The Christian Kitchen Table

May 31st – Luke 23:21

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Luke 23:21

Have you ever been disappointed by Jesus? You’re probably saying to yourself right now, “What!?  Of course not!” But if we’re being honest, wouldn’t the answer be yes? Because the truth is, Jesus doesn’t always meet our expectations. He doesn’t promise a life free from suffering, nor to give us what we want. But what He does promise is to be our shelter in the worst of storms, and to provide for our every need. How do you handle the disappointments life throws your way? Do you trust in Jesus, His infinite wisdom, and His love for you? Or like the crowds in Jerusalem do you reject Him, turning away in bitterness and anger? Philippians 4:19 reminds us, “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Jesus Christ.” As followers of Jesus, we can have confidence that God knows best. And He knows what we need, when we need it. So trust in Him and His great love for you. And when you look back on life’s disappointments, don’t be surprised to find that they are in fact blessings that ended up being far greater than you could have ever expected!

May 30th – Philippians 4:7

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Philippians 4:7

“When Christ died He left a will in which He gave His soul to His Father, His body to Joseph of Arimathea, His clothes to the soldiers, and His mother to John. But to His disciples, who had left all to follow Him, He left not silver or gold, but something far better,  His PEACE!” (Matthew Henry) In this life we will all face trauma, heartache, and pain. Yet as Christians no matter what, we can experience an unshakable inner tranquility. Because when we receive Jesus as our Savior, we also receive the peace of God. A peace that surpasses all human understanding. And one of overwhelming security, serenity, and clarity which goes beyond anything we can comprehend. God’s peace is an impenetrable shield for our hearts and minds. One the Lord gives to guard us against anxiety, fear, and negative thoughts. Are you longing for peace in your life? Through a relationship with Christ Jesus, we can find strength and stability in our inner being, that allows us to face life’s challenges with a sound mind and a steadfast heart.

May 29th – Deuteronomy 3:16

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Deuteronomy 3:16

Memorial Day is here. The unofficial start to summer. A three day weekend devoted to fun-in-the-sun, grilling, and get togethers. All of that is wonderful as long as we remember the true reason for the celebration. A day of remembrance for those who gave their lives for their God, their country, and their families. Sadly, until the return of Jesus there will always be battles to fight, sacrifices asked, and wars waged. And always a need for brave men and women to fight the enemy. Just like the soldiers on the battlefields, we too are soldiers for Christ. And no matter what obstacle we face or what Satan may throw our way, we will overcome by standing on the promises of God. For as Paul so beautifully reassures us in Romans 8:38, nothing can separate us from our Heavenly Father. I pray for you all a blessed day with family and friends. To those of you who have served, thank you. To those of you with loved ones who have served, thank you. And for those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom, thank you. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

May 28th – Romans 8:31

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Romans 8:31

How many times as kids when we got into a scuffle did we hear, “Oh yeah? You and what army?” I imagine that’s what the Philistines thought when a young David challenged the mighty Goliath. But what they failed to realize is that God was all the army David needed. And He’s all the protection we need as well. Because for those who love Him, God gives the backing and favor of the ultimate power in the universe. One absolutely no one nor nothing can stand against. So no matter the challenges, adversaries, or obstacles we may face in life, we can have confidence in God’s ability to help us overcome them. For with God as our ally, we can have assurance of ultimate victory. Now that doesn’t mean we’ll never face difficulties or opposition, but rather that nothing can ultimately triumph over God’s purposes and plans for our lives.

May 27th – Luke 10:19

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Luke 10:19

I love the quote, “Give the devil his due, but don’t over pay him. ”Spiritual warfare is a serious business. But what many Christian’s fail to realize is that although the devil has power, he has no authority. As followers of Jesus, we have both power and authority over the enemy. That means the only dominion Satan has in our lives is what we give him. Oh he may throw opposition, adversity, and spiritual forces our way that seek to hinder our faith and well-being. However with the authority given by Jesus, we can stand firm and resist every attack. Think of how hard the Enemy pursued Jesus. Yet not once did the Lord give Satan victory. Not once did Christ fall for his lies. And we don’t have to either. Know who you belong to and who you are in Christ. Through Him we can do all things. Because He who is in us is greater than he who is in the world. (1 John 4:4) And from the Lord’s greatness and authority, we can have peace, happiness, and joy, despite what the devil wants.

