord, with Your help I'm going to drop this burden right now and leave it at your feet. Father, help me to forgive totally and to go on and not look back. Help me to draw on Your strength as it is made perfect in my weakness. Forgive me for carrying this burden much too long . . . give me the courage to go on so that You will be glorified in me and through me. In Jesus' name, by His blood which sets me free, and for His glory which is so deserved . . . amen and amen!

© Jan Ross
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Although the major election year is passed and today's devotion is not about politics, the verse may lead you you to think otherwise.

"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

Actually, this verse has much more to do with living a life sanctified and set apart for the Master's use. It's about living above the base lusts of the flesh and conducting our lives in a fashion that is pleasing and acceptable in the eyes of God. After all, that's what He's commanded us to do.

Leviticus 20:7 says, "Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God." But, what does "sanctify yourselves" really mean? One commentator says, "We must cleanse ourselves from all the pollutions of sin, consecrate ourselves to the service and honor of God, and conform ourselves in everything to His holy will and image: this is to sanctify ourselves."

We are to keep ourselves from sin . . . make informed decisions in every area of our lives, think before we act, weigh our choices and then make the choice that is right according to the Word of God. Every temptation that comes our way brings with it a choice—one way will lead to destruction, the other way to abundant life.

According to 1 Peter 1:15-16, we are called to be holy in all manner of conversation. All our fellowship and interaction with others MUST have its basis in holiness. Anything less will rob the testimony—the visible witness of the glory of the Redeemer which God is building throughout the earth today … through His people.

Father, my heart's desire is to live a life sanctified unto You. Help me to consider my choices in all I do, then act on the right choice as a way of bringing glory to Your Name. Lord, teach me Your ways through Your Word. Be a shield all around me, O Lord, as I journey along life's path. Give me strength to choose righteousness and to disdain sin using the Word of God as my pattern. Lord, I love You; thank You for Your presence and direction in my life. Where would I be without You, Lord?

"And to make thee high above all nations which he hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honour; and that thou mayest be an holy people unto the LORD thy God, as he hath spoken." (Deuteronomy 26:19)

© Jan Ross
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The fall of the year is my favorite season, by far. I love the cooler temperatures and the smell of fall. To me, there is nothing quite like it. It's no wonder an evening not so long ago was so incredible.

Gracie, our 13-month old cockapoo, had to go outside. It had been a dreary cloud-covered day with leaves blowing in the wind. The cornfield across the road is ready for harvest, the beans in the field behind us have been picked and winter wheat sown. The beauty of this season absolutely astounds me.

I grabbed Gracie's leash and we stepped out onto the front porch. She began to walk into the yard as I looked up. I literally gasped! I mean, I audibly gasped. The beauty of what I beheld with my own eyes was indescribable.

The sun was low in the western sky and brilliantly peering through small breaks in the cloud cover. The rays lit the top of the trees bordering the family property like they were on fire—oranges and yellows and reds vibrantly aglow against the darkness of approaching nightfall.

Gracie finished her business and I went back inside and grabbed my camera. My camera couldn't even hope to capture such an extraordinary scene. But my heart did as I thought about it throughout the evening.

Darkness was dispelled by the brilliance of the sun's rays reflecting on the treetops. Just like God does in our lives—He uses the backdrop of darkness to expose the light of His presence.

When our world is darkened by difficulties and challenges, God never fails to shine His light and reveal His presence. We simply have to look for it.

The brilliance of the fall sky I witnessed would never have impacted me if I hadn't taken the time to look. And that's the key … we must SEEK Him—LOOK for the evidence of God's presence in our circumstances.

"Neither the pillar of cloud by day nor the pillar of fire by night left its place in front of the people." (Exodus 13:22 NIV)

God's presence never left its place in front of the children of Israel as He led them through the wilderness. In like manner, His presence will never leave its place in front of us as he leads us through difficult and challenging days.

Father, help me to see Your light shining in my darkness when I am overcome with life's challenges. Lord, Your word tells me if I seek You, You will be found by me. Help me to seek You—let me see the light of Your presence against the backdrop of the darkness of this world. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

"The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." (Deuteronomy 31:8)

© Jan Ross
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"The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." (Zephaniah 3:17)

Joy! Joy! Joy! The Lord is in our midst! The Lord God, the self-existent, divine One who is our Victorious King! He will save His people! He will joy over us!

