Last Message of 2011

It's hard to believe but 2011 is coming to a rapid end - and it's been a good year! Even with the sad and tragic loss of my sister, and yes, the continuing struggles with our adult daughter, God is good. Our entire growing family was together, and genuinely enjoyed one another, on Thanksgiving, and God continued to mature each of us in special ways. Our two married children were actively involved in ministry in their local church, our two younger children took significant steps to make their faith their own, and even Stacey learned important lessons on trust.

As for my wife and I, we continued throughout this year to faithfully follow the path God placed in front of us for the short term while seeking His direction for the longer term. This has been the pattern for the last many years, but I believe this year we developed a greater peace and trust in God's timing. We believe we have good direction for the next four or five months, but beyond that we still need to wait on God. I'll write more about this as God's plan unfolds.

One thing that has been made abundantly clear is that God's Daily Word Ministries is to continue. And not just continue, but do more. Of course, the email messages will continue, but I believe I am to work on several messages related to unity. I spend a great deal of time studying Church history and the development of our beliefs, and I believe there is greater room for unity within the Body of Christ. I also believe we are to increase our involvement in foreign missions. The details of this are not yet clear, but, given my strong belief in the relational ministry of missions, I believe a trip to Africa is definitely in order.

In this last message of 2011, I also want to say thanks for all your support, both through prayers and finances. Sometimes I receive notes saying an individual wants to support this ministry but can "only do so through prayer." We ought to really understand the importance of prayer. I have been amazed at how God has cared for, and utilized, this ministry over the last fifteen years; and I strongly believe this could not have been accomplished without the prayers of many around the world. So THANK YOU for your prayers!!

If you would like to be involved in the on-going financial support of this ministry, more information is contained on our web site at:

http://www.gdwm.org/support.htm

Remember that donations by mail need to be postmarked by December 31st in order to be recorded as a donation for 2011. Donation reports will be sent out by January 15th. Thanks again!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Off The Throne

After the birth of Jesus, Magi (wise men) came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the One who has been born King of the Jews?" (Matthew 2:2). When King Herod heard about this he became greatly disturbed. Herod had been appointed King of the Jews by the Roman government; but he was only partially Jewish and not well accepted by the people.

King Herod knew of the Jewish scriptures and how the people were waiting for the Messiah; "The government will be on His shoulders" (Isaiah 9:6). He heard the words of the prophet which told where the new ruler would be born; "Out of you {Bethlehem} will come for Me one who will be ruler over Israel" (Micah 5:2). Herod viewed the news of this new ruler as a great threat. How would this affect his right to be king? Would he lose power? prestige? control? ...comfort!? The potential harm was unbearable so Herod decided to take action.

Matthew 2:16
"He gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under."

Many people today are not much different than Herod. Even when they recognize Jesus and clearly see their need, they fear losing the ability to direct their own path. They may not actually take steps to destroy Christ, but the thought of releasing control seems unbearable. Somehow, they've been taught that submission equates to failure. But the reality is that true "success" is only found in Christ, and true comfort is only obtained by being set free from the power of sin and the entanglement of this world.

Jesus was, and always will be, very threatening to those who insist on sitting on a throne. It's foolishness to think Jesus will accept the position of Co-King. Those who attempt to enter a relationship with Jesus while trying to maintain their "right to rule" will never really know Him, and certainly never experience His peace.

Jesus will give Himself to "whoever believes in Him" (John 3:13). But in return, He asks for our total devotion: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength" (Mark 12:30). We give Him proper worship - the worship He deserves - only as we submit and exalt Him above all else; "He must become greater, I must become less" (John 3:30).

As we get ready to begin this new year, let's ensure our relationship with Jesus is aligned with God's plan. He is the rightful Ruler and King - the Savior and Lord! Let's trust and worship Him with all our heart, and refuse to be threatened by His right to lead. Let's decide once and for all to relinquish control and get our pride-filled self off the throne.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

The Last Unopened Gift

Did you see it? You may have missed it...but it was there. Don't feel bad, most people overlook this one; but there is still time. Today, before the new year gets here, before all the decorations are put away, before all the other gifts are set aside, open it!

Romans 6:23
"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

The gift of God. Why do so many people miss His gift? One reason might be the rather ordinary wrapping; "He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him" (Isaiah 53:2). And you can't get less majestic than being born with the animals; "He made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness" (Philippians 2:7). Yes, such a great gift in such common wrapping could be easily missed. But perhaps there is something else, something in the very makeup of our nature which keeps us from opening His gift.

A prince has no problem accepting a gift meant for a prince. And a common person has no problem accepting a gift which is common. But a common person can be quite uncomfortable accepting a gift meant for a prince. We know what's inside the gift - eternal life - a gift meant for a prince...and deep down we know we are so very common, so unworthy! This gift is too great, too much above what we feel we deserve. This gift makes us feel uncomfortable: "If we accept the gift will we then feel a debt? How could we ever repay such a debt? Maybe it's best to ignore it and just leave it wrapped under the tree."

