April - Day 16

Judges 9 - The story of Abimelech is a reminder that evil may win a few battles, but justice will have its day.  The people followed Abimelech because of the power it would give them.  They didn't do what was right but were persuaded to do evil because of how they thought it would benefit them and it actually made things worse for them.

Psalm 86 - My prayer - God heart my prayer, I need your help. Protect me, my wife, and my children for I am devoted to you.  Save me for I serve you and trust you.  You are my God.  Send me a sing of your favor.

Mark 6:30-44 - Disciples were tired and hungry from a busy time of ministry.  They wanted to send the crowds away to buy food, but Jesus told them no - you feed them.  They told Jesus they had nothing to give to the people.  We must always remember that we don't have anything good to offer others that doesn't come from God first.  If we are going to help experience God's grace in their lives, we must continually be allowing him to fill us up so we have something to give to others.  They began the story with nothing, but at the end of the story there were 12 baskets left over.  That would be enough for each disciple to have a basket.  When you allow God to use you, it leaves you with more than you started.

1 Corinthians 9 - By God's design, those who preach should be supported financially by those who benefit from their ministry.  The strategy to effective ministry given here is to find common ground with all people so you can help them experience Jesus.  Being a pastor is not about earthy treasure, but about the opportunity to share the gospel with people.  To finish the race well, we must be disciplined in all we do.