"Who is a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth in mercy. He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea." (Micah 7:18-19)

He delights in us, in those whom He has redeemed by the precious blood of His Son! He rejoices over us as He sees His plan of redemption fulfilled in the redeemed! And, He's satisfied with the work of the cross, at rest knowing the job is completed and hope has been restored to mankind!

He rejoices over us with singing. Not only does He rejoice over us, He has given us joy unspeakable and full of glory. "These things I have spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full!" (John 15:11).

We have much to be joyous about . . . the very fact that the Great King of all creation rejoices over us as the precious blood of the Lamb of God still flows, still cleanses, still redeems, still fulfills every purpose for which it was shed.

Joy! Joy! Joy! The Lord is in our midst and He rejoices over us with joy!

Father, I stand amazed how You could find joy in my life when I fall so short. Oh, Lord! Thank You for the blood of the Lamb, thank You for hope that is found in the Redeemer. Thank You for Calvary and the victory it represents. Thank You for the empty tomb, the resurrection power, and the Risen King. Joy! Joy! Joy! You are in my midst, rejoicing over me. Hallelujah! In Jesus, for His glory, by His blood, amen.

"For as a young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry thee: and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee." (Isaiah 62:5)

© Jan Ross
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God looks on the heart, not at the outward appearance of man. That is so contrary to the way our society does things. Look at the television, the billboards, the magazine covers, etc. For the most part, the most handsome faces and shapely bodies are advertised as the "norm" and everyone who doesn't conform to this level of "beauty" needs help. So, the make-up companies make money in an attempt to help women cover up their flaws. The personal diet companies are making untold millions while everyone tries the latest fad diet to lose weight to look like some model or superstar. I could go on but there's no need—it's quite clear.

Aren't you glad that God looks past our outward appearance and discerns the heart?

"But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." (1 Samuel 16:7)

Samuel made the mistake of assuming the most handsome and "kingly" looking son of Jesse would be the one he would anoint as king of Israel. The Lord, on the other hand, had in mind a young shepherd boy who, when summoned to meet the prophet, was more concerned about leaving his sheep unattended than meeting with Samuel. His heart was tender . . . like the heart of God.

I want a heart like God's, don't you? Let's start by not judging by appearance but rather looking at others the way God sees them, understanding that they are ALL the handiwork of the Creator, made to glorify Him.

Father, I admit that all too often I get caught up in judging others by their appearance, forgetting that the outward appearance has little to do with the treasure hidden in the heart. Lord, teach me to grow in character that most resembles You, with a heart like Yours, that sees beauty beyond the veil of flesh, the beauty hidden in the heart of redeemed man. In Jesus' name, amen and amen.

© Jan Ross
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Material wealth really makes no distinction in anything that pertains to character or salvation; it does not necessarily make one wise, or learned, or great, or good. In fact, the same truth was pertinent in Paul's time as it is today. The Lord wants us ALL to be rich in works.

"Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life." (1 Timothy 6:17-19)

Our works are important to the Lord . . . they are an indicator of the condition of our heart. A corrupt heart will produce corrupt fruit just as a healthy heart in relationship with the Lord will produce healthy fruit bringing glory to Him.

The letters to the churches of Asia written by John in Revelation 2 and 3 show us how each church was judged. Look at what the angel said to each of the churches: "I know thy works . . ." Notice the angel didn't say "I know your heart . . ." but he talked about their works – the churches were known by their works because their works reflected the condition of their hearts. If you were judged according to your works, what would be known of your heart? Do your works reveal a heart full of faith? Does your life bear the imprint of Christlikeness? Or do your works cause your friends, family, and acquaintances to question whom you serve—God or self?

Let us all be "rich in good works, ready to distribute, and willing to communicate" as our works are closely judged by the One who knows the motive of our hearts. May we never be found guilty of being rich in worldly goods without having a heart producing healthy fruit by being "rich in good works" as well.

Father, I pray that the motive of my heart will be pure as I produce fruit fit for a King. Expose areas in my life that are lacking and give me the courage to pursue good works at all times and in all situations. Father, teach me Your ways as I daily choose to cast down my thoughts, my plans, my ideas to apprehend Yours. I love You, Lord, and I long to please You according to all that is within me, for Your glory and honor, amen and amen!

"Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established." (Proverbs 16:3)

© Jan Ross
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Looking at each piece of the suit of armour, we can easily see that putting on the Armour of God is putting on the Lord Jesus Christ as Paul admonished in Galatians 3:27 – "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ."

"Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore… having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:13-17)

Let's take a closer look . . .

". . . stand therefore having your loins girt about with truth" He is the "TRUTH" – "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6)

". . . having on the breastplate of righteousness." He is our "RIGHTEOUSNESS" – "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." (2 Corinthians 5:21)

". . . your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." He is our "PEACE" – "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us." (Ephesians 2:14)

". . . taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." He is our "SHIELD" – "But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head." (Psalm 3:3)

". . . take the helmet of salvation." He is our "SALVATION" – "O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation." (Psalm 95:1)

". . . and the sword of the spirit, which is the word of God." He is the "WORD OF GOD" – "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

As you face your daily battles, remember this: If we are born-again, we are one with Christ who IS our WHOLE ARMOUR OF GOD.

With Him and through Him we can stand against any wiles of the enemy.

He is IN us, He is ON us, He is IN FRONT of us protecting us and He is BEHIND us as our rear guard; He goes with us into every battle.

"But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Lord, help me to gain a greater understanding of just what You have provided for me through your precious Son, Christ Jesus. Help me to realize that I do not need to struggle, but only stand firm in knowing the battles are not mine, the victory is already won, and that Jesus Christ is my complete and total shield against any fiery dart that may be hurled at me by the enemy of my soul. Thank You for Victory in Jesus! Hallelujah, what a Saviour! Amen!

© Jan Ross
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Many of us have childhood memories that we'll carry throughout our lives. Some memories are good and some are not. It has always intrigued me that very often memories are associated with scents.

I can remember specific scents that are associated with unforgettable memories of great significance in my life. As a child the scent of fresh-cut lilacs off a spring bush sitting on the dining room table always brought to my memory the first time my mother snipped the blooms and placed them in the vase. The aroma penetrated every inch of the house with a sweet-smelling savor indeed. My mother would stand nearby at her ironing board and time after time just stop to take a deep breath and comment on the fragrance. She loved lilacs and they seemed to have a tranquilizing effect on her . . . in those moments she was peaceful regardless of the circumstances at home. Oh what a joy it was to walk in from outdoors and just stand there, smelling and watching her enjoy the beauty of the lingering fragrance so strong that it made an impact on the small child I was at the time.

This time of year holds special memories for me. We lived in metropolitan Cleveland and there was a "valley" nearby. Every fall for several years, my dad and I would go for walks in the valley on Sunday afternoons. We'd tread through the fallen leaves, wet with dew and the occasional rainfall. The squirrels would scurry across the branches high above our head and an occasional deer would cross our path. You could hear horses from the nearby stables as they announced their presence! But even with all of nature's most awesome finery, the most significant part of our walks in the valley was his strong hand wrapped securely around mine as we plodded on unforged paths, tripping over fallen trees and stumbling into puddles. But what lingers in my memory is the scent of fall, a scent that catapults me back to these intimate moments with my dad on chilly Sunday afternoons. It was delightful, but even more than that; it has been a memory to treasure all these years later.

So, too, is the sacrifice that Christ, because of His love for us, made nearly 2,000 years ago . . . and the aroma from that sacrifice is still a sweet-smelling savor in the nostrils of the Father! Why? Because that one obedient act of total submission by His Son bought entrance for us into His holy presence.

"Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor." (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Oh, what a savored memory in the nostrils of God!

Oh, what a Saviour!

Oh, what a Love Divine!

Father, I love You! May my life be an acceptable sacrifice unto You, a sweet-smelling savor in Your nostrils. Burn out of me everything that is not pleasing to You. Lord, teach me to walk in love and to be a complete, total "follower of God". Help me, Lord, to be constantly reminded of Your unfailing love as I live and breathe surrounded with the handiwork of your creation. My prayer is that the fragrance of my worship and obedience rise to Your throne as a sweet-smelling savor unto You. Father, this is my desire today, tomorrow and every day until I have become nothing and You have become everything in me! In the precious Name of Jesus I pray, Amen!

© Jan Ross
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The grace or favor of God sent salvation to us all. But it also teaches us some important elements of sober and godly living.

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world" (Titus 2:11-12)

First, we must deny ungodliness. However, before we can deny it, we must understand what constitutes ungodliness. It comes from a Greek word meaning irreverent, impious, or wicked. In order to live godly lives in the grace of God, we must deny ungodliness and flee from it.

Second, we must deny worldly lusts. However, again, before we can deny the worldly lusts, we need to understand what they are. It speaks of longing for those things which are forbidden, things unclean, things that have no part in the life of a child of God.

Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts is never easy. It takes consistency without compromise as we pursue sober, righteous, and godly living.

Three important words to remember . . . soberly, righteously, and godly.

Use your personal time of reflection and prayer today to consider your life. How do you measure up? Are you pursuing godliness? Are you denying ungodliness and worldly lusts? Be honest in your self-examination and listen to the voice of the Spirit as He draws you to repentance and teaches you the importance of sober and godly living for the glory of God

Father, as I consider this, I find that I am in need once again of Your grace. Forgive me, Lord, for I am weak. Teach me to be sober, righteous, and godly so that You might be glorified in me and through me. Father, I love You and choose to pursue godliness in every area of my life; I need Your help! In Jesus' name, amen and amen!

© Jan Ross
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How can we live a holy life? That's one of the most asked questions. Everyone seems to what to know how to live "holy" but most are not willing to do what is necessary to be "holy"! But, yet, we are told to be holy even as He is holy.

Leviticus 20:26 says, "And ye shall be holy unto me: for I the LORD am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine."

Our God is a holy God! The word New Testament word "holy" is translated as purification or state of purity; the Old Testament word "holy" is translated as sanctity, sacred, hallowed, pure. Because our God is a holy God, those who are called by Him must also be holy.

"Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty." (2 Corinthians 6:17-18)

Take some time today and consider God's holiness; also consider what a holy life would look like, how your life would be different, and what you need to change to "be holy even as He is holy."

Father, I fall so short, missing the mark, and bring to You shame because I don't take Your holiness into account during my day-to-day activities. Father, forgive me! Thank You for the blood of Jesus that cleanses me and makes me whole. Give me the strength to walk in the fullness of Your holiness. Father, teach me, guide me, mold me, and make me after Your will, for Your glory! I love You and long to be pleasing to You in every way, my Lord and my God! In Jesus' name, amen!

"For I am the LORD that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy." (Leviticus 11:45)

© Jan Ross
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Prayer is as important to God as it is to us.  In God's economy, it is as important to pray for one another as it is to pray for our own needs.

"Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way" (I Samuel 12:23)

Intercession is not just for those who feel it is their ministry; it is for ALL of us. There is a principle of giving which flows throughout scripture that is the basis for intercession: "give and it shall be given unto you".

So often we find ourselves so caught up in our own circumstances of life that we fail to consider our brothers and sisters may be facing similar or worse challenges.  Through interceding for them in their time of need, the heart of God reaches out not only to them, but also to us. Oftentimes it is a sacrifice to pray for others, but it is one which is accepted as a sweet-smelling savor ascending to the throneroom of God.

Consider your prayer life. How is your time spent?  Do you pray for your needs and those of your family?  Of course you do.  But, do you also spend time interceding for others, placing their needs on the same level as your own?  Job 42:10 says, "And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before."  It was when he gave himself to prayer and intercession for his friends that God was moved to not only replace all that he lost, but He doubled his return.

Consider this carefully. Be balanced in your prayers and you will see the hand of God move not only in your life but in the lives of those for whom you pray.

Father, I'm afraid I have to admit that I often neglect praying for others as much as I should.  I see the principle in your Word that as I pray for others, You are able to move in my own circumstances as well as theirs.  Lord help me to pray according to Your will . . . for me, for my family, for all whom I know that need a touch from You, amen.

© Jan Ross
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Life as a believer is not easy—God never promised us it would be. The Apostle Paul addresses this in 2 Corinthians 4:17.

"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all."

But, wait a minute! "Light and momentary troubles?" The Apostle Paul apparently didn't understand what it takes to live in today's world. After all, if he really understood he wouldn't have used those words. It might have been more accurate for him to start his sentence with: "For our unrelenting and debilitating troubles…"

But, let's look at the entire verse … these "light and momentary troubles are achieve for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all." The fact is that whether our troubles are "light and momentary" or "unrelenting and debilitating," they are fulfilling a purpose in our lives—achieving for us an eternal glory.

The Apostle Paul goes on to say, "So we fix our eyes on not what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (v. 18)

That's the key for us on the good days and on the bad, during the "light and momentary troubles" and what we might consider to be "unrelenting and debilitating" troubles. Our eyes MUST be fixed not on what is seen but what is unseen—not on our troubles but on the "eternal glory" that awaits us.

Admittedly this isn't always easy to do. But we must remember that "what is seen is temporary" and "what is unseen is eternal." Our pains and troubles are temporary, especially when compared to eternity.

Eternity—no beginning and no end. This life is just a fleeting moment compared to eternity. The "unseen" that awaits us will be worth all the "light and momentary" and "unrelenting and debilitating" troubles we have experienced as well as those yet to come.

Fix your eyes, not on your troubles but on the cross of Jesus and His power to redeem us from this life. He purchased our salvation, He paid the ultimate price, so we might receive the "unseen" as our reward. Keep these truths in mind as you walk through your challenging days. Don't allow the circumstances of life cloud your remembrance of the eternal "unseen".

Father, there are days my troubles seem more than I can bear. Help me to remember that what I feel and what I think and what I experience in this life are not what matters. Help me remember there is an eternal glory awaiting all who persevere. Give me the courage to go on with my eyes fixed not on "what is seen, but on what is unseen". In Jesus' name, amen.

© Jan Ross
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The attributes of God . . . what are they? When you think of God, what do you think of? His mercy? His love? His power? In fact, a question was recently raised: "What does it mean to have a heart like God?" Most of us would give answers that reflect his attributes such as love, compassion, mercy, etc.

The Bible gives us a glimpse of the most significant attribute of God, one that we don't often want to deal with. Take a peek into the throne room of God and hear what the angels are saying: "Holy, holy, holy!"

"And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come." (Revelation 4:8)

In the Bible, emphasis is put on words that are repeated or mentioned twice such as "Truly, truly . . ." or "Lord, Lord . . ." But when we see a word spoken three times, it bears a weighty significance that demands our attention.

Isaiah 6:3 confirms the vision of John in Revelation 4:8 when Isaiah saw the Lord high and lifted up, seated on His throne, and the train of His glory filled the temple. He saw the angels . . . "and one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory." In fact, the sound of the seraphim reverberates throughout eternity as they worship before the Throne . . . "Holy, holy, holy!" They aren't around the throne proclaiming, "Love, love, love!" or "Mercy, mercy, mercy!" They are proclaiming the holiness of God, not just in passing, but over and over and over throughout all eternity.

What is the greatest attribute of God? God is HOLY, HOLY, HOLY!

Consider His holiness . . . and then follow up with Peter's admonition written under the anointing of the Spirit of God: "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (behavior); because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." (1 Peter 1:15-16)

When you are faced with decisions, choices, and opportunities, remember Leviticus 20:7: "Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God." And, as we've just seen, our God is HOLY, HOLY, HOLY – perfectly holy in every way!

Father, as I consider You I often think of You as love, abounding in mercy, full of grace, and mighty in power. When I consider Your holiness, however, I am quickly humbled and convicted of my sin, and drawn to repentance. Father, forgive me for not often contemplating Your holy nature; forgive me for lacking reverence and fear of Your holiness. Cleanse me, Lord, of my unrighteousness and teach me how to be holy as You are holy, holy, holy! In Jesus' name, by His blood, and for His glory, amen and amen!

© Jan Ross
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"Radical obedience" is a phrase that's challenged me. But it's not just for me. This should be a daily challenge for ALL believers.

What is radical obedience? Let me see if I can put it into words. To me, radical obedience is obeying God when it doesn't make sense. Radical obedience is doing God's will when our own agenda makes more sense. Radical obedience is denying my flesh while fulfilling God's purpose for me. Radical obedience is heeding the call of God when, by all appearances, it's out of the question. Radical obedience is not compromising even if it means losing friends. Radical obedience is venturing outside my comfort zone no matter how uncomfortable or unreasonable it feels. Radical obedience is not only asking "What Would Jesus Do," but DOING what Jesus did.

"And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross!" (Philippians 2:8)

Radical obedience demands I do whatever I do in a manner which emulates the attitude found in Christ Jesus as He gave His all, through life and through death, so the Father might be revealed through Him every moment of every day.

Christ must be glorified. He must be the focus of my life. Others must see Him and not us. Radical obedience demands we disregard those things which seem important to us so Christ becomes of paramount importance to us all, through life and even through death.

At times, I've thought I was living a radically obedient life. But each day I learn there are more areas in my life that fail to reflect such humility and obedience.