May 26th – Psalm 121:5-6

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Psalm 121:5-6

One of the most wonderful things that happens when we receive Jesus as our Savior is this, never again will we walk alone. As children of the most high God, we can rely on His unfailing love and care, especially during adversity. And we can trust that He will walk hand in hand with us through every aspect of life. For the Lord is our Keeper and Protector. Diligently He watches over us guarding us from harm. And never is He far. Instead God is available and near, offering solace, refuge, and support. Like a comforting shade tree in the heat of the day, God shelters us with His power, sovereignty, and great love. That’s why we can confidently place our faith and trust in Him. He is our Shepherd, who faithfully cares for us, His flock. And we can find reassurance and security in God’s watchful presence, trust in His protection, and depend on Him in everything.

May 25th – Philippians 2:3

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Philippians 2:3

We all love a little pat on the back along with acknowledgement and appreciation. But when our own egos become the main focus, no longer are we working for God. Instead we’re working for the pleasing of our own vanity. Jesus, who was fully God, willingly gave up the privileges of deity and, “emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in the appearance of man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Phil. 2: 7-8) Christ lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a humiliating, excruciatingly painful death nailed to a Cross. He willingly became our substitute for sin, paying the debt that we owed. All in accordance to the will of God and out of love for us. In light of His great sacrifice, our words and actions should reflect the honor and humility of our Savior.

May 24th – Romans 12:1

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Romans 12:1

Paul loved Jesus deeply. And that love compelled the apostle to dedicate his life to serving God. So Paul became a living sacrifice. And he calls us to do the same. But what does that involve? Becoming a living sacrifice means surrendering our entire being, body, mind, and spirit to God. And it challenges us to live in a manner that is holy and pleasing to the Lord, allowing His transformative power to shape our thoughts, actions, and desires. Living sacrifices also dedicate their lives to God’s service and seek to honor Him in all areas. It requires a daily commitment to let go of our own selfish desires and instead seek to fulfill God’s purposes. As followers of Jesus, our lives are not our own but belong to God. And as such, we should choose to live a life of surrender, seeking to use our time, talents, and resources for God’s glory and the advancement of His kingdom. All while embracing a life of gratitude, love, and service to God. Reflecting His love and glory in all we do.

May 23rd – Matthew 9:9

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Matthew 9:9

One day as Levi was at His tax booth in the city, a man came up to him and said, “Follow Me!” Without a second thought Levi got up, walked out, and immediately began following the man. In a single moment, Levi chose to leave everything behind. He gave up his wealth, influence, and comfort without looking back. That was the best decision Levi ever made. For that man was Jesus. And following the Lord gave to Levi a wealth many times greater than what he left behind. Jesus wants us to experience such spiritual wealth. So answer His call. Step out in faith, follow the Lord, and receive His immeasurable blessings. When Levi entered the service of the Lord, His life was changed forever. No longer was he known as the despised tax collector hated by his brothers. Instead Jesus gave him the new name of Matthew, meaning gift of God, and he became a mighty disciple of the Lord. And one day as we stand before Him in heaven, Jesus will welcome us in joy and love, declare us innocent, and give us a new name!

May 22nd – Psalm 98:1-3

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Psalm 98:1-3

Growing up I remember listening to America’s Top 40 with Casey Kasem. Each week I was excited to hear who held the coveted spot of the new number one song. And each week we too have a new song to sing. One of praise and worship to the Lord for His blessings, glory, and gift of salvation. Because His goodness and mercy are new each morning, (Lam. 3:23) how can we help but sing of the marvelous things He has done. All of creation cries out in worship to God’s glory, splendor, and majesty. The heavens, earth, sea, fields, and even the trees, sing to the Lord a new song. For one day God will restore everything His hands have made to its original perfection. From the beginning, God has had His master plan in motion. And with the birth of Jesus Christ, that plan was made real before all mankind. In His amazing love, God planned to once and for all destroy evil and reconcile everything back to Himself, our great Creator. And one day soon, all will sing a new song praising and giving glory to Him alone!