"Which is Most Important to You-God or Money?"

N.T.#602 "Which is Most Important to You-God or Money?"

July 31, 2025 

Luke 16-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Are we faithful and dependable in small and big things? Are we trustworthy and honest when it comes to money? 

Jesus gives some negative connotations:

• He that is unjust in the least is unjust much with money matters. (verse 10b) Our earthly resources should be used wisely and generously. 
• If we are unfaithful in unjust mammon, people will not trust us with true riches. (verse 11) God loans us money and possessions  for His service.
• If we have been unfaithful in the use of another's money, then they won't trust us. (verse 12) We would be unfit to handle vast riches of God's kingdom.
• We can't serve two masters-God and money, for we either hate and despise one or love and hold to another.  (verse 13) 

LET IT GROW

No amount of money can provide us with health, happiness, or eternal life. We must be careful that money does not take God's place in our life, nor becomes our master. 

What do we think about the most often? What causes us to worry? Are we spending more time in the Word or caring for possessions? Is it hard for us to give money away? 

When God is our Master, then we servants have peace of mind and security now and forever. I like how this test of lordship of Christ puts it?

1. Money belongs to God, not us; let us use our resources wisely.
2. Money can be used for good or evil; let us use ours for good.
3. Money has a lot of power; let us use it carefully and thoughtfully. 

How did you do? 

We must use our material goods in a way that will faster faith and obedience. It puts things in the right perspective, priority. Remember, the love of money is the root of all evil. (1 Timothy 6:10) If we desire wealth more than pleasing God, then we are on the wrong road.

[Resources: Life Application Study Bible, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

LET IT GO

Open our hearts and hands, Lord Jesus, so we can be used for kingdom work.

May we show your love to others today.

"Users"

N.T.#601 "Users"

July 30, 2025 

Luke 16 

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. (verse 10)

LET IT GLOW 

I don't recall having heard a message nor studying this parable featured today. Jesus is teaching His disciples to live and use earthly resources from an eternal perspective. Here is a man taking advantage of his position to take advantage of people for his gain. 

Here is a summation of the parable:

• A rich man had a manager handle his business transactions, but did it corruptly. He had been squandering his boss's possession. (verse 1) 
• So the rich man fired his manager. (verse 2)
• The dishonest man wondered what to do. He wasn't strong enough to be a ditch digger, yet too proud to beg on the street with a tin cup. (verse 3)
• This white-collared guy didn't want to give up his lifestyle. He came up with a plan, a deceitful and stealing from others plan. so he went to the homes of those who owed his former boss money. He cut deals with them. (verses 4-7)
• Later, the rich man praised the unrighteous manager because he acted shrewdly. (verse 8)
• He was out of a job and cleverly provided for his future, even though it was stealing. 

Is this seen in the world today? Do we know people who do similar things? They take a cut, or remove money from the money drawer, deceive people, lie, don't think a thing about it being wrong. They are cunning and steal from the elderly and poor and naive.

[Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

LET IT GROW

As a Christian, are we using our earthly resources wisely and generously for kingdom purposes? Do we use our possessions and talents wisely for helping others? Will we have crowns to lay at the feet of King Jesus?

If we aren't faithful in little things, then we won't be faithful in big things. God has loaned us material things, jobs, and money in this life, so we need to give them in His service whenever He requires it from us. 

Either your money will serve God or you will ask God to serve your money. (Evans) 

How true.

LET IT GO

Is there anything we need to let go and use it for kingdom work?

How is our attitude toward giving?

"Returning and Rejoicing"

 N.T.#600 "Returning and Rejoicing"

July 29, 2025 

Luke 15-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

Shall we wrap up chapter 15? Three parables Jesus gave the Pharisees and scribes are here with lessons to learn. Sometimes we are the lost sheep that needs to be found. Yet, there are times we have loved ones who are the lost sheep, straying from God. Other times we are like the woman who lost a piece of silver. She did what she could to find her coin, Other times we need to let God handle the situation, taking our hands off. As for the father with rebellious sons, we have probably been there one time or another with our kids. One turns to riotous living, the other resents the brother. 

However the scenario applies, we have hope in God's love which never fails. We pray for people who are spiritually dead and come to Jesus, thus actually become alive spiritually.  Others are lost in their sin, doubting, straying away, and God shows mercy and they are found, brought back into the fold.  (verse 32)

It is always a heart problem. 

LET IT GROW

It is natural for us to celebrate the homecoming of a loved one, or the repentance of one coming to know Jesus as Savior. The Heavenly Father does. 

It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad; for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (verse 32)

Do we resent God's gracious forgiveness of others whom we consider to be fare worse sinners than ourselves? We have to be careful that we are no better than the Pharisees. Hopefully, we don't refuse to forgive others because we have grown bitter.

Do we give support and encouragement to sinners who returned to God?

Are we the one who needs to do business with God?

He is waiting to receive us with open and loving arms. We should do so to others.

LET IT GO

Rejoice, give thanks, and sing.

May our sorrow be turned to joy.

Let us praise our God who shows us grace and mercy all day long.

