2Day’s Word – What Do You Believe?

Matthew 22:45

Since David called the Messiah ‘my Lord,’ how can the Messiah be his son?”

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins after Pharisees and Sadducees attempt trap/trick Jesus. First about paying taxes and then about the resurrection.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is what do you believe. We can talk about God’s word, we can know God’s word and we can do God’s word. But the bottom-line question, where the rubber meets the road, is what do we truly believe about Jesus Christ. The most, relevant, most important and most eternal decision we will make or conclusion we will arrive at.

Hence, my take away today is remembering Psalm 110:1 whereby, “The Lord said to my Lord “Sit in the place of honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet.”” Yes, remembering all other theology is irrelevant until we arrive at truly believing with all our heart and without any doubt Jesus is who he said he is!

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2Day’s Word – Who and What Do They See?

Matthew 3:11

“I baptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as John the Baptist prepares the way for Jesus. It is here wherein John speaks about Jesus just before baptizing him in the Jordan River.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is it’s only the start and simply not enough to just partake in an outward sign of commitment. In other words, only the symbolic burial part just declaring death and acknowledging readiness to begin a new life in and with Christ. Rather, what really needs to follow is an inward change which involves a change of attitude and thus results in a changed heart evidence by a transformed life. In essence, not going through the motion or doing so for show but instead as Romans 12:2 says by letting God, “…transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

Hence, my take away today is asking myself often the question when others see me who and what do they see? Do they see someone who has changed, been transformed and see Jesus in and through me instead? Moreover, am I the person people see in public the same  when I am all alone, with family or no when one’s looking?

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2Day’s Word – God’s Comfort

2 Corinthians 1:4

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.

Life Lesson

In today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) Paul talks about comfort, encouragement and strength from God. As Psalm 23:4 says, “Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.” It is here wherein he explains the reasons why.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is when we find/receive strength and encouragement which allowed us to endure, carry us through and overcome that struggle, trouble, setback, obstacle or challenge that we not forgot. Moreover, that we also, in turn, play it forward by doing likewise/the same — comforting and encouraging — for someone else in a similar situation or circumstance.

Hence, my take away today is remembering God’s comfort never runs dry. In other words, the more we need, when we suffer for Christ, the more we can receive. 2 Corinthians 1:5 affirms this by saying, “For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ.”

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2Day’s Word – When Temptation Comes Knocking

1 Corinthians 10:13

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as Paul talks about their ancestors, warns about craving evil things and cautions against worshipping idols.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is every one of us not if but will face temptation. Not once but most likely over and over again. Even after overcoming whatever it might be chances are we will probably face and battle it again and again until we are called home. Whether it might be to do with coveting, an addiction from substance abuse, envy, bitterness, pride, adultery, anger, deceit, hatred, judging, lusting, lying, unforgiveness, unthankfulness, etc. Thus, whatever the temptation that we decide to choose to take the high road by doing (and thinking) right, that we flee fast and far away from it, that we fall to our knees to pray for the Helper’s help especially to give us wisdom, guidance and strength and that we also allow God to show us a way out.

Hence, my take away today is when temptation comes knocking to remember 2 Timothy 2:22 often and as necessary which says, “Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.”

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2Day’s Word – All Believers Are Equal

Galatians 2:6

As for those who were held in high esteem—whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not show favoritism—they added nothing to my message.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins after Paul returns to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus fourteen years later. It is here wherein he talks to leaders of the church to help them understand his ministry. In particular, what he preached to the Gentiles.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is all believers are equal in the sight of God. In other words he has no favorites. height, good looks, social status, wealth, intelligence does not matter. What does however is the attitude of our heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 affirms this saying, “…the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.””

