Judges 7:2-3

Gideon lived during a time when Israel was ruled by judges. This was the period after the death of Joshua and before Saul was anointed king – a period lasting approximately 325 years. During this time, the people continually wandered away from God and were oppressed by various groups. But God always rose up a leader (a judge) who would deliver the people and lead them back to Himself…at least for a short while.
The oppression by the Midianites was so severe that many Israelites lived in caves and harvested their crops in secret. When the people cried to God for help, He chose to use Gideon; “‘But Lord,’ Gideon asked, ‘how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family’” (Judges 6:15). God wanted His Children to know that true deliverance is only through His strength and by His grace. By using Gideon to save the people, God taught a valuable lesson of trust.
Judges 7:2-3
“The Lord said to Gideon, ‘You have too many men for Me to deliver Midian into their hands. In order that Israel may not boast against Me that her own strength has saved her, announce now to the people, “Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.”‘ So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained.”
God’s message of grace and power would not be obvious if the army had any hope of victory by their own strength: “But the Lord said to Gideon, ‘There are still too many men’” (Judges 7:4). Gideon’s army started with 32,000 but he was not sent into battle until the army was shrunk to only three hundred. These were impossible odds! But God always reigns supreme in the impossible: the battle was completely victorious!!
God is never interested in the “wonderful” things we can do for Him. He is pleased only by our obedience and our trust. In fact, God allows many of our great endeavors to fail simply because they are being pursued without giving Him absolute control. We are never to rest in our own strength and ability; rather, we are to continually walk by faith. Several hundred years after Gideon, the prophet Isaiah gave this same message: “Woe to those who trust in the multitude of their chariots and in the great strength of their horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel” (Isaiah 31:1).
God will lead us into victory, but we must give Him our total trust. When we walk in His victory, we will have the joy of witnessing His mighty hand and find true fulfillment in bringing Him glory and honor. His victory is never by our strength, savvy, cunning, or intelligence. It is only as we trust Him to work in and through the empty vessel of our life. True victory will only be won as we go into battle with ALL of Him and without too much of us.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Romans 11:33-36

As I look back through the Scriptural account of history, I can see how God sent His Son to be born in a manger, grow and live among us, and die for our sins upon a cross. I can clearly see how the sacrifice of Jesus allows us, through faith, to enter into God’s presence. I can even see the purpose of His humble birth as a permanent example of humility and service. But what I don’t think I’ll ever fully understand is why. Oh, sure, I know the reason is love; “For God so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16), but I seriously doubt I’ll ever understand the amount of love required to sacrifice so much – the amount of love He had (and has)…for me!
Paul wrote his letter to the Romans with the intent of setting foundational beliefs for the church. In this letter, Paul presented the greatest amount of teaching found anywhere in the Bible. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Paul wrote on topics ranging from sin and judgement, to faith and salvation; from the purpose of the Law and life through the Spirit, to the sovereignty of God and the future of Israel. But toward the end of the letter, Paul paused and wrote a short prayer of praise and glory.
Romans 11:33-36
“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay Him? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.”
We almost get the feeling that Paul had reviewed the first portion of his letter and just couldn’t continue writing without praising the Lord. Paul had wrestled through many difficult issues and learned a most valuable lesson: God is God…and sometimes this simple truth defies understanding.
God has a perfect plan where every piece fits neatly together; but there are MANY connections which our finite minds fail to comprehend. I almost never see the purpose of my trials until long after they have past. I get impatient and frustrated with God’s timing – I want to know His plan, now! And yet, I know His love for me gave everything; “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8). I may not fully understand this love, but the little I know is enough to create a desire to live a life of devotion and faith. One day, I will stand before His throne and all His mysteries will be perfectly revealed. Until then I will simply continue to worship and trust.
We may never fully understand, but I pray we are all drawn a little closer today. If you have never experienced His love, I pray that you will release your heart into His care. If you’re feeling unloved by the world, I pray you will look to Him and see a Father who gave His Son so He could hold you for all eternity. He is an unsearchable God who has poured out, for you, an unsearchable love.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