 

"When There is an I Problem"

N.T.#599 "When There is an I Problem"

July 28, 2025 

Luke 15-Part 5 

LET IT GLOW

Let it party begin. The prodigal son was home. He repented of his sin and admitted he was not worthy to be called his father's son.  The father thought otherwise. He put the best robe on his son, the family right of authority, and shoes on his feet. Now it was time to kill the fatted calf and have a celebration. All was merry-except for one thing.

The elder son came in from working in the field and heard music. He asked a servant what was going on. Keep in mind that the faithful son remained home, working for his father, yet he had also received his inheritance. How did this guy react to the celebration of the sinful and unfaithful brother? He was angry. So angry that he would not go into the house and join in the party.

Dad intreated the older son to join them. After all, his brother was back, they were eating the fatted calf, and celebrating the boy's safe return. 

Entreated means to call near; invite.

The guy wouldn't go inside until he had his say:

• All these years I slaved for you.
• I never once refused to obey. 
• In all that time you never once even gave me a young goat for a feast with my friends.
• Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fatted calf. I never got a party.(verses 28-30 NLT)

Wow! The oldest son let his father have it with brash speech. Do you see his "I" problem? We hear his entitlement, see his serving not out of love but for gain. The older son could have killed a calf and had a party with his friends any time, but did not. He owns the whole herd, after all. All that the father had was his.

LET IT GROW

How would you have treated the younger son if he was your brother? 

We aren't told the rest of the story. Did the older son admit his sinful attitude? Did he join the party? Did he continue to resent his brother? 

I don't think it matters how it ended. The thing is, the younger son repented of his sin, returned to his father as a servant, not a son status, and was forgiven.

Our Heavenly Father forgives us of our sins whenever we ask. He wraps us in His love and mercy. His compassions fail not, but are new every morning. Great is God's faithfulness.

Friend, have you experienced this?

We must be on guard for our self-righteousness so it doesn't get in the way of rejoicing when others come to Jesus. We don't want to be like the Pharisees.

LET IT GO

How awesome You are, Heavenly Father!

Thank You for Your forgiveness, love, compassion, grace, and mercy.

"What a Welcome!"

 N.T.#598 "What a Welcome!"

July 25, 2025 

Luke 15-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW

When I know our daughter is coming for a visit, I clean house, cook her favorite foods, and clear my schedule. We don't get to see her very often, once a year is great. So we enjoy the time together. This father in the parable seems to do the same for his son. Read on, friend and as we take a look from the father's perspective of the Prodigal son's return.

First of all, the father was willing to give his two sons their inheritance. I wonder if the dad figured out what the younger son would do with his. Apparently, the dad was a good provider. His servants ate well and he had wealth to share with the boys. Maybe he raised crops or animals to sell. 

Can you see the dad looking longingly for his rebellious son to return home? He wanted to see the son who was not there and wanted to have a relationship with him. What more could the dad do, for he had provided everything the kid needed, even a job. But that wasn't enough for the boy. So the dad let him go. There would be hardships ahead, users to help him spend his money, a sinful lifestyle. Still, the dad was willing to let the young man experience hurt in the world. Yet we parents keep looking and looking for our loved and wayward kid to return home. We don't give up; we keep praying.

Finally, the day came after months of waiting. The Prodigal son was walking or limping down the lane shoeless.  Instead of waiting for the foolish boy to come crawling, this father threw aside his own dignity and ran to meet his returning son. Can you see the love here? The dad even hugged the stinky boy and kissed him. What a welcome home. (The boy was clothed in shame and humility.) He didn't get what he deserved-treated like a servant, disgrace.

The father had already made arrangements as to how he would treat the boy. In place of tattered, torn, stinky hog smelling clothes, he got a long robe indicating wealth; a ring with the family's signet, which indicated he had authority in the family's business; sandals showing he was no longer poor.  I would say the boy felt accepted back into the fold, family, and after how he treated his father.

then there was the party, celebrating the son had returned home.  Dad had put up a calf in a pen, fattening it up on grain for a month or so, getting it ready to eat high on the hog or calf. Everyone was celebrating, except for one person-the eldest son. 

His son was dead, but alive again. He once was lost yet now found. A time to rejoice. (verse 24)

The father showed forgiveness, not condemnation. We don't read of a lecture here, do we? 

LET IT GROW

Can you see the similarity of this father and our Heavenly Father? 

When we turn to God for forgiveness of our rebellion, sin, or immoral lifestyle, He forgives completely. Here is a picture of God's love for lost sinners. He waits is kind, goes out to meet us, and does not give us what we deserve, but mercy.

Our Father welcomes us back when we wonder into the world and stray from Him. God's great love for us does not change. Jesus paid the price so we can come to Holy God. He prepared the way. He is the life.

LET IT GO

What an Awesome God!

Your love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me.

Cleanse our hearts and set our feet on the Rock.

To You be glory and honor forever!

  

"From Stinky Sinner to Sweet Son"

 N.T. #597 "From Stinky Sinner to Sweet Son"

July 24, 2025 

Luke 15-Part 3 

LET IT GLOW

How many times have you heard a sermon on the Parodical son in your lifetime? Is there anything new to discover about this parable? Let's look closer and see.

There are 9 key words which summarize the younger son's conduct:

1. rebellion
2. riotous living
3. rock bottom
4. realization
5. repent
6. return
7. reception
8. reconciliation
9. rejoicing.    

Here were two sons of a wealthy estate owner. The younger son was not satisfied with his life and wanted a change. He desired to get out of there with his part of his inheritance. He was going to live it up, tired of farm work, working daylight to dark, having no fun or parties. (I wonder if the two discussed plans and dreams of a different life while working together.) Did you notice that the father divided his wealth among the two sons? The older son got his inheritance money, too.

Nothing was said about this guy living with harlots until his brother brought it up in verse 30. He did put a long distance between himself and home. He went to a far country with a pocket full of money that he wasted on riotous living. He must have partied it up while the dough lasted.

Riotous means excess; loose; wasteful; unsavedness.

This lifestyle resulted in empty pockets, no food, and no friends. Then a famine hit and his pockets were empty. This Jewish boy found himself feeding swine while he was starving. He was in Gentile country. Jews considered hogs unclean and never had anything to do with them. The pigs got corn on the cob while he got nothing but slop and the cob. 

Finally the boy came to himself-his father's servants ate well. What in the world was he doing there? He came to his senses, rehearsed a speech, and went to be a servant of his father's. Seems the guy showed some maturity, humility, and responsibility. Maybe he even had some compassion for those he hurt back home. 

I can see daddy looking every morning and evening down the lane to his house, looking for his wayward son to return home. Day after day he saw no one coming. Then one day his expectations were fulfilled. Junior was coming, dragging his shoeless feet, smelling like a hog, dirty, stinky.

LET IT GROW

How did the father react? Not with arms folded and a speech of condemnation, "It's about time you came to your senses. Get in the house and clean yourself up, then we will talk."

No, the father had compassion on his son, ran to meet him, hugged him with a bear hug, and kissed his stinky neck. What a welcome home! 

What did his rehearsed speech say? Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. (verse 21)

The sinful son blurted out his prepared speech. It was like the father was so overwhelmed with joy that he didn't respond to the speech. Look at how the father responded:

• Instructed his servants to bring out the best robe and put it on junior;
• put a ring on his hand;
• put shoes on his feet;
• prepare the fatted calf and let us eat and be merry.

This was going to be a huge celebration with food enough to feed dozens of people. This special well-fed calf had been kept in a special pen and fed wheat grain for a month or longer. Yep, dad had been expecting this day to come and he wanted to be ready for the party. A robe, ring signifying authority, and sandals showing he was no longer poor-all was ready and waiting on junior to return. Little did the boy know what awaited his return. Dad had it all planned out and under control.

For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. (verse 24)

So the boy went from a stinky sinner to a sweet son. What a good story Jesus told. Yet, it is not ended.

Tomorrow we will discuss what happened when the older son came in from working in the field.

LET IT GO

We put aside pride and humbly come before You, Heavenly Father.

We are stinky with sin, unworthy to be Your child. 

Please forgive us.

Have mercy on us today.

"Lost is Found"

N.T.#596 "Lost is Found"

I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. (verse 7)

LET IT GLOW

What the Pharisees and scribes hated about Jesus was He spent time and ate with those whom they despised: tax collectors and sinners. As far as the religious leaders were concerned, such people were to be avoided-not welcomed. They thought Jesus should be hanging out with religious people who were serious about keeping the law. (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

So Jesus gave 3 scenarios using parables. The first two were similar, that of something being lost-a sheep and a coin. Wo wouldn't look for things you felt important whenever lost? I do it all the time at my age. Sometimes I even ask the Lord to help me find it. And He does. 

More importantly, look at verse 7. When straying saints and lost sinners repent, their relationship with the Father is restored and heaven rejoices. That must be some kind of party! I want to be in on it, too. 

The Lord goes to great lengths to see salvation and restoration take place in a sinners life. Do we? (Evans)

LET IT GROW 

Have you ever had a Prodigal son or daughter? It hurts to have them stray away from you and your teachings. When you know they have gone down the wrong road, but you can't seem to get them on the right road. Yet the father in the story did not give up. He rejoiced when seeing his wayward son return home. 

Why did the younger son leave? He wanted to live on his own, which ended up squandering his inheritance after all was said and done. 

Where your treasure is there your heart will be also. (12:34)

The young guy had a heart problem. Yet, when he became desperate enough, the guy returned home. He knew what to do, but had to humble himself in the process. Did he learn his lesson? We hope so. 

LET IT GO

Jesus, keep us near the cross; there a precious fountain. 

Free to all a healing stream, flows from Calvary's mountain.

Thank you Jesus for accepting us back into the fold when we stray away from You.

 

"What Does a Lost Sheep and a Lost Coin Have in Common?"

N.T.#595 "What Does a Lost Sheep and a Lost Coin Have in Common?"

 July 22, 2025 

Luke 15 

LET I T GLOW

Sometimes you wander if it is worth the time and energy put into a project when there seems to be no results. Last year, I felt that way until a boy came to Jesus after my testimony. This year I felt the same way, but a girl came to Jesus after my husband gave his testimony. We never know what God will use to reach children. It can be a hug, a smile, a sharing. 

Jesus challenged the hypocrisy of the religious leaders. We read it time and again in Scriptures. He distinguished Himself from the temple leaders while maintaining a high standard of righteousness. The Savior knew how to put them in their place, for He knew their short comings.