Look at our verse in context … "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:5-11 NIV)

Jesus is the greatest example of radical obedience. It's time for Christians to understand what it means to be called a Christian – being LIKE Christ. We cannot be a Christian unless we pursue Christlikeness.

Oh, I have so far to go! But it is my desire to pursue radical obedience … not when it's convenient, but when it is most inconvenient. What about you?

Father, forgive me for failing to be Christlike in all I do. I want to change. I want to emulate my Lord Jesus Christ in every aspect of my life. Help me. Empower me. Lead me. Teach me. It is my desire, Lord, to pursue radical obedience. Not for a trophy or a medal or a gold star, but I choose a greater level of obedience so that Christ might be glorified – Him and Him alone. In Jesus' name, amen and amen.

© Jan Ross
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As we read the Word, there are times a single verse stands out and makes us stop to ask some questions. Hebrews 11:16 is one such verse:

"Instead, they were longing for a better country-a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them."

I began to consider this verse and mull it over in my mind. I asked myself if God is not ashamed to be called their God, what would have made Him feel ashamed to be called their God? The answer was right there—God would feel ashamed to be called their God if they had not believed His promise.

The men and women listed in Hebrews 11, often times called the "Hall of Faith," people lived as if there was heaven to gain and hell to shun. Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and more … they all "were still living by faith when they died" (v.13). They didn't give up. They didn't throw in the towel just because they didn't see the manifestation of their promise during their lifetimes. Their walk of faith wasn't dependent on what God could or would give them—they already knew what He had promised.

Today we have even greater revelation of the power of God's promises through 2 Corinthians 1:20. Paul tells us, "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God." In other words, what God promised—no matter what He has promised—Jesus ratified and sealed that promise by His blood so the Father is glorified.

To put it simply, God said, "Yes, I will be your God and you will be my people." Jesus shed His blood as a seal of the covenant and said, "Amen! God will indeed be your God and you will indeed be His people!"

Are you living like you believe His promises? Or, are you in danger of causing the Lord to feel ashamed to be called your God?

Trust Him! Believe Him! Know that He is willing and able to keep His promises to you!

"[Abraham] staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness." (Romans 4:20-22 KJV)

Father, there are times I struggle with my faith—those times are hard because what I see with my eyes is not the same as what I read in Your Word. But just like so many whom You call faithful listed in Hebrews 11, Lord, I want to trust You, believe You, and be assured that you are not ashamed to be called my God. Lord, help me to stand firm regardless what the circumstances say and trust you with all my heart. Help me to live in full assurance of Your promises, not moved by circumstances. Help me to believe so that You will be glorified through my life. In Jesus' name, amen.

©Jan Ross
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Paul's letter to the Thessalonians is full of good advice for servants of the Most High God as they live among people "which walk among you disorderly" (v.11). But Paul instructs us, "But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing." (2 Thessalonians 3:13)

Sometimes it's hard to not grow weary in our well doing when others around us appear to be carefree in their disorderly lifestyles.

Sometimes we need a gentle reminder. Sometimes we need to remember that although our "well doing" may be costly to our flesh, it is "the Lord of peace himself [who will] give [us] peace always by all means"(v. 16). In other words, it's worth whatever it takes to allow "the Lord [to] direct our hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ" (v. 5).

We live in a world filled with people seeking their own pleasures, building their own "kingdoms," and storing up their own treasures. The hearts of unredeemed mankind are provoked by nothing less than feeding every fleshly desire that stirs their heart. Their hearts are cold and indifferent to the needs and suffering of others unless by somehow reaching out will benefit them personally. Their flesh craves gratification and their lifestyles feed that craving no matter what it takes.

But we seek to please God, to deny our flesh, to serve one another. And, that's why Paul reminded the people at Thessalonica to "be not weary in well doing." The words still ring true today and bring with them the promise that God will reward us for our life of sacrifice to Him and to others.

Are you tired of living for others? Are you tired of constantly denying your flesh of things that appear to be full of pleasure? Are you tired of laboring for the Kingdom of God? Take heed, dear ones . . . "be not weary in well doing" and know that the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ will be with you always.

Father, it seems as if Paul could see into this day and hour when so many are becoming weary in battle. The flesh is weak and craves to be fed yet we rejoice as we die daily for the sake of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Empower us, Lord, to continue and to not be weary in our well doing. Grant us peace as we live in a world filled with chaos motivated by selfishness and self-serving attitudes. In Jesus' name, for His glory . . . amen and amen.

© Jan Ross
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