In the message “Reconcile With One Another” we saw how it is part of God’s plan for us, through repentance and faith in Jesus, to be reconciled with our Heavenly Father, and then to mend and strengthen relationships with others. Not only do our relationships give us opportunities to express our love and gratitude to God, but they can also strengthen our faith and teach us about our weaknesses.
The importance of relationships is not a new concept which arrived with Jesus; rather, it forms the very essence of who we are, “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18). God could have created us to be isolated, but He did not! We were created to actually need one another. Almost three thousand years ago, Solomon wrote of the importance of having encouraging relationships.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.”
As we look at the many believers scattered around the world, we notice the ways we are different as well as the many ways we are the same. We have different colors of skin and styles of clothes, different tastes in food and accents of speech; but we all have similar dreams, and all face the same kinds of trials and temptations. And we ALL need the same Savior!
God has taken a diverse group of people and formed us into the Body of Christ; “Though all its parts are many, they form one body” (1 Corinthians 12:12). But I’m afraid the focus of satisfying our own needs and fulfilling our own desires has left this body crippled and deformed. We must understand that as “one body” we desperately need each other; “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26).
We will never achieve our full potential in Christ until each member of the body is encouraged and being guided by the Spirit of God. When we see a Brother or Sister who is down, we must do all we can to help them up, dust them off, and point them to the Father. For the sake of our own spiritual health we must return to a deeper understanding and commitment to His Family – this is how we were created!
Let’s look with new and excited eyes at the Body of Christ. There are people all around who need encouragement; and there are also those who have the ability to encourage us. Let’s identify the strands which God has placed in our life and then spend the necessary time to weave them into something strong and beautiful. Let’s strengthen His Body today by building unbreakable cords of encouragement.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Malachi 4:5-6

Malachi served as a prophet to Israel about four hundred years before the birth of Jesus. He brought a message from God which reminded the people of His love, and rebuked them for their disrespectful worship. But through Malachi, God ended the Old Testament with a prophesy about future restoration.
Malachi 4:5-6
“I will send you the prophet Elijah before that great and dreadful day of the Lord comes. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers; or else I will come and strike the land with a curse.”
Just over four hundred years later, John the Baptist, “the Elijah who was to come” (Matthew 11:14), began to preach a message of repentance. The purpose of John’s ministry was to prepare hearts for the coming of Jesus; “Prepare the way for the Lord” (Matthew 3:3). But according to Malachi, John would also cause the hearts of fathers and children to turn toward one another.
When the spiritual fellowship between man and God was broken, a basic void was formed in man’s heart which led to a breakdown in his earthly relationships. The moment we lost the ability to walk in perfect harmony with God, we also became filled with self-importance and pride, and lost the ability to truly love one another; “But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have {true} fellowship with one another” (1 John 1:7). Walking close to God, through faith in Jesus, allows us to walk close with others; “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).
God created us to be in fellowship with other people – even imperfect, hard to love people. Our quiet and peaceful times of study and prayer are essential for our Christian walk, but some of God’s most important truths can only be learned as we stumble through difficult situations with others. Only there can we learn the difficulty of true grace and forgiveness; only there can some of our own deep sin (like pride, jealousy, and anger) be revealed.
Many relationships are filled with past pain – particularly the relationships between husband and wife, and parent and child – but God’s Word still stands as truth. He has provided the path to restoration; a path which begins with repentance, requires the cleansing of sinful pride, and leads to true love and forgiveness.
Who do we need to reconcile with today? Full restoration requires the cooperation of both parties; but as a child of God, we can now cross the desert and begin to mend what is broken. Jesus died as a sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins in order that we may be reconciled with our Heavenly Father. He crossed ALL the way and completely mended our shattered heart! Let’s walk in the light of His love and take the necessary steps to cross over and humbly reconcile with one another.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Proverbs 27:21