Here are three stories or parables with a common theme which are recounted by Christ in this chapter to illustrate His love, kindness, and concern for sinful men and women. 

Who was in the crowd? So the outcast publicans and sinners came to hear the Messiah. What was it like to listen to Jesus verbally? Do we listen to His Holy Spirit speak to our heart? 

Publicans were tax collectors (who selfishly took more for themselves) and sinners were those who missed the mark, trespassed (didn't meet God's standards). Now that was a crowd. No wonder they were grumbling and murmuring among themselves in a low tone. Faultfinders, I would call them. They were trying to catch Jesus in breaking the law. (Good luck with that, guys, because Jesus made the Laws of Moses.)

Who else was there? Why none other than the Pharisees and scribes, who were murmuring. Can you hear their deep voices whispering, "This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them." (verse 2)

In my books, Jesus was to be commended for that. The Holy, Son of God bent down to show love to the imperfect ones, societal outcasts. All those people Jesus touched and changed in their lives, don't you know they never forgot it for the rest of their lives?

LET IT GROW

What can we learn about these 3 parables?

• In these three parables, there is an innocent sheep lost, a carelessly lost shekel, and a willful son that was lost. 
• When the lost thing was found, there was rejoicing.  
• There was a percentage of loss involved grows, too. The lost sheep was 1 out of 100 (1%), the coin was 1 out of 10 (10%). and the son was 1 out of 2 (50%). (Falwell)

Just like the shepherd who wasn't willing to regard the lose of one missing sheep acceptable, our Good Shepherd places value on each individual soul. Even one who wanders from the fold, He goes to get it and bring it back. Keep praying for the wandering ones. 

The woman looking diligently for a lost coin (a day's wage) show us God treasures the repentance of lost sinners because He loves people. Are we looking for the wandering soul back in sin or the lost soul who has not come to Jesus? The Father rejoices when just one lost person is found.

LET IT GO

Keep us focused on Your love and compassion, Your mercy and grace, Sweet Jesus.

May our cup run over to those around us.

Help us share what wonderful things you have done for us, Savior.

To You be the glory forever.

"Are You Salty?"

N.T.#594 "Are You Salty?"

July 21, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW 

How salty are you?

Salt is good, but if it looses its taste or salty quality, it isn't fit for the manure pile. That is putting it plainly, I know, but that is how Jesus put it. If salt looses its effectiveness, then it is of no use, right? You can't make it salty again. May as well get rid of it.

We use salt to flavor our food, preserve our food, and enhance our food. That is what it is good for, right? When salt is good, then we enjoy being around it. It adds flavor to our life. Yet, when salt gets wet and dries, it is just a useless, tasteless residue. 

We have heard, "He's not worth a grain of salt." If we don't have the qualities of salt, then our influence is worthless. 

LET IT GROW

Most Christians blend into the world and avoid standing up for Christ. When a Christian does so, then they become worthless. Are we flavoring the world with the love of Jesus? Are we preserving good and right and Biblical truths? If we fail to be salty, then we fail to represent Christ to those around us.

LET IT GO

May we listen to what Jesus is saying. 

Use us today to share Your love with someone/

"Count the Cost"

N.T.#593 "Count the Cost"

July 18, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 6 

And whosoever doth no bear his cross, and come after Me, cannot be My disciple. (verse 27)

LET IT GLOW

Jesus gives instructions on how we can be His disciple. First, He tells us to love Jesus most of all, more than an other relationship. Then He tells us to bear our cross.

Bear means endure; declare; take up; sustain.

Taking up our cross means we die to self as the cross was an instrument of death back then. So we are to endure public scorn of discipleship and accept the inevitable suffering it brings. We get in line behind Jesus and follow Him. We embrace the Father's will for us, exchanging our plans, goals, desires for the Father's will for our life. He wants an all-or-nothing disciple, no fickle ones. We understand the cost and are willing to endure whatever. Our plans become His plans for us.

LET IT GROW

One short story Jesus tells is around a person intending to build a tower, sits down and counts the cost before building it. That way he won't be mocked if it doesn't get finished. Another illustration has to do with a king, before going to war, sits down and consults with his men concerning how many they have in order to defeat the enemy. 

In other words, consider the cost of following Jesus. It cost His disciples their very lives.

Did you notice that Jesus put this in terms of when we cannot be His disciple?

1. If we don't love our family less than we love Jesus, we aren't His disciple.
2. If we don't bear our cross and follow Him, we can't be His disciple.
3. If we don't forsake all, then we cannot be Jesus' disciple.

To sum it up, we are to love Jesus most of all, deny ourself, forsake all, and follow Him. Our plans, our will, we surrender to the Savior. That way He can use us in kingdom work, accomplish His will, and bring glory to God.

LET IT GO

Is there something holding us back from being a sold-out disciple of Jesus?

Count the cost and let it go.

"Who Do You Love Most?"

 N.T.#592 "Who do You Love Most?"

July 17, 2025

Luke 14-Part 5

If any man come to Me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple. (verse 26)

LET IT GLOW

What does it cost to be a disciple or follower of Jesus Christ?

According to Charles Swindoll, we have to have our priority in relationships, in plans, and in possessions. 

I. Priority in Relationships

You mean we have to hate our family, loved ones, or we can't be Jesus' disciples? That is often the question after reading verse 26. I have wondered the same thing. This explains what Jesus meant.

In the Greek language and this verse, hate means love less.

Now that makes sense, right? Who are we to love less than we love Jesus?

• father,
• mother,
• wife,
• children
•  brothers,
• sisters,
• own life.

I like how Falwell put it: To be Christ's disciple, He must be Lord. If He is not Lord of all, He may not be Lord at all!

We love our loved ones and that is good and obedient to the Word. Yet, when it comes to priorities, we must love them less than we love Christ. When our duties to parents or family come in competition with our duties to Christ, we are to give Christ the preference. We are not to neglect their needs, though.

The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. (Swindoll in reference to Galatians 5:6)

If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. (1 Timothy 5:8)

We make Jesus our number one priority, then we love others and our self.

LET IT GROW

II. Priority in Plans

And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after Me, cannot be My disciple. (verse 27)

When it comes to our goals, plans, objectives, and personal desires, they must be under those of the Father. Are we releasing our own will in order to follow God's will for our life?

When planning our life, we are to subject all our plans to the will of our Heavenly Father. Whether it is our money, time, energy, schedule, job, or entertainment, we must put God first. Are we using our things for His glory?

God never asks us to give up something good unless He plans to replace it with something even better. (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GO

Help us let go of whatever is more important than You, Heavenly Father.

Fill us with Your love for others.

"Are You Going?"

N.T.#591 "Are You Going?"

July 16, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW

Isn't it exciting to receive an invitation to a great event, wedding, graduation, birthday party? I like getting invitations because folks are happy at parties. Today we read about folks who had excuses for not attending a banquet.

Again, Jesus told another parable with a similar setting-a great supper. It was customary for 2 invitations being sent for a party. The first was to announce the event and the second to inform the guests when everything was ready.

The host sent his servant to bid people to come, yet they made excuses:

• I bought a piece of ground and have to go see it;
• I bought 10 oxen and have to check out their condition;
• I have married and cannot come. (verses 18-20)

Do you see the first two excuses had to do with purchases? Who would buy land or machinery without first examining it? Perhaps their cares and concerns for worldly things was too great for those fellows. The last guy put relationships too important. Those invited were rude, ungrateful, purposefully refused to come. 

Isn't it like that whenever we invite people to a church service? Their focus on life becomes more important than worshiping the God who created everything.  Or when you share Christ, people leave with excuses? Is God bidding you to come closer to Him, have a deeper walk with Him?

There is no excuse for rejecting Jesus nor not making the King and His kingdom a priority.

LET IT GROW

The parable continued with the servant explaining why no one was coming to his supper. Then the host sent the servant out into the streets and lanes of the city to invite the poor, maimed intensely crippled), halt (limping, crippled), and blind to come to the supper (verse 21)

Those folks came to the supper, yet there was room. So the host sent the servant out again to the highways and hedges and compel them to come in. Why? So His house may be filled.

Jesus sends His servant out to take the Gospel to the Gentiles. He did all that was needed for us-rejected, crucified, buried, and resurrectied. One day His followers will attend a great feast in heaven with the Savior Host. Right now, He is bidding folks to come to Him so He can be their Savior. 

Are we going out and bidding folks to come to Christ?

LET IT GO

Friend, let go of excuses and come humbly to Jesus. 

Ask Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior.

He is waiting at the door of your heart.

Then you will attend the great supper of the Lamb.

Jesus made the preparations and we don't have to do anything for the fantastic banquet in heaven.

Wow! I am ready.

 

"Which Kind of Guest Are You?"

 N.T.#590  "Which Kind of Guest Are You?"

July 15, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 3 

LET IT GLOW

The first century politicians and socialites were like today. They sought to elevate themselves in the community by hosting social events and inviting the right people while snubbing the wrong people. One could advance his standing by hosting parties and reciprocating invitations, thus building social alliances. 

However, Jesus had a different plan for this. Jesus suggested one to use their assets to benefit those who could not help themselves instead of furthering their career. 

For a dinner party, one should invite:

•  the poor,
•  the maimed,
•  the lame,
•  the blind.  (verse 13)

Those are the ones who cannot repay or reciprocate. If one did so, would it be a social suicide traded for kingdom reward and furtherance? What a different approach. 

The Pharisees believed eternal reward was based upon obeying the Law and doing good deeds. Yet, I don't think they wanted to carry it to that extent. 

How are we doing as associating with those who don't have status in church, in the community? Jesus loves everyone.

LET IT GROW

When we come to Jesus, we are spiritually poor, maimed, cripped at obeying the Word, and blind to the truth-needy. Isn't that what Jesus wants? He doesn't turn away the needy and humble. 

Inviting the outcast would show we have love for them as Jesus does. We all need grace and mercy. We can't repay Jesus for what He did on the cross for us. Although, we can share the Gospel with others, no matter their status. 

Which type of guest are you? 

LET IT GO

We need You Lord Jesus every hour. 

How wonderful is Your grace, mercy, and forgivenss.

Help us let go of what this world provides and turn to You.

"Where Will You Sit?"

N.T. #589 "Where Will You Sit?"

July 14, 2025 

Luke 14-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

Do you have a place reserved in heaven?

Most cultures have a seating order at a banquet, wedding, or official gathering. With the Jews at that time, the most honored guest reclined to the left of the host while the next honored guest reclined on his right. With this in mind, Jesus observed the religious pecking order at the Pharisee's table. (I wonder where Jesus sat.)

With His observation, Jesus told a parable, which really wasn't a story:

• At a wedding, don't sit in the highest place of honor, head table, lest you be embarrassed when removed by the host. It would be shameful or humiliating to take the pace of the lowest in the room. (verses 7-9)
• Instead, take a seat in the lowest place and let the host bring you up to a place of honor and being exalted. This would assign one to their proper dignity.

Can't you see everyone looking around at their spot? 

LET IT GROW

What was Jesus teaching? 

For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abazed: and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. (verse 11)

Jesus is warning about the eternal consequences of pride. The Pharisees had their determined seating arrangements at a banquet and also judged themselves worthy in God's eyes. In heaven, humility receives praise; sacrifice receives glory; motive trumps action. Pride results in a public disgrace. 

Here is a contrast between the kingdom of God and the dominion of evil. In God's kingdom, bowing low puts the humble on the fast track to the top. Jesus subjected Himself to the humiliation of the cross for the sake of humanity. He is our King because He lowered Himself to become our Servant. (Phil. 2:5-11)

It doesn't matter where I am seated in heaven, just so I am there.

[Resource: Swindoll's Living Insights in Luke]

In the kingdom of evil, they want the glory now, doing whatever it takes to get it. We can think of examples of this, I'm sure. 

LET IT GO

May we be humble in Your sight, O Lord God.

May we exalt others above our self. 

Thank You for dying on the cross so I don't have to pay for my sins.

Such love!

"Ox in the Ditch"

N.T.#588 "Ox in the Ditch"

July 11, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW 

Here we read of Jesus going again to a Pharisee's house for lunch on the Sabbath. It sounds like the religious leaders had a scheme to trap Jesus into saying or doing something that was unlawful. Their purpose was to trick the Messiah into breaking their religious laws as a Jew. However, the Son of God was not afraid to meet them on their turf and challenge their laws, as before. 

What happened was a man suffering from dropsy was there. We would call this edema. It is an abnormal accumulation of fluid that causes swelling in tissues, joints, and body cavities. The feet, ankles, and legs appear puffy and larger than normal. It can affect major organs and be a painful and potentially deadly disease. (verse 2)

Before Jesus healed the man on the Sabbath, He asked the lawyers and Pharisees if it was lawful to do so. (Apparently, it was a set up trap for Jesus.) The guys didn't answer the Messiah, though. If they answered yes, then they couldn't condemn Jesus; if they answered no, then they condemned themselves of not being compassionate of suffering. Their silence was Jesus' justification. The Jewish leaders had gone too far with their laws. It was a no-win scenario. The guy with edema was somebody's son who needed healing on the Sabbath day. Bu because he wasn't the son of a leader, the rule didn't seem to apply.

Doing good or helping a person should be acceptable no matter what day it is. Kindness should outweigh tradition.

LET IT GROW

Jesus asked the group another question concerning a donkey or ox that fell into a ditch, would they pull it out on the Sabbath day? I think this is known as the ox-in-the-ditch scenario. If this had happened to those rascals they would have rescued the animal so it didn't die. They had twisted God's law to suit themselves. 

Again, the religious leaders could not answer Jesus. Do you hear Jesus turning the tables on them? He wasn't afraid to face the Pharisees and lawyers. Can you feel the tension at the table?

LET IT GO

Love God and love your neighbor-the most important rules to follow. 

"A Gathering"

N.T.#587 "A Gathering"

July 10, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 6 

LET IT GLOW

 Do your values match those of the Bible? That is the important thing. Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem to die. Some Pharisees were either threatening Him or warning Jesus  of what would happen to Him. Jesus already knew it. That was His purpose in coming to earth. 

We understand Jesus' love and concern for Jerusalem. He wept over His beloved city. His heart ached over the Jews who would not repent of sin and believe in Jesus as the Messiah. He would have gathered His people like a hen gathers its chicks when danger is near. Jesus longed to protect Jerusalem as well. But they would not come. 

LET IT GROW

Jesus had a mission to fulfill and a schedule to meet, and neither Herod nor the Pharisees could thwart Him. Jerusalem would not see Jesus again until His return to reign as King in His kingdom when believing Jews call out, Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! (Tony Evans)

What a day that will be! Believers from all over the world will be gathered to worship and serve King Jesus!

Friend, will you be one included?

LET IT GO

We gather in Your name, King Jesus, to worship You, the author and finisher of our faith.

We serve a Risen Savior today!

We sing of Your love and glory!

You alone are worth of worship and praise!

"Where Will You Spend Eternity?"

N.T.#586 "Where Will You spend Eternity?"

July 9, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 5 

LET IT GLOW 

Jesus offered two parables to describe God's work in bringing His kingdom. The first described the kingdom of God like a tiny mustard seed which grows to be large enough for birds to nest on its branches. God's kingdom began small with 12 disciples and has expanded to billons of believers.

The second parable describes the kingdom of God like a leaven which a woman mixed into a batch of flour for bread. Here, a small amount of yeast or leaven can grow the flour into big loaves of bread, doubling its size. Leaven has always been representative of sin in the Scriptures. The sins of others oftentimes challenge the believer. Sinners need a change of heart before entering the kingdom of God, faith in Jesus Christ as Savior. 

God delays His final judgment so sinners have the opportunity to repent and receive forgiveness of their sins. Do you have loved ones who need Christ as their Savior? 

LET IT GROW

"Lord, are there few being saved?" (verse 23)

Someone asked Jesus that question. We cannot save ourselves. We can only enter through the narrow door (Jesus) to get into heaven. No amount of works can make us favorable in God's kingdom. It requires faith and repentance of sin. Reality is, few have or will acknowledge their sins and seek Jesus' forgiveness. 

What matters to God is not a person's earthly popularity, status, wealth, heritage, or power but their commitment to Christ and knowing Him. One day many people will be outside the door/gate. They will send themselves to hell because they don't know Jesus. How sad that will be. (verses 27-28)

LET IT GO

Where will you spend eternity? For those camping in Texas, it came quickly in the night in the form of flooding waters. 

Praying for the families and friends of them to be saved and comforted.

"How Big is Your faith?"

N.T.#585 "How Big is Your Faith?"

July 8, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW

Have you seen a mustard seed? It is a tiny seed? If not, then you should Google it and see what a little seed it is. When Jesus was asked what the kingdom of God looked like or resembled, He remarked that it is like a grain of mustard seed which a man grew in his garden. (verses 18-19) It became a great tree in size. A mustard seed can sprout into a tree-like plant up to 15 feet tall. Birds can lodge on its branches. Mustard has a small beginning yet becomes something great. 

I do like mustard on hot dogs, in potato salad and barbeque. It is a spice or herb that adds flavor to food. But then, I don't like it on a regular sandwich, for it is too strong a spice for me. Do you like mustard to eat?

LET IT GROW

How is the mustard seed like the kingdom of God? 

Within 40 years after Jesus' resurrection the Gospel spread throughout the Roman Empire, reaching villages and hamlets along trade routes and to large cities. 

While God's kingdom work began small and with seemingly insignificant people (fishermen and tax collectors), it grew significantly and accommodated all its citizens. (Tony Evans)

God's kingdom continues to grow. We have various denominations and organizations who believe Jesus is Savior and the only way to heaven. Others add works to the requirement to entering heaven.

Friend, have you put your faith in Jesus as your Savior? 

LET IT GO

Let go of the extras added onto faith and belief that Jesus is God's son who died in your place so you don't have to pay for your sins. 

Admit you are a sinner and need Jesus. Confess your sins to Him. Trust Jesus for the rest of your life and eternity. 

Only Jesus paid the price for me. Only His love can set me free. Nobody else could open heaven's door. Just Jesus and nothing more.

*Please join me in praying for the victims of the flood in Texas to be found. Pray for the hurting parents and families of those who died and/or are missing. Praying fora the lost to be saved, too.

"Healing is Available"

N.T.#584 "Healing is Available"

July 7, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

It took the medical people 40 years to figure out I had Chrones disease. I had prayed for years. It was a nurse practitioner who found the right medication for my body, which actually isn't known for helping my condition.  Now I rejoice that my body is not plagued by diarrhea all the time. Glory to God in the Highest! 

Luke changed the setting to a different time and place where Jesus encountered a woman who had been bent over and suffering for 18 years due to Satan. It compromised her condition. Just imagine being bent over and only seeing the feet of people, not their faces.  She couldn't straighten herself up. (verses 11-17) 

Jesus was teaching in the synagogue at the time of this encounter. He healed her body and delivered her from the demon on the Sabbath. Immediately the woman straightened up and glorified God. (verse 13) The ruler of the synagogue confronted Jesus, accusing Him of working on the Sabbath. (Did the man not consider it working whenever he led his ox or donkey to water?

LET IT GROW

Where is the compassion? Jesus showed compassion when He healed the desperate woman.

Jesus' adversaries were ashamed. All the people rejoiced for all the glorious things that were done by Him. (verse 17)

What a Savior! He is so good and kind, so compassionate to us sinners. 

LET IT GO

Oh what a Savior! Isn't He wonderful!

Thank You Jesus for grace and mercy and compassion.

Happy Independence Day 2025!

 Happy Independence Day 2025!

As I was thinking about our country's independence, I was also considering Christians being free. Here are some verses in which free is used:

*John 8:32 says, And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. 

The word free means liberate.

When we study and apply the Word in our life, then we are set free from sin, since we seek forgiveness when we commit sin.

Tony Evans says, "Truth is the absolute standard by which reality is measured. We live in a relativistic society that denies absolute truth, claiming, 'What's true for you may not be true for me.' But truth is not based on our feelings, experience, or desires. Truth is God's viewpoint on every matter, and it is not subject to redefinition. Truth is Jesus. The knowledge of the truth liberates."

*Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (John 8:34, 36)

How are we set free from the bondage of sin? It is the atoning death of Jesus on the cross, taking our place for punishment of our sins that sets us free from condemnation of sin before God whenever we ask forgiveness and believe in Jesus as our Savior. The written Word, Scriptures, helps us enjoy freedom from the sin to which we had been enslaved in our daily lives. 

[Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary]

*Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

Spiritual freedom is deliverance from the power and bondage of sin so that we can serve the living God as well as His people. It is freedom from legalism and control of the flesh so we can experience the substitutionary, resurrected life of Christ. We are to seek to please God and gain approval for our obedience because of our acceptance-not earn it. Grace is accessed by faith to both motivate and empower our service. (Evans)

When we suffer for standing for the Truth, we are to do it patiently, bear it, because this is acceptable with God. (1 Peter 2:20)

May you have a lovely day with family and friends, being free to serve Christ Jesus.

In His Name,

Linda

"Are We Producing Fruit?"

N.T.#583 "Are We Producing Fruit?"

July 3, 2025 

Luke 13-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

Here is another parable which Jesus told. It was about a fig tree that bore no fruit. (verse 6) The owner ordered his worker to cut it down. (verse 7) However, the worker asked the owner to let him fertilize the tree. If it still bore no fruit the next year, then he would cut it down. (verses 8-9) Often, a fig tree produces figs in its first season, and in full production by its third year. This was not the case here. 

This parable follows Jesus' exhortation that people repent of sin. (verses 1-5) If good fruit is absent from a person's life, some kind of judgment is certain. Inner repentance leads to an external demonstration of righteousness. Without fruit, professions of repentance are as genuine as a barren fig tree pretending to be healthy. (Resource: The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

Do you know folks who are pretending to be right with God, yet their life shows otherwise? 

LET IT GROW

The world is full of suffering due to humanity continuing in sin. We can see the open rebellion against God's Word and how it impacts others. Evil lives in the heart. We combat it with repentance and the grace of God. It is by God's grace that evil people are still alive. One day they will be cut down and thrown into the fire forever. All of us will one day stand before a holy God. Without Christ in their heart, they will answer for their sin. 

LET IT GO

What are we needing to let go so we can produce fruit of the Spirit-love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faith?

"Why Did It Happen?"

N.T.# 582 "Why Did It Happen?"

July 2, 2025 

Luke 13 

LET IT GLOW

I think we can agree that Pontius Pilate was a ruthless ruler. There is no historical record of this sadistic brutal man killing defenseless Jews in the Galilean area, yet Doctor Luke mentions it here in verse 1. Pilate had done so on other occasions so the Jews would dare not protest his policies. The people were murdered while behaving righteously. 

Why do bad things happen to good people? That has been a long-time question. The Romans were wicked people. That is why the Jews so badly needed a political and military Messiah, one who would overthrow this evil ruler and hold him accountable for his sins. We don't know whether the Galileans were  slaughtered while sacrificing or killed for some reason in connection with the sacrifice. It really doesn't matter. They were killed. 

These first-century Jews, like folks of today, believed that good things happen to good people and bad things happen as a result of sin. At any rate, this left the people confused. It was like this, "Were those who died worse sinners than their neighbors who did not die?" (Swindoll)

It was a matter of self-righteousness. We are all sinners-those who died and we who live today (you and I). The Galileans victims were not worse sinners than we are. Really, we are just as bad as them. However, if we have repented of our sins and believed in Jesus as our Savior, we are saved sinners. 

LET IT GROW

Did you see a phrase which Jesus spoke of twice? 

Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. (verses 3, 5)

Another example of tragic deaths was the time a tower fell on 18 people and killed them. It was a random tragedy. Were they worse sinners?

1. If you believe that sin is the basis of all calamities, then you should repent right away; your calamity might be next.
2. Sin does indeed lead to calamity-at the final judgment. Repent! (Swindoll)

It was a warning for the Jews of what was to come for them. In AD 70, the first Jewish-Roman War ended with the destruction of the temple; by AD 135, two more defeats left the Jewish nation without a home. 

God is still on His throne and sovereignly reigns. He is just, too. Evil exists in this world, so some things can be explained by those doing evil deeds. Jesus warns us to repent of our sins. This is no guarantee that tragedy will not strike our family. Things just happen. We must always be ready, standing strong in faith. 

 LET IT GO

Love God, repent of sins, love others. Be ready for Jesus to return.

 

"Divisions Everywhere"

 N.T.#581 "Divisions Everywhere"

July 1, 2025  "Divisions Everywhere"

Luke 12-Part 9 

LET IT GLOW

Here are some things Jesus taught and said which are pertinent to today:

• Belief in Jesus Christ as Savior and Messiah and the Truth often brings division in a household. 
• The ignorance of the Jews put Christ to death. (Acts 3:17) Yet, it brought everlasting life in heaven to so many people.
• People need to make their peace with God before it is too late. 
• Repentance and faith in Christ brings peace in the heart. 

LET IT GROW

Jesus used illustrations in order to get His points across:

• Families will be divided because of unbelievers in Jesus as the Messiah and only way to heaven by faith in Him. They will not repent, admitting they are sinners. (verses 51-54)
• People predict weather is predicted by western clouds seen means rain and southern winds mean heat. (verses 54-55)
• However, the people could not see what was right in front of them-The Messiah.
• Law breakers are sent before a judge and ultimately prison, thus they cannot pay fines owed. When people are in hell, they can never pay for their sins. Jesus was sent to do so, yet they would not believe in the Savior's provision.

Are we sharing these things with unbelievers?

LET IT GO

What needs to be let go of in order to surrender to Jesus?