31 Jan, 2012

In The Beginning

Creating the universe: Scientists still search for what kick-started it all
  
Last week some creationists celebrated an apparent triumph: Legendary physicist Stephen Hawking used the word "God," possibly not in vain. The utterance allegedly occurred at an international "state of the universe" conference to celebrate the 70th birthday of the world's most famous living scientist.

Creationists saw Hawking's comments as an admission that God was needed to create the universe.

And they were particularly gleeful about a subsequent story in New Scientist Magazine headlined "Why Scientists Can't Avoid a Creation Event." That piece called the substance of the conference "the worst presents ever," referring to the failure of several theories attempting to explain the origin of the cosmos.

The story set off a round of virtual chest-thumping. One writer said it raised the "thorny question of how to kick-start the cosmos without the hand of a supernatural creator."

Another site "Creation Revolution," wrote a gloating piece under the headline, "Cosmologist forced into 'in the beginning.' "

The New Scientist story did imply that the physicists were bumping up against the Almighty. It even quoted Hawking seeming to admit that science can never explain the beginning of the universe without God: "A point of creation would be a place where science broke down. One would have to appeal to religion and the hand of God."

Click Here for Full Story >> 
 
Story excerpt and Photo provided by www.courier-journal.com.

Genesis 1:1-2:3 (ESV)
 1 In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. 2 The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
 3 And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.

 6 And God said, “Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.” 7 And God made the expanse and separated the waters that were under the expanse from the waters that were above the expanse. And it was so. 8 And God called the expanse Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, the second day.

 9 And God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.” And it was so. 10 God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good.

 11 And God said, “Let the earth sprout vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, on the earth.” And it was so. 12 The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 13 And there was evening and there was morning, the third day.

 14 And God said, “Let there be lights in the expanse of the heavens to separate the day from the night. And let them be for signs and for seasons, and for days and years, 15 and let them be lights in the expanse of the heavens to give light upon the earth.” And it was so. 16 And God made the two great lights—the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night—and the stars. 17 And God set them in the expanse of the heavens to give light on the earth, 18 to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. 19 And there was evening and there was morning, the fourth day.

 20 And God said, “Let the waters swarm with swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the expanse of the heavens.” 21 So God created the great sea creatures and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. 22 And God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.” 23 And there was evening and there was morning, the fifth day.

 24 And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. 25 And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the livestock according to their kinds, and everything that creeps on the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

 26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

 27 So God created man in his own image, 
   in the image of God he created him; 
   male and female he created them.

 28 And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” 29 And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food. 30 And to every beast of the earth and to every bird of the heavens and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” And it was so. 31 And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.

 1 Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. 2 And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. 3 So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about creation?
Check out what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible says about the account of creaion:
"Almost every ancient religion has its own story to explain how the earth came to be. And almost every scientist has an opinion on the origin of the universe. But only the Bible shows one supreme God creating the earth out of his great love and giving all people a special place in it."
It's truly amazing to try to comprehend exactly how God created everything that exists, but He did. 

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
  • Spend some time reading the first chapter of Genesis this week. Start today and spend one day on each day of creation. 
  • Thank God for His amazing creativity in the universe and in the world around you today.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
  • Ask a close friend their opion on Today's Story. Ask them if you can share yours as well.
  • Ask a friend to join you on your journey through Genesis 1 this week. Read it together. Talk about it together. 
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30 Jan, 2012

STUCK!

Man rescued after being stuck in mud for days
 
 
 
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) - The unlikely heroes is a group of La Cueva High School students on a field trip. The AP biology class was surveying the Oxbow area near St. Pius Saturday morning when they heard desperate calls for help.

"He said he was stuck and that he couldn't move his legs," recanted student Alexander Mills. "He said he was hurt and he'd been there for three days."

The students couldn't get to the man who was about ten feet from the river's bank, so they called 911. Rescuers used an air boat to find him.

"It was very tough," explained Albuquerque Fire Captain Richard Collado. "We're dealing with a couple feet of mud and two feet of water over the top of that."

They found the man stranded on an reed island and used ropes to pull him out of the river. His name is Clayton Senn. Police say Senn is a transient and has been living on the river banks. He is also wanted on a felony warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Senn was taken to the hospital and is being treated for minor hypothermia, but once he's released he'll be booked into jail. 

Story and Image provided by news.google.com.
Colossians 2:10-12 (The Message)
 
 8-10Watch out for people who try to dazzle you with big words and intellectual double-talk. They want to drag you off into endless arguments that never amount to anything. They spread their ideas through the empty traditions of human beings and the empty superstitions of spirit beings. But that's not the way of Christ. Everything of God gets expressed in him, so you can see and hear him clearly. You don't need a telescope, a microscope, or a horoscope to realize the fullness of Christ, and the emptiness of the universe without him. When you come to him, that fullness comes together for you, too. His power extends over everything.

 11-15Entering into this fullness is not something you figure out or achieve. It's not a matter of being circumcised or keeping a long list of laws. No, you're already in—insiders—not through some secretive initiation rite but rather through what Christ has already gone through for you, destroying the power of sin. If it's an initiation ritual you're after, you've already been through it by submitting to baptism. Going under the water was a burial of your old life; coming up out of it was a resurrection, God raising you from the dead as he did Christ. When you were stuck in your old sin-dead life, you were incapable of responding to God. God brought you alive—right along with Christ! Think of it! All sins forgiven, the slate wiped clean, that old arrest warrant canceled and nailed to Christ's cross. He stripped all the spiritual tyrants in the universe of their sham authority at the Cross and marched them naked through the streets.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about getting stuck?
 
By what we know of the story of the man who was stuck in the mud, it sounds like he is stuck in more than that. Imagine what it must be like to be rescued, only to be taken into custody by the authorities for crimes you have committed. 
 
When we enter into a relationship with Jesus, our story is not unlike the story of the man who was stuck in the mud. Sometimes, there are things in our old life for which we have been forgiven, but still have to face consequences. Regardless of what those consequences are, it doesn't change the fact that we are still rescued! Jesus has still saved us from an eternity away from him. However, we must face the consquences here on earth for our sin. Our story is a story of eternal forgiveness, and it's a story we must continue to share. 
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
  • Do you ever feel like you are still stuck in your "old sin-dead life"? Ask God to remind you that you have been set free. 
  • Are you struggling to grow in your relationship with Jesus because there are consquences from your "old life" that you still face from time to time? Ask God to be your strength as you walk through this life.
  • Invite a close friend into your story and ask them to encourage and support you as you face whatever consequences come your way. 
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
  • Do you have a friend who is stuck in a life of sin? They may not be crying out to you out-loud to rescue them, but listen closely to their story and you may realize they truly are crying out for help. Talk with them about a time in your life you were stuck and share with them how God set you free.
  • Will this friend be facing consequences even after they turn to God for forgiveness? Talk with them about Today's Story. Remind them that what is most important is their eternal relationship with God. Offer to support and encourage them each and every step of the way. 

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27 Jan, 2012

Watching What You Eat!

Paula Deen Caught Eating a Cheeseburger
 
 
 
Last week, TV chef Paula Deen announced that she's been suffering from type 2 diabetes for the past three years.  She acknowledged that a person has "to make changes in your life" but apparently, Deen hasn't apparently changed all that much.  TMZ posted a photo of Deen woolfing down a cheeseburger on Monday while on a 7-day Caribbean cruise.  The 65-year-old chef was hosting her annual Party at Sea vacation for 400 fans.  TMZ says Deen also had fries on her plate.

Story provided by news.yahoo.com. 
Photo provided by images.google.com.
Romans 14:13-19 (ESV)
Do Not Cause Another to Stumble

 13 Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. 14 I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself, but it is unclean for anyone who thinks it unclean. 15 For if your brother is grieved by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died. 16 So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. 17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18 Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. 19 So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about eating cheeseburgers in public?
There is really nothing wrong with Paula Deen eating a cheeseburger, right? It's her choice. The point of Today's Story is that she said she was going to make some changes in her life and someone caught her and assumed those changes aren't happening. How does this tie in to today's God's Story scripture? Here's what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible has to say about today's God's Story scripture:

At the Jerusalem council (Acts 15), the Jewish church in Jerusalem asked the Gentile church in Antioch not to eat meat that had been sacrificed to idols. Paul was at the Jerusalem council and he accepted this request, no because he felt that eating such meat was wrong in itself, but because this practice would deeply offend many Jewish beleivers. Paul did not think the issue was worth dividing the church over; his desire was to promote unity.
 
While this issue was straight out of the early Chruch, it is not uncommon for arguments to spring up in the Body of Christ still today. Paul's advice is still very relevant today - If what you are doing is going to cause someone else to stumble in their walk with Jesus - Don't Do It! Unity and the growth of new believers must come before our own choices.
How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?
  • Have you run into issues in your walk with Jesus that have seemed divisive with others? 
  • Have you ever been selfish when those issues have come up because you knew there was nothing really wrong?
  • Ask God to give you a heart for and an understanding of unity in His Kingdom.
How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?
  • Do you have some friends from various churches in your community? Organize a get together this weekend to take a step toward uniting God's Kingdom in your hometown.
  • Is there someone you may have caused to stumble at some point? Get in touch with them and talk about today's God's Story scripture. Talk about ways you might encourage one another in your faith.

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26 Jan, 2012

Kinder than a 5th Grader

5th-grader Dunnells to be honored for compassion, public service

  

Camp Fire USA will honor Caitlin, a fifth-grader at Cedar Valley Elementary School in Killeen, along with nine other Central Texas children April 14 at the annual Absolutely Incredible Kids award ceremony.

Brandi Carroll, a school counselor at Cedar Valley, and Vicki Osborne, her fifth-grade teacher, nominated Caitlin for the honor because of her giving heart, contagious smile and constant efforts to improve her school, community and world.

"Caitlin just stands out," Carroll said. "You don't have to remind her do nice things; she just does things."

Caitlin, 10, began growing her hair in first grade to give to cancer patients through Locks of Love. She's since made two donations to the organization, and last year began growing her hair again to help those battling cancer for a third time.

 

(Story provided by:http://www.kdhnews.com/news/story.aspx?s=40483)

(Picture from: http://www.texasfishingonline.net/) 

 

Ephesians 5:1-2

New Living Translation (NLT)

 

 1 Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about how to live?

There are a couple of cool things about Paul's letter to the Ephisians. One, Ephesus was a major trade city. Many people from numerous cultures could be found roaming around the city at any moment. As Paul wrote these words he was certainly thinking about expanding the Kingdom of Heaven through compassion shown to the variety of people milling about.

Secondly, this is the only letter where Paul does not speak directly to an issue. He writes just to clarify and expand the way the church relates to Jesus and the world around them. He has the freedom to say, "loving Jesus means being like him even in the midst of your diverse world."

Paul is issuing a challenge to be like Jesus.  

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

  • Memorize Ephesians 5:1-2
  • Make a list of ways you can show kindness to the people around you. 
  • Do something from your list each week. 
  • Invite two friends to do your "acts of kindness" with you.  

 

 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

Paul challenges us to be imitators of Christ. Often that means showing kindness.

  • Invite a friend that doesn't know Jesus to share in your "acts of kindness."
  • Let your friend read the story of the little girl... Ask, "What would motivate you to show compassion?"
  • Share with your friend that you "live a life of love" because Jesus loved you first. 

 

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24 Jan, 2012

Awkward

Taylor Swift: ‘I Don’t Ever Feel Like the Cool Kid’
 
In a new interview in the February issue of Vogue -- Taylor Swift's first turn on the legendary fashion mag's cover -- the 22-year-old country-pop star has just one word to describe her teen years.
"So . . . middle school? Awkward," says Swift, who grew up in Pennsylvania, first on a rural Christmas tree farm and later in a wealthier suburban area. "Having a hobby that's different from everyone else's? Awkward. Singing the national anthem on weekends instead of going to sleepovers? More awkward. Gain a lot of weight before you hit the growth spurt? Awkward. Frizzy hair, don't embrace the curls yet? Awkward. Try to straighten it? Awkward!"
And despite her current fame, all those Grammys, lots of big paychecks (oh, and even a Vogue cover, her "awkward" past is still hard to shake. "I think who you are in school really sticks with you," Swift admits. "I don't ever feel like the cool kid at the party, ever. It's like, Smile and be nice to everybody, because you were not invited to be here."
And like so many stars with a squeaky clean image, there are those waiting in the wings for her to stumble. Swift explains how she often gets questioned by reporters about when she's going to start "stumbling out of clubs" or have some sort of "scandal or meltdown."
"As time has gone by, I've gotten that question less and less. I think, for me, the bigger pitfall is losing your self awareness," the singer explains. Even though I am at a place where my dresses are really pretty and the red carpets have a lot of bright lights and I get to play to thousands of people . . . you have to take that with a grain of salt. The stakes are really high if you mess up."


Story from news.yahoo.com
Image from images.google.com
1 Samuel 16:6-8 (ESV)
 6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD's anointed is before him.” 7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” 

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about our self-image?
 
In a day and age of air-brushed celebrity magazine covers, it is often difficult to remember verses like today's God's Story scripture. And even when we may remember that it is tucked away in God's Story, we may find it difficult to embrace the fact that God just sees things differently that we humans do.  It is easy to compare ourselves to celebrities like Taylor Swift - whether it's her look, or her lifestyle or her talent. But God makes it very clear through the prophet Samuel when he is choosing a new king for Israel ... the outward appearance doesn't matter. It is the heart that is the most important.
How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
 
If you had to describe what you are experiencing as you journey through middle school and high school in one word, what would that word be? Many reading this today may have already completed that journey. What word would you choose? Perhaps "awkward" fits your experience as well. Thank God today for looking at our heart, and ask him to work in your heart as you continue to follow him. 
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
 
Chances are you have a friend or two who really like Taylor Swift. Ask those friends to guess the word Taylor Swift chose for her word. Ask those friends how they feel knowing that Taylor Swift chose a word like 'awkward' to describe her high school experience.
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23 Jan, 2012

Leaving A Legacy

Joe Paterno, revered coach tainted by scandal, dies

STATE COLLEGE, Pennsylvania (Reuters) - Penn State football coach Joe Paterno, the winningest coach in major college football history who was fired in November over a ... scandal involving an assistant that rocked America, died on Sunday of lung cancer. He was 85.

Paterno won adoration from fans of the highly successful and profitable Penn State football program and they unleashed invective at the university board of trustees who fired him unceremoniously after 46 years as head coach, tarnishing his outsized legacy.

Read Full Story >>

Story and Photo courtesy of news.yahoo.com.

Joshua 24:1-15

 1 Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel. And they presented themselves before God. 2 And Joshua said to all the people, “Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘Long ago, your fathers lived beyond the Euphrates, Terah, the father of Abraham and of Nahor; and they served other gods. 3 Then I took your father Abraham from beyond the River and led him through all the land of Canaan, and made his offspring many. I gave him Isaac. 4 And to Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. And I gave Esau the hill country of Seir to possess, but Jacob and his children went down to Egypt. 5 And I sent Moses and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt with what I did in the midst of it, and afterward I brought you out.
 6 “‘Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea. And the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. 7 And when they cried to the LORD, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians and made the sea come upon them and cover them; and your eyes saw what I did in Egypt. And you lived in the wilderness a long time. 8 Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the other side of the Jordan. They fought with you, and I gave them into your hand, and you took possession of their land, and I destroyed them before you. 9 Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose and fought against Israel. And he sent and invited Balaam the son of Beor to curse you, 10 but I would not listen to Balaam. Indeed, he blessed you. So I delivered you out of his hand. 11 And you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho, and the leaders of Jericho fought against you, and also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. And I gave them into your hand. 12 And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. 13 I gave you a land on which you had not labored and cities that you had not built, and you dwell in them. You eat the fruit of vineyards and olive orchards that you did not plant.’
 14 “Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness. Put away the gods that your fathers served beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15 And if it is evil in your eyes to serve the LORD, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about leaving a legacy?

Only time will tell, but at this point, it is hard to know how Joe Paterno will be remembered. While some will choose to focus on his accomplishments as a coach, others will only see the tragic way his career ended in a scandal. In today's God's Story scripture we read about the end of Joshua's life. Joshua succeeded Moses as the leader of the nation of Israel, and it was under Joshua's leadership, not Moses', that they made it to the Promised Land. As Joshua shares with the nation one last time it is obvious that he has left quite a legacy. In verse 15 he challenges everyone to make the same decision he has made - to serve the Lord. There is no greater legacy that we can leave to to have it said of us, the he or she served the Lord. What legacy will you leave?

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

Take some time this week to consider what you want your legacy to be. Many years from now, when your time on earth is done,  what do you want said of you. Fast forward to the end of your life and write your own memorial service. While there will be a lot of details that won't be known, you can still think in general terms about the kind of life you want to live and the legacy you want to leave. 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?

When you hear others talking about the death of Joe Paterno this week, ask those in the conversation how they hope to be remembered when their time on earth is done. Use this conversation as an opportunity to introduce some of your friends to God's Story. 

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20 Jan, 2012

Unexpected Storms!

Tornadoes touch down in Indiana, Kentucky and Mississippi
 
 
 
(Reuters) - Tornadoes struck parts of Mississippi, Indiana and Kentucky on Tuesday, including one that hit a home in Mississippi and injured at least one person, meteorologists said.
The Indiana and Kentucky twisters knocked out power lines, downed trees and caused property damage, while a Sheriff's Department dispatcher said the Mississippi tornado struck a home in south Marion County, and a person who was inside suffered a possible broken arm.
Tornadoes are unusual for this part of the year in Indiana and neighboring Kentucky, although twisters occasionally hit Mississippi during the current season, said Dan Pydynowski, senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.com, whose company provides forecasting services.
A cold front combined with a warm and humid air mass contributed to the latest twisters, but those conditions were dissipating, he said.
"The threat's pretty much come to an end everywhere, so I don't think there's any more tornadic activity to worry about anywhere at this point," Pydynowski said.
In the area of Louisville, Kentucky, a twister knocked down trees and power lines along roadways, the National Weather Service said. To the north in Clark County, Indiana, a twister touched down in the parking lot of a Wal-Mart, the Weather Service added. When the twister moved, a vehicle was turned over on nearby Interstate 65, the agency said.
At Madison Municipal Airport in southeast Indiana, a twister also damaged a Beechcraft King Air when it moved the small plane and broke its nose gear, the Weather Service said.
 
Story from reuters.com. Image found at images.google.com.
Psalm 107:28-30 (ESV)

28 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, 
   and he delivered them from their distress. 
29 He made the storm be still, 
   and the waves of the sea were hushed. 
30 Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, 
   and he brought them to their desired haven.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about unexpected storms?

Many who read this DailyBide each day may live in places where tornadoes and severe storms are fairly common. The Midwest is such a place. But not in January. The area where we live is not too far from the areas affected by Wednesday's outbreak of Tornadoes. The last thing my son asked his mom before he headed off to school was, "Are you sure there won't be any tornado warnings?"  We had no idea!  Students in our area spend between 90 minutes and 2 hours sitting on the floors of hallways, classrooms, and even bathrooms while the storms passed our area. These storms surprised us, afterall, it just doesn't do that in January. Apparently it does.

Life is kind of like that. We very rarely get to hear a warning siren in our life that lets us know that a storm is on its way. There may be an occasional warning sign, but sometimes, storms catch us off guard and we have to make a quick plan to stay safe. Today's God's Story scripture gives us that plan ... "Cry to the Lord in our trouble." The result? He will "deliver us from our distress." It doesn't mean that the storm will disappear. It doesn't mean that there will be zero damage around us. But it does mean we will be safe as He defines safe. 

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?
  • Are you in the middle of some sort of storm in your life this week? Cry out to the Lord and ask Him to deliver you from your distress this weekend.
  • Spend some time reading through the Psalms this weekend. Notice how the writer acknowledge God's presence in his life.
  • Our safe haven is our close relationship with Jesus. Spend some extra time with him this weekend. Thank him for his presence in your life in the midst of storms. 

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?

 

  • Do you have a friend who is experiencing some sort of storm in their life this week? Find some time to get together with them over the weekend to give them some encourgaing words.
  • Talk with that friend about Today's Story and the outbreak of tornadoes in the country. Ask them if they see any parallels between Today's Story and Their Story. 
  • Ask your friend if you can share some of God's Story with them about His role in protecting us from the storms of life.

 

Permanent Link

19 Jan, 2012

Never Saw that One Coming.

Three Hole-In-Ones, Same Hole, Same Day…WHAT?

A hole-in-one the most coveted result in golf, the only shot you can buy insurance for, and a club that once you’re in they seem to come more often.  Well, if you don’t have one yet I’d suggest booking a tee time at Spanish Wells Golf Course in Bonita Springs, FL.

In mid December hole number four on the east course at Spanish Wells opened it’s flood gates for 90 minutes and received three hole-in-ones.  The odds of three hole-in-ones on the same day and the same hole happening are around one and 1.7 billion. 

 

(Story and picture from: http://www.golfsliced.com/news/offbeat/three-hole-same-hole-same-daywhat/) 

2 Corinthians 8:1-4

The Message (MSG)

 

 1-4Now, friends, I want to report on the surprising and generous ways in which God is working in the churches in Macedonia province. Fierce troubles came down on the people of those churches, pushing them to the very limit. The trial exposed their true colors: They were incredibly happy, though desperately poor. The pressure triggered something totally unexpected: an outpouring of pure and generous gifts. I was there and saw it for myself. They gave offerings of whatever they could—far more than they could afford!—pleading for the privilege of helping out in the relief of poor Christians.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about God's surprising work?

It would be really easy to look at Paul, in these circumstances, and see him as the guy trying to guilt people into good behaviour. That was not his motive. A few verses later he explains to the Corinthians why he even brought it up. He clarifies his purpose... He wanted the Corinthian church to be encouraged by the excitement in Macedonia.

God had worked in a special, unexpected way in the church. Lives were being changed and people were compelled to generosity. Paul was thrilled by the way Jesus was moving and he wanted to share that with Corinth. He wanted the people to be excited and motivated to keep pursuing Jesus.   

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

  • Make a list of three places where you see God moving in a friends life.
  • Make a list of two areas you sense God is stretching you. 
  • Share your lists with your youth pastor or Campus Life Director. 

 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

  • Next time you have a friend that is excited about something, don't down play it. Be excited with them! 
  • Share the golf story with a friend. Ask if they have ever had something exciting or unexpected happen for them. 
  • Say a prayer for your friend... A prayer that they could see God in the exciting moments of life.   

 

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18 Jan, 2012

learning anything?

 

It’s January and its that time which we all feel like hobbs (above cartoon) we would rather due anything but learn, or work, or heaven forbid clean up after ourselves ehhh. I mean we just had a large amount of time off to be with family and lay around...now school is back in session and the holidays are fading away. Why not take time off of class. We have all had that feeling some take advantage of it other just mentally check out. 

 

Picture from google images 

 

2 Peter 3:18

"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity."

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about being willing to learn?

Keep in mind that the writer of this scripture was Peter (through the inspired leading of God's Holy Spirit). This guy was that rough and tumbled, former fisherman (often obnoxious) disciple of Jesus who had to learn the hard way.

In fact, this is the disciple who denied Jesus three times but then was chosen by Jesus to get the early church going. Peter was willing to keep learning from his mistakes and keep growing in his understanding of God's truth no matter what!

Have you been a kid that cuts class...Have you heard stories of people getting in trouble while they are away. With Ideas that it would be so much more fun if you could just stay home and watch TV, forget school right?? 

This begs this question - what do you and I do to avoid letting God teach us?

If we're honest, we'll admit that we often are just too lazy to spend time studying God's Word or we prefer our own pleasures rather than pleasing God by learning to know Christ in a deeper way.

Learn to know Jesus...abide in Him every day...He's the glue that holds your life together!

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

  • Make a list of whatever you do to avoid taking the time to study and grow spiritually and then reflect on why?
  • Share this list with a couple of friends who follow Jesus and see if they will join you in a study prayer group for a few weeks where you will encourage each other and hold each other accountable to learn to know Jesus more deeply.
  • Memorize 2 Peter 3:18.
  • Find a symbol, a rock, video game, In-N-Out Hat, find something that reminds you of a distraction. Put the symbol next to your bed to remind yourself to take the time to learn God's truths rather than trying to skip spiritual growth.

How can we connect today's story and God's Story scripture and our story with others?

  • With someone in your storysphere who is really warming up to God's Story, talk about kid's attempt to avoid school and then be honest about some of your attempts to avoid God's "school". Ask him or her what they would like to learn about God if they could?
  • Use this DAILYBIDE as a resource with your small group or youth group or forward it on to a friend to encourage them with what you learned.ads
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17 Jan, 2012

Last Second Shots

Lindsey Wilson College 80-foot buzzer-beater
 
Check out this incredible shot from the other end of the gym that gave LWC a 79-78 win over Georgetown College as time expired on Saturday. 
 

Story and Photo courtesy of news.google.com.
Matthew 20:1-16 (ESV)

Laborers in the Vineyard

    1 “For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ 5 So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing. And he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ 7 They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ 8 And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the laborers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ 9 And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. 10 Now when those hired first came, they thought they would receive more, but each of them also received a denarius. 11 And on receiving it they grumbled at the master of the house, 12 saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ 13 But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you. 15 Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ 16 So the last will be first, and the first last.”

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about entering into God's Kingdom on a 'last second shot'?
Listen to what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible study notes have to say about the parable in today's God's Story scripture:
This parable is not about rewards but about salvation. It is a strong teaching about grace, God's generosity. We shouldn't begrudge those who turn to God in the last moments of life, because, in reality, no one deserves eternal life.
Many people we don't expect to see in the Kingdom will be there. The criminal  who repented as he was dying will be there along with people who have believed and served God for many years. Do you resent God's gracious acceptance of the despised, the outcast, and the sinners who have turned to him for forgiveness? Have you ever been jealous of what God has given to another person? Instead, focus on God's gracious benefits to you, and be thankful for what you have.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
Have you been guilty of holding feelings of jealousy when it comes to knowing some have 'lived it up' their whole life only to turn to God in the end? Ask God to forgive you for those feelings and thank God for the abundant life He has, is, and will continue to give you as you live for him.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
Are there people in your life who are nearing the end of their earthly life, yet still haven't committed their life to Jesus? It's not too late as long as they are here. Spend some time with them listening to their life-story. Listen for ways that God may have been trying to break through their story, but they just didn't let him. Listen for ways that God might use you to connect to them, ulimately connecting them to His story before their life on earth is over.

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16 Jan, 2012

Remembering Martin Luther King, Jr.

Obama honors Martin Luther King at Washington church
 
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama celebrated the legacy of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. with his family on Sunday, clapping and swaying to the boisterous strains of "Amazing Grace" at a historic Washington D.C. Baptist church.
On the eve of the holiday marking King's birthday, the president, First Lady Michelle Obama and their daughters, Sasha and Malia, attended a service at Zion Baptist Church.
The Reverend Keith Byrd Sr. called on congregants to keep King's legacy alive and welcomed the first family.
"[The Obamas] came here to worship, and we want them to worship," Byrd said. "Bless you and thank you for joining us."
Deacon Hendri Williams, who also spoke at the service, closed his remarks by highlighting King's belief in the importance of religion and quoted from a letter King wrote from the Birmingham, Alabama, city jail to his fellow clergy in 1963.
King, a Baptist pastor, said the church was "not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society," Williams said quoting from the now famous letter.
A recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, King, was assassinated in 1968.
The Zion Baptist church was founded in 1864 by African Americans who migrated to Washington from Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Story and Photo provided by news.yahoo.com.
Philemon 1:10-12, 25 (ESV)
10 I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. 11 (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) 12 I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. ... 
25 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. 

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the key to experiencing racial reconciliation?

Tyndale's LIFE APPLICATION STUDY BIBLE notes provide this insight verse 25:

Paul urged Philemon to be reconciled to his slave, receiving him as a brother and fellow member of God's family. Reconciliation means reestablishing relationship. Christ has reconciled us to God and to others. Many barriers come between people - race, social status, sex, personality differences - but Christ can break down these barriers. Jesus Christ changed Onesimus's relationship to Philemon from slave to brother. Christ can transform our most hopeless relationships into deep and loving friendships.

Martin Luther King's dream can become a reality only through the power of Jesus Christ.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
  • Thank God that in Jesus Christ, all of His followers are truly one family. Confess any prejudice you have toward others because of racial, economic, or political differences. Ask Christ to work through you to remove barriers between others.
  • Pray every day to be like Jesus to everyone you know and meet.
  • Write down specific ways you are allowing barriers toward other people to keep you from being like Jesus. 
  • Keep this on your prayer list and let God's Spirit change your heart.
  • Read the book of Philemon to get the whole story.

How can we connect Today's Story, God's Story and Our Story to others?
  • Get together with friends and/or family members and go online to listen to the "I HAVE A DREAM" speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. Afterwards, talk about what you learned in today's DAILYBIDE.
  • Identify someone with whom you need reconciliation. Start today.
  • Ask Jesus to give you His insight in looking for the opportunity to learn the stories of three people with a racial background different than yours.
  • Get together with some friends and dream of some ways you can volunteer your time to serve your community, not just to honor Dr. King's memory, but to glorify the Name of Jesus.
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13 Jan, 2012

What's It Worth?

1793 penny fetches $1.38M at Fla. auction
 
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — A once-cent copper coin from the earliest days of the U.S. Mint in 1793 has sold for a record $1.38 million at a Florida auction.
James Halperin of Texas-based Heritage Auctions told The Associated Press on Saturday that the sale was "the most a United States copper coin has ever sold for at auction." The coin was made at the Mint in Philadelphia in 1793, the first year that the U.S. made its own coins.
Heritage officials said in a news release that the name of the buyer was not revealed but that he was "a major collector." One of the coin's earliest owners was a well-known Baltimore banker, Louis E. Eliasberg, Sr.
"Mr. Eliasberg was nicknamed, 'the king of coins' because before his death in 1976 he assembled a collection that consisted of at least one example of every coin ever made at the United States Mint, a feat never duplicated," Halperin said in the news release.
The final bid for the coin last week was one of the largest sales at the Florida United Numismatists coin show and annual convention, which runs through Sunday. Halperin said a five-dollar gold piece from 1829 also was sold.
Halperin said there remain a few hundred 1793 coins in different condition, but that the one auctioned off Wednesday night is rare because it wasn't in circulation.
Officials say it shows no wear on its lettering, its Lady Liberty face or the chain of linking rings on its back.
The news release said the coin is known as a "Chain Cent" because its chain of linking rings was supposed to represent the solidarity of the states. The design was changed to a wreath after some critics claimed it was symbolic of slavery.
Halperin said the auction had more than $64 million in transactions. The show runs through Sunday.

Story and Photo courtesy of news.yahoo.com.

Luke 21:1-4 (ESV)

The Widow's Offering

 1 Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box, 2 and he saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. 3 And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. 4 For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about the worth of a small coin?
Listen to what Tyndale's Life Application Study Bible Notes have to say about today's God's Story scripture:
 
In contrast to the way most of us handle our money, this widow gave all she had to live on. When we consider oursleves generous in giving a small percentage of our income to the Lord, we resemble those who gave 'a tiny part of their surplus.' Here Jesus admired her generous and sacrificial giving. As believers, we should consider increasing our giving - whether money, time, or talents - to a point beyond mere convenience.

Today's Story confirms that we have no idea how much what we give today might be worth tomorrow.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
What are you giving to God? Whatever it is, it is between you and Him alone. Take some time today to talk with God about what you give and how you give it. 
  • Are you giving of your money? Is it enough?
  • Are you giving your time? Is it enough?
  • Are you giving your talents? Is it enough?
How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
  • Ask some friends if they heard about Today's Story when it hit the news last weekend. 
  • Ask those same friends if they have ever heard story of the widow's offering from God's Story.
  • Talk with them about what it means to give 'all you have to live on.'
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12 Jan, 2012

Time to Get Away

 

Classic American Retreats

It’s been more than 70 years since the first stimulus package helped lift the nation out of a depression — and, true to common wisdom, they did bailouts better back then. Roosevelt’s New Deal and the alphabet soup of agencies it created (notably, the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps) built magnificent, uniquely American campgrounds, lodges, and cabins in state parks across the country — many of which are still open. Why visit them now? Because they’re less expensive and more authentic than any comparable lodging built since the 1930s.

 

(Article and picture provided by:http://www.mensjournal.com/classic-american-retreats)

Mark 6:30-32

New Living Translation (NLT)

Jesus Feeds Five Thousand
 30 The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told him all they had done and taught. 31Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.

 32 So they left by boat for a quiet place, where they could be alone.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about our need for a break?

Early in chapter 6 Jesus sends out the twelve. They travel around the countryside preaching, healing and driving out demons. The things they were doing were amazing, but they also took a toll physically and emotionally. 

In the middle of the chapter, an event occurred that probably sent Jesus and his disciples into emotional overdrive. John the Baptist was beheaded.

All of this happens and then the disciples return excited about everything that they saw. Jesus, knows them and knows that they need a break from their exhausting work, so he pulls them aside to rest, a while, in a quiet place.  

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

You may not be able to take a day off whenever you want or need to so here are a couple of ideas to make some refreshment time for yourself. 

 

  • Set aside 5 minutes each day just sit in a comfortable chair and breathe.
  • When you do get vacation time. Leave your electronics at home and shut your cell phone off at least an hour a day. 
  • Ask Jesus to help you find space in your life to refresh. 

 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others? 

We live in a busy, fast paced world. It feels like there is never enough time to get everything done that we need to. We can speak volumes to our friends though if we learn to rest in the crazyness of life. 

 

  • When you travel take a friend with you and invite them to shut their phone off for the week. Lead the way by turning your's off first. 
  • Once in a while tell your friends your staying home just because you need to rest. 
  • You can really help a friend by giving them permission to rest. "Hey, Jesus took time to rest... You can too." 

 

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10 Jan, 2012

Defense Wins Championships

Alabama shuts out LSU for BCS title
The Alabama Crimson Tide more than avenged their only loss of the season Monday night, defeating the LSU Tigers 21-0 in the BCS Championship Game at New Orleans in a game once again dominated by defense and special teams.


Story and Photo Courtesy of news.google.com.
Ephesians 6:10-20

The Whole Armor of God

 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, 19 and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel, 20 for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

What does today's God's Stor scripture teach us about playing defense?
When you take a close look at the Armor of God you notice that only real offensive weapon is the sword, or God's Word. Every other piece of the armor serves the purpose of protecting us from the enemy. It is for our defense. Just like it took an amazing defensive effort for Alabama to win the BCS Championship Game last night, if we are going to "win" in the battle against our spritiual enemy, we must defend ourselves by putting on the full armor of God.

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
  • This might seem a little strange at first, but spend a few days this week literally putting on the armor every morning. 
  • Memorize the pieces of God's Armor, and as you get ready each day, imagine yourself putting it on piece by piece.
  • As you put on each piece, thank God for providing the armor for you.

