Pastor Gary's OYB Devotion Archive for November 18

“But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves” (James 1:22 NLT)

From: November 18, 2014

Not just hearers only, but doers of the Word. Many enjoy a good sermon and think how good it is that the person next to them is getting it. Yet a few will hear the Word and repent in tears, not worrying about those around them. Don’t let the Word go in one ear and out the other. Do what it says.

“Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” (Ezekiel 37:3)

From: November 18, 2013

Usually when we see bones, we assume life is long past being possible. But Ezekiel had been following God long enough to at least hesitate in giving a human answer. He had learned something about God. Nothing is ever too dead for God to give it life. “Prophesy over those bones Zeke!” “Yes, Lord.”

“You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires” (James 1:19-20)

From: November 18, 2012

Speaking before listening is like lighting anger’s fuse. Many an argument might be avoided by listening before speaking. Once anger is lit, angry words are spoken that can never be taken back. Two ears, one mouth = double your listening, cut your speaking in half. Are you listening?

“Son of man, can these bones live?” (Ezekiel 37:3)

From: November 18, 2011

I like Ezekiel’s response: “Lord, You alone know.” When Ezekiel preached the Word and prayed for the Spirit to move, the bones put on flesh and breathed. The preaching of God’s Word still brings those dead in sin to life and reconciles those who are spiritually separated from God. Preach to the bones!