I suppose we shouldn't be too hard on ourselves. This is a natural reaction to such a gift. Ever since the gift was first made available, people have felt unworthy and refused to open or even give it much notice. They would rather try to somehow work and feel deserving; "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). But the gift cannot be earned, and working does not make us more deserving.

Jesus Christ came in ordinary wrapping. He died for the forgiveness of our sin. Why? So we could be given the greatest gift of all, the gift of eternal life! Let's not let another day go by without receiving His gift. Sure we might feel uncomfortable. Sure we might feel a debt we can never repay. But His gift is given in love and is worth it all. Let's honestly examine what is keeping us away. Let's humbly recognize our need, and in the quiet of our heart let's be sure to receive the last unopened gift.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Ministry Update - Part 4

This is the fourth Friday Ministry Update message in a series which I'm sending out to highlight different portions of this ministry. Email will continue to be the most effective and receive the highest priority in this ministry, but God has also led me to develop relationships, through my travels to Africa, with several individuals who are truly giving their all for the sake of the gospel.

The nature of this ministry allows me to be in contact with people from all over the world. I have found that the truths of God's Word can speak into all different cultures and all different situations. This has allowed us to effectively minister to people in a surprisingly large number of countries. However, and this was a difficult lesson to learn, effective direct assistance cannot be accomplished outside of an ongoing relationship. Suffice it to say that the complications are greater than we can imagine. Therefore, I am currently working with three individuals, whom I now call friends, who have demonstrated a multi-year consistent relationship with Christ and commitment to ministry. The first two were highlighted in Parts 2 and 3 of this series at:

http://gdwm.org/display_devo.asp?Counter=mess3220

http://gdwm.org/display_devo.asp?Counter=mess3225

In this message I want to introduce you to pastor Thomas who ministers in one of the many impoverished areas of Nairobi. I have worked with pastor Thomas for the last six years and have been inspired by his steadfast faith through many difficult situations. This summer, pastor Thomas was ministering in a church and school which was in great need of repair. In fact, the building had been condemned and was to soon be torn down.





For a relatively small amount of money we were able to help pastor Thomas construct a new facility which allowed the ministry to continue.





I truly appreciate my friendship with pastor Thomas and I pray we are able to work with him on more projects in the future.

http://www.gdwm.org/support.htm

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

A Lifetime of Waiting

It's hard to believe it has been over fifteen years, but in August of 1996 God nudged me down a path which changed my life. The email ministry which began as an idea for the distribution of encouragement has taught me much, blessed our family, and provided many unique opportunities. But there have also been many frustrations, the biggest being the near constant lack of clear direction. It seems we are never allowed to see more than our next short step down the road. The result has been a continual asking of God, an on-going preparation to follow, and a difficult process of waiting. Looking back we can clearly see His loving Hand of guidance in every step, but looking forward we try to not grow impatient as we seek, trust...and wait.

Why is waiting so difficult? I'm afraid our "get-it-now" society doesn't prepare us very well for waiting. Many around the world have a different concept of time and seem to live a much more relaxed and patient life, but most of us are taught from birth the science of immediate gratification. We want, we get; we want some more, we get some more. Accomplishment is defined by running and spinning; but the result is usually just a spinning out of control.

Our world hasn't always been this way. There was a time long ago when people truly knew how to wait on the Lord.

Joseph and Mary were devout Jews who followed the laws of Moses. Therefore, forty days after Jesus was born they "took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord" (Luke 2:22). This was done in recognition of God's command, "The first offspring of every womb among the Israelites belongs to Me" (Exodus 13:2). They also offered a sacrifice as a burnt offering and sin offering, "a pair of doves and two young pigeons" (Luke 2:24).

This was the process all Jews followed when a child was born. But when Joseph and Mary entered the temple court, holding the baby Jesus, something stirred in a man called Simeon.

Luke 2:25-26
"Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ."

Simeon approach Joseph and Mary, held Jesus and gave a wonderful praise and prophesy. But let's not miss what was said about this man called Simeon. He was devoted to God, and he was waiting. How long was he willing to wait? Well, the only time frame he was given was that he would have his answer sometime before he died. He did not know if this would mean days, months, or many years, but he was willing to wait.

We need to regain this ability, this trust which is content to wait for God's direction. The promises of God are that He will reveal His direction, He will lead, comfort, and "renew their strength" (Isaiah 40:31), but we must be willing to wait and continue to do what we know we have already been given to do. During this Christmas season, let's renew our trust in the God who has so perfectly revealed Himself through the birth of Jesus. Let's commit to following Him all our days and be determined to trust Him through a lifetime of waiting.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Day of Remembrance

There are only a few more days to go! If you read this on December 21st, there are only four days until...until what? Why is December 25th so special? What really is this day we call Christmas?

The early church didn't give much thought to the birth of Jesus. Of the four Gospels only Matthew and Luke even mention His birth, and these accounts are relatively brief. Certainly, the emphasis of the Gospels was on Jesus' ministry, death, and resurrection. And after Jesus ascended to Heaven, the focus of the church was on living for Him, sending out His message, and waiting for His return.

No one is really sure when Jesus was born. The first recorded celebration didn't occur until 200 years after His birth, and it wasn't until the year 330 that the birth of Christ was assigned to December 25th. Some say Jesus was actually born in September or October and others are sure He was born in March or April (in fact, a case has been made for His birth in each of the twelve months!). But it is generally agreed that, due to the relatively colder weather, December was an unlikely time for the birth of our Savior. So what really is Christmas?

John 1:1,14
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us."

These verses refer to Jesus Christ as "the Word" who was with God in the beginning and at the same time was God Himself. Though it is difficult to understand, Jesus left His Heavenly dwelling to begin life with us as a little baby. He "made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). This sacrifice represents a whole lot of love!

Christmas is a day to remember the most profound event in the history of the world. On that first Christmas (whenever it was), God came to earth to live among us! He was born into the most humble circumstances, grew and taught us His truths, died on a cross for our sin, and was raised to be with The Father; all so we might live with Him for eternity.

December 25th is a day to celebrate with quiet reflection, as Mary "treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart" (Luke 2:19). It is also a day to celebrate with great rejoicing, as the shepherds "returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen" (Luke 2:20). The world has tried to remove Christ and insert many activities into this season which do not glorify God. But this need not hinder our worship. We have the ability to turn away the evil and embrace that which is honoring and good.

We can (and should) glorify God and celebrate the gift of our Savior every day throughout the year. But let's take the opportunity to make this season and this day special. Let's celebrate with a focused and thankful heart, and make December 25th a blessed day of remembrance.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

The First Move

In our celebration of the birth of Christ, we know the focus of Christmas should be the eternal gift given through the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. This season ought to irresistibly draw us nearer to God as we reflect on His wonderful gift of love. But perhaps there are times we need to be reminded of the true significance of this gift.

The birth of Jesus gives great insight into the character of God. For one, we see His methods are far different from our own; "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways" (Isaiah 55:8). How many of us would bring the King of Kings into the world through two common young people in a dirty stable? But God had a purpose!

These lowest of beginnings set the example for a life of humility. Jesus Christ is the Creator of the Universe! "For by Him all things were created" (Colossians 1:16). Yet, He humbled Himself to the point of being born with the animals, and continued by humbly walking all the way to the cross.

As we reflect on His humility, how can we then make prideful demands on life? How can we assume there is a standard to which we are entitled? Jesus set the standard for humility and we are now called to follow; "Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5).

But perhaps the greatest insight we can learn from the birth of our Savior is simply that He came. Our sin must have been detestable and vile to One so holy, but He came to live with us...and love us! Without Jesus Christ, we have absolutely no hope; we can do nothing to save ourselves from the bondage of sin and an eternal separation from God. We can do nothing, yet God came to love us and set us free. He took the initiative in our Salvation by providing a way and calling us Home.

1 John 4:9
"This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him."

God clearly saw our sinful condition; and yet, He loved us enough to send His Son so we might be restored to a right relationship with Him. He sent His Son so we might live! God made the first move 2000 years ago and He continues to make the first move in our lives today. He calls long before we even recognize His voice, and He continues to call us to surrender our life and live with Him in a deeper and more intimate relationship.

If you hear His call today, please respond! It's a great privilege to hear His call, so be encouraged...but then respond! His call cost Him dearly, and it represents a love we will never fully understand. Let's boldly answer and follow wherever He leads. And remember, He loved us enough to look past our sin and make the first move.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

The Gift of True Forgiveness

It's hard to believe there are only a few more days until Christmas. Yes, as the song says: "It's the most wonderful time of the year!" It really is wonderful! We are flooded with Christmas music, Christmas lights, and lots of Christmas "activities." And although the Christmas "fluff" is often distracting, most of us are able to see through the bells and bows. In spite of the world's attempt to pull us away, we generally make time to gather with family and friends and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

But many will find this time of year to be very painful. The memories of past hurt, which may remain hidden throughout the year, are now driven to the surface. Many are required to face someone who has caused them pain, or face the memory of a past Christmas which brings the person, and pain, back into view.

Obviously, this is not the turmoil which God intends for our life...especially not as we celebrate the birth of His Son.

Ephesians 4:32
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

We cannot properly celebrate the birth of Jesus without reflecting on why He was born. Through His life He offered us a message of eternal hope, and through His death on the cross He offered us the complete forgiveness of sin. With this single act of unbelievable love, Jesus removed the sin which would otherwise keep us eternally separated from our Heavenly Father. This is the manner in which we are to love and forgive others.

