From: October 16, 2015
Jeremiah told those who had been exiled to Babylon to “seek the peace” of that city. They were to seek “peace” (Hebrew: “shalom” – wholeness, peace, prosperity, happiness, blessing). They were to plant, build, marry, and increase, not decrease there. They were to be a blessing to the city, for in “its peace” they would have peace too. Are we a blessing to the city to which we’ve been sent? If our church ceased to exist in our city, would anyone notice? In our zeal to separate ourselves from the world, we tend to gather in a holy huddle around the Light while leaving those around us in darkness. Instead, let us be a light in our city, seeking its shalom in Jesus’ name.
From: October 16, 2014
Paul taught Timothy the importance of guarding the gospel against those who would misuse the law, claiming its necessity for salvation. Human effort at law-keeping does not save, only believing the gospel saves. Those that teach law-keeping as a means of salvation are not using the law “correctly.” Yet, the law is not useless when used rightly. In fact, there are at least three right uses of the Law:
The Law is to… (3 “R”s – Gal. 3:19-26)
1. Restrain our sinful behavior (Like a guard rail).
2. Reflect our guilt (Like a mirror).
3. Reveal God’s righteous way (Like a teacher).
The law is useful when “used correctly,” but only faith in Christ saves.
From: October 16, 2013
Are you a blessing to the city to which you’ve been sent? If your church ceased to exist in your city, would anyone notice? In our zeal to separate ourselves from the world we tend to gather in a holy huddle around the Light while leaving those around us in darkness. Instead, let us be a light in our city, seeking its welfare in Jesus’ name.
From: October 16, 2012
Jeremiah encouraged the Jewish exiles in Babylon to thrive in the city to which they’d been sent. This is a good word for the Church. Don’t just work on church stuff, but be a blessing to the city to which you’ve been called. Be a City Church that works for the “peace and prosperity” there. Be Salt and Light in Jesus’ name. And grow and multiply! Because you’re called to do this too!
From: October 16, 2011
Do you ever ask how you ended up in this place? Rather than begging God for a move, consider the possibility that God wants you there. Perhaps He wants to bless this place through you. Are you a complaining presence or a blessing to the place you inhabit now?