Hence, my take away today is understanding, knowing and believing God has no favorites. Acts 10:34-35 says, “…how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” My take away also is inspiration and wisdom to continue forward and onward as contained in Romans 10:14 which says, “….how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them?…”

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2Day’s Word – Be The Same Person

Mark 12:38

As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces,

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as Jesus warns against religious leaders.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is be the same person regardless. When at home, with family, alone and especially when no one is looking. How often (me included) we say and do the right things in front of others perhaps to look good, make a good impression, be recognized or even be honored. Essentially, so others think better or more highly of us.

Hence, my take away today is remembering to walk the talk and not do for show. In other words, living a life for and pleasing to Christ when no one is looking. Remembering also to live a life of humility and not be filled with pride. As Psalm 16:18 says, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.” Moreover, Psalm 22:4 says, “Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life.”

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2Day’s Word – Forward and Onward

Mark 4:11

He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins after Jesus tells the story about the four kinds of soil and just as he explains to his twelve disciples (and others around him) what the stories mean.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is when sharing the Good News to not get discouraged nor give up in planting seeds. Rather, to continue forward and onward with patient and perseverance. For as with differing kinds of soil conditions not everyone will respond to and believe it. Perhaps, simply because their hearts may not be ready to understand truths.

Hence, my take away today is remembering when doing kingdom work and faced with people who are not ready (to receive God’s truths) to continue forward and onward. To persevere and not give up. By praying that the Holy Spirit will open up their hearts and minds. Furthermore, also by continuing to look for opportunities and seek chance to tell them a little bit more.

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2Day’s Word – A Good Starting Point

Acts 25:25

I found he had done nothing deserving of death, but because he made his appeal to the Emperor I decided to send him to Rome.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as Paul stands before Fetus, King Agrippa, military officers and other prominent people to be examined and so they can determine the appropriate charge(s) against him.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is to hear facts first hand and better understand the circumstance before arriving at any kind of conclusion. Especially, when it comes to judging others and perhaps more importantly when it involves deciding someone else’s future. How often we (me included) act, react and/or respond on impulse, sometimes without thinking, maybe with prejudice/prejudgment and/or possibly a bias toward a certain point of view. Thus, Fetus’ example as described in Verses 26-27 wherein he says, “But I have nothing definite to write to His Majesty about him. Therefore I have brought him before all of you, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that as a result of this investigation I may have something to write. For I think it is unreasonable to send a prisoner on to Rome without specifying the charges against him.”” is a good one to emulate.

Hence my take away today is seeking and understanding the truth before making any kind of judgement or coming to any kind of conclusion. And, doing more listening and less talking is a good starting point. 

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2Day’s Word – Satisfied and Thankful

Acts 20:33

I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as Paul meets with elders of the church in Ephesus for the last time before returning to Jerusalem.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is to be satisfied with and thankful for what I have or what I am rather than what I don’t have or wish I could be. A lesson (especially for me) I need to remember and put into practice over and over again. Perhaps in many instances daily. Whether it has to do with my personal belongings, what I am, what others might have or what other might be to not covet nor long for more or better. Remembering also to take my eyes off of self and place it where it belongs, on

Hence, my take away today is remembering what Paul says in Verse 24, “…to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”

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2Day’s Word – Continue Onward

Acts 17:34

but a few joined him and became believers. Among them was Dionysius, a member of the City Council, and a woman named Damaris, and others.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins as Paul leave Silas and Timothy in Berea and preaches in Athens. It is here wherein as he speaks before the Council of Philosophers about the resurrection that Verse 32 says, “…some laughed, but others said, “We want to hear more about this later.””

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind is when sharing the Good News is to not get discouraged nor give up in planting seeds. Rather, to continue onward. For not everyone will respond to it and believe. As with Paul, some will laugh while others will want to hear more.

Hence, my take away today is remembering that when doing kingdom work to expect all kinds of reactions. Moreover, remembering some will be positive but most likely more will be negative. However, regardless remembering also that just touching one believer will be worth all the effort. As Luke 15:7 says, ““…heaven will be happier over one lost sinner who returns to God…”

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