Jesus told a parable about a servant who had an enormous debt canceled: "The servant fell on his knees before him. 'Be patient with me,' he begged, 'and I will pay back everything.' The servant's master took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go" (Matthew 18:26-27). But when the servant went away, he refused to cancel the relatively minor debt a fellow servant owed him; "Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt" (Matthew 18:30).

Jesus used this parable to show that unless we completely forgive others from deep within our heart, we have somehow failed to understand the forgiveness we have already received; "Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?" (Matthew 18:33). Any sin which others may commit against us is small when viewed in light of the many sins we have committed against God! We have been completely forgiven of sooooo much!!

During this most wonderful time of the year, let's reflect on the awesome gift we have been given through our Savior. Then, let's give to others as we have already received. Let's love and give the gift of true forgiveness.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Ministry Update - Part 3

As 2011 draws to a close, I am highlighting different portions of this ministry through short messages sent on the five Fridays in December...though I'm late with this one. In the first message I discussed the teaching and encouragement aspect of the email devotions which go out to over 39,000 individuals, and last week I introduced you to an orphanage in western Kenya which is currently ministering to twenty-two orphans from the local area. In this message I want to show you a school, also in western Kenya, which we have been able to assist.

On my first visit to Kenya in 2004 I stayed with the Lumbasi family and was greatly blessed by their hospitality. In the Kenyan culture, as in many non-western cultures, hospitality is not defined by something you do; rather, it is truly an integral part of your whole identity. I have maintained my relationship with this family through email as well as visits on each of my mission trips. Three years ago, Mr. Lumbasi, who spent many years as a teacher and administrator in the Kenyan school system, started his own small school focusing on high quality Christian education.

This year we were able to fund the building of a small classroom: the metal building in the background of the picture above. It may not seem like much, but the school is making excellent use of their facilities and seeking to minister to as many children as possible.



Thanks so much for your help with this and other several other projects!

http://www.gdwm.org/support.htm

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

A Darkened Heart

When God called Jeremiah to be a prophet, the people of Jerusalem had been living in sin for a very long time. It had been 300 years since the kingdom of Israel divided; and, despite God's patient warnings, the people continued to rebel and worship other gods.

God finally told Jeremiah He would no longer endure this continued rejection; "I have withdrawn My blessing, My love and My pity from this people" (Jeremiah 16:5). God also said that because of the many years of rebellion, destruction was now certain; "I will bring an end to the sounds of joy and gladness" (Jeremiah 16:9). He then told Jeremiah how to respond to the inevitable cries and complaints.

Jeremiah 16:10-12
"When you tell these people all this and they ask you, 'Why has the Lord decreed such a great disaster against us? What wrong have we done? What sin have we committed against the Lord our God?' then say to them, 'It is because your fathers forsook Me,' declares the Lord, 'and followed other gods and served and worshiped them. They forsook Me and did not keep My law. But you have behaved more wickedly than your fathers.'"

This is a difficult message. God is characterized by extreme grace and patient love...but He has His limits. He will not tolerate continual disobedience. If we claim to be a child of God we must deal with the very real issue of sin. God hates sin because it causes separation from those He loves.

Continual and unrepented sin causes us to lose the ability to recognize our sin. It becomes a cancer which causes our heart to turn cold and dark, unable to even hear the conviction of the Holy Spirit; "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened" (Romans 1:21). Sin clouds our vision and causes us to drift further and further from God's path.

The people of Jerusalem could no longer recognize their sin - they stood before God in their wickedness and boldly asked: "What wrong have we done?" Today, we are at risk of becoming equally darkened anytime we fail to address the sin which continues to push into our lives. What activities have we begun to tolerate? What behaviors have we begun to accept? What "teachings" from the modern media have we begun to receive? What sin has begun to fill our heart?

If our eyes were truly opened, would we be surprised to see how far we've compromised and strayed? Let's recommit our lives to holiness, purity, worship, and absolute love for God. Let's allow His light to indwell EVERY area of our life. Let's repent of our sin and refuse to live with a darkened heart.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

According To Your Will

On the night before He was crucified, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. The thought of what would take place in the next 24 hours caused Jesus to be deeply troubled; "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death" (Mark 14:34).

Being fully God, Jesus knew exactly what was about to take place and exactly why it had to occur. But being fully Man, the foreknowledge of the rejection, physical pain, and spiritual separation from the Father was nearly unbearable.

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.'"

Jesus cried out and asked for the plan to be changed; and yet, His greater desire was for the Father's will to be done. Earlier in His ministry, Jesus taught us this same principle; "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven'" (Matthew 6:9-10). Even with an absolute understanding of what He must endure, Jesus' sole desire was to glorify the Father by walking the path placed before Him; "I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do" (John 17:4).