The longer and closer we walk with God, the more we realize how He uses every opportunity to shape and mold us – to chip, file, and sand the rough edges – as we are gradually “conformed to the likeness of His Son” (Romans 8:29). This is His desire for everyone who trusts in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin.
We often learn through personal experience how our trials are used to teach us valuable lessons and refine us into Children of God with the character of Christ; “the testing of your faith develops perseverance” (James 1:3). Our trials teach us to persevere in the faith and to trust God with all our heart. But a more subtle refinement of our character occurs as we receive praise for who we are or for what we’ve accomplished.
Proverbs 27:21
“The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise he receives.”
This isn’t simply referring to how we verbally respond to a compliment; rather, it is the response of our heart which reveals our true belief and submission. God is the sovereign Creator and Lord of ALL! All our abilities and gifts were given by Him. He deserves ALL the praise and maintains the right to redirect us as He chooses. Our motivation must be our love for God and our desire to serve Him through all we do – it must never be driven by the praises of man.
The praise we receive from others is not an indication of God’s approval nor a valid measure of success. We take far too much ownership of accomplishments and most often we simply forget: “For who makes you different from anyone else? What do you have that you did not receive?” (1 Corinthians 4:7).
Every step of our journey must be established by God and accomplished in His strength. Every day there are those who refuse to turn to God because they fear the loss of status and praise; “they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved praise from men more than praise from God” (John 12:42-43). And every day there are those who are diverted in their walk because of a gluttonous desire to feed their pride-filled ego. Unrestrained pride will always choke our relationship with Jesus.
As we are transformed, we WILL begin to accomplish His work; “we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works” (Ephesians 2:10). But as praises come for the work we accomplish, we must present them to God for His approval and guidance. He may return the praise as a Heavenly blessing, but He may also dismiss it as an unnecessary distraction and ask us to walk in a new direction. Either way, we must continue to serve with an obedient and loving heart. Let’s be determined to never lose our focus as a result of being refined and tested by praise.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Revelation 2:4

The Church in Ephesus was established by the Apostle Paul and became one of the most prominent churches in the early days of Christianity. Paul ministered in Ephesus for three years (Acts 19:1-20), and a few years later wrote the church a special letter of encouragement and instruction (the book of Ephesians); “Ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers” (Ephesians 1:15).
The Ephesians were doing most things “right.” They had strong programs, an acute awareness of sin, and a work ethic which should characterize any thriving church: “I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked men, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. You have persevered and have endured hardships for My name, and have not grown weary” (Revelation 2:2-3).
The hard work of the Ephesian church was readily acknowledged; and yet, they had forgotten that “only one thing is {truly} needed” (Luke 10:42). Though they maintained an outward appearance of devotion, and may have actually accomplished many “Kingdom-driven” goals, the once burning love in their heart had begun to fade.
Revelation 2:4
“Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love.”
When we first understand the ugliness of our sin, the death our sin deserves, and how Jesus died to make us clean, we cannot help but be filled with thankfulness…and love. But sadly, in our attempt to “mature,” we often shift our focus to the “doing” of outward activities and forget the love which once consumed our heart. We may study more, attend more, and serve more (all of which are good), but we have forgotten how to simply be still and worship at His feet.
As we mature in Christ, we must never outgrow our ability to love; “Repent and do the things you did at first” (Revelation 2:5). Dear Lord, forgive us for setting up barriers which keep us from truly loving others. Forgive us for being so busy that we forsake our intimate love for You. And forgive us for trying to work for what You so freely give. Help us to always remember the MOST important!
Let’s return to the place of simple devotion – the place of true worship and all-consuming love. There will always be opportunities to express our faith in good works and service to God. These should not be neglected! But as we work hard, resist sin, and possibly endure great hardship, let’s remember that what Jesus truly desires is our heart. In the end, when we see Him face to face, He will look deep within and He will know us by our love.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Genesis 2:18

In the message “Stay Off The Roof” we saw how seemingly innocent beginnings can have disastrous results when we entertain even the slightest area of temptation. This becomes even more critical in marriage when the result of temptation can cause great pain to the one given to us as a gift from God.
By the middle of the sixth day, God had created the sun, moon and stars; the land, sky, and water; the fish, birds, plants and animals. And when He looked at His creation, “God saw that it was good” (Genesis 1:25). But God’s creation was not yet complete; “Then God said, ‘let us make man in our image’” (Genesis 1:26). Out of the dust of the ground God breathed life into man and put him in the Garden of Eden, “to work it and take care of it” (Genesis 2:15).
As God watched man go about his work, He saw that something was not right. Some have suggested that man looked a little sad; others have joked that man was making a big mess and kept wandering around, lost and confused. Whatever the cause, God looked at His latest creation and said:
Genesis 2:18
“It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Adam needed more than someone to help him with his chores; he needed someone to make him complete! So God formed woman, not from the ground but from a rib taken from Adam’s side; “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh” (Genesis 2:23).
If God gives us someone as a special gift to make us whole, they ought to be cherished and protected for a lifetime; “For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh” (Genesis 2:24). Like pieces of a puzzle that fit neatly together, a God-ordained marriage joins and completes by making two become one.
It’s sad how quickly we forget these basic truths as we continue to place our individual desires ahead of the union created by God. We walk on the roof of temptation without regard to the potential devastation. The result is often a civil war with years of spiritual bloodshed and an eventual ripping apart of what God has joined. We must stop this downward spiral before it even begins.
To the MANY singles, I pray that God would give you encouragement and strength; I pray He would be the true Helper I know you desperately need. To those who are married or planning to marry, I pray we would now and forevermore see our spouse as a true gift from God given to make us whole. I pray we would forever thank Him for joining us together and commit to the protection of the union. I pray we would always remember that when God provides our most suitable helper (and completer), the two become one flesh.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Romans 10:9 

In the message “He is Risen” we were encouraged to live as though we know Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. Please don’t skim past this encouragement because you think all Christians know this simple fact. The challenge is not in knowing the correct answer, but in living consistent with the answer in terms of thankfulness and perseverance – in living a life of hope and power. The following courtroom drama helps us understand the implications of a risen Lord.
The prosecution is aggressively presenting the case against us. There’s a parade of witnesses and a multitude of accusations flung our way. Our head hangs low. We sadly realize that no objection can be raised; every charge against us is true. Our heart sinks as the prosecution confidently concludes his case; he has demanded the maximum penalty – death!
Our defense attorney has sat silently through the entire proceeding, but now He rises. His white robe glides across the floor as He moves between us and the Judge. Stretching out His arms, He reveals deep scars on both His wrists. He looks into the eyes of the Judge and says: “Father, while they were in the midst of their crimes, I died so they may live.” Without a moment of hesitation, the gavel sounds and the Judge declares: “Not Guilty!”
The verdict in God’s courtroom is not dependent on the balance of good versus bad. There is no amount of good deeds and moral living that will ever cancel the charge against us; “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). And there is only one sentence we truly deserve; “For the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
But God has provided an Advocate, whom He has already approved by His resurrection, and who now stands ready to walk by our side; “We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense – Jesus Christ, the Righteous One” (1 John 2:1). This Advocate has only one requirement in order to present our case.
Romans 10:9
“If you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Believing in our heart means much more than simply knowing the story. It means a belief which pumps through every part of our body and gives us life! It means understanding that without Him we have no life!!
We need not live in fear! We can “approach the throne of grace with confidence” (Hebrews 4:16), because the verdict has already been determined; “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). When we believe, we are free to truly live because our debt has been paid in full!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Ruth 1:16-17 

Ruth lived in the land of Moab just east of Canaan. She was not an Israelite but she married one of the sons of Naomi who had recently moved to Moab from Judah because of a famine. After ten years, Ruth’s husband died. Naomi was going to return to her homