j a n u a r y

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the precious blood of Jesus

aLasKa CRuise

JuLy 9-16, 2010

If you need to relax and re-energize, what better place to do so than in the beauty of Alaska? Join Dr. Stanley and his guests for a luxurious seven-day cruise through Alaskas Inside Passage. Fellowship with other believers, take in the awe-inspiring views, and be encouraged with insightful biblical teaching and uplifting worship.

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features
the precious blood of jesus
by c h a r l e s f. s ta n l e y

A p r i l

2 0 1 0

What was a horrible death by crucifixion, God made beautiful by washing away our sins and giving us life through christ.

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signs of spring
t o n y a

s t o n e m a n

stephen curtis chapman talks about his daughters tragic death and how God has brought beauty from his sorrow.

With the help of these devotions from Dr. stanleys sermons, discover how God can be both just and loving.

early light

32
26 solving problems
Critics Choice
b y m e l i n D a m e a n s

18 strong in spirit
b y D a n

departments
Interrupting the Mourning After
s c h a e f f e r

in the midst of her grief, mary magdalene discovered a wonderful surprise on resurrection morning.

are you too hard on your kids? there is help for those struggling to become more positive parents.

22 by faith
b y

28 family room
Lets Eat!
b y m i m i g r e e n w o o D k n i g h t

Running on His Strength

s a n D y f e i t

faith and love enabled this mom to help her child work through the physical challenges of cerebral palsy.

still trying to get the family together for a good ol fashioned sit-down meal? Here are 14 tips for pulling it off.

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In Touch magazine, APRIL 2010, Vol. 33 No. 4. 2010; all rights reserved. No unsolicited manuscripts accepted. Printed in the USA.
In Touch magazine is neither responsible nor liable for any part of the production or distribution of international editions, whether translated or in English, unless the edition has been licensed and authorized by the governing staff of the domestic In Touch magazine. Scripture quotations, unless otherwise notated or quoted from a secondary source, are from the New American Standard Bible, 1995 Update. Lockman Foundation, 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1994. Quotations marked NIV are from the New International Version, International Bible Society 1973, 1978, 1984.

Missed the Sunday broadcast?

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Dr. Charles F. Stanley

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Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus fully paid the penalty for all my sin by dying at Calvary, and that He rose from the dead. Thank You for Your grace to save me even though I am undeserving. I surrender my heart to You. Please show me how to start living for You. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
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a word from Charles F. Stanley

Gods saving Grace

no sin is so great that it can keep you from experiencing the fathers mercy, if you repent.

Have you ever sat in church wondering what God thinks of you? Do you measure up against all of your Christian friends sitting beside you in the pew? Or do you have too many shortcomings to make the grade? God said of King David, [He is] a man after my own heart (Acts 13:22). Yet we know that David was a man of war. He lied, had his good friend murdered, and, on at least one occasion, committed adultery. How could God love such a man? Better yet, how could God allow this man to rule over the nation of Israel? The answer is wrapped up in one word: gracenot human compassion, but Gods divine mercy, which is something you cannot earn on personal merit. Easter is a time when we come face-to-face with the reality of the cross, where Gods passionate love for mankind was displayed. It was here that Jesus died for all our sins and, in doing so, erased our guilt and shame. This does not give you license to sinyour transgressions will always produce consequences. But no sin is so great that it can keep you from experiencing the Fathers mercy, if you repent and ask forgiveness. The choice is yours. When God could have turned away from you, He chose instead to reach out to you in tender care. His love is stronger than any offense. No sinner is so far removed from our heavenly Father that he cannot come home to God. If you havent already done so, take time during this Easter season to consciously accept Christs atoning sacrifice for you. If there is anything standing between you and the Lord today, bring it to the altar. Jesus said, The one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out (John 6:37). For all eternity, Gods love and passion have been fixed on you. No matter who you are or where you have been, His love reaches out to you. If you will accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, realizing that His atoning death paid the debt of your sin, then you will be saved.

the
of

O BL OD
a r i gh t u nde r s ta nd i ng reveals its im po r ta nc e
B y C h A R L E S F . S T A N L E y

precious

Je s u s

When was the last time you heard a sermon or sang a song about the blood of Jesus? Some churches today find the concept antiquated or even gruesome. Songs that mention the blood have even been removed from hymnbooks. Yet without it, there is no hope of a relationship with God, no assurance of salvation, and no confidence that our prayers are heard. The Scriptures never shy away from the mention of blood. In fact, it runs like a red thread from Genesis to Revelation. If you eliminate the references to blood from the Bible, all that remains is a book of history and literature. Anything that God considers this important should never be disregarded. Leviticus 17:11 tells us that God gave blood to make atonement because the life of the flesh is in it. The word atonement, as it is used in the Old Testament, means covering. Through the sacrificial system of worship established by the Lord, the sins of mankind were cov-

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s
ered by the blood of innocent animals. The seriousness of sin is revealed by the monumental cost of atonementthe penalty is death, and it must be paid by either the guilty one or an acceptable substitute. To cover transgressions, the animals which were offered had to be unblemished and perfect. Every sacrifice on the altar was a fulfillment of the death penalty required by Gods Law. The sacrificial system taught people that the Lord is holy, transgressions must be punished, and atonement for sin takes place only through the shedding of blood. This arrangement was a foreshadowing of what was to come. Because animal sacrifices can only cover sin, an ultimate lamb was needed to remove all of mans iniquity. One day, as John the Baptist stood by the Jordan River, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world walked onto the scene of human history (John 1:29). The perfect sacrifice for sins had arrived. He was foreknown before the foundation of the world and came to earth to fulfill the Lords awesome plan of redemption by shedding His precious blood (1 Pet. 1:18-20). Jesus wasnt just a man; He was the Son of God clothed in human flesh. His birth was supernatural because He was conceived by the Holy Spirit in the womb of a virgin. Since no sin was transferred to Him through an earthly father, Jesus was the perfect, spotless Lamb of GodHis was the only flawless life and, therefore, the only suitable sacrifice for the guilt of all mankind.
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Apart from the blood of Christ, no one can have a relationship with the heavenly Father. Because God is holy, our sin blocks any chance of connection with Him. But in love, He planned and initiated a course of reconciliation with fallen humanity. The precious blood of Jesus provides all that we need to draw near to the Father.

You have been bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body (1 Cor. 6:20).

redemption. To redeem means to buy something back. Jesus Christ came to the cross for the primary purpose of purchasing us from a life of slavery to sin. Maybe you think youre a pretty good person and do not feel enslaved to sin. But no matter how moral a person may seem, every human being has a sin nature (Rom. 3:23). To set us free, a price had to be paid. But to whom? Jesus didnt pay off the Devil; He paid the price that God required in order to satisfy His holy justice. According to Ezekiel 18:20, The person who sins will die. The cost of our redemption was the precious blood of the perfect Son of Godand He made this sacrifice in our place. Because the Father accepted Christs payment, we have been set free from bondage to sin and have received the power of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to live in the freedom of obedience to the Father. forgiveness. Most people have the idea that the Lord will forgive them simply because they ask Him. What they may not understand is that the basis for His pardon is not their request, but Christs payment of their debt. The Lord cannot forgive wrongs just because someone asks. His holiness will not allow Him to overlook sin; it must be punished. His justice will not allow Him to forgive trespasses without a payment. Only with the substitutionary death of the perfect Son of God does the Father have a legitimate basis by which He can forgive
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whoever comes to Him in faith and repentance (Eph. 1:7). There is nothing we can do to earn His forgiveness. Pardon is granted only when Christs blood is applied to our lives. Because we cannot pay our sin-debt, Jesus paid it for us. Without His intervention, we have no hope of pardon.

justification. The wrath of God will rightly fall on sinful mankind (Rom. 5:8-10), but those who are justified by the blood of Christ will be saved from that dreadful punishment. Justification means that the Father accepts the death of His Son as full payment for our sin (Rom. 3:23-26). Jesus is a satisfactory substitute because He is the sinless Lamb of God. Furthermore, we are declared righteous in the Lords eyes. Think of justification as a legal transaction in which Jesus placed all our iniquities on His account and then paid it in full. Next, He took the record of His perfect life and transferred it to our account. Now when God looks at us, all He sees is Christs perfection. We are no longer guilty

but are declared legally righteous, even if we dont always act like it. What an awesome privilege to be righteous in the Lords eyes! Now, that does not mean believers can go out and do anything they want. Remember, You have been bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body (1 Cor. 6:20). We are children of God, but if we start acting like children of the Devil, our loving heavenly Father will be faithful to use discipline and bring us back to our senses. The gift of righteousness should motivate us to live a life that reflects our blameless standing before God.

reconciliation. When a relationship characterized by separation and alienation becomes one of acceptance and restoration, that change is known as reconciliation. The moment Adam and Eve disobeyed the Lord, the relationship between God and mankind was broken, but the Father took the initiative to bring restoration by sending His Son into the world. Through the blood of His cross, Christ made reconciliation possible by establishing peace between God and man. Beyond that, He presents us blameless before the Father (Col. 1:19-22). All the barriers have been removed, and an intimate relationship with the Lord is available to every believer. sanctification. At the moment of salvation, Jesus sanctified you with His blood (Heb. 13:12) by applying it to your life. This means you were set apart as Gods child to live for Him from that time onward. The best way for me to describe sanctification is to compare it to a period that comes at the end of an event. You were saved, redeemed, justified, reconciled, and sanctified, period. But this period does not end. It turns into a line that continues throughout your life. Sanctification is the process by which the Lord is continually transforming His children into the image of Jesus Christ. The

entire Christian life is in that line; it just keeps lengthening as we grow in godliness, obedience, and understanding. Salvation is not the endpoint but the beginning of Gods purposes for believers. His goal is to renew every area of our lives so that we can become His valuable servants and ambassadors of Christ to a lost world. This process will continue throughout life because the Holy Spirit resides within every believer, guiding and empowering each one to move forward. He will never leave usthere is always another step to take in our progress toward Christlikeness and fruitful service for the Lord.

access to God.

Hebrews 10:19-22 tells us that we can confidently enter the holy place by the blood of Jesus. In the Old Testament, the Holy of Holies was the inner room of the tabernacle or temple, where God dwelt above the Ark of the Covenant. The high priest was the only one who could come into this most holy place, and he could do so only once a year to make atonement for himself and the nation. After carefully preparing himself with sacred rituals, he would enter with animals blood to sprinkle on the mercy seat. Today, the only reason that Christians can approach God is because, spiritually speaking, they are covered in the blood of Christ. When Jesus offered His life as a sacrifice for the sins of the world, the veil of the templewhich separated God from the peoplewas torn in two from top to bottom. This supernatural event signified the Fathers acceptance of Christs sacrifice, which opened the way to His presence. Because we have never participated in the Old Testament sacrificial system, we usually take our access to the Lord for granted. There is now no need to sacrifice a lamb whenever we want to approach God. Each time we enter the Fathers throne room in prayer, its as if Jesus
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looks at us and says, Heres one of Ours. The blood has been applied. Those who have not accepted Christs covering of blood have no confidence that God will hear their prayers. But the Lord promises to hear and answer the prayers of His childrenmaybe not exactly the way they expect, but always according to His wise and loving will.

questions for

further study

1. How is Christs sacrifice better than the sacrificial system of the Old Testament? See Hebrews 9:1-10:23. Make a list of what His death accomplished. 2. Read 1 Peter 1:17-23. Considering the high price of our redemption, how should we live? 3. Christ has done everything to redeem us from slavery to sin, but sometimes we wander back to our old ways. Read Romans chapters 6-8, and consider how we can maintain our freedom in Christ. 4. According to 1 John 1:5-10, why is daily cleansing by the blood of Jesus necessary? How does it affect our fellowship with God and with others? 5. Gods forgiveness is based on Christs payment for sins, not on the size of the wrong committed. Do you ever hold onto guilt because your sin seems too big to be pardoned? According to Colossians 2:13-14, how many of our sins are forgiven by Christs sacrifice? How can Psalm 103:1-5 help us retain the right focus when we struggle with feelings of guilt? 6. The last mention of the blood of Jesus is found in the book of Revelation. Read Revelation 1:5-6; 5:9-10; 7:13-17; and 12:10-11, and note what the blood of the Lamb accomplishes for us.

daily cleansing.

As believers, we are declared righteous at the moment of salvation, but we are not perfect in practice. Although legally forgiven for all past, present, and future sins, we are still in need of continual cleansing by the blood of Jesus to keep our lines of communication with the Lord open. Sin blocks our ears from hearing His voice and robs us of the power to live as we should. But each time we come to God and confess our sins, He faithfully forgives us (1 John 1:7-9). The blood of Jesus is precious because He is the only one who could pay the penalty for mans sin and satisfy divine justice. If He had not agreed to come to earth and die in our place, all humanity would be forever separated from God. Jesus is our Advocate before the Father. He stands as a lawyer between us and the Judge and works on our behalf. When sin rises up to condemn, Christ rises to His feet and says, Not guilty! This one is covered by My blood and is righteous.

in Christ. Nothing but the blood of Jesus. This two-sermon set by Dr. Stanley will help you develop a better understanding and appreciation of what the Savior did for you at Calvary.
The Blood of Christ u2-CD Set | $8 (U.S.)
See order form or visit www.intouch.org.

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15-minute Bible study

Following Jesus
LUkE 9:57-62

>> The Call to Discipleship

Two simple yet challenging words fell from Jesus lips as He traveled throughout Israel: Follow Me. Today His call still reverberates with the same life-changing possibilities it posed to first-century seekers. Yet following Jesus isnt always easy, comfortable, or convenient. When the press of daily life overshadows your commitment, consider what the Scriptures teach about discipleship. The call uA higher purpose: Peter left fishing to catch men for the kingdom (Matt. 4:18-20). uA transformed life: Matthew chose righteousness over his corrupt job (Matt. 9:9). uAn intimate connection: Jesus followers are called into a close relationship of love with Him (John 14:20-23).
uSelf-denial:

The Lord must have priority over everyone else.

left possessions or relationships for Christs sake will receive a hundred times as much in this life (Mark 10:28-31). uEternal rewards: Disciples are promised not only eternal life, but also privileges and rewards in the kingdom (Mark 10:30; Luke 22:28-30). uGreater insight: Those who follow Jesus are given deeper understanding of His words (Matt. 13:10-12, 16-17). uDivine direction: Christ personally directs His sheep, who know His voice and follow Him (John 10:3-4, 27).
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Imitating Christ, disciples must deny themselves and take up their cross daily (Luke 9:23). uRelationships: The Lord must have priority over everyone else (Luke 14:26). uPossessions: All ownership belongs under Christs authority (Luke 14:33). uSacrifice: Because Jesus knew the heart of a rich young man, He could see what held first place in his affections. To help the man gain eternal riches, Jesus asked him to sacrifice what he valued most Questions for reflection (Matt. 19:21-24). uPersecution: Because the world 1. are pleasures or important tasks competing with the lord for first place in your life? What persecuted Christ, it will also mistreat changes can you make this week that will His followers (Matt. 10:24-28). facilitate a closer walk with christ? The Rewards 2. Does the high cost of discipleship keep you uEternal security: The believer has from a commitment to the lord? How can salvation permanently (Luke 9:24-25; focusing on the greatness of the call and the John 10:28-30; 1 John 5:11-13). promised rewards encourage you? uEarthly returns: Anyone who has

The cost

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This May 28 will mark the s e co n d anniversary of the tragic accident that took the life of Steven Curtis Chapmans Sue was hit in the driveway of her familys Tennessee home by an SUV her teenage brother was driving. Since that day, Steven Curtis has walked the path five-year-old daughter. Maria

In Touch Magazine: Despite the success of your music career, youre no stranger to hardship: your apartment burned down, your parents divorced, your wife has struggled with depression, and youve lost a child and are watching a son deal with more than a kid his age should. Through all these years, have you ever doubted whether or not God really is there? Steven Curtis Chapman: Absolutely. Absolutely, Ive doubted my faith. Ive come to realize two sides of the same coin that go hand in hand. I think my son said it bestCaleb said it in an interview after his little sister and my little girl,

of grief and suffering with his family. God continues to meet him at each turn in the journey as he laments his loss, wrestles with discouragement, and ponders the meaning of faith. He recently shared details of this struggle with

In Touch magazine.

an interview with Steven Curtis Chapman

B y T O N y A S T O N E M A N
www.intouch.org

Maria Sue, went to be with Jesus. Caleb said, You know, I always thought that being a person of great faith, being in a family of faith, meant that you had the answers, that you really had it figured out, that you didnt have questions. He said, Ive come to realize that by definition, the word faith means that you have a lot of questions but you have anchored yourself to this truth. Thats what faith is: saying, God, even with all these questions, this is what I believe. This is what I choose to believe. And even that is a gift from Godeven to be able to pray that prayer.

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Have I doubted? I mean, the prayer I prayed more than any other in my life is, God, I believe; help my unbelief (Mark 9:24). Im so thankful that prayer was included in Scripture because its an invitation from the heart of our God. Like Hes saying, Be honest with Me. Dont pretend you know everything. I know every thought you have, so you cant hide anything from

...the quickest path to the sunrise is actually to run into the darkness.

Me. And I believe the psalms invite us to pour our hearts out to Himour questions, our doubtsand pound our fists on the chest of God and say, I dont get it. I dont understand how this could be. God, I dont even know right now where You are, or if You are, but I trust You. That is what faith is. And we have experienced that, obviously, during the last year and a half in a deeply profound way. God has proven to be faithful over and over again. He is who He says He is.
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ITM: We all go through these timesmaybe not as pronounced as what youve been throughbut especially right now with the economy, so many people are struggling. I asked a friend who hasnt found work in a long time, what he would ask you. He said, When youre going through the darkness, how do you get through to the other side? SCC: In the days following our little girl going to heaven, we felt like the most prayedfor family on the planetwe were receiving e-mails and messages from people literally all over the world, saying, Were praying for you and lifting you up. There were a few real nuggets of truth and priceless things that God would speak through people. I remember reading one particular book from a man who lost a wife, daughter, and mother all in one car accident. He and his other children were also in the accident and they survived, but he lived with deep grief and loss. And he said its almost like if you imagine youre at midnight, and you can either turn around and run away from the darkness, or you can keep running forward. Its counterintuitive and terrifying, but the quickest path to the sunrise is actually to run into the darkness. I believe that is what the psalmist is saying: Even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, Ill fear no evil because Youre with me (Ps. 23:4). Our experience hasnt been without its times of turning back and going, Nope, I dont want to run into this darkness; Im running in the other direction. Gods faithfulness is not something we always feel, and its something I very seldom understand. In fact, Ill never fully grasp it. But, as I have proclaimed it and said, God, I bless Your

name. You give; You take away. Blessed be the name of the Lordeven when I force myself to sing that song and walk into the darknessI find that God meets me at every step. It doesnt mean there arent days when I think, Im breathing my last breath. I dont have any more strength to go on. We are going to be overtaken by this grief. This is going to destroy us. God, if You dont show up in some way, I dont know what its going to look like. But here I am talking to you now, 18 months later.

ITM: That is incredible. It really is. SCC: Were not out of the woods. I would

say to your friend, Reality is, Im not sitting here saying, Yeah, were done with this. I look at my son and see incredible healing in his life and his heart, and yet the truth is, those waves hit when we least expect it and knock us flat on our backs again. And there I am again, saying, God, where are You? God, how could You? But I trust You, God. The reality is, were not going to be out of the woods until Jesus comes and gets us. That is what it means to be living in this life and waiting for that day thats coming. God has promised He will make all things new and Hell wipe every tear from our eyes. He has promised to not leave us or forsake us on this journey. And all I can say to your friend or anybody else is that God has proven to be faithful to His word to us.

to me, in the meantime, to bring hope and comfort to other peoples lives. Man, when my 18-year-old son can say that, thats a little shoot of grass coming out of the hard ground. God is doing something. We can walk through a special-needs orphanage in China that bears the name Marias Big House of Hope, named after our daughter, that will care for about 130 orphans in the name of Jesus (www.showhope.org). And we are able to finish it because of gifts that came in from people who wanted to show their love for us after Maria Sue went to heaven. We go to a grand opening where the Chinese government officials celebrate with us, and I stand onstage beside Communist leaders and sing, Its All Yours, God and proclaim, God, China is Yours, this place is Yours, for Your glory. And they print it the next morning in the Chinese newspaper. I read it as I walk the streets of Luoyang. I see the pictures on the front page, posted all along the streetthe newspaper article quoting the lyrics of the song saying, God, its all Yours. I look at that and say, Thats a sign of spring. God is bringing beauty out of these ashes.

ITM: You say, I can almost feel the hand

ITM: Let me ask you a question about one of your songs. In Beauty Will Rise, you say, If you cant believe, I will believe for you, because I have seen the signs of spring. What are the signs of spring? SCC: Were seeing signs. When my son says, I cant explain this, but Im able to get out of bed in the morning, because God has given me the hope that I am going to see my little sister again. And He is going to use my life and this story that Hes entrusted

of God reaching my face to wipe the tears away. What does that feel like in your family life? SCC: Well, its in those moments when Im literally feeling like I cant take another step and out of desperation cry, God, I need something. I need to know that Youre here. Not in a demanding way (I found that when I start to demand, that drives me really deeper into a place of despair). I learned a lot from looking at the life of Job. Even though he was such a faithful man, through the process, this demanding attitude eventually came to the surface, saying, God why would You do this to me? Havent I been an upright man? Finally, God says, Okay, sit down. Where were you
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I believe the more desperate we become for God, the more He can reveal Himself to us.
when I created the heavens and the earth? I see Gods mercy, even though I tremble with Job when I read that. Its like you curl up in a little ball and say, How small can I make myself? As I come to those places over and over again, I have to say, God, Im not demandingIm just desperate. I dont really think we understand what hope is until were really desperate for it. I believe the more desperate we become for God, the more He can reveal Himself to us. Thats been my experience. Its been our familys journey. And I dont even know if Im answering your question.

ITM: You are, absolutely. Well, I want to close with a question about your daughters artwork. On your video blog, I saw pictures all over the hospital walls of flowers and different things. They look like butterflies. Did Maria Sue draw those? SCC: Yeah, those are Maria Sues flowers. You asked about the signs of springthats one of them. We call them bread crumbs that we feel like God and Maria Sue have left us on the journey. Maria Sue drew a flower the morning of the accident before she went to heaven. And we found it the next day when we went back to our house to pick up some clothes and things for the memorial service. I found this picture lying on her little art table where she would spend hours drawing and coloring. It was a picture of a
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six-petal flower with only one petal colored in. And on the back of the paper I could tell she had written something in a markerit was kind of bleeding through. So I turned the paper overand one of our prayers in those first few hours was, God, please let us see somethinglet us see a dream, a vision that tells us what we believe and are holding onto so desperately is really true. Can You just let us see something? And so I had this flower, and I turned it over, and Maria Sue had written a word that she had never ever written before. She only knew how to write her name and I love you. (She also knew how to write mom and dad, but that was it). But she had written the word see, s-e-e, on this paper and had drawn this little butterfly. And we were absolutely convinced as a first sign of spring even in that hardest winter moment of our lives that she was saying, See, it really is trueeverything you said it would be, that God has promised. Open your eyes, see eternity, see what really matters. And then we realized that little flower (its on the cover of my album; its all over Marias Big House of Hope) has petals. She drew that flower a lot, but always colored it in. Well, this time I assumed she didnt finish it. But we have come to realize that there is a profound message that God let her leave for us in that flower: only one petal of the six is colored in. We have six children, and only one of them is whole and complete and finished. Her life is now made fully complete in Gods presence. Thats what the flower represents for us. That one blue petal is Maria Sues petal. She loved bluethat was her favorite color. And the rest of us are waiting for our color.
Steven Curtis Chapmans newest album is a personal, honest, and desperately hopeful recording created after the loss of his daughter Maria Sue. Beauty Will Rise
uCD

| $13 (U.S.)

See order form or visit www.intouch.org.

building wisely

April 15th

>> A Time of Thanksgiving

B y ME LANI E F IT z G ER A LD, RoNAlD BlUe & Co.
CFP

In other words, everything that we have on earth is a gift from God, including the income we earn from work.

This is the time of year a lot of people dreadApril 15th. The reasons vary, but most come from not wanting to pay Uncle Sam. However, if we view this season from a biblical perspective, I believe we could regard tax day as a time to thank God for His provision. Deuteronomy 8:18 says, But you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who is giving you power to make wealth. In other words, everything that we have on earth is a gift from God, including the income we earn from work. We pay taxes because we have income and are commanded through Gods Word to give to Caesar what is Caesars, and to God what is Gods (Luke 20:25 niv). However, as managers of the financial resources God has entrusted to us, we should look for legal ways to reduce the taxes we pay. The good news is that the tax code allows us to reduce what we owe while following Gods instructions for wise stewardship. As you prepare your income tax return for 2009 and plan for 2010, here are a few things to keep in mind: uFirst, our tax system allows us to deduct charitable contributions from our income. Not only are cash contributions included, but also gifts of clothing, household goods, and appreciated investments. This is a wonderful provision that allows you to accomplish two objectives: charitable giving and reduced tax burden. uSecond, review your withholding from the prior year. Did you have too much withheld or too little? The goal is to owe nothing and receive nothing back when you file your tax return. Proper withholding not only can free up income during the year but will also help avoid an unpleasant surprise on April 15th. In Touch Foundation foundation@intouch.org uThird, use tax-deferred accounts such as 401(k)s or call 800-967-2200 and IRAs for your savings. This helps with both saving for the future and reducing taxes. Paying taxes is a part of our life, regardless of how efficiently or morally we feel the government uses our money. Whether your income is less or more than you expected, remember that it is all a gift from God and something for which we should be truly thankful.

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stronginspirit

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InterruptIng the mournIng after

ChrIst ContInually turns our sorrow Into joy.
B y D A N S C h A E F F E R

Resurrection
Is it any surprise then, that the first person to see the resurrected Christ was this same Mary who was overwhelmed with grief?

Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was a man of great accomplishments. Yet, as he could never accept the miraculous elements in Scripture, he took it upon himself to edit his own special version of the Biblein it, he limited himself to only the moral teachings of Jesus and removed all references to miracles. The closing words of The Jefferson Bible read, There laid they Jesus and rolled a great stone at the mouth of the sepulcher and departed. Thats the end of the story. But the end of the story for Jefferson was just the beginning of the storyparticularly for Mary Magdalene, one of the churchs forerunners. She was the woman from whom Jesus had cast seven demons, and never was there a more committed, loving follower of Christ. Even when the male disciples abandoned Him during His crucifixion and went into hiding, Mary remained at the cross, and later, the tomb. We find her in John 20:1-15 in deep mourning. Her master had died a horrifying death, and she was crushed. Worse, there had been no opportunity to complete proper Jewish burial preparations, as they had been interrupted by the Sabbath. So the morning after, she resolutely went to Jesus tomb, bringing her last ounce of devotion to her Lord.

Christs presence is experienced most by those who persistently seek it. In the midst of her own pain and sorrow, Mary was still set on ministering to the Lord. We know from the other gospels that she wasnt alone in determining to come and further anoint the body for burial, but the place given to Mary in the resurrection account seems to make it clear that she was the spearhead of the activity. So to whom does Jesus appear first? To the one who showed up! Since the time of Christs ministry, many people have admired Him as a great moral teacher, a prophet, and a leader, but they accompany Him only as far as the graveno fartherand there, like Jefferson, they leave Him. Mary followed Him farther. When her mind could not understand the plan of God, her heart still pursued Him. When her heart was crushed and in agony, she still followed Him. When most everyone else had abandoned Him, Mary stayed by His side. She may not have gone to Jesus tomb seeking a risen Savior, but faith that keeps
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hanging on and showing upeven in what appears to be its weakest moments, when nothing seems to be leftis a blessing to God. Such tenacious faith allows us to experience His presence even when were least expecting it.

Christ is patient with our disbelief and misunderstanding.

When Mary first visited the tomb, she was shocked to find it open, with Jesus body gone. She rushed to tell the disciples, and Peter and John immediately ran to the tomb and saw the angels announcing that Christ had risen! We find Mary back at the tomb later, crying her heart out. But her mourning was suddenly interrupted. Someone was behind her, asking why she was weeping. Perhaps He looked different; perhaps her eyes were blurred with tears or her heart was blurred with griefbut Mary failed to recognize her Lord. Yet how patient Jesus was with her. He didnt rebuke her, even though she clearly had no faith in the possibility that He might come back to life. He knew the struggle she was having between her faith and her emotions, and He was gentle, allowing her to behold Him at her own pace. Like Mary, we often dont recognize the presence of the resurrected Christ in our lives, even when Hes standing right in front of us. How often do we find ourselves crying out for God in our moments of deepest despair, wondering why Hes left us? He may have promised that Hed never leave us or forsake us (Heb. 13:5), but we dont expect Him and therefore dont recognize Him.

way, was trying to make sure she would never lose Him again. What she didnt yet completely understand was the finality of the resurrection. Jesus gently tells Mary, Stop clinging to Me. Its as if He was saying, You dont need to treat Me like something you can lose. The battle is over; it is finished. Death has lost its sting. I will never leave you. She could never lose Him again. He had a power within Him that was greater than deaththe power of resurrection and eternal life. He would, in a few days, physically leave this earth, but then, through His Holy Spirit, would be with His followers in a closer way than ever before. Many of us have lost very precious things in life: relationships, careers, children, spouses, homes, health. And the dread of repeating the pain of that loss can easily make us begin to fear ever loving anything again. However, we are free to love Christ and worship Him, because the resurrection proved that we can never lose His lovenot even death stands in the way.

The good news of the resurrection demands to be shared.

Jesus didnt want Mary to be quiet about what she had heard and seen and experienced. Like her and the other disciples who searched for the risen Christ, each one of us must stoop and take a look ourself into that empty tomb. And then, like the ancient church did every Easter thereafter, each of us is compelled to proclaim, He is risen! He is risen indeed! Jesus didnt need Mary to report to the disciples; He was already planning to visit them in person. But He was introducing her to the new responsibilities upon all of us who believe in the resurrection. Of course, while the other disciples werent immediately convinced that Jesus could possibly have come back to life after

The resurrection means that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ.
When Mary finally recognized Jesus, she immediately fell at His feet and began worshipping Him, holding on for dear life. She had lost Him once, and in her human
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we are free to love ChrIst and worshIp hIm, beCause the resurreCtIon proved that we Can never lose hIs love not even death stands In the way.

such a terrible death, neither was Marynot even when she first saw Jesus. She didnt recognize Him because she hadnt been looking for the risen Jesus; she was looking for a corpse. And as the angels said, you dont look for the living among the dead (Luke 24:5). The disciples werent essentially denying the resurrection; they just couldnt imagine such a thing. The evidence was overwhelming, but all the disciples needed time for its reality to sink in, for their hearts and minds to grow in capacity to receive this amazing reality as truth. There simply wasnt any place in their thinking for a resurrection, and thats how many people are today. Some of our friends and family are likewise going to reject the resurrection because they cant imagine such a thing. But the story of the empty tomb and those who encountered it teaches us clearly that if at first others dont believe, try, try again. Remember the first reaction to Marys report from the disciples, the very pillars God would use to build the church: When they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they refused to believe it (Mark 16:11). The resurrection teaches us to handle that kind of reaction with grace, dignity, and patience. It wasnt Marys job to make them all believe; Jesus simply told her to share what she had witnessed. A father once took his three-year-old daughter out to get her Easter dress, and she was so excited, she suddenly blurted out, I cant wait for Easter, Daddy! Worried that all their spending might be giving her the wrong idea about the holiday, he asked, Do you know what Easter means, honey? And in her own childlike wisdom, she nodded her head, smiled, raised her hands, and at the top of her voice yelled, Surprise!! That just about sums it up. Surprise, Mary! Surprise, mourning followers of Jesus! Surprise, death! Surprise, sin! Surprise, doubts and fears! Surprise, modern man! Surprise, science! Surprise! The resurrection meant that God was permanently interrupting the morning afterand will continue to interrupt our mourning and turn it into joyand soon, will wipe away all our tears forever.
w w w .. ii n tt o u cc h .. o rr g www n ou h o g

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byfaith

His strength

running on

Natalie takes a step to independence.

B y S A N D y F E I T

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In Touch

I was the last one to cross

the finish line, commented seven-yearold Natalie Fowler at bedtime, as she reviewed the days events. Her mother Karena marathon runner who still recalls trepidation just imagining herself coming in lastasked how she felt about that. The answer surprised her: I was so proud of myself because I ran my best, and I finished strong. It was Natalies first competition, and not long into the half-mile course, she began to lose steam. Seeing everyone else in the home stretch before she even reached the halfway point brought the child near tears. Natalie was still running after all the other contestantsincluding her younger brother Alexhad finished. But as she rounded the last corner, the yelling started. Jogging alongside, Karen told her daughter, Theyre cheering for you. They want you to finish. Natalie lifted her head and, with a big smile, bolted for the line. We were so proud of her for finishing last! Karen says. Completing the race was one more victory in a year of triumphs: during those 12 months, shed learned to snow ski and water ski, played soccer, and performed in her first ballet recital. But what makes these milestones so remarkable is that it was also the year Natalie learned to walk.

on her stomach. The pediatricians comment that such findings could indicate a child with special needs was the Fowlers first inkling of challenges ahead. Doctors eventually confirmed the dreaded diagnosis of spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsyand later added seizure disorder to Natalies problem list. Since U.S. medical protocol typically starts intervention after the first birthday, treatment wasnt offered right away. Nor was much hope: Natalies parents were told to get used to the idea that she probably wouldnt walk. Having a child with cerebral palsy rocked our world, says Karen. It also motivated her to investigate treatments. Natalie has tried physical, occupational, horse, speech, and aqua therapies but progressed most with a Hungarian technique called Conductive Education (CE).

A different approach
Developed by Andras Peto in 1945, CE offers a non-traditional approach for treating cerebral palsy, spina bifida, stroke, and Parkinsons disease. Unlike common American therapies, Conductive Education helps motor-disordered children and adults adapt to their environment instead of the other way around. So rather than developing more advanced wheelchairs, standers, or suits, CE retrains the brain by pairing basic body movements with song, repetition, and games. Building on skills already learned, each activity is designed to facilitate independent living. For instance, having the children touch a toy to the back of their head teaches them a motion necessary for getting dressed. A second major difference is that, when possible, CE starts earlier and involves more therapy hours per week. In Hungary, when developmental delay is suspected, a therapist known as a conductor evaluates the newborn right in the hospital. CE starts a month following diagnosis.
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An unexpected challenge

Karen and Doug Fowler adopted their two childrenNatalie, now 9, and Alex, 6from Korea. Before meeting their daughter, they knew shed been born eight weeks early and, like all premature adoptive infants, was officially classified mild correctable special needs. Karen recalls that, despite weighing only ten pounds, the five-month-old was very cute, healthy, and happy. She was a little stiff, [though] nothing alarmingbut she just never met any milestones. Four months later Natalie was still not doing anything. And she just wasnt happy

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 On those days

Natalie was three when the Fowlers learned about CE. Since Georgia had no Natalie with conductor program then, Karen took Laci Kocsis and others at A Step to Independence her daughter to Canada, which proved hard on them both. Natalie cried Corey Rewis is director of A Step to for five weeksnonstop! her mom recalls. Independence, the CE program in Dacula, And I cried too. But we knew it was best. Georgia (www.asteptoindependence.com). Karens choice was to sit in the parents He explains the advantage: [Hungarian] areawhere she could hear her childs kids get three hours per day of this type of screamsor go outside. It seemed unfair movement exercise and social skills. At three for Natalie to feel she was the only family years, it increases to four or five hours. By member who had to work hard. And so, age five, they get six or seven hours a day. Karen explains, I began to run. Another In the U.S., children wait about 12 months mom going through the ordeal joined her, from diagnosis [to treatment]. At three and 18 months later, they ran their first years, they get an hour of [physical therapy] marathon together. a week; at five years, they get an hour. At 50 As a result of that session and a years old, theyre still getting one hour of subsequent one in Florida, running and PT a week. If a typical person with normal training became a lifestyle for Karen. muscle development worked out one hour a The trickle-down effect was that Natalie week, hed gain nothing. And these children got excited about her moms medals and are not typical. T-shirts and wanted to run races too. Far from diminishing the benefits of In addition, Natalies progress encouraged PT, director Rewis notes that all Step to the Fowlers to pray that God would bring Independence children utilize both treatConductive Ed closer to home. ments; in fact, his program advisor meets with their physical therapist to coordinate Starting CE in Georgia goals. The difference, Corey says, is that Karen had absolutely no aspirations to start we can provide [therapy] at the intensity a business. Yet she saw a need and sensed their bodies need. God wanted to fill it through her willingWhile common elsewhere, Conductive ness and availability. She recalls, We had
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when I feel I cant make it to the finish line . . . I think about my little girl and how she brought Philippians 4:13 to life for me. Karen Fowler

Education is a relative newcomer to the U.S. it debuted here in the 80s and is offered at only about 30 locations nationwide. As a result, many families put life on hold for several weeks and stay in a hotel or Ronald McDonald House so their child can attend.

Hard work, family-style

no real model to go by, so I kind of felt my way. Im not an entrepreneurand dont care to bebut God really took over. The project proved to be a massive undertaking, but the Lord kept providing. Ninety percent of the equipment was donated at no chargea Conductive Education center in Texas was closing, and Karen was told, If you want it, come get it. Even more amazing was the generosity of donors. One supplied funds for constructing the entire building to the Fowlers specifications, which included five classrooms plus customized structural supports to bear the weight and stress of the equipment. That presented the interesting problem of having a madeto-order structure with no place to build it. God provided the solution as only He canin a way that met the needs of the CE project while multiplying to bless others. The Fowlers were able to donate the building to their church, which had available space on its campus. Karen calls the arrangement win-win: A Step to Independence leases the structure for mid-week use, and on weekends, Sunday School classes meet there. Eventually, even more people are likely to win. The goal is to expand the program, serving all ages, addressing a broader range of movement disorders, and fully utilizing every classroomparent/infant pairs in the morning, four- and five-year-olds at noon, older children after school, and adults at the close of the work day.

Worth the effort

During Daculas three- to six-week sessions, children spend six hours a day, five days a week at the center. Each morning, the three girls and three boys in Natalies group park their wheelchairs at the door and amble toward the classroom. There, two conductorsHungarian Laszlo Laci (pronounced LOT-see) Kocsis and American Jessie

Brownand an assistant plunge into the enjoyable yet demanding regimen. Though the program is intensive, there is a sense of comraderie, teamwork, and a contagious can do attitude. Lacia mountain of a man whom the children obviously lovekeeps up a constant patter of instructions, counting, praise, exhortation, and snippets of Hungarian songs (including one about a snake that wants to be a strudel). After a while, he announces, You are working hard, and Im so happy with that. So its time for a little rest. Strenuous work stops, but he continues describing what their bodies are doing: I am lying straight, straight, straight . . . Next, as each child states his or her assigned goal for that day, the conductor offers praise: To keep your knees together and I think it was much better than usual, so congratulations to you . . . To hold the ring? Yes, so congratulations to you . . . In, out, in, out? Good, fineso congratulations to you. By the weekend, the kids are exhausted, but theyre okay with that. They know the hard work pays off: Natalie and three others in her class learned to walk there. The children arent the only ones whose efforts are rewarded. Thinking back, Karen says, Many times, I said, God, I cannot do this. But if You just hold my hand and walk me through, then You will get the glory. And He has done just that. I truly believe that God wont put you in a position to do more than you can handle. Karen knows there are still challenges ahead. [But] on those days when I feel I cant make it to the finish line because Im too tired, or it hurts too bad, or whatever other obstacles there may be, I think about my little girl and how she brought Philippians 4:13 to life for me: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. All her life, weve been praying that God would help Natalie to walk. And He let her run. Isnt that cool?
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solvingproblems

CritiCs ChoiCe
Deciding to be a positive parent
B y M E L I N D A M E A N S

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heres just something about Sunday morning at my house. I wish I could say it was the spirit of quiet reflection as we prepare to go to worship. On some occasions, Im afraid, the scene more readily evokes the essence of a raging volcano that propels us out the door to repent. We engage in a battle of Beat the Clock, trying hard not to make casualties of one another. Over the years, as my children have gotten older, the war has waned. However, I vividly recall a stretch of Sundays when my then-nine-year-old daughter was the prime barrier to our peace and punctuality. Miraculously, one Sunday morning she
april 2010 In Touch

appeared at the door, dressed and exactly on timebut with a terminal case of bed head. My response was less than enthusiastic. Just look at your hair, Molly! You cant go out of the house like that! I ranted. How many times do I have to tell you to brush it? I immediately experienced a pang of deep regret when I looked at her crushed expression. I tried so hard this morning, Mom, she said quietly. Dont I get any credit at all? A perfectionist to the core, Im naturally inclined to be more picky than positive. On top of that, I fight an overwhelming urge to make a mountain out of a molehill.

Sadly, being a kid at my house has sometimes been a tough gig. Im thankful that a number of years ago, God began to open my eyes to how my critical bent was breaking my childrens spirits and slowly chipping away at our bond. He prompted me to ask myself some difficult and illuminating questions.

constant nitpicking about messy closets or improperly made beds weakens the parent-child bond and compromises a mom or dads influence when its time to confront issues that matter most.

is my goal performance or passion?

The Pharisees were the ultimate rule followers. Yet Jesus compared them to whitewashed tombs which on the outside appear beautiful, but inside . . . are full of dead mens bones and all uncleanness (Matt. 23:27). A critical spirit may result in outward compliance, but it also breeds latent resentment, a judgmental attitude towards others, and a concept of worth that is rooted in performance. Like the Pharisees, our children become adept at looking for the worst first. Most importantly, continual faultfinding negatively impacts childrens perception of the Lord. They learn to view Him as a God of punishment and not of grace. Instead of trusting, they learn to worry: I cant ever measure up to my parents standards. How can I ever be good enough for God? When we model divine love and grace, we point our kids to a Father who is forgiving, patient, and accepting. Obedience then flows from that relationship, not from fear of retribution or verbal assault. Proverbs 16:23-24 expresses the idea this way: The heart of the wise instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones. Its impossible to engage in relationship without exerting some kind of influence. We can allow our emotions to continually find their way to our mouths, launching verbal missiles that may inflict lasting wounds. Or our words can be positive and constructive, encouraging our children to grow and soar. The choice is ours.
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Do i want relationship or to be right?

I was often quite right about many of my kids shortcomings. However, the bottom line is this: Constant criticism hinders intimacy. My stubborn insistence to always be right, instead of choosing my battles, was sabotaging my goal of creating a home environment of openness, grace, and affection. Has a parent ever been more right than Jesus (who never abused His authority)? His correction was instructivenot destructiveand provided practical wisdom to help prevent future mistakes. John 8 tells the story of the adulterous woman whom the Pharisees sought to stone for her sins. Christ, however, doesnt condemn or criticize. Nor does He recount her offenses. Instead, He offers love and grace, while providing clear instructionGo now and leave your life of sin (v. 11 niv)along with another opportunity to act on it.

is this about character or control?

Through my growth as a parent, Ive come to realize that much of what Im tempted to criticize is really about my preference. I get frustrated because my children arent doing something the way I would do it or the way I want them to do it. I began to ask myself, Does this really matter? Is what theyre doing a character issue that I need to address, or is this a control issue that I need to let go? Is this about them or about me? Lying or disrespect, for example, warrants swift and effective discipline. However,

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familyroom

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The greatest tool for bringing your family closer together might be sitting in your dining room right now. See that long wooden thing with the four legs and the chairs gathered around it? Thats right. Its your dining room table. If your family is like many, you may have to remove a layer of dust or a stack or two of paperwork before you can call it into service. But break out the Lemon Pledge and shuffle those papers, because its gonna be worth it.

HALF AN HOUR THREE TIMES A WEEK

family faith was handed down, where kids inherited their parents values, and where they were able to air the days victories and heartbreaks with someone who really cared about them. So whatever happened to Mom, Dad, and the kids nightly interaction around the dinner table? A lota whole lot. Family meals today have to compete with after-school and after-work activities, electronic entertainment, dual-career households, and umpteen other variables. Getting everybody together at the same time in the same place can be a monumental feat.

R.I.P. family meals

Back in the day, nightly meals were the norm rather than the exception. When the streetlights came on, kids called off the game of Kick the Can and headed home to pot roast and banana pudding. But thats not all that was waiting for them. There were Mom and Dad and the rest of the family, andstop and think about itthough not all dinnertime exchanges were sunny, it was around that table that young people came to understand what their parents stood for. Thats where the
april 2010 In Touch

Commit to try
So why muster the effort? For one thing, studies show that children who regularly engage with their parents around the dinner table have larger vocabularies, make better grades, and are less likely to experiment with drugs and premarital sex. For another, too many American homes are like boarding houses with residents

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B y M I M I G R E E N w O O D k N I G h T

passing each other on their way to this and that activity. Its time we stop and engage with one another. Kids today have a million voices shouting in their ears, many of them with messages that would make you cringe. That neglected dining table can be the ideal venue for them to hear the one earthly voice they will heed above all othersyours.

Now youre talkin

Family meals revive the oral tradition. Thats right. Conversation. Child development experts will tell you that children especially teenscommunicate better with their parents when they have a peripheral activity to remove some of the pressure. Buttering a slice of bread, refilling an iced tea glass, scooping a forkful of salad provides the perfect distraction for sharing your day, your beliefs, and yourself with your children and listening as they feel comfortable enough to open up and share back. Once communication is flowing, you

have a chance to process with your kids the experiences theyve had throughout their day, to help them gain a godly perspective, and to consider things in a biblical context. Its not about delivering a sermon or even about conducting family devotions; its about a time to connect, encourage, exhort, and debrief together about all the world has thrown at them that day. Dr. Donald W. Welch, professor of Christian Education and Family Studies at MidAmerica Nazarene University, compares times like this to making deposits into a childs emotional bank account. When things get dicey between you and your child, or he reaches an age where he starts pulling away from the family, a history of mealtimes together will prove invaluable. Youll find they have helped you amass a healthy account balance upon which to draw.

Pulling it off
Look at it this way. The most worthwhile things in your life require a commitment.
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Your physical workout, Bible study, time alone with God, and interaction with your spouse dont just happen. You have to declare them a priority and then become intentional about making them happen. Meals together as a family are no different. Decide that theyre important. Then consider how youre going to pull them off. For most of us, eating together sevenor even fivenights a week just isnt practical when we have choir practice, ballet lessons, football, Girl Scouts, and school projects. Why not aim for three? Now, post a family calendar in a central location, and ask everybody to list their nighttime commitments. Then go with what youve got. If all you can work out at first is two nights a weekor even oneget a solid commitment from each family member for those nights. Then try the following tips for making the most of your time together: Wait it out. If Mom or Dad has to work late, provide healthy snacks to tide the rest of the family over until everybody is home. Chill. Dont make family dinners a time to harp on school grades or scold about chores that didnt get done. Keep meals stress-free, relaxed, and fun. Moratorium on electronics. Bar cell phones, hand-held video devices, and the like from the table. Shut off the TV, and let the answering machine pick up phone calls. Family time becomes sacred only when you treat it as such. Team work. Dont put the load on any one member to make meals and clean up afterward. Instead, prepare dinner together, and take turns with chores like setting the table, clearing, and washing dishes. Ask open-ended questions. Dont drill your kids with Twenty Questions about
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their day. Instead, share with them about yours, and ask open-ended questions to get them talking about theirs. Practice active listening. Our kids rarely open up on our timetable. Just when you feel youre not getting anywhere, thats the time they decide to talk. Know when to talk and when to zip it and listen. Teach; dont preach. Sure, family meals are a good time to teach table manners but do it in a fun, relaxed way. One idea is to whisper in each persons ear a bad manner to act out that night, and then let the rest of the family try to catch them at it. Youll be surprised what kids absorb by seeing something done the wrong way. Be creative. Take turns preparing a favorite dessert or selecting a topic of discussion for the evening. Or require each person to say one nice thing about everyone at the tableincluding him- or herself. Be flexible. If the kids have ideas about how theyd like things to go, be open to their suggestions. Streamline. Meals need not be fancy or formal. Opt for paper plates and napkins if you dont like to clean up. When all you can manage is take-out pizza or its easier to go out for dinner, then so be it. Family time anytime. The evening meal doesnt have to be the one you share. Plan a Saturday brunch or Sunday lunch. Stick to your guns. Declare meals together a priority, even if it means going head-tohead with coaches and other adults who plan after-school activities that interfere with family time. Make family meals your new pet project. Expect opposition at firstespecially if eating together hasnt been a priority. But Im guessing that once you and the rest of the family discover the bonds and happy memories that can be forged around your dining table, mealtime will quickly become your familys favorite part of the day.

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spotlight

leeland

>> Love Is On the Move

by Linda Canup

When [people] learned to live in Christs love, they started sharing and looking out for each other.

Cambodia isnt usually the first place that comes to mind at the mention of summer tour. But that impoverished nation was one of several places the band Leeland visited last year. And for good reason. Named after their frontman, Leeland Mooring, this Grammy-nominated group is making strides not only in the realm of music, but in ministry as well. Leeland supports Food for the Hungry, a Christian charity that helps those in poverty to work their way out of it. These are the people who dont just take a man fishingthey teach him to fish. My first thought was, Why dont you get somebody in there with a lot of money and just go fix all the problems? says Leelands brother and fellow bandmate Jack. But poverty is as much a mindset as a physical problem. He explains that it isnt just a lack of moneyits a spiritual attack of the Enemy. The other members agreed. They noticed poverty caused people to focus on their own needs and neglect their family. But when they learned to live in Christs love, they started sharing and looking out for each other. The goal is to help communities become self-sufficient, which usually takes six to nine years. Leeland got to visit several in Southeast Asia that had graduated a few had their own companies, and their kids were getting educations. Whats cool is, Food for the Hungry doesnt have some cookie cutter plan that they just throw on every community; they realize every community is different, says Jack. Food for the Hungry worked with Leeland during their tour for the album Love Is On the Move. The band hopes listeners will be inspired to address both physical and spiritual needs, as the charity does. To illustrate, Leeland mentions the family of a rickshaw driver he met. In Hindu culture, he explains, the wife cooks, but she eats last. However, after attending a biblical class on equality, the rickshaw driver went home, and when his wife started to walk away after cooking the meal, he called her back. They both sat down and ate together, equal amounts, as a family. The husband said, I ate less than what I usually Leelands newest CD is a call for eat, but Ive never been more believers to extend Christs love full in my entire life. to a hurting world.
To read more about Leelands unexpected adventures in Asia, visit www.intouch.org/magazine. Love Is On the Move uCD | $11 (U.S.)

Now you caN listeN iN our oNliNe bookstore!

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read

At the cross, Gods justice and love were both satisfied: Jesus Christ paid our sin-debt so that we might be forgiven and live eternally with Him.

he garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives was one of the Lords favorite places to pray throughout His earthly ministry (Luke 22:39). But believers remember it best as the site of a great spiritual battle. The story of Jesus pleading with His Father is extremely meaningful to Christians, and one of the reasons is that the Lord looked so human. From the gospels description, we can see that Jesus, the God-man, experienced fear, anxiety, and dread as He prayed. In other words, He reacted to His imminent ordeal with feelings we can relate to and understand. Satan taunts believers by telling them they cant be like Jesus because He is God. But He was God cloaked in human flesh, which means that He experienced the world as we do. Yet He won every spiritual and life battle he faced. The secret to His success is what He did at Gethsemane. He secluded Himself and prayed until His will was fully surrendered to the Father. The battle was won on His knees. Jesus left the garden a prisoner, but at the same time He walked out a winner. He accepted Gods will for His life, even though pain was a guarantee. Our Savior had been called to die, and He knew that the potential blessings and consequences were all in His Fathers hands.
e a r l y l i g h t

1
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thursday

Where the Battle Is Won

Matthew 26:36-46

Believers confront fearsome trials too. God uses these hardships to conform us to His Sons image (Rom. 8:29). If we are to be like Jesus, we must learn from His actions. In the face of difficulty, we should seek Gods will, commit to following it, and leave the consequences in His almighty hands.
One Year
the bible in

1 SaMuel 25-27

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here are five words that every believer should know and be able to explain. I have defined and discussed all of them many times in sermons and writings, but I am doing so again because they are so essential. Being confident in our beliefs is even more important as cultures become bolder about persecuting Christians. Jesus shed blood redeems believers (1 Peter 1:18-19). This means that we are purchased from a life of slavery to sin. Furthermore, we receive forgivenessthe wrongs of our past, present, and future are totally washed away (Eph. 1:7-8). For the rest of eternity, God views His children through the veil of Christs blood, which makes them pure and holy. Everyone who trusts in Jesus is declared no longer guilty (justifiedRom. 5:8-9) and brought into relationship with God (reconciled Col. 1:19-22). This unalterable change in status from sinner to saint happens the moment a person receives Christ as Savior. The final word, sanctified, describes the life-long maturing process that begins when a person trusts in the Savior (Heb. 13:12). A saint is set apart from the rest of humanity for the purpose of making him Christ-like. Through discipleship, testing, and teaching, God drains out our old self and pumps the life of Jesus into our heart and life.
e a r l y l i g h t

2
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friday

the weekend

What Jesus Blood Can Do

read

Comfort From an Empty Tomb

r e v e l at i o n 5 : 6 - 1 0

Matthew 28:1-8

sad group of women walked to Jesus tomb on the Sunday morning after His death. Their Saviorthe Lord of Lords and King of Kingshad been brutally beaten and then crucified. The womens hearts must have been heavy with disappointment and grief. Yet in an instant, mourning was turned to joy. An angel greeted them to offer this comfort: He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said (Matt. 28:6). So many of the confusing things the Lord had said now suddenly made sense. Not only had He prophesied about His own death and resurrection (Matt. 16:21), but He had also explained His relationship with God as a oneness (John 10:30). The grave cannot hold the Almighty. The resurrection put to rest any doubt Christs followers may have harbored about who He was. God kept every one of His promises and prophesies regarding the Messiah. For example, Jesus died on the cross before the soldiers decided to break the legs of those being crucified (Ex. 12:46; Ps. 34:20). But they pierced His side with a spear to be certain of His death (Isa. 53:5). At what seemed to be the end, Christ was buried in a rich mans tomb (Isa. 53:9); however, He did not stay in the grave.
e a r l y l i g h t

These five words tell the story of our faith. Meditate upon the verses related to each one, and pray that God will write the meanings on your heart. When were confident in our beliefs, we can be a light to others instead of crumbling at the threat of pain.
One Year
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Jesus conquered death and is now seated at the Fathers right hand, interceding for believers. He knows your name, where you are, and what you need and desire. The comfort of the empty tomb is that our Savior is alive and watching over usjust as He said (Heb. 7:25; 12:2).
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1 S aM ue l 2 8 - 3 1

2 SaMuel 1-4
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in can shake our faith in eternal security. God promised that anyone who believes Jesus Christ died on the cross for his or her sin will live forever in heaven (John 6:40). But because unconfessed sin creates a barrier between the Lord and the believer, it short-circuits faith and assurance. When a believer confesses wrongdoing, the Father forgives and cleanses His child (1 John 1:9). But by failing to admit to sin, a Christian will experience estrangement from God. He or she may feel unworthy of the Fathers love and can even struggle with a sense of rejection. Ask people in this situation if they are certain about their eternal future, and youll probably hear, I used to be. Sometimes they will go so far as to tell me that they are no longer savedbut that is impossible. While we can lose our assurance, we can never lose our salvation or our place in heaven. Too often, people mistake the Lords chastising hand for confirmation of their lost condition. God wouldnt put me through this if I were saved, theyll say. Actually, the opposite is true. The Father disciplines those whom He loves, so correction is proof that we are His children (Heb. 12:6-7). Chastisement is His way to guide the wayward believer back into fellowship with Him.
e a r l y l i g h t

5
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monday

The Enemy of Security

1 John 1:5-9

read

hy am I here on earth? No doubt this question crosses everybodys mind at some point. Unscriptural theories of evolution suggest that we are merely taking up space and will return to nothingness when we die. Cultural propaganda says that we choose our own destinyin other words, we can live for any cause we choose. But that is absolutely untrue! The Lord has placed you on earth to fulfill His purpose. Our heavenly Father has a unique plan for every persons life, but He means for us all to share one goal: to be conformed into the image of Jesus Christ. The process of perfecting our moral, spiritual, and physical selves begins here on earth and is finished in heaven. Much of the work the Lord does in our earthly lives centers on our character. He shows us how to be as loving, kind, and peaceful as Jesus. One would think that being like Gods Son must require a lot of effort. But the truth is, we are not called to work at it. The Holy Spirit indwells the believer and then lives the life of Christ through him or her. Christians have the responsibility to be submissive to His guidance. That means we respond to every circumstance and event with this question: How can You use this to make me more like Jesus?
e a r l y l i g h t

6
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tuesday

The Purpose of Life

2 CorinthianS 3:15-18

Jesus is our Advocate before God. Like the high priests of ancient Israel, He atones for our sins through sacrificeHis death on the cross. We cant sin our way out of His grace. The minute we confess our wrongdoing, estrangement dissipates and assurance comes flooding back into our hearts.
One Year
the bible in

The sovereign Lord is behind everything that happens to youeither He directly instigates the situation or He allows it to take place. Both trials and triumphs are engineered to fulfill Gods great purpose: crafting a life that reflects His love and glory to the world.
One Year
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2 S aM ue l 5 - 8
In TouCH

2 SaMuel 9-11

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ecause mankind is earthbound until death, misconceptions about heaven are common. Some people imagine it as an ethereal world of formless spirits who float about, while others flatly deny its existence. A few have returned from near-death experiences to describe what they saw. Amid all the confusing and contradictory views, we would do well to remember that our only sure source of accurate information about heaven is Gods Word. Jesus had firsthand knowledge of heaven because He came from the Father to earth. Shortly before dying, He told His disciples that He would return to His Fathers house to prepare a place for them and then would come back to take them to their new home. Several weeks later, while standing on the Mount of Olives, the disciples watched the resurrected body of Jesus ascend into heaven (Acts 1:9-11). Ever since that day, believers throughout history have been waiting for the Lords promised return. Each one will be given an immortal resurrection body similar to Christs. It will be physical, visible, and recognizable to others. We will even be able to eat (Luke 24:41-43). Heaven is a literal place for physical bodiesa place to live, serve God, and worship and enjoy Him forever.
e a r l y l i g h t

7
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wednesday

A Place Called Heaven

John 14:1-6

read

he apostle John heard Jesus promise to prepare a place for His followers (John 14:1-6). Many years later, he was given a vision of that placeand he watched the New Jerusalem come down out of heaven. The sight was beyond human description, but he did his best to put this heavenly vision into earthly language (Rev. 21:9-22:5). John saw the brilliance of Gods glory radiating from the structure, whose foundation gleamed with the dazzling colors of precious stones. The gates were made of pearls and the street of transparent gold. This 1500-mile cube-shaped city was designed by the Lord as a place for Himself and mankind to live in perfect intimacy for all eternity. In verses 3 and 4, he notes that the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him; they will see His face. Though we may have difficulty imagining the physical structure of this heavenly city, we have no trouble understanding the meanings of the things that are not in the New Jerusalem. There will be no pain, tears, mourning, or death. Sin and every one of its consequences will be removed. All frustration, boredom, and problems will cease. No one will have handicaps, and our bodies will never grow tired or sick.
e a r l y l i g h t

8
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thursday

Our Heavenly Place: New Jerusalem

revelation 21:1-8

Knowing all the specifics of our heavenly home is impossible, but we can be sure that Jesus will fulfill His promise to come back for us. Stepping into our customdesigned dwelling places, well each realize that were finally homeand throughout eternity can never be separated from God.
One Year
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When the difficulties of this life become burdensome, focus on your glorious heavenly future. The only trouble and pain you will ever experience is now. When your feet walk on the streets of New Jerusalem with the Savior, all the old ravages of sin will be gone, and your joy will be full.
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2 S aM ue l 1 2 - 1 4

2 SaMuel 15-17
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t is a great tragedy that many people go through life without ever becoming acquainted with their Creator. To overlook that relationship is to miss the purpose for their existence and the greatest privilege available to mankindknowing God. Even Christians can undervalue the honor of getting to know Christ more intimately. Pauls all-consuming passion to know the Lord caused him to count everything else as worthless in comparison to that tremendous blessing. Though believers can accept Christ as their Savior, faithfully serve Him, and anticipate being with Him in heaven, many have no hunger to know Him right now. How can we be satisfied simply with being saved and have so little interest in the most gratifying and exciting relationship available to us? Pursuing Christ with Pauls passion requires sacrificespending time alone with the Lord, surrendering our will, and learning to know Him through suffering. Although salvation is a free gift, intimacy with God is a costly process, but the rewards are invaluable and eternal. Our culture floods us with information and distractions that can fill our minds and hearts, leaving us indifferent to developing a deeper relationship with Christ. Some people even substitute learning facts about the Lord for knowing Him relationally.
e a r l y l i g h t

9
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friday

the weekend

The Privilege of Knowing God

read

Learning to Know God

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JereMiah 9:23-24

PhiliPPianS 3:7-11

odays verses reveal that the Lords top priority for us is to know and understand Him. This is a lifelong pursuit which extends all the way into eternity (John 17:3). If someone asked me, Do you know God?, Id have to say that I am learning about Him. My relationship with the Lord is becoming more exciting and satisfying as the years go by, but I realize that I have much more to discover about my Savior. Since the Lord reveals Himself in His Word, that is where we need to start. Our understanding of who God is must match what Scripture says about Him; otherwise, we have deceived ourselves by trying to make the Lord into our own image. Descriptions of His characteristics and methods are scattered throughout the Bible. As you read, look for His attributes, desires, and ways. Consider how He responds in various circumstances. Spend time interacting with the Lord in prayer and meditation. Discuss any insights you have received, ask Him about the concepts you dont understand, and consider how to apply what you have learned. Those who are willing to obey His commands and follow His guidance will discover how faithful He is. Theyll also find that He is their most intimate friend.
e a r l y l i g h t

Examine your life to see what is hindering your passion for God. Consider ways to carve out time each day to be alone with Him. As you go about your routine, seek His guidance and listen for His voice. You, too, will eventually count everything else as rubbish compared to knowing Christ.
One Year
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Amazingly, the Creator and Ruler of the universe wants to spend time with you so that you can learn to know Him. Its as if He is saying, I want you all to Myself for a little while. Take Him up on the invitation to come away to a quiet place and learn about Him.
One Year
the bible in

2 S aM ue l 1 8 - 2 0
In TouCH

2 SaMuel 21-24

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race is Gods undeserved goodness and kindness toward us without regard to our merit or worth. It is freely bestowed on all who believe the good news that Jesus is the the Son of God, and He died for their sins. Although grace is free, it isnt cheapthe Lord paid a high price to obtain this blessing for us. He left the wealth of heaven to come to earth so that He could redeem us and give us the riches of His celestial home. Think of what that meant in terms of Jesus earthly life: The One who is Creator and Owner of all things lived on earth without possessions. He was born in a borrowed stable, had no place to lay His head during the years of His itinerant ministry, and borrowed not only a donkey for entering Jerusalem but also an upper room for the last supper. Even the tomb was not His own. Christ also laid aside the glory He had with the Father. Although He never ceased being God while on the earth, His radiant divinity was veiled with human flesh. Being born as a helpless baby, Jesus gave up the use of His omniscience and went through all the stages of human growth and development. The Son of God descended from reigning on the Fathers throne to washing the dirty feet of His disciples.
e a r l y l i g h t

1 of Grace 2
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monday

The High Cost

2 CorinthianS 8:9

read

n order to save mankind and shower grace upon the undeserving, Christ had to make a voluntary choice to leave heaven and become a man. He took upon Himself the weakness of humanity while never losing His divinity. Though still fully divine, He did not cling to equality with God but limited the use of His supernatural powers and rights. Having an incomplete understanding of all that Christ surrendered, we often lack an appreciation of the magnitude of His descent from the riches of glory to the poverty of humanity. He traded the praise and worship of the angelic host for the mockery and jeers of an angry mob. Laying aside His omnipotence, He experienced the weakness of fatigue and the need for sleep. Being immortal but wanting to pay our sin-debt, He had to take on human flesh in order to die for you and me. The One who had authority over all creation (Col. 1:16-17) walked this earth in complete submission to the Fathers will (John 5:19, 30), becoming obedient to the point of death (Phil. 2:8). Instead of relying on His own strength, He depended on the power of God (Acts 2:22). Jesus manner of living not only accomplished our salvation but also gave us an example to follow.
e a r l y l i g h t

1 From Glory 3 to Humility

tuesday
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PhiliPPianS 2:3-11

Christ became poor but lost nothing. Jesus regained the glory of heaven and brought us along. In following Him, believers likewise lose nothing and gain everything. We die to self and gain our souls; give away riches and receive heavenly treasures; and humble ourselves to be exalted in Gods time.
One Year
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Every believer has a choice to make: Will I live my way and demand my rights, or will I empty myself and submit to God? Only by humbling ourselves in submission and obedience to the Father will we experience the joy of the Lord and the glories of His eternal rewards in heaven.
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1 Ki n g S 1 - 3

1 KingS 4-7
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he principle of sowing and reaping is a universal truth ordained by God that applies not only in agriculture, but also in the area of giving. Despite the fact that the Lord promises an abundant harvest for those who give generously, many Christians still struggle with releasing their grip on money. Some fear that they wont have enough if they give. Others, pulled by a strong desire for worldly goods, are unwilling to sacrifice pleasures and comforts. Those who succumb to their fears or greed will miss out on the great harvest God wants to give them. In the midst of a chaotic economy and uncertain times, we can find our security in the Lord. His ways are often the opposite of our natural tendencies. The world says that to have enough, we must acquire more. God says that in giving generously, we will have an abundance of both provision for our needs (bread) and resources to continue our generosity (seed). Beyond this, the Lord also promises that the harvest of our righteousness will increase, and we will be enriched in everything for all liberality (v. 11). Gods riches encompass so much more than earthly wealth. Generosity produces godly character, which is valuable now and in eternity.
e a r l y l i g h t

1 4
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wednesday

Gods Promises to the Generous

on

money

2 CorinthianS 9:6-11

Money reveals where our interests lie; it can direct our attitudes; it ever exposes us to the danger of worshiping it; and it represents value. Money not only talks; it screams. Leslie B. Flynn There is nothing wrong with people possessing riches. The wrong comes when riches possess people. Billy Graham One of the dangers of having a lot of money is that you may be quite satisfied with the kinds of happiness money can give and so fail to realise your need for God. If everything seems to come simply by signing checks, you may forget that you are at every moment totally dependent on God. C. S. Lewis A mans treatment of money is the most decisive test of his characterhow he makes it and how he spends it. James Moffatt Nothing I am sure has such a tendency to quench the fire of religion as the possession of money. J. C. Ryle Each of us will eventually give away all our earthly possessions. How we choose to do so, however, is a reflection of our commitment to the kingdom of God. Charles F. Stanley The fellow that has no money is poor. The fellow that has nothing but money is poorer still. Billy Sunday When I have any money, I get rid of it as quickly as possible, lest it find a way into my heart. John Wesley

Although weve been given the promise of a bountiful harvest, it will be realized only by those who sow abundantly. In following Gods plan for giving, you can be free of worry because the One who guarantees you a harvest is also the omnipotent Lord who is able to richly produce it.
One Year
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1 Ki n g S 8 - 9
In TouCH

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eeling safe is one of our basic human needs. Many people think they are financially secure until a little blip comes along in the economy or in their personal circumstances. Then the reality that they are vulnerable hits home. Contrary to what the world says, financial security is found not in a bank account or a retirement fund but in a relationship with the One who owns everything in heaven and on earth. The Lord is not too busy running the universe to be concerned about your financial situation. The truth is, He cares about every detail of your life, including your need for economic security. By heeding His directions about how to acquire and use money, you can experience peace, contentment, and joy. When it comes to finances, three basic truths should govern our thinking: 1. God owns it all. 2. We are managers of His possessions. 3. We are responsible and will one day give an account to Him about the way we used His resources. True financial security comes only when we use Gods money His way for His purposes. He alone knows the future and has the power to provide for our needs, whereas any personal financial strategies are backed only by human effort and wisdom.
e a r l y l i g h t

15
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thursday

Our Financial Security

Matthew 25:14-28

read

n our own, we are unable to choose salvation. Gods Spirit must first convict us of our spiritual need. Specifically, He nudgesthat is, He allows disquiet to enter our heart and then reveals sin. Seeing the imperfection in our lives helps us to become aware that we need a Savior. Do you ever wonder, then, how young children can be saved? Can they truly grasp the depth of their sin and their need for redemption? In most cases, probably not. Yet both my son and daughter genuinely received Jesus at the tender age of five. Thankfully, almighty God is a gentle Father who meets us right where we are. Preschoolers can understand the basics of right and wrongand the difference between obedience and defiance. The Lord can place within a young heart the desire to obey and follow Christ. Then, as that little one learns at home or church, God gives him a yearning and sense of need for Jesus. It is a simple longing without the deep, more complex understanding of an adult. In many ways, however, the unencumbered faith that children have is what He desires of us, but with more understanding and gratitude, of course. What a gift! If we were expected to understand spiritual matters in great depth prior to salvation, none of us would qualify for the gift.
e a r l y l i g h t

1 6
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friday

Childlike Faith

MarK 10:13-16

Dont you want to experience the stability of internal peace, even during an economic earthquake? Trusting in the Lords provision and obeying His instructions will fill you with confidence when others are gripped by fear and uncertainty. Rest in the knowledge that He provides for His children.
One Year
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The lifelong process of spiritual maturation begins the moment a person is saved. Prayer and Scripture are essential, as is the role of other Christians. Each of us should be teaching those less matureespecially childrenabout Jesus. God uses believers to reveal young ones need for the Savior.
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1 Ki n g S 1 0 - 1 2

1 KingS 13-15
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the weekend

The Reach of Gods Love

read

aCtS 9:1-31

read

o you know someone with a hostile attitude toward God? It probably seems impossible that such a person could ever be saved. But no one is beyond the reach of our loving heavenly Father. Saul of Tarsus, also known as Paul, is a perfect example. He was a Pharisee who persecuted Christians. In fact, he approved of stoning Stephen to death for his faith in Christ (Acts 8:1). Pauls hatred for believers derived from his ignorance of grace and sin. According to the law, he was as close to blameless as was humanly possible. Isnt it hard to imagine a person like this realizing his need for a Savior? Saul was intent upon ridding the world of Christ-followers. But the Lord had other plans. When blinded by light and confronted with his wrong actions, Saul responded to Jesus, repented, and believed. For the rest of his life, the apostle was committed to spreading the gospel. Our almighty God can reach anyone. Salvation is possible only when He convicts an individual of his or her sin and the need for redemption. The Lords intervening hand, however, does not stop once a person is saved. He continues to reveal areas of sin that need attention. Then He empowers the believer, giving strength and guidance through the sanctification process.
e a r l y l i g h t

remember the conflict that arose many years ago when I was being considered for the position of senior pastor. Every Sunday when I preached, I knew that a number of people in the sanctuary objected and were trying to get rid of me. It was not easy. Perhaps you have a difficult home life, work relationship, or school situation in which people are reacting negatively to you. The way to handle lifes troubles is discovered on our knees. Our heavenly Father waits for us to approach His throne through prayer, gain His divine perspective, and receive instruction on how to proceed. In my prayer time, a battle was taking place between what I wanted avoiding this conflictand what the Lord had planned for meto move forward in faith. Eventually, my mind agreed to Gods course, and I experienced His peace. When we humbly seek the Lord through prayer, we invite Him to take the lead in our situation and accomplish His plan. He may direct us in ways that surprise us, but they will be for our good and His glory. In my case, God instructed me not to argue or defend myself. My part was to pray. It was hard to be silent, but I trusted Him, followed His lead, and watched Him resolve the situation.
e a r l y l i g h t

s 19
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monday

Praying on Our Knees

hebrewS 4:16

Conviction is usually uncomfortable. Often, we go to church, hoping to be uplifted by the pastor and to leave feeling good. While encouragement, peace, and joy are vital aspects of the Christian life, refinement is also necessary. It is the testimony of Christs hand in our life, molding us to be like Him.
One Year
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Praying on our knees reminds us that God is the Master and we are His servants. He knows all things, while our perspective is narrow. He is also all-powerfulHe can penetrate hard hearts and closed minds. We cannot. Lets make prayer a regular part of our day and watch what happens.
One Year
the bible in

1 Ki n g S 1 6 - 1 8
In TouCH

1 KingS 19-22

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APRIL 2010

2 in Our Life 0
tuesday
read

The Dark Moments

aCtS 14:21-22

f you want a meaningful life, you will at times travel the road of adversity. However, every hardship in your path has a specific purpose. Our Father allows pain and trials into His good plan for our life (Rom. 8:28). When we are facing dark times, the first word that comes to mind is usually Why? God welcomes our questions but challenges us to obey Him, even when we dont get answers (Prov. 3:5-6). In fact, we may have to wait months or years before knowing the purpose behind a trial. Sometimes the answers dont come at all in this lifetime. Joseph spent 13 harsh, dark years in Egypt. He faced betrayal, separation from loved ones, and culture shock followed by slavery, false accusations, and prison time. His only evidence of a sovereign, loving God was that he consistently prospered, even during times of trouble. Everything Joseph endured prepared him for a job as Egypts prime minister. While still a boy, he learned the language, culture, and mindset of a foreign nation. Moreover, the man who emerged from hardship was the Lords disciplined, faithful servant. In the end, Joseph was positioned to save more than a country; he rescued Gods chosen peoplethe family tree of Jesus Christ, the Messiah.
e a r l y l i g h t

21
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wednesday

A Time to Suffer

JaMeS 1:1-4

esterdays devotion noted that Joseph suffered 13 years before he was pulled from adversity. God could have fixed that mess more quickly or, better yet, prevented Joseph from enduring it at all. But can you imagine a 17-year-old boy skipping into Egypt and sitting down at Pharaohs right hand? Certainly the Lords power could make such an unlikely event happen. But would a slightly arrogant, ignorant Hebrew teenager make a good leader? Not until God made him into one. Our suffering lasts only as long as necessary for God to accomplish His purpose. He is interested in equipping servants and molding followers rather than in providing carefree lives. Yet the Father deeply loves His childrenthats why He shares in their hurts and limits the hardship so it doesnt extend one moment beyond its usefulness. Adversity is Gods sharpest and strongest tool for re-forming believers to Christs image, but He will not force change. The Lord molds His children in proportion to their willingness to be shaped for divinely appointed work. We can refuse to submit to His craftsmanship, but rebellion only prolongs the pain. The wise approach is to say, God, I do not understand why You have allowed this hardship, but I am willing to follow You through it.
e a r l y l i g h t

Living in the center of the Lords love doesnt guarantee an easy, pain-free life. In fact, the opposite is true. God loves believers so much that He conforms each one to His Sons likeness through any means necessary. In His expert hand, we become servants whose victories and trials glorify Him.
One Year
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The faithful child of God emerges from trials prepared and equipped to serve God. This is the believer who values obedience and prioritizes prayer and Bible study long before adversity comes. When the going gets tough, he knows that the Holy Spirits power is sufficient to carry him through.
One Year
the bible in

2 Ki n g S 1 - 2

2 KingS 3-4
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2 The Source 2 of Our Strength

thursday
read

ePheSianS 6:10-12

eople can have very different reactions to similar circumstances. For instance, suppose two women from the same church are battling cancerlets call them Jean and Barbara. Both are believers, but only Jean is living peacefully, even joyfully, through her ordealshe long ago admitted her weakness and need for the Lords intervention. While Barbara prays for God to help me get through this, Jean says, God, I cannot. Please carry me through. Jean knows that Jesus Christ is the source of her strength, but Barbara is relying mostly upon herself. Everyone has a certain amount of fortitude, but that human capacity can carry a person only so far. Some situations will sap every drop of energy we have and still demand more. Through the Holy Spirit, believers can access an endless well of supernatural power to triumph in any trial. However, the second woman is not receiving the same infusion of the Spirits power as Jean. Barbara wants help which is why she desperately calls out to the Lordbut refuses to admit that she cannot face cancer alone. In truth, we all dislike acknowledging that we are weak. Human pride is a potent force that must be uprooted before we can be filled with the Spirits power.
e a r l y l i g h t

2 3
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friday

God Has Time for You

MarK 10:46-52

ecause time is such a precious commodity in our fast-paced culture, it is also a tremendously valuable gift we can give someone else. Jesus was the ultimate model of balanced time management. He demonstrated His love for mankind by being available. Did you ever notice that there are no biblical accounts of our Lord hurrying? You will never come across a verse saying that He ran to Bethany or rushed back to Galilee. Wherever the Savior went, He was sensitive to the needs of the people around Him and reached out in love to help. He wasnt so busy that He could not be interrupted. Right before He went to the cross to accomplish the most important work of His life, Jesus stopped to help a poor blind beggar, who was a nobody in the eyes of society. Although the redemption of mankind was vitally important, the Lord cared enough about the suffering of one lowly individual to stop and do what He could to relieve the mans suffering. If the Lord allowed Himself to be interrupted on the way to the cross, will He not also stop and listen when you call out to Him in your distress? He is never too busy governing the universe to hear His beloved childs cry for help.
e a r l y l i g h t

Our weakness frees God to make His greatest triumphs. His power is loosed when His children admit they are not in control and can do nothing to help themselves. Only then do we find the energy, courage, and peace we need to go on living for His glory.
One Year
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In order to follow in Christs footsteps, we have to ask ourselves, Am I willing to be interrupted? We are stewards of all God gives us, including our time. Consider this precious commodity a resource to be used when reaching out in love as Christ did. Give someone your time today.
One Year
the bible in

2 Ki n g S 5 - 6
In TouCH

2 KingS 7-8

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APRIL 2010

the weekend

Special People
read

1 Peter 2:9-10

henever feelings of low self-worth threaten us with discouragement, we need to rely on the truth of Gods Word rather than our emotions. Today we are going to examine four phrases that describe how the Lord sees every believer. A Chosen Race. God chose you and me to be part of His kingdom and family because He wanted us. No one who has been specially selected by almighty God is insignificant. A Royal Priesthood. As believers, we are children of God and, therefore, part of a royal family. In other words, we are heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). Just as Jesus fulfilled the roles of both king and priest, so God has also entrusted us with priestly responsibilities of worship and intercession for others. A Holy Nation. The churchor body of Christis a group of people who are holy, which means set apart for the purposes of God. Our lives are never meaningless, because living for the Lord is the greatest purpose one can have. A People for Gods Own Possession. You and I are the personal possessions of God (Deut. 14:2; Titus 2:14; 1 Peter 2:9). He so values each of us that He sent His Son to die in our place in order that we could be His.
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monday

A Special Purpose

PSalM 150

he Lord has made us a special people in order that we may fulfill a special purpose. Isaiah 43:21 says, The people I formed for Myself will declare My praise. An integral part of worshiping the Lord is proclaiming His greatness. To praise our Father is to applaud Him for who He is and what He has done. This involves the release of our emotions, which frees us to express unrestrained adoration of the Lord. When someone loves another person, the most natural response is to speak highly about the cherished one. In the same way, those who love Christ find that praise comes easily to their lips. Praising the Lord is good for us. In our self-centered society, people are primarily interested in getting their own needs met. Sadly, this same attitude has infiltrated some churches. But God doesnt want us to come to church concerned only about ourselves. Praise lifts our eyes to Christ and fills our hearts with the contentment that eludes us when we focus exclusively on personal needs and problems. Although praise and worship are usually associated with church services, they ought to characterize us wherever we are. Some of the most intimate and precious experiences of worship can happen during times spent alone with God.
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Each of these descriptions shows the high value God places on you. Satan may whisper lies of condemnation and criticism, but he cant change who you really are. Begin today to demonstrate the truth of Scripture by remembering your real identity and living out your high calling from the Lord.
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If you find that your praise lacks vitality, tell the Lord you want to learn to extol Him with your whole heart. The focus of worship is the key. Remember how God has cared for you, and look for daily evidence of His hand on your life. Then tell Him how great He is.
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tuesday

Defeating Our Goliaths

1 SaMuel 17:45-47

ifes Goliaths come in all shapes, sizes, and intensities: an unhappy relationship, a difficult job, a rebellious child, a pile of debt, an uncontrollable habit, etc. David faced what appeared to be an insurmountable problem. Like Him, we can gain victory through Gods power, though we may suffer and bleed on the battlefield. Notice that David declared victory over Goliath before the battle even began (1 Sam. 17:46). The shepherds confidence was rooted in his past experiences. David credited God with protecting and strengthening him when he killed the lion and bear that had threatened his flock. Furthermore, David believed he would triumph because he was Gods servant. The boy had spent hours alone in the wilderness listening to Gods quiet voice. Even a giants discouraging shout could not shake his convictions about who the Lord was and what He could do through His servant. David had practical faith habits. He spent time with God, which yielded a strong relationship. In turn, he responded to a problem with the certainty that he was a beloved child of God with full access to his Fathers storehouses of power, courage, and wisdom. If David had a moment of doubt, he could recall his own poetic words about the Lords great faithfulness in past troubles.
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wednesday

The Importance of Right Motives

1 SaMuel 17:20-40

avid found King Sauls hefty reward for Goliaths defeat interestingin fact, he asked to have it repeated twice (vv. 26, 30). Money, freedom, and a pretty girl would make almost any teenage boy take notice! However, though David was young, he was not foolhardy. The reward was a nice perk, but it wasnt the young shepherds motivation. Davids reason for standing against Goliath was to serve the Lord. The boy openly expressed his disdain for the giant: For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should taunt the armies of the living God? (1 Sam. 17:26). Challenging the chosen nation, Israel, was the same as defying the Lord Himself. David was prepared to defend Yahwehs holy name and His people, even against this fearsome warrior. A right and holy motive gives a person confidence to obey God, even if doing so defies human wisdom. It is possible for believers to seek victory over lifes Goliaths with wrong motives. A lot of reasons that sound good are actually selfish. Im tired of being in this mess. Or Lord, I cant run away, so Youll have to remove this problem. Some people try to bargain their way out of tight spots: If I had more money, then Id give more to the church. Those promises are rarely fulfilled.
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I often encourage you to practice Davids faith habits. Spend time alone with the Lord, and keep a record of His work in your life. Then you can be confident that God is sufficient, no matter how big a problem looms. He gives victory to those who stand in faith and confront their Goliaths.
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The right motive for facing a problem is a desire to follow, serve, and honor God, no matter what. Lifes Goliaths do not just tax our comfort or wellbeing; these challenges can impede our obedient walk with the Lord. He will give victory to those who stand strong in His name.
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thursday

Our Greatest Treasure

Matthew 8:5-13

hat do you consider your most prized possession? A house, car, boat, or cash would likely be high on most folks list. But even treasures and luxuries wont bring lasting satisfactionwhy else do so many men and women keep trading up and adding to their collection? Sadly, in the race to have better and more, a lot of people overlook the most valuable asset of all: faith. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seenand this corresponds to trust in Jesus Christ as Savior. Faith isnt something we can work to obtain; rather, it is a gift from the Lord. Consider the power that God makes available. Jesus said that faith as small as a mustard seedone of the smallest seeds in existenceenables us to do miraculous deeds (Matt. 17:20). In the book of Acts, for example, we see that the apostles belief led to numerous healings (3:1-8; 5:16). And Matthews gospel tells us that through a Canaanite womans faith, her daughter was freed from demonic possession (15:22-28). Trust in Christ is even more than an avenue to miracles; it is the way to salvation. The Bible states that there is nothing we can do to achieve eternal security in Gods kingdom; we are saved only by His grace, through faith (Eph. 2:8-9).
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friday
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hebrewS 11:23-28

any people consider Moses a biblical pillar of Old Testament daysa man without equal in godliness. Most likely, hed have laughed at such a thought. Sure, He was called to do mighty things with the Lords help. And he encountered the presence of the Almighty in a most unusual way. But like us, he was a normal, sinful human being. What the New Testament commends him for, though, was something we all can have: belief. Todays verses comes from the passage known as the Bibles Hall of Faith. Those honored with inclusion in this chapter were chosen because they acted obediently and God achieved great things through them. We, too, can watch His hand in our lives as we act on faith. When we trust and obey, God demonstrates His power and shows that He truly is Lord. By operating out of His strength and through our weakness, He teaches us to rely upon Him. Thats not to say the path is easy; Jesus warned that the way of faith includes suffering. Indeed, many early Christians were beaten or killed for His sake, and faith is still met with harsh persecution in various places around the world. While that may not be our experience, each of us has encountered ridicule, misunderstanding, or lost friendships because we follow Christ.
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The best way to move forward is by first receiving lifes greatest giftfaith in the Savior. Romans 10:9 says to confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, [and] you will be saved. Salvation and abundant life are found nowhere else.
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Even mild persecution can cause us to question whether living out our faith is worth the sacrifice. Rest assured it is the best way to live. God responds to faith by enabling His children to endure difficulty, demonstrating His power in their circumstances, and providing contentment and joy.
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Gods timeless truths never fail or disappoint.

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