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
  • When you take an even closer look at the armor you will notice that the only part of the believers body that is not protected is the back. This means that we cannot go into this battle alone. Someone has to "have our back" and we need to work hard to "have someone else's back." 
  • Who has your back? Ask some close Christian friends to have your back in this spiritual war.
  • Whose back do you have? Tell a close Christian friend that you have their back.  

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9 Jan, 2012

Every Knee Shall TeBOW

Tebow and Broncos stun Steelers in OT thriller

(Reuters) - The Denver Broncos stunned the Pittsburgh Steelers with an 80-yard touchdown strike from Tim Tebow on the first play of overtime for a 29-23 win on Sunday to advance to the second round of the National Football League (NFL) playoffs. 
 
 

Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow prays after the Broncos defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers in overtime in the NFL AFC wildcard playoff football game in Denver, Colorado, January 8, 2012. 
 
Click here to Read More>>
 
Story and Photo from www.reuters.com. 


Isaiah 45:22-24 (ESV)
 
 22 “Turn to me and be saved, 
   all the ends of the earth! 
   For I am God, and there is no other. 
23 By myself I have sworn; 
   from my mouth has gone out in righteousness 
   a word that shall not return: 
‘To me every knee shall bow, 
   every tongue shall swear allegiance.'

 24 “Only in the LORD, it shall be said of me, 
   are righteousness and strength; 
to him shall come and be ashamed 
   all who were incensed against him.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about bowing a knee?
Tim Tebow's act of bowing humbly to God on one knee in prayer has spread like wildfire, but I would venture to guess that not everyone imitating him is bowing in an act of prayer. God's Story is very clear, whatever you want to call it, Tebowing or bowing, everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, will one day bow in the presence of Jesus. Whether it is in this life, or after this life, every knee will bow in humility to the Father. Sadly, at that moment, many will be doing it for the last time, while others will have the chance to do it forever. 

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?
  • How often do you pray? Make a commitment to give everything you do to God for His glory this week. You don't have to strike a "Tebow" in class before a test, but you can pray from your seat. 
  • Thank God at the completion of your tasks this week. Acknowledge Him working in your life. 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture and our story to others?
  • Without a doubt, you will probably hear the name Tim Tebow sometime today. Use that conversation to bring up today's Daily Bide and talk with your friends about prayer.
  • Is there a group in your community that meets to pray together before school sometime during the week. If so, consider joining them. If not, consider what it would take to get a group like that started.

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6 Jan, 2012

LOL

World’s oldest twins celebrate 102nd birthdays
 
The world's oldest twins celebrated their 102nd birthday together on Wednesday. Born on January 4, 1910, Ena Pugh and Lily Millward have spent each of their birthdays together.
They were presented with copies of the Guinness World Records book, which includes their entry. More from the Daily Mail:
Lily's proud daughter Dianne Powell, 65, told Wales News Service: 'My mum's recovering in hospital after she slipped and fell just before Christmas. But she's in good spirits and enjoying the attention of being one of the world's oldest twins.
'Ena pops in to see her in hospital when she can - they are very close. And despite the terrible weather she made a special effort to get together on their birthday.'
The English twins were born before the beginning of World War I, and they still meet up for weekly shopping trips and talk on the phone nearly every day. Lily Millward said "laughter and having a joke with each other" has been the secret to their longevity.
"We used to work on the farm all day, but we would enjoy ourselves,' Millward said. 'It was a lot of fun and sociable. We've been very lucky and we have always had good health."
And the twins manage to get by without some modern technological innovations, including central heating. "Until my mum's accident, they would jump on a bus on their own every Friday so they can go shopping together and have a chat over a cup of tea," Powell said. "And they ring each other almost every evening although they are both very hard of hearing--they can't really always know what the other is saying but just enjoy talking to each other."
 
Story and Photo courtesy of news.yahoo.com. 

Proverbs 17:22 (ESV)

22 A joyful heart is good medicine, 
   but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about laughter?
Have you ever heard someone say that "Laughter is the best medicine"? To some degree that advice is a paraphrase of today's God's Story scripture. It's not just any laughter that is good, it is laughter that comes from a joyful heart. And it's not just good for you, it's also good for those you are with. When we take a closer look at laughter in God's Story we find that one of the first times it's mentioned is the story of an elderly couple who are going to have a baby - Abraham and Sarah.  God shows up and tells Abraham, who is 100 years old, that he and Sarah, his 90 year-old wife, are going to have a baby. Their resonse was to laugh. Actually, God has brought they name their son Isaac, which means laughter.  When he was given his name at eight days old, as was the custom, his mother Sarah had this to say, "God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh over me." (Gen. 21:6). It was through that very son, whose name means laughter, that God brought forth Jacob and the chosen people of Israel. Perhaps God wants to work through our laughter today as well.

How can I connect today's God's Story Scripture to My Life?
  • Did you make a New Year's Resolution or two? Make one more. Make a resolution to laugh more in 2012. 
  • Read the story of Abraham and Sarah, starting in Genesis 17. Click Here to read it online. 

How can I connect Today's Story, God's Story, and My Story with Others?
  • Do you have some friends with whom you always seem to laugh? Spend some time with them this weekend and allow yourselves to laugh until you cry. It's amazing how good that feels!
  • After you have had some good laughs, ask them if they have ever heard today's God's Story scripture. It might be a great chance to connect them a little more with God's Story.
Permanent Link

5 Jan, 2012

I See You.

 

Before Your Momma Knew

"Mom and Dad sitting in a tree K-i-s-s-i-n-g and baby makes three" was how the text read.

"What?" Was my response.

"You like riddles figure it out."

"Baby?"

"Yes. Your brother and sister-in-law are having another child." 

This was how I found out I was going to have a new nephew or niece. A bunch of out of context cryptic messages from my parents. My brother and sister-in-law, in nine months time, would be the gleeful parents of their third child. My brother was a little astounded but happy and my sister-in-law was already taking on the glow of a mother to be when I returned from my trip.

