Cultivate A Heart Of Contentment
(Entry Date : May 2nd, 2010)
Scripture
Philippians 4 :12 – 13—I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Observation
Paul has learned to live in prosperity. He also learned how to be content during times of hunger, suffering and when in need. Paul could handle any situation that God had placed him because he found the strength from God. He was confident that nothing can come into his life without God’s notice, be it good or bad and that he need not be fearful. Paul’s trust in God showed a great degree of contentment.
Application
Paul was determined that he would be fully satisfied no matter what the Lord gave to him in any situation. Paul’s life is a living example for me to learn about contentment in God’s provision and to trust Him in everything because He has promised that He will never forsake us.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, may you help me cultivate a heart of contentment like Paul, that I will be thankful for all the good things you have given in my life and not to covet worldly possessions that has no lasting value. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen!
The Holy Communion
(Entry Date : February 7th, 2010)
Scripture
1 Cor 11:24-26—And when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
Observation
Jesus told us to observe the Holy Communion. We are to obey his commands.
In observing Communion, we are remembering Christ and all that He has done for us in his life, death and resurrection.
When observing Communion, we take time to examine ourselves.
In observing Communion, we are proclaiming His death until He comes.
When we observe Communion, we show our participation in the body of Christ. His life becomes our life and we become members of each other.
Application
1. May God help me to remember how much he has suffered for my transgressions not only on the day of communion but everyday of my life.
2. Ask God to help me remember that he will be coming back so that I can be prepared for His coming.
Prayer
Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for what you have done and most importantly your great love to me. You have done so much for me, so please help me to be ever ready for your coming. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen!
Complete Surrender
Scripture
Mark 14:36 - "Abba, Father," he said, "everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will."
Observation
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Jesus knew what was coming ahead of him. He was not afraid. He prepared himself by praying and seeking His father’s face.
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Jesus was brave and courageous. He chose to do the will of His father even at the point of his coming death.
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He spent the remaining hours (before his death) with his disciples.
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He wanted his disciples to learn to watch and pray.
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He demonstrated complete or full submission to God.
Application
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May God help me to surrender myself so that I can do His will.
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Ask God to help me yield to Him so that I can fulfill His purpose and calling for me.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for your great love and sending your only Son to die for me. Thank you for the blood of Jesus that has cleansed me of my sins. Indeed, Jesus has showed me what is full submission to Him. Dear God, may you help me to learn from Jesus that in whatever I do, help me to seek your face and know your will. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen!