October 28, 2014
We read and hear about it most often during the December holiday season. It is worthy of our focus and consideration much more often than just then.“For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, On the throne of David and over his kingdom, To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness From then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.” (Isaiah 9.6-7)A child would be born who would be king. Bearing the full authority of His Father, and His Father’s name, He would be immensely qualified as the ultimate government leader. Wonderful Counselor - abundantly endowed with His Father’s wisdom and insight. Mighty God - not almighty, but mighty; a ruler with all the authority of Creator God invested in Him. Eternal Father - the enduring head of the family His Father has set Him over. Prince of Peace - the one uniquely empowered and commissioned to bring true peace that will last. As Father God’s supremely qualified Son and representative, the government He will have jurisdiction over will be endless in duration and quality. As his direct descendant, He will sit upon the vacated throne of His father, David. True justice and righteousness, such as the world has never seen, will characterize His coming government. And this will be the zealous project and work of His Father to accomplish.In this country, we are near the eve of yet another election season. Negative campaign ads are in full swing, and unprecedented amounts of money are being spent by the candidates. Indications are that citizens and voters, more than ever, are thoroughly sickened and disillusioned by the dirty business of politics. Belonging to its true head, the enemy (1 John 5.19), government’s true nature is becoming increasingly evident. And, when the people of God finally divest themselves of all confidence and faith in the prospects of earthly governmental solutions, we are finally in the best position to seek and advance the government of God to come.The child born is the king. No other government leader has the full endorsement and support of the Creator of the universe. This One will truly make a lasting difference, and fulfill all that candidates can only dare to image doing. This One has my vote and support. With my every breath, my greatest desire is to participate fully in His campaign. And, I pray that your best energies are exerted there as well. May that kingdom come more fully today, as we pray and seek its coming in fullness with the arrival of its King.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 27, 2014
Setbacks are to be expected, but utter defeat is an impossibility. Case in point is this desperate situation:"Now it came about in the days of Ahaz, the son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, king of Judah, that Rezin the king of Aram and Pekah the son of Remaliah, king of Israel, went up to Jerusalem to wage war against it, but could not conquer it. When it was reported to the house of David, saying, ‘The Arameans have camped in Ephraim,’ his heart and the hearts of his people shook as the trees of the forest shake with the wind.” (Isaiah 7.1-2)A formidable army was camped outside the city, and defeat seemed certain. The fear among God’s people was palpable; “the hearts of his people shook as the trees of the forest shake with the wind.” But, Yahweh God had this word for the people through Isaiah the prophet: “It shall not stand nor shall it come to pass.” (Isaiah 7.7) But, there was an important faith condition: “If you will not believe, you surely shall not last.” (Isaiah 7.9)These two messages via Isaiah the prophet have a timeless ring to them. That which is contrary to our Father’s plans and purposes truly “shall not stand nor shall it come to pass.” Setbacks may come, but defeat never will. And, “If you will not believe, you surely shall not last.” This truth is echoed in this verse: “without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who seek Him.” (Hebrews 11.6) Many people are alarmed and discouraged by recent cultural trends in this country. These are cause for concern but, in perspective, “It shall not stand nor shall it come to pass.” And again, “If you will not believe, you surely shall not last.” The faithless face defeat, but the faithful remain resolute and victorious.I choose to believe; I choose God’s victory: “It shall not stand nor shall it come to pass.” My fears and concerns are met with God’s assurance that whatever obstacles and offenses the enemy bombards me with will not last long, and will not truly come to pass. Setbacks are possible, but defeat is impossible.May we live with the confidence that these rich promises inspire.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 22, 2014
Good friends make it a priority to know about each other. Learning the details of another person’s life is key in knowing and appreciating them. Similarly, those who, through faith, have come to develop a relationship with Jesus will want to know all they can about Him."Then beginning with Moses and with all the prophets, He explained to them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures.” (Luke 24.27)I used to believe that all I needed to know about Jesus was to be found in the four gospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Since there is considerable overlap of events and teachings, I assumed I could fairly easily remember and master the details of His life (although John 21.25 gave a hint that there was much more: “And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written.”) But, in considering the astonishing statement made by the resurrected Christ in Luke 24.27, it is obvious that there is massive other information about Him to be found in all the Bible. If Jesus began with Moses, and covered what was taught by ALL the prophets, then that is a huge amount of subject matter! As someone has said, the Bible can be summarized with these three statements: Someone is coming (prophecies about the Messiah), Someone is here (the gospel accounts), and, Someone is coming again (prophecies concerning His Second Coming).In recent times, I’ve ventured into the realm of being a book author. As any author can verify, if you claim to be my friend, but don’t read what I’ve written, I’m a bit skeptical as to whether you truly are my friend, and are interested in me. Perhaps Jesus might view us the same way. If we claim Him as Savior and Lord, but don’t love Him enough to carefully investigate all that is written about Him, isn’t it reasonable for Him to wonder if we really are His friend? We learn all we can about those we love.The quest to better love the One who died for us, and actively intercedes for us today, will take us on an extensive journey throughout all the Bible. As we do so, we will be able to truly agree with these words: “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me” (John 5.39). May our love and appreciation of our matchless Savior grow as we find Him in all the pages of the Bible. Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 21, 2014
I’ve heard it said by older, wiser, spiritually minded people: “I don’t know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future”. In the final analysis, that’s what matters. The future appears uncertain and potentially menacing, but the One who holds it controls our destiny, and will not fail.“But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD, I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies and from those who persecute me. Make Your face to shine upon Your servant; Save me in Your lovingkindness.” (Palm 31.14-16)In my thoughts and prayers, I am often drawn to the phrase, “My times are in Your hand”. It is a phrase that instills peace and confidence. Amidst the proliferation of ungodly legislation, the rise of vile evil forces, and general concerns about future well-being, I am reminded that all of my moments and days are under the jurisdiction of my supreme Father. He, and His Son, have always proven trustworthy, and will be our confidence in times ahead. Nothing in this age is worthy of trust and confidence, except for our eternal Father, and His matchless Son.So often we are drawn to some present crisis or challenge, and beg for our Father’s immediate help - in the way we think He best ought to help. He always faithfully delivers but, more often than not, in ways different than we imagine. We presume according to our way and time, when His plan and time works far, far better.Throughout the ages, men and women of faith have taken the long view of deliverance and help. Ultimate help and deliverance was focused, not in present circumstances, but in the perfect age to come. And that is how we must see it. If the Creator Father is indeed my God, then He has perfect oversight of the times of my life. He WILL deliver as He sees best, and WILL make His face “to shine upon Your servant”. If His help truly comes in the age to come, then this must be our focus today - and always. Our best energies ought to be invested where our greatest hope and help lies. And, we ought to do all we can to direct others to gain this same perspective. In other words, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6.10).“My times are in Your hand”. May we trust Him to direct and deliver, as only He can.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 15, 2014
There is more to the story than meets the eye. Many people are familiar with the account of the crucifixion of Jesus, recorded in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. But, more was going on as He hung dying than we might realize.The mocking crowd, and the religious leaders in particular, taunted Jesus with words from Psalm 22” “HE TRUSTS IN GOD; LET GOD RESCUE Him now, IF HE DELIGHTS IN HIM; for He said, 'I am the Son of God.' “ (Matthew 27.43) This is especially significant in light of Jesus’ very last words on the cross: "About the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, "ELI, ELI, LAMA SABACHTHANI?" that is, “MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?” (Matthew 27.46). These are the exact words recorded in Psalm 22, a Messianic Psalm. In essence, His final words were a response from the Psalm used to taunt Him, that He was - and indeed is - the Messiah, the Son of God. So, what’s the point? That this biblical exchange, and the incredible events that took place during the time of His crucifixion, add even more compelling evidence to the truth declared by an attending Roman solider: “Truly this was the Son of God!" (Matthew 27.54) The detailed accounts of these events are not the stuff of fantasy and fiction, but truth as basis for faith. Having been a follower of Christ most of my life, I still cannot wrap my mind and heart around what He did for me, and you. But, that sense of awe guides my personal dedication in following and serving Him, and my commitment to His magnificent message regarding the kingdom of God. May we each pause to consider His dedication to us, and our response in dedication to Him.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 14, 2014
What is it worth? The bottom line with nearly everything is the issue of value. There are general standards as to fair prices for groceries, automobiles, houses, utilities, and wages, to name a few. A more challenging question is this: what is God’s Son worth to you?An ancient prophecy concerning a shepherd and a flock is recorded by Zechariah the prophet:“I said to them, ‘If it is good in your sight, give me my wages; but if not, never mind!' So they weighed out thirty shekels of silver as my wages. Then the LORD said to me, ‘Throw it to the potter, that magnificent price at which I was valued by them.’ So I took the thirty shekels of silver and threw them to the potter in the house of the LORD.” (Zechariah 11.12-13)Those familiar with the events in the life of Jesus will recognize the thirty pieces of silver as the price of betrayal by Judas, and what became of the money afterwards. Sarcasm is evident in this prophecy: “that magnificent price” was a great insult in that this was the common price for the purchase of a slave in that culture at that time. By extension, the point in this prophecy is that God’s Son, the Good Shepherd, would only be valued as much as a common slave.What is He worth to you? It’s easy enough to offer a lip-service answer, but the real proof is in the action of our discipleship. What does love and devotion move me to be and do? Is the price I offer a couple of hours on Sunday, and maybe an hour or two in attendance at another service or group? Is it evidenced through the discipline of prayer and Bible study? Time with other believers encouraging and strengthening them? Deliberate efforts to share the good news with lost friends, family members, and neighbors? Real service to those in need? The price offered and paid is the bottom line as to value. It’s a fair question for each of us to ask, in light of this account foretelling the price of betrayal, just what is the value of the Good Shepherd to me? May we honestly grapple today with this important question.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 8, 2014
Few things are as empowering as the declaration, “I believe”. To believe is to be overwhelmingly persuaded; to be enlightened, and resolutely committed to a course of action."Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith. Who is the one who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?” (1 John 5.1-5)A key belief premise is the belief “that Jesus is the Christ”. There is much confusion and ambiguity concerning “the Christ”. It isn’t a family last name, but rather a title for Messiah, or “sent one”. It is synonymous with Son of God. A resolute conviction and belief that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah), Son of God, is to be “born of God”. Belief always moves to action. Belief is not simply agreement with a fact; it is the compelling motivation for action. Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ will be led to undergo the new birth (John 3.3,5). And, whoever truly believes that Jesus is the Christ truly loves Him, and His Father. This love is expressed and evidenced through observing His commandments, which are not burdensome. And, this obedient love and faith positions us to overcome an anti-God world system and influence.Belief must be based on truth. Real truth-based belief transforms. Real truth-based belief overcomes. Real truth-based belief is basis for confidence: “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (1 John 5.13)Nothing is easier than to become weary and disheartened. I know that as well as anyone. But, it is empowering faith based on truth that leads to victory. The evil system, in opposition to the system of God, takes many forms. In due time, it becomes evident. But, our fixation is on progress of our faith, love, and obedience. In the end, the overcomers truly win. As such, live confidently and victoriously today.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 7, 2014
It’s always the right time to do the right thing. But, it apparently is easy to become discouraged in doing that which is right, based on this admonition:"Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” (Galatians 6.9-10)Doing good is no guarantee of having good done. Perhaps there is a subtle, or not-so-subtle, anticipation that good begets good. But, there is ample biblical evidence that such will not always be the case. Consider these words of Jesus:"Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5.10-12)Rather than being based on circumstances, it is to be our resolute mindset that we always “do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith”. The people of God practice active benevolence, regardless of the response. In “due time” there is reward for those who press on and persevere.What is the active good to be done today? There will be opportunities to be reactive as circumstances present themselves today, but there are also opportunities to be pro-active. Who needs an encouraging phone call? What text message or email message might brighten someone’s day? Who would benefit for an uplifting conversation over coffee or a meal? Who needs a listening and understanding ear? We live in a world that is seeing an alarming rise of evil and hostility. Against this dark backdrop, the challenge to be active doers of good is especially urgent. At the very heart of our “doing good” is doing the greatest good; namely, declaring and representing the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus. In every way, may we each be readily responsive and active today as His ambassadors of good, and the good news.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
October 1, 2014
We’re guardians of the flame, so to speak. On our watch, we dare not let it go out. If we should allow it to dim until only glowing embers remain, it is an urgent priority to rekindle the flame until it blazes bright and hot."kindle afresh the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline." (2 Timothy 1:6-7)The gospel fire - the light of our Creator Father, His Son, and the kingdom promise and reality - must ever burn bright within us. We are called to vigilantly "Guard, through the Holy Spirit who dwells in us, the treasure which has been entrusted to you. “ (2 Timothy 1:14). The sacred flame within us consists of truth and love. Both must be maintained and guarded. Truth without love easily becomes rigid legalism. Love without truth is pointless emotionalism. Neither has much value without the other.Those who carry the sacred flame burn far brighter when they draw near to one another. Like embers of a fire, burning pieces separated quickly dim and die. The greatest warmth and light are exhibited when the individual flame-bearers are in closest proximity to one another.Rekindling the flame calls for boldness in place of timidity. This is a gift from God; power, love, and discipline. But, these must be received and appropriated into our lives into for them to be effective.When the people of God are most aware of their commonality, there is the greatest incentive to draw near to one another. The precious truth of the gospel (Acts 8.12), coupled by supernatural love through Holy Spirit, become irresistible forces for harmony and unity, and the bright burning of the sacred flame.“Kindle afresh the gift of God". May we each fully cooperate with the Spirit of God in cultivating boldness and harmony through “power and love and discipline”. May we shine brightly today with all the spiritual energy that the LORD so richly provides.Steve©Steve Taylor, 2014Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/ Amazon ebook & print devotional -http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FQ1Q9GWpaperback print copy of book — https://www.createspace.com/4500045