A month after the announcement came, what I think is the coolest part thus far, the first pictures. When my younger siblings were born the ultrasound pictures were blurry and 2 dimensional – flat. That's not the case anymore. The parents to be brought home these amazing 3-D pictures of the little person that is forming. You can see the little face with distinction. In one picture the child hides their face as if they are shy. You can see the little legs and arms and a beutiful round head with such clarity. As you look at the pictures you get this sense you are meeting this new person before they have even left the womb. It is a breathtaking experience to see this life with such vividness.

Already I know, like the nephew and niece I already have, this baby has stolen a piece of my heart. I look forward to the stories I get to share with them as they get older, the games we will play and the traditional picture of their little frame streched out beside me on the floor.   

 

(Picture provided by: http://similac.com/community/boards/media/p/15871.aspx)

Psalm 139:13-18

New International Version (NIV)

 

 13 For you created my inmost being; 
   you knit me together in my mother’s womb. 
14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; 
   your works are wonderful, 
   I know that full well. 
15 My frame was not hidden from you 
   when I was made in the secret place, 
   when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. 
16 Your eyes saw my unformed body; 
   all the days ordained for me were written in your book 
   before one of them came to be. 
17 How precious to me are your thoughts,[a] God! 
   How vast is the sum of them! 
18 Were I to count them, 
   they would outnumber the grains of sand— 
   when I awake, I am still with you.

What does God's Story scripture teach us about how well God knows us and loves us?

As I thought about the ultrasound photos, Psalm 139 danced in my mind. The Psalmist obviously has an intimate relationship with God. He also understands how he relates to God. He sings of his connection with the creator and the deep love that creator obviously as for him. Earlier in 139 the writer speaks of there being no place that he can go out of God's reach.

In the few verses listed here we are shown a picture of a God that loves us so deeply He is personally involved in our creation. How outstanding that God knits us together Himself? He cares that much, He pieced you together.  

How can we connect today's God's Story scripture to our lives?

  • Pause and look at yourself in a mirror. Think about how intricate your body is, from each skin cell to your beating heart.  
  • Read Psalm 139 out loud. 
  • Thank God for taking the time to knit you together. 

 

How can we connect today's story, God's Story scripture, and our story to others?

In our day-to-day lives we run into people that miss how much of a miricle they are. Sometimes we talk to people that are certain they are beyond the reach of God... Psalm 139 gives us a place to point for those friends. 

  • When you have a friend that feels down about who they are... Show them Psalm 139:13-16 and remind them the creator of the universe took a special interest in creating them. 
  • When you have a friend that feels to far gone... Share with them Psalm 139:7-12. There is no place they can go that is beyond the reach of God. God will meet them in their greatest joys or lowest valley. 
  • Most of all, remind your friends that there is always someone who will love them. 

 

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4 Jan, 2012

Shake, Oil, & Gossip

Oil-Drilling Wastewater Seen Causing Earthquake

 

A northeast Ohio well used to dispose of wastewater from oil and gas drilling almost certainly caused a series of 11 minor earthquakes in the Youngstown area since last spring, a seismologist investigating the quakes said Monday.

Research is continuing on seismic activity near the now-shuttered injection well at Youngstown, Ohio, but it might take a year for the wastewater-related rumblings in the earth to dissipate, said John Armbruster 

After the latest and largest quake Saturday, at a 4.0 magnitude, state officials announced their belief that injecting wastewater near a fault line had created enough pressure to cause seismic activity. They said four inactive wells within a five-mile radius of the Youngstown well would remain closed. But they also stressed that injection wells are different from drilling wells that employ fracking...

Armbruster said Monday that he expects more quakes will occur, despite the shutdown of the Youngstown well...

article from NPR news, and picture from google images 

Psalm 19:14  

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight,

O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. 

 

James 3:5-6
The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

What does today's God's Story scripture teach us about Gossip?

The chain of events that is gossip can move through your friends and strangers faster than the words can come out of your mouth. There is much unseen and even though you don't want to hurt people often you can unintentionally hurt people even years down the road because of the words you have used. 

The folks drilling never meant to hurt anyone nor did they expect to cause earthquakes. Unfortunatly the chain of events are already set in motion and even though they are stopping drilling the earthquakes are still going to happen for a while.

 

The same goes for us in the things we say, as you may have stopped saying something or corrected yourself but it's to late because like the scripture in james, it takes just a spark to set a forest fire. So what do we do? Our God is a gracious God, and he speaks of the dangers of our words (tounge), he also speaks of our words have the power to praise, and be pleasing in His sight. 

How can I connect today's God's Story scripture to my life?

Take some time to look at the words that have come out of your mouth in this last year. Are you ready for a change? 

  • Take time to pray through Psalm 19. Read the scripture through times and underline, highlight, circle the words and phrases that catch your heart.  Spend time listening to what God is telling you.
  • Ask God to help you focus on the words that come out of your mouth.
  • Is there anyone that you need to ask forgivness for saying things you should not have?
  • Ask for forgiveness for people that God has brought to your heart.

How can I connect today's Story, God's Story, and My Story to others?

Choose this week, and say No to gossip. Talk to your friends about the reality of stories that have happen to your friend group. Talk about what you feel like when people talk bad about you. Speak about how God totally knew back in the day how powerful our words can be. Share the picture of a spark leads to a forest fire. Share how you would like start to pay more attention to what you say about people, ask your friends to join you. 

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The Daily Bide is brought to you by a team of writers from Youth for Christ/USA. The writers all have various years of experience in youth ministry but share a common bond in serving Jesus and discovering what it means to abide deeply everyday and to connect God's Story with those around them. A number of the Daily Bide writers have also written portions of our 3Story® resources. You can check out our resources at the 3Story.org website or connect with our writers at 3story@yfc.net. If you have a question or a story you would like to share, please reference the Daily Bide date in your email.

YFC works with young people on campus and in the community in over one hundred countries around the world so that they might have an opportunity to become a follower of Christ and be a part of a local church.