chasing99

Acts 12

2009-12-19T07:00:00.001-05:00

vs. 11 .. Peter knew that God had sent an angel to free him ...

I am such a spolied Christian ... to even think about being locked up in prison for preaching the gospel is such a foreign concept to me. Yet, people around the world are still being persecuted today. I need to tell others of the gospel without fear!

Acts 9

2009-12-16T07:09:00.002-05:00

vs. 6 ... Arise, go into the city, and I will tell you what you must do ...

Before Paul's conversion these wer the words that Jesus told Him. After he arose from the earth his eyes were opened. It made me think how many times that I ignore a command from God. What are thoe consequences? What if Paul did nit heed God's words. Think of how many people possibly that could not have been converted. It's important for us to heed God's words.

Acts 5

2009-12-12T06:30:00.001-05:00

vs 29 ... "we ought to obey God, rather then men."

Peer pressure exists no matter how old you are. It's tough not to want to be accepted by our peers. We need to remember, however, that ultimately it is God's approval whom we should seek.

Let's please God first, than worry about men.

Acts 3

2009-12-10T10:24:00.002-05:00

6Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

I wonder how many times we have passed someone in need without helping. I'm not someone that has great wealth, or any wealth for that matter, so I can relate with Peter when he states, "Silver and gold have I none". I also must admit that there have been times when I have seen a need that I was capable of meeting, and didn't for whatever reason. I pray that God will help us to see peoples need, and meet the need.

Acts 2

2009-12-09T06:30:00.002-05:00

vs. 44 "And all that believed were together, and had all things in common."

If we as Christians can realize that we are all on the same team and should have the ultimate goal of bringing people to Christ, I think many of our problems will be solved.

We might not all have the same approach for winning people, but we all have our purpose. Some people will reach people that others cannot reach.

Don't be quick to criticize others methods.

We are all on the same team!

Acts 1

2009-12-08T19:26:00.002-05:00

Read: Acts 1

John 21

2009-12-07T07:16:00.002-05:00

25And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.

It's amazing to think that with everything we have recorded in Scripture concerning the miracles of Jesus there are tons more. We serve an awesome God! I pray we serve Him.

John 20

2009-12-06T07:15:00.000-05:00

John 19

2009-12-05T18:30:00.002-05:00

Who crucified Jesus will always be a debate ... the Romans, the Jews ... the bottom line is that Christ lay down his life willingly for us. He could have called down legions of angels, He could have killed everyone with a word, but instead He humbled Himself and became obedient unto the death of the cross. Yet another example of Christ's humility!

John 18

2009-12-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and *said to them, "Whom do you seek?" They answered Him, "Jesus the Nazarene." He *said to them, "I am {He.}" And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them. So when He said to them, "I am {He,}" they drew back and fell to the ground.

Jesus Said "I am" and they all fell to the ground! That is so intense, imagine trying to arrest him after that, you would have to just hope he comes quietly. He did and as we have seen from all the other gospels he went to the cross for our transgressions willingly.

John 17

2009-12-03T08:06:00.001-05:00

John 16

2009-12-02T07:16:00.002-05:00

Reading chapter sixteen probably will not give you a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Jesus tells of things that will eventually come: his death, persecution, etc. But as Christians we know the final outcome. The conlcusion of all these trials and tribulations is an eternity with our Savior!

John 15

2009-12-01T08:24:00.002-05:00

"No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you."

Friends! some say "Besties"

John 14

2009-11-29T11:06:00.000-05:00

John 13

2009-11-28T06:30:00.002-05:00

Jesus is our example. How can the Savior of the Universe, was the very sinners feet that He died for? I cannot wrap my head around this passage. To be great you have to be least, to be great you have to serve. Jesus led by example. Let's have servants hearts!

John 10

2009-11-25T06:30:00.002-05:00

Jesus is the Good Shepherd ... John 10 is a great passage of Scripture! Jesus is the only true way to enter into the fold. He guards the gate with His life, not like a hireling, that runs when danger presents itself. Jesus hears the voice of His children and knows them by name!