This is the example we ought to follow all through our life; we should present ourselves to the Father, fully prepared to serve, and be completely emptied of our own desires. When we have allowed Him to be the only possessor of our heart, He will fill us with His Spirit and accomplish His perfect will through our life. When our life is ordered and directed only by His will, we will receive blessings from above which bring far greater joy than the fulfillment of ANY flesh-directed desire.

This is one of the mysterious "secrets" of the Christian walk. We were created to be in fellowship with God - to glorify Him and enjoy His presence for all eternity. We may spend a lifetime chasing what we believe will bring us a sense of fulfillment, but we will never be truly content until we rest in His arms and submit to His ways.

What cup have we been given to drink? What seemingly unbearable burden have we been given to carry? Have we been asking, even demanding, that the burdens be taken from us, or are we yielding to the Father's will and being determined to glorify Him in all we do? Let's come to His table ready and willing to serve; but let's also come with complete submission to His perfect plan. Only in this can we fulfill the purpose for which we were created. Heavenly Father, we give our life fully into Your hands; let it unfold, not by our plans, goals or desires, but according to Your will.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Precious In His Sight

In the message "Never Forget" we saw that God's gift of Salvation through faith in Jesus is our greatest blessing - a blessing we must never forget as we tend to become discouraged. In the beginning, "God created man in His own image" (Genesis 1:27). Then, when sin entered the world and man became separated from God, "He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).

This is the greatest love story in all history; "While we were still {lost} sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). He died for you and me, and also for all those other lost sinners scattered around us. Jesus Christ, "who being in very nature God" (Philippians 2:6), was born in a dirty stable; "He made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). He lived His life with the single purpose of dying so that ALL who believe could be eternally restored to the Father; "the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men" (Romans 5:18).

God loves us VERY much! And He doesn't just love those who love Him in return or faithfully serve Him - He loves ALL. We are precious! Yes, He hates sin and will one day judge with an eternal damnation all who fail to believe; but His love - His offer of Salvation - extends to all...even to our noisy neighbor and difficult co-worker, our obnoxious family members, and the disrespectful kids who wear "strange" clothes.

God's love is so much a part of who He is, and of who we ought to be, that Jesus commands us by His example: "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34). We are to love as Jesus loved; and as if this was too difficult a concept for our finite minds, we are commanded to love in terms we can all understand.

Galatians 5:14
"The entire law is summed up in a single command: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"

God wants us to love others primarily because He loves them and desires His love to be expressed through us! He encouraged this love by creating us with a natural capacity for love. When we are hungry we feed ourself; when we are hurt we care for ourself; and when we are down, we pray to be lifted up. These are natural expressions of self-love - the same love God desires we show to ALL.

Let's evaluate our thoughts, words, and actions in terms of their effect on others. Are we encouraging or adding burdens? Are we building up or tearing down? Are we bringing others closer to Jesus or pushing them further away? Are we as loving to others as we are to ourself? Let's be His hands, feet, and voice of love in the world around us. Let's begin to see others as through His eyes; and remember, we are ALL precious in His sight.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Never Forget

It had been forty years since Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt. During their years of wandering in the desert, God demonstrated His faithfulness as well as His holiness. Now, as the people were finally ready to cross the Jordan river into the promised land of Canaan, Moses gave one last encouragement.

Deuteronomy 6:10-12
"When the Lord your God brings you into the land He swore to your fathers - a land with large, flourishing cities you did not build, houses filled with all kinds of good things you did not provide, wells you did not dig, and vineyards and olive groves you did not plant - then when you eat and are satisfied, be careful that you do not forget the Lord, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery."

We have all lived in the land of slavery - a land where we were controlled by sin. We were born as slaves, but Jesus came to set us free: "Though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been set free" (Romans 6:17-18).

While we were still lost in our sinful condition, Jesus gave His life as a sacrifice (payment) for our sin; but He also broke the chains which kept us slaves to sin. Though we still struggle, we need not be mastered if we have placed our faith in Jesus and daily submit to the leading of His Spirit. His sacrifice provides a way to be "heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ" (Romans 8:17). This IS the victorious life!

Yes we have been set free! But we did nothing to earn this freedom. We did not dig a well of righteousness or plant a field of forgiveness. Our "promised land" of freedom is a gift, given by a loving Father to those who believe.

As we continue on our Christian walk, with its many peaks and valleys, twists and turns, we often forget. We become discouraged over trivial matters which are quickly fading away and forget the gift of eternal life we have been given. We wander in the dry desert of ungrateful hearts and ask, "Where is God?" We forget the joy we once had of abiding in His presence and forget His promise to always be near; "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5).

Through God's precious gift, we have an eternity to worship our Heavenly Father. This alone should give us reason to praise His Name with every breath and live a life holy and pleasing to Him. Whether we are currently in a time of crushing trials or unparalleled peace, we must continually remember from where we were rescued. His gift is a blessing we can hardly comprehend! And as we draw near and give Him all of our heart, His grace continues to bless us even more. Let's worship with a thankful heart, glorify His Name in ALL we do, and be careful to never forget.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Ministry Update - Part 2

As we approach the end of 2011 I am highlighting different portions of this ministry through short messages on the five Fridays in December. Last week I discussed the teaching and encouragement aspect of the email devotions which go out to over 39,000 individuals. Though email remains our main emphasis, I have been blessed to travel to Africa and develop some close relationships over the past several years. In this message I want to tell you of an orphanage in western Kenya.

I have visited this facility three different times since 2004. The orphanage began when Mama Anne (far left) felt God calling her to take in some of the homeless orphans she saw in her very poor neighborhood. She had no idea how she would feed the extra children or where they would even sleep, but she knew God wanted her to love the kids and walk in faith. She was joined by her son, Pastor Paul (bottom center), and they now have 22 orphans under their care.

Since 2004 we have been able to give small amounts of assistance as the needs arose, and as funds were available. One year we purchased a cow and at other times we assisted with food or medical or school expenses. This year we assisted Pastor Paul with leasing 10 acres of farm land which was then planted and harvested by members of their church. The harvested beans have been used for food, with the excess being sold to purchase other food and pay for supplies and next year's lease. This project has been a great success in that all of the children have had plenty to eat since the first harvest.

During this end of year season I am asking that you consider partnering with this ministry through prayer and financial support. We are extremely efficient with our finances, given our global reach, but we still need to ask for help. We are able to receive donations through mail, credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer.

I should also mention stock transfer as a method of donation. We have only received stock donations from two different individuals over the years, but it can be a very effective method. We are set up to receive direct transfers so let me know if you would like more information.

All donation information (other than stock transfer) is contained on our Support page at:

http://www.gdwm.org/support.htm

Thanks so much! This continues to be an exciting journey of faith.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Intended For Good

Joseph's life was filled with one difficult situation after another. By the time he was a teenager, his brothers had developed an intense hatred toward him which led to an attempt to take his life. But rather than kill him, they sold young Joseph into slavery (Genesis 37). And then, as a slave, Joseph was falsely accused of rape and thrown into jail (Genesis 39).

It's never really explained how Joseph learned to trust God - but he did! He could have become very discouraged when he became a slave, but somehow Joseph adjusted to his circumstances and thrived; "The Lord was with Joseph and he prospered" (Genesis 39:2). When tempted with sexual sin by Potiphar's wife, he kept himself pure because he did not want to "sin against God" (Genesis 39:9). But false accusations still sent him into prison.

Even after spending several years in jail, Joseph continued to place his complete trust in God. When asked to interpret Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph risked his freedom and rightly gave all the glory and praise to God rather than take credit for himself; "I cannot do it, but God will give Pharaoh the answer he desires" (Genesis 41:16).

Joseph was rewarded with much more than his freedom; he was placed in charge of the entire land of Egypt during a great famine. He was also reunited with his family and able to keep them from certain starvation. Several years later, after their father died, Joseph's brothers came and fearfully asked for his forgiveness. Joseph could have taken great revenge, but he continued to demonstrate his understanding of how God cares for His children.

Genesis 50:19-20
"Joseph said to them, 'Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.'"

When Joseph was sold into slavery, he had no idea of God's awesome plan. He would spend many years in jail before receiving even a hint of God's purpose. But God is ALWAYS at work in the lives of those who love Him. Joseph's life must encourage us to draw near to God during times of hardship - to continue trusting and honoring Him in all we do...no matter what our circumstances!

We all go through "dungeon" seasons when life seems to take unplanned and seemingly "unfair" turns. We all, at times, feel abandoned and alone: "Has God forgotten me? Does He no longer care?" We may not understand why things happen the way they do, but if we will continue to love Him with all our heart and consistently trust Him in and through all our trials, we can be certain (and one day we will truly see) that God is in control and every situation is truly intended for good.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Serve With Humility

John the Baptist was born with a single purpose; "to make ready a people prepared to receive the Lord" (Luke 1:17). He was chosen for service before he was conceived and was "filled with the Holy Spirit even from birth" (Luke 1:15). John was so obedient to his calling that Jesus said, "Among those born of women, there is no one greater than John" (Luke 7:28). But John also knew his position within God's Kingdom...he had come to serve.

John 1:26-27
"'I baptize with water,' John replied, 'but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.'"

John had been given his assignment and was empowered by the Holy Spirit to accomplish his tasks. He was a servant preparing the way for the King. John was the greatest man ever born; and yet, in his humility, he felt unworthy to even untie the sandals of Christ.

True humility is not simply defined by a low self-image. It is the natural condition of our spirit when we begin to understand who we really are...and Who God really is! John felt unworthy because he had been given a glimpse of the unfathomable greatness and holiness of his Lord. As he stood in the presence of Perfection, there was only one response; "He must become greater, I must become less" (John 3:30).

When we know that Jesus is on the throne, "at God's right hand" (1 Peter 3:22), and that He will reign for all eternity, we begin to see our life in the proper perspective. He is infinitely perfect and worthy of infinite love, worship, and service. We live and breathe purely by His grace; we are but "a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes" (James 4:14).

Yes, we are a "mist," but we are a mist with a purpose. We have been empowered by the Holy Spirit with the necessary tools to victoriously serve. Though our offering will always be imperfect, and far less than He deserves, it will be pleasing and acceptable if we give Him our ALL, give Him our best, and give from the innermost part of our heart.

Our God is truly above ALL, and He loves us so much that He gave His one and only Son so we could be with Him for all eternity. He calls us to believe in His gift and then serve Him for all the rest of our days. Let's continue to love Him with all our heart, give Him our absolute very best, and daily walk down the path He lays before us. Let's serve obediently, boldly, and victoriously...but let's also lift the Name of Jesus higher and higher and serve with humility.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

These Are God's Battles

During the time of King Jehoshaphat (approximately 860 B.C.), several armies began to invade the land of Judah. Being greatly outnumbered, Jehoshaphat called for a nation-wide time of fasting and prayer to seek guidance from God: "O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon You" (2 Chronicles 20:12).

The king needed to formulate a plan. He was the appointed leader and responsible for the safety of his people. King Jehoshaphat's "plan" was to place the fate of the entire nation into the hands of God. Many see such action as weakness, but it took great strength to recognize he was powerless; even greater strength to know where to turn and Whom to trust!

God answered King Jehoshaphat's cry for help through a Levite named Jahaziel.

2 Chronicles 20:14-15
"Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel...'Listen, King Jehoshaphat and all who live in Judah and Jerusalem! This is what the Lord says to you: "Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's."'"

Knowing that our battles belong to God is great comfort when we face trials which appear much bigger than anything we can handle. But there is more to the story! God didn't tell Jehoshaphat to just sit in his tent while the battle was won. Rather, He gave specific instructions to confidently stand before the enemy.

2 Chronicles 20:16-17
"Tomorrow march down against them...{But} you will not have to fight this battle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you, O Judah and Jerusalem. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you."

It's inevitable that our life will contain such battles - many are facing overwhelming battles right now. And as with everything we encounter on our Christian walk, battles have a purpose. Many times the purpose of our battle is to understand a fundamental truth: "Apart from Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). Reaching the end of our own strength is the real battle; turning to God and trusting Him for every step of our walk is the real victory!

As we trust Him with all our heart and seek counsel in His presence, He will tell us where to march and where to stand. Let's boldly follow our Lord each and every day and refuse to become discouraged. He is in absolute control...for these ARE God's battles!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Never Lose Hope

In the message "Stand Firm in The Gap" we were encouraged to continue in prayer and minister to the needs of others; to stand in the gap for those who need protection against enemy attacks; and to stand as long as necessary. This requires perseverance and complete trust in God. It can be difficult when we continue to "stand" but God appears slow to respond. We can also become extremely discouraged when we think we understand HOW He should respond.

Lazarus had become sick to the point of death, and his sisters were standing in the gap by ministering to his needs. They even sent word to Jesus in hopes that He would help.

John 11:4-6
"When He heard this, Jesus said, 'This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it.' Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. Yet when He heard that Lazarus was sick, He stayed where He was two more days."

Jesus did not immediately respond; and during this delay, Lazarus died. Yet this tragedy was for God's glory. When Jesus finally arrived, He raised Lazarus from the dead and taught an important message: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will live, even though he dies" (John 11:25).

Lazarus and his sisters would have preferred a healing during the early stage of the sickness, but that was not God's plan. His plan included much more than the temporary suffering of one family. His plan was to teach many people, through many generations, to this very day and beyond, that He was the sure way to eternal life. His plan was perfect, with perfect timing.

We are all given opportunities to serve by meeting the needs of others. But as we serve, we must NEVER take our eyes off our Heavenly Father. Our "job" is to stand in the gap and minister however His Spirit directs. It is never our responsibility to "fix" the people or circumstances we have been called to serve. When we faithfully serve, we will find that God actually uses our ministry effort to work on issues in our own life, issues like trust; "Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge" (Psalm 62:8). Our lack of trust is revealed when we give up; when we despair and lose hope.

When our area of service seems out of control - when the need seems to outpace our ability to serve and God seems slow to respond - we must continue to trust Him with all our heart. These times of testing will draw us closer to God as we abandon ALL into His sovereign care. He alone knows His plan, and His plan remains perfect. Let's continue to trust Him and serve as He directs. Let's continue with our eyes fixed on God, and never lose hope!

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Ministry Update - Part 1

As we approach the end of 2011 I would like to highlight different portions of this ministry through short messages on the five Fridays in December. This first message highlights the teaching portion of the email ministry.

The total distribution for the devotional messages now exceeds 39,000 which includes over 2000 Spanish devotional recipients. The intent of these messages has always been to encourage a closer relationship with God through a stronger and deeper faith in Jesus Christ. And from the very beginning it was my desire to encourage with a strong emphasis on Biblical teaching. The result of this combination can be seen in a note I just received from Pastor Sharad in India.

*******
Greetings in Jesus` loving name!

Thank you for sending me regularly your Bible study messages. It is great help for my personal spiritual growth. I will be using them also to teach others in our Bible school.

Thank you and may our good Lord continue to bless you and provide all your needs.
********

It is humbling, and quite exciting, to see how God continues to use this ministry in so many different parts of the world.

During this end of year season I am asking that you consider partnering with this ministry through prayer and financial support. We are extremely efficient with our finances, given our global reach, but we still need to ask for help. We are able to receive donations through mail, credit card, PayPal, or bank transfer. All information is contained on our Support page at:

http://www.gdwm.org/support.htm

Thanks so much! This continues to be an exciting journey of faith.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Stand Firm in The Gap

In the final years of the southern kingdom of Israel, God warned that He was going to use the king of Babylon to discipline the people unless they returned to Him with a heart of worship. But the people failed to repent and the invasion of Jerusalem began.

Ezekiel was a prophet to those taken captive during the Babylonian attacks. Through Ezekiel, God explained why He was allowing Jerusalem to be destroyed. He said the people had rebelled and drifted far; but His anger seemed mostly directed at the leaders who failed to point the way: "They do not distinguish between the holy and the common; they teach that there is no difference between the unclean and the clean" (Ezekiel 22:26). In addition, God said the prophets were covering up the sins of the priests; "They whitewash their deeds for them by false visions and lying divinations" (Ezekiel 22:28).

God searched, but found no one who was willing to lead the people into a life of pure and holy worship - a life which recognized God as Lord of ALL and prayed without ceasing for His guidance and protection.

Ezekiel 22:30-31
"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found none. So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger."

As in the days of Ezekiel, spiritual walls are crumbling all around us. We have whitewashed sin in the name of tolerance, and we have lost our passion for holiness and worship in the busyness of materialism and worldly advancement. And tragically, many of our churches are filled with compromise and fail to point the way to truth. The result is many lives filled with spiritual gaps - areas vulnerable to grave attack by the enemy.

We must repair our own walls through repentance, forgiveness, and daily drawing nearer to the presence of God. But we must also look for "gaps" in the walls of those around us and commit to standing firm with prayer, encouragement, and time, until strength returns and walls are repaired. We must be ones who live without compromise and faithfully point the way to true worship and a life which glorifies God in all we do.

Let's continue to stand in the gap for as long as it takes the relationship of a friend to be restored, the strength of a pastor to be renewed, the heart of a loved one to be transformed, or the life of a prodigal child to return home. God's words through Ezekiel are harsh; but God didn't give up on the people until the people gave up on each other. It's not too late if we continue to point the way; there is still hope if we will stand firm in the gap.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries

Put It Into Practice

Paul's letter to the Philippians is one hundred and four verses filled with encouragement and joy. Paul didn't write this letter to explain deep theology or to deal with any particular sin. Rather, his purpose was to express love for his friends and to encourage them (and us) to live a joy-filled Christian life. In chapter one, Paul encourages us that God's work in us WILL continue; "He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion" (1:6). In chapter two, we are encouraged to "do everything without complaining or arguing" (2:14).

In chapter three, Paul inspires us to be forward-looking in our walk with Christ; "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal" (3:13-14). Finally, in chapter four, Paul writes some of my personal favorites; "Rejoice in the Lord always!" (4:4); "I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation" (4:12); and, "I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" (4:13).

But buried within these wonderful words of encouragement is probably the most valuable and applicable message for our daily journey with Christ.

Philippians 4:9
"Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."

Paul had the gospel message living in him and shining through him every moment of every day. But he never would have learned "the secret" of rejoicing and being content in all situations if he had just learned "about" the gospel. Although it's wise, and very useful, to study and even memorize God's Word, His peace and contentment - His joy - will never be real until we actually apply His Word to our life on a daily basis: "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" (James 1:22).

We must NEVER be just hearers of the Word who become puffed up with Bible knowledge. We must never preach Biblical truths yet fail to apply these truths in our own life and draw ever closer to our Heavenly Father. Jesus accused many Jews of making this same mistake: "You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me, yet you refuse to come to Me to have life" (John 5:39-40).

Let's never stop with just loving His Word or His "activities." Let's love HIM with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. And let's express our love by obediently following the leading of His Spirit out into the world, as we take what we daily receive and put it into practice.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God's Daily Word Ministries