Day 75

2009-11-24T08:57:00.001-05:00

Read: John: 7

38. "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, 'From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.
44. The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, "Why did you not bring Him?" 45. The officers answered, "Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks."

There’s just something about that name Master Savior Jesus!

I wish I could walk away from my desk right now and go spend some time with him, because I could use it. At moments life feels like your soul has been drained to its last, but no one speaks the way this man speaks.

Day 74

2009-11-21T06:30:00.001-05:00

Read: John 6

vs 20 "It is I; be not afraid."

As Christians, we should not be filled with fear, doubt or worry. Jesus has promised to calm the seas and storms of our lives, if we just focus and place our trust in Him.

Day 72

2009-11-20T08:23:00.001-05:00

Read : John 4

Day 71

2009-11-18T06:30:00.001-05:00

Read: John 3

vs. 30 "HE must increase, I must decrease."

We need God's power in our lives. Without Him we can do nothing. Why do we rely on ourselves so often? We must decrease, He must increase!

Day 70

2009-11-17T08:04:00.004-05:00

Read: John 2

1-10 Jesus at the wedding in Cana.

thoughts.
"what does that have to do with me" - it's in his time, not Mary's
"what ever he says do it" - even after Jesus said what does this have to do with me, Mary went to the servants and told them to be ready for action, she knew it was coming.
"you have kept the good wine till now" - things were better then before, and better then Mary even imagined.

Whatever he says do it! Lord lead me!

Day 69

2009-11-16T07:34:00.001-05:00

Read: John 1

Consider: There is so much in this chapter that I just want you to take your time, and read it carefully.

Day 68

2009-11-15T07:31:00.000-05:00

Read: Luke 24

Day 67

2009-11-14T06:30:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 23

vs. 4 ... "I find no fault in this man"

We've all been made the scapegoat at one time or another in our lives. But imagine our sinless Saviour taking the world's sin's on his back and bearing all of our transgressions that night. I can't imagine that act of selflessness. We are so quick to point the finger at someone else. It is truly humbling to read this passage of Scripture and see how meek our Saviour was. I guess that is leading by example?

Day 66

2009-11-13T06:30:00.000-05:00

Read : Luke 22

Day 65

2009-11-12T07:23:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 21

Consider: Verse 33 "Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." I read this verse, and just thought about how blessed we are to have His Word. There are still many countries in the world today that Bibles have to smuggled into, and believers have to share a single Bible. It's because we are so blessed that we do not appreciate the Bible, or see it for what it truly is.

Act: Take time today, and thank God for His Word, and the nation that we live in where we can access His Word regularly.

Day 64 - Happy Veteran's Day!

2009-11-11T06:30:00.002-05:00

Pray for all our Veterans and those serving our country around the world!

Read: Luke 20

vs. 18 ... whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken ...

What a verse of power! Whoever goes up against our Saviour will be broken. It might not seem like that in today's world, but God is still in control and the sovereign authority. We need not be discouraged when things are not going our way.

Day 63

2009-11-10T08:04:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 19

Consider: Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost." This verse encouraged me this morning, because for me it carries a past tense and a future tense. Christ has come and when he did he came to seek and to save that which was lost, personally he has found and saved me!

Concerning the future tense of this seek and save concept, these same principles are applied to our walk or the continued everyday relationship with Christ. We are fickle our hearts move from thing to thing, our focus changes but Christ continues to seek us even after we are saved. He seeks us to walk closer to him to experience more life with him and to be conformed to his image.

Day 62

2009-11-09T07:52:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 18

Consider: Verse 27 "And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." I'm glad that we serve an almighty God. How sad it must be for people that worship other gods that according to the psalmist in chapter 115 "4Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. 5They have mouths, but they speak not: eyes have they, but they see not: 6They have ears, but they hear not: noses have they, but they smell not: 7They have hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they through their throat. 8They that make them are like unto them; so is every one that trusteth in them."

Day 61

2009-11-08T07:51:00.000-05:00

Read: Luke 17

Day 60

2009-11-07T06:30:00.000-05:00

Read: Luke 16

vs. 10 ... if you are faithful in the little things, you will be faithful in the big things.

It is often the little things in our lives that take up most of our time. The mundane activites fill our days until we lose track of our main goals. The little things can bog down our Christian lives as well. We might be running around on a Sunday teaching a class, or etc., and lose focus on what's important.

If we are faithful in the little things, God will bless us in the big (and little) things.

Day 59

2009-11-06T12:11:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 15

"And he said to him, 'Son, you have always been with me, and all that is mine is yours.'But we had to celebrate and rejoice, for this brother of yours was dead and {has begun} to live, and {was} lost and has been found."

what is mine is yours...

Day 58

2009-11-05T08:37:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 14

12Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.
13But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:

This is something that God has been dealing with me personally. I been looking for something that I can do with my own kids to help them understand that we need to help others. It can be difficult though because Jesus' teachings are so different than what we have been taught by society, and by those around us. In a "dog eat dog" society are willing to step out, and help those that cannot help you?

Day 57

2009-11-04T06:30:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 13

vs. 24 ... Strive to enter in at the strait gate.

It's not very popular these days, but the wat of destruction is broad, the way to heaven is narrow. Jesus said in John 14:6 that He is the way, the truth and the life, no one can enter heaven, but through Him.

It is our job as Christians to tell others of this narrow way!

Day 56

2009-11-03T08:07:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 12

v.20 "But God said to him, 'You fool! This {very} night your soul is required of you; and {now} who will own what you have prepared?'

Who will own what you will prepare! We must learn to make Godly investments, of our time and our finances. If we spend our time on the things of this world they will be past to the next person but eternal things, these are the ones that last.

How many of the things you do today are going to have true eternal value, how can you increase your investment potential, and use your time most effectively?

Day 55

2009-11-02T08:45:00.002-05:00

Read: Luke 11

Consider: Verse 13 "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" I've been a father now for 5 years, and it wasn't until this year that this verse really spoke to me. Knowing how much I love my kids, and want the best for them, how much more does God love me, and want the best for me, and you.

Day 54

2009-11-01T08:44:00.000-05:00

Read: Luke 10

Day 53

2009-10-31T06:30:00.002-04:00

Read: Luke 9

vs. 25 ... what do we profit if we gain the whole world and lose our souls?

We need to set our priorites. Matthew 6:33 tells us to "seek ye first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto you."

We often do it the opposite way. Put God first and all the dominos will fall into place.

Day 52

2009-10-30T18:26:00.002-04:00

Read: Luke 8

And all the people of the country of the Gerasenes and the surrounding district asked Him to leave them, for they were gripped with great fear; and He got into a boat and returned.

Sometimes people just aren't ready to handle what Jesus brings, but some, some select few, see the life changing power of Christ. The man formerly know as "Legion" was one of these select few, who was pepaired to follow Christ and do whatever needed to be done. Notice Christ's responce to this man, "Return to your house and describe what great things God has done for you." the best example of God working that I know, is your story. Share it.

Day 51

2009-10-29T07:56:00.002-04:00

Read: Luke 7

Consider: What does true worship look like? I think that a majority of the people I know think to much of themselves that they probably wouldn't worship with a majority of the people that Jesus did, or in the same manner. The woman in v. 44 worshiped Jesus the only way she can, and without worry of what everyone else in the room thought about her. How many times have we missed an opportunity to worship Jesus, because of fear what everyone else thinks?

Act: True worship may not be what we're used to seeing, or participating in, don't be afraid to allow the Holy Spirit to move, and influence your worship of Christ.

Day 50

2009-10-28T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Luke 6

vs. 44 ... every tree is known by his fruit.

Like it or not, people can see our true colors. We might "act" like a Christian, but soon enough we will eventually slip up.

That is why our testimony is so important, unfortunately, people do judge a book by its cover. One mistake can cost us our chance to share the gospel with someone.

Day 49

2009-10-27T07:48:00.001-04:00

Read: Luke 5

Consider: Notice that Jesus told Simon to let down his "nets" in verse 4, and Simon respond with "net" in verse 5. How many times have I doubted God in my life, and therefore have missed out on the blessings of God? May we learn to fully trust God, and in doing so see how He will bless us for our faithfulness.

Day 48

2009-10-26T07:05:00.003-04:00

Read: Luke 4

Consider: I'm sure that we have all heard the story of Jesus, and about how He used Scripture against Satan. I wonder though how many of us have used the same technique in our own lives? Do we know enough Scripture that we would be able to fight off a temptation from Satan? Can you show someone in the Bible why you believe what you believe? I pray that we take the matter of studying, and learning the Bible seriously, for without it we are defenseless.

Day 47

2009-10-26T06:58:00.001-04:00

Read: Luke 3

Day 46

2009-10-24T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Luke 2

vs. 10: "I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people."

We need to take those good tidings to the lost everyday. The good news of Jesus Christ is something we must share everyday ... not just at Christmas or Easter.

DAY 44

2009-10-22T07:07:00.001-04:00

Read: Mark 16

Day 45

2009-10-22T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Luke 1

Get ready to enjoy Luke is my favorite Gospel,

because it is so detailed! Lets enjoy!

Day 43

2009-10-21T06:30:00.002-04:00

Read: Mark 15

vs. 12: "What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?"

We must all ask this question at one point in our lives. What are we going to do with Jesus? Are we going to serve Him or "crucify" Him?

Day 42

2009-10-20T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Mark 14

Mark 14;9 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout the whole world, [this] also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.

Its the little thing, the quite things, that some would dismiss, but Christ appreciates and notices the little menial things that are done in his name!

Day 41

2009-10-19T11:30:00.006-04:00

Read: Mark 13

35Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

36Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

37And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

I don't believe I need to add anything. Have a good day.

Day 40

2009-10-19T11:29:00.001-04:00

Read: Mark 12

Day 39

2009-10-17T11:57:00.002-04:00

Read: Mark 11

Mark 11: And He {began} to teach and say to them, "Is it not written, 'MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL THE NATIONS'? But you have made it a ROBBERS' DEN."

A house of prayer! Pray... its that so simple and so complicated. Sometimes it seems like a Christian cliche, but my house should be a house of prayer.

Day 38

2009-10-16T06:30:00.001-04:00

Read: Mark 10

Thought: vs. 27 "for with God all things are possible." I wish I clung to this promise more often. I often try to do things on my own. After I fail, then I try God. We need to put God first and trust that He will do what He said He will do. With God all things are possible.

Consider: Let's go to God FIRST ... not second, third or as a last option!

Day 37

2009-10-15T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Mark 9

Consider: Verse 33 "What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? ". I love how Jesus ask them like he didn't already know what they were talking about, and even what each one of them was truly thinking. How many times do we live our life like God will have no idea what we are doing? I have found myself, in times past, looking over my shoulder to see who was paying attention right before I did something wrong. Let us not forget that we serve an omnipresent God who at all times, and all places knows exactly what we are doing, thinking, and feeling. Are you living like God is watching?

Day 36

2009-10-14T07:19:00.003-04:00

Read : Mark 8

It's always good to add a little change to your daily reading,

for example today lets try something a little different,

do your reading in a different place to add a new perspective

perhaps a place of great beauty or even something simple like a coffee shop.

When your going on a date you don't always want to go to

the same place, as humans we love variety, this may help

to get your mind heading in a new or fresh direction.

Day 35

2009-10-13T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Mark 7

Thought: Verse 21 says, "For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murderes." Jesus also said from the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. Eventually, all the crap we put in our minds is going to come out. That is why it is important as Christians to be very careful what we put in our minds and hearts.

Consider: It is important for us to be good testimonies to our co-workers, neighbors, friends, etc. we might be the ony Gospel they ever see. What are they seeing coming out of us?

Day 34

2009-10-12T07:01:00.003-04:00

Read: Mark 6

Verses: 31-34

Consider: I was amazed when I read this passage, and saw that Jesus told his disciples that they need to get away from everybody for a while, and have some time for themselves. That's just a side note.

The people that were following Jesus wanted to be with him so bad that they literally chased him on foot when they saw Him leaving. This action/effort "moved" Jesus to "compassion" for the people. How far, or to what extent would you go to pursue Jesus?

Day 33

2009-10-11T17:32:00.002-04:00

Read: Mark 5

Day 32

2009-10-10T06:30:00.004-04:00

Read: Mark 4

This chapter is filled with familiar parables. But I want to focus on three words in verse 39. "Peace, be still." Living through a few hurricanes and hearing those winds pound against the walls, I can't imagine someone saying, "Peace, be still" and those winds stopping.

Think about: We truly do serve a mighty God. He can do much more than just calm the winds, if we to are still and listen for His voice.

Day 31

2009-10-09T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Mark 3

Mark 3:5 He looked around at them angrily, because he was deeply disturbed by their hard hearts. Then he said to the man, "Reach out your hand." The man reached out his hand, and it became normal again!

At times every one of us must stop and look at how Christ would react to our hearts. I was in an interview this week, I was asked to describe my day and the percentage of time I spend doing different tasks. What if you were asked to describe the percentage of time we spend with a righteous heart?

Well let’s see I spend 0.4% of my morning speaking with God, 0.8% of my day listening to the bible on CD while driving, then 0.5% of my day reading Mark 3... Plus random moments in prayer lets say 0.3% that makes 2% of my day spent having a heart truly toward God. I wouldn't hire myself. How is your heart?

Day 30

2009-10-07T22:15:00.003-04:00

Read: Mark 2

Consider: Verses 1-5 I have two thoughts that come to mind when I read these verses. One is that Jesus saw past the mans physical needs, and went straight to where it mattered most...the man's spiritual need. It is so easy for us to get distracted with the physical world that we do not even think of the spiritual warfare that is going on all around us. The second thought is the great extent that the men went to simply to get their friend to Jesus. Do you even consider that there is a spiritual war around you everyday? If we could grasp the magnitude of what is taking place around us, and for us, we would go to great extremes to get our friend to Jesus also.

Day 29

2009-10-07T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Mark 1

The first chapter of Mark takes you right into the action! "The kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." Jesus is challenging you and I as believers with those words. If we truly believe in the gospel "the good news of Christ", then we will naturally be fishers of men and tell others of what Jesus has done for us!

Think about: An area of struggle in my life is telling others of Christ. I need to take every oppurtunity to tell others of the good news of Christ.

Day 28

2009-10-06T07:29:00.001-04:00

Read: Matt 28

We have made it through Matthew!

Good job keeping to it, its time for Mark!

Day 27

2009-10-05T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Matthew 27

Verse: Matthew 27:3-5

Consider: What a difference 24 hours can make! Judas Iscariot now realizes the magnitude of his decision. Then in an effort to buy back his conscience returns to the chief priest and elders with the 30 pieces of silver only to be turned away. He then left and "hanged himself". Have you ever considered the consequences of your decision, before you make the decision? Judas clearly had not considered his when he sold out Jesus just 24 hours before. Most of simply act on impulse, and do not give the slightest thought as to the consequences. It may simply be a word that should not have been spoken, or a thought, or maybe it was selling out Jesus the night before for a "good time". Regardless of the act, are they ever really worth the consequences?

Act: Before you make a decision today think of the consequences? Allow the scenario to play out in your head. Do not just think about the earthly consequences, but think also on the eternal. You just might save yourself from having to buy back your conscience.

DAY 26

2009-10-04T08:17:00.002-04:00

Read: Matthew 26

Consider: Thirty pieces of silver. That's all it took for Judas to betray Jesus. In today's value it would be around 400 to 500 dollars, and in their time 12,000 to 15,000 dollars. How much would it take for you to betray Jesus? I'm sure we would all be embarrassed to say that we have sold Jesus out/betrayed Him for so much less. Maybe it was simply to be accepted, or liked. Maybe it was so that we could have a "good time". How much does it take for you to betray Jesus?

Act: Evaluate yourself. This is probably one of the hardest things for mankind to truly do. Look inside yourself, and see what you have betrayed Jesus for in the past, and determine in you heart that you will not sell out again. Jesus is worth infinitely more than any amount money.

Day 25

2009-10-03T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 25

The main thought to this chapter is stewardship. Stewardship is so much more than tithing or giving to missions. We must be good stewards of all that God has given us. Are we good stewards of our time, families, etc. I beleive this is one of the most overlooked principles in the Bible.

Think: Am i being a good steward of all of my resources?

Day 24

2009-10-02T06:30:00.000-04:00

Read: Matthew 24

After reading this chapter there is one controlling thought on my mind!

"Oh, Victory in Jesus,

My Saviour Forever

He Sought Me

and He Bought Me

With His Redeeming Blood

He Love Me

Ere I Knew Him

And All My Love

Is Due Him

He Plunged Me to Victory

Beneath the

Cleansing Flood"

Oh what Victory we do have in Jesus, without his loving sacrifice we would all be lost!

He truly is coming triumphantly and my friends we have great Victory in Him!

Day 23

2009-10-01T05:57:00.002-04:00

Read: Matthew 23

Consider: I love this chapter in Matthew. I like that we get to see Jesus genuinely get upset with the scribes, and Pharisees. I love the vivid imagery that He uses to describe their spiritual life. But, I have to be careful, not to forget my own spiritual state while reading. I think that verse 28 describes a good amount Christians "Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity." How easy it has become for us to "play the game". We can fool everyone into thinking that we are some great spiritual person, and that we have this really close relationship with God, but it's just a front. God knows the truth, that there is no real depth to our relationship. I heard on preacher say that Jesus is "insulted" with the idea that we could just casually serve him, and casually have a relationship with him

Act: I challenge you to evaluate you spiritual relationship with God. Is there any real depth? Have you just been "playing the game"? Let's strive to have a meaningful, and loving relationship with God. After all He deserves it.

Day 22

2009-09-30T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 22

vs. 37-40 Jesus was the greatest teacher that ever lived. As a teacher I try to simplify things for my students. Jesus did the same thing. He took the Ten Commandments and boiled them down to two statements ... "Love God, Love Man"! If we are doing those things as Christians, life will be much more simple.

Think: Do I Love God and man like I should?

Day 21

2009-09-29T06:30:00.002-04:00

Read: Matthew 21

Matt 21:3 The Lord has need of them

Matt 21:13 my house shall be called a house of prayer

Matt 21:21-22 And Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' it will happen. "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."

Matt 21:31 "Which of the two did the will of his father?" They *said, "The first." Jesus *said to them, "Truly I say to you that the tax collectors and prostitutes will get into the kingdom of God before you.

Matt 21:43 "Therefore I say to you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people, producing the fruit of it.

These are simple some of the powerful verses that stuck out to me, sometimes we don’t need a narrative only to experience and open ourselves to the word of God.

Day 20

2009-09-28T05:57:00.004-04:00

Read: Matthew 20

Consider: Verse 28 The majority of people in this world tend to be very selfish, and not giving at all. Think about it. Even now when most people minister in the back of their mind is the idea that they will get something in return. Jesus states that He "came not to be ministered unto, but to minister". I wonder when the last time we ministered to someone was?

Act: Think of someone that needs ministering, and do it. Don't do it because this blog told you to, but do it to be like Jesus. I guarantee you will be blessed.

Day 19

2009-09-27T08:16:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 19

Have a great day at church!

Day 18

2009-09-26T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 18

vs. 15-22; 23-35

Chapter eighteen has two great parables that deal with forgiveness: a trespassing brother and an unforgiving servant.

Action: I, as a Christian, am not as forgiving as I need to be; even to my Christian brothers. The world (and believers) need to see our forgiving spirit as a testimony to our Savior.

Day 17

2009-09-25T08:03:00.002-04:00

Read: Matthew 17

Consider: imagine the voice of God the father! For the second time he God basically announces Its all about JESUS!

In this chapter, the new testament introduction of the suffering savior, by whom we receive such great salvation!

Day 16

2009-09-24T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 16

Consider: Wow! What a powerful chapter. There are so many things within this chapter that we could talk about I'm not even sure where to begin. So I'll just keep it simple. Verse 15 "But whom say ye that I am"?

Act: Take 5 minutes, and just think about who Jesus is to you. Then see if your responses line up with the way you live.

Text Alerts

2009-09-23T08:22:00.003-04:00

We have made some changes to the "Text Alerts" option. If you were subscribed, you will need to resubscribe. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Day 15

2009-09-23T06:54:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 15

Verse: Matthew 15:37 - "And they did all eat, and were filled:"

This is a powerfule verse. I often just think about being fed physically. But if you dig a little bit deeper, not only were these people's bellies full, but their hearts will full of the teachings of Jesus. Jesus is ready to feed us until we cannot eat any more. All we need to do is accept this truth, and trust God to do what He said He will do.

This is one time where it is okay to go back for seconds.

Day 14

2009-09-22T06:30:00.004-04:00

Read: Matthew 14

Consider: v.14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.

This chapter is packed full with some of Christ's greatest, the feeding of the 5,000, the walking on water and Peter taking his eyes off Christ. BUT Jesus went forth and saw the great multitude and was MOVED with COMPASSION! He was MOVED with compassion on the people, he was moved with compassion for me and for you. This is the mind of Christ which should be a part of us, to be moved with compassion for those in need, especially those in need of Him.

Day 13

2009-09-21T06:30:00.001-04:00

Read: Matthew 13

Verse: Matthew 13:23

Consider: Three things happened within this verse: He heard, he understood, and he bore fruit. What step of this process are lacking in? The idea here is that if you have heard, and understood, than naturally you should be bearing fruit. If not then maybe you missed one of the previous steps.

Just a side note, you don't have to be a theologian to tell people about what Christ has done for you. Sometimes I think people are scared to share Jesus because they feel like they have to give a great speech, or be ready to answer every question. Simply share what Jesus has in you life. People are tired of the fake, so make it personal, and just be real.

DAY 12

2009-09-20T06:30:00.001-04:00

Read: Matthew 12

Verse: Matthew 12:37, and if you have time quickly ready James 3:1-12

Consider: Both of the passages deal with the power of words. I find myself, more times than not, putting my foot in my mouth. Nobody can attest to this more than my wife. I wonder how many times we have hurt someone simply by the misuse of a single word? Loser, stupid, idiot...these are words that don't let my kids say, because I am so afraid that if they hear me say these words to them they just might begin to believe it. Lastly, how many of you have been on the opposite end of some harsh words? How did that make you feel?

Act: Let's be ministers of grace (Ephesians 4:29).

Day 11

2009-09-19T06:30:00.003-04:00

Read: Matthew 11

I know what you're thinking ... this guy is gonna do the "take my yoke upon you" verse. Well, you would be wrong ... that's too easy.
Instead I want to look at Matthew 11:4, "Go and show those things which ye do hear and see".

Action: Do we tell others what we hear and see? Darryl touched on it earlier this week. Are we the witness that we need to be? Every oppurtunity we have, we should be a great testimony for what Jesus has done for us!

Day 10

2009-09-18T06:30:00.001-04:00

Read: Matthew 10

"Are not two sparrows sold for a cent? And {yet} not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father, But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not fear; you are more valuable then many sparrows." (v.29-31)

Ponder: Christ is giving the disciples their first mission away from Jesus's side and supervision.
How do these same truths and principles apply to us in our everyday lives?
How should this change the way you interact with others?
How should it change the way we view ourselves?

What mission are you on for Christ...

Day 9

2009-09-17T06:30:00.007-04:00

Read: Matthew 9

Verse: Matthew 9:36-38

Consider: How do you view the "multitudes"? Are you "moved with compassion"? I, like most Christians, started off my christian life with a fire, and a passion to tell others about Jesus. But over the years, and as life played out, I am sad to say that I have failed to keep the fire burning like I should.

Act: Today think of someone that you know is not saved, and begin to pray for them. If you have the time, or the opportunity, talk to them about Jesus. Most fires require work to keep burning...work on yours.

Day 8

2009-09-16T06:30:00.001-04:00

Read: Matthew 8

One word hits you when you read Matthew chapter eight. That word is "faith".

Verse: Matthew 8:26, "Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith"?

Consider: We are such faithless followers of an omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent God. We need to stop worrying and have some faith!

Day 7

2009-09-15T06:30:00.005-04:00

Read: Matthew 7

Matt 7:4-5 "how can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' and behold, the log is in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye."

Consider this: Ya, know... I think I'm pretty great... and because I think that, usually I think my sins aren't as bad as say your sins, or anyone else's. But, the bottom line is I'm a dirty dog sinner, and my eyes just get blinded to how evil I can be. Strangely enough its really easy for me to see how jacked up everyone else around me can be. Somethings wrong with that.

Doers, Do this: So today, I'm going to focus on my own hypocrisy. I'm going to make sure my eye's are cleaned, and not for the purpose of cleaning up someone else's "speck" but so I can be clean before the Lord. Lets be doer's of the word and not hearers only!

Day 6

2009-09-14T06:30:00.002-04:00

Read: Matthew 6

Verse: Matthew 6:33

Consider: How many times throughout the day do we find ourselves getting distracted with things of the world? It easy with all the technology out there today. Not to mention just the daily drama of life with kids, work, relationships, etc. Jesus very simply says "seek ye first the kingdom of heaven". What's the first thing that comes to your mind in times of trouble, or when you have a decision to make? Is it "the kingdom of heaven"?

Try filtering every decision, and thought you have today through idea of seeking "the kingdom of heaven"? See if it lines up with what you normally would do. You might be shocked to see the results.

Day 5

2009-09-13T06:30:00.005-04:00

Read: Matthew 5

Consider: How many times in our life have we felt empty? Like there must be something missing. Humanity for years has tried to solve this void in their life with all sorts of material things. The void maybe because you have never had a personal relationship with Jesus. I would urge you, today, to accept Jesus as your personal savior. If you are saved, Jesus states in v. 6 that if we "hunger and thirst after righteousness" then we "shall be be filled".

What is righteousness to you? When was the last time you really hungered and thirsted after righteousness?

Day 4

2009-09-12T06:30:00.006-04:00

Matthew 4:4: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God"

Think About This: A verse we have read all too often, heard all too many times, and unfortunately, have too often ignored.

As we begin this journey, let's not forget why we are traveling. To get closer to God, to read His Words, to share the Gospel with others. I hope that Chasing99 will be more than just reading the Bible. I hope we will actually live the Bible. So that we may live by God's Word.

DAY 3

2009-09-11T06:30:00.005-04:00

READ: Matthew Chapter 3

CONSIDER: Matt 3:11“As for me, I baptize you with water for repentance, but He who is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” Jesus arrives on the scene, we hear his first words of the New Testament (v.15) but before he arrives, John the Baptist comes with the clear and powerful message of repentance to PREPARE!

ACTION: Prepare yourself, Jesus is on the scene! When Jesus arrives he changes cultures, communities and lives. Let’s be open and ready to see how He is going to change us and our communities in the days to come.

DAY 2

2009-09-10T06:30:00.010-04:00

Read: Matthew 2

Verses: Matthew 2:1-2

Consider: The Bible is not very specific about the wise men mentioned in this passage. We do know that they had traveled quite some distance, and time to arrive in Jerusalem, because Jesus was now a "young child" v.8. Whatever their personal sacrifice, they completed the task simply for one reason "to worship him" v.2.

What level of personal sacrifice do you need to make? And how far would you go simply "to worship him"?

DAY 1

2009-09-09T06:30:00.009-04:00

Welcome to Day 1 of our 99 day journey! If you have feedback, suggestions, or comments please let us know! Our desire is to make this tool as effective as possible in helping you successfully complete your 99 day pursuit of God.

Read: Matthew 1

Verse: Matthew 1:21

May we never forget the sacrifice that Jesus made for our sins, and the responsibility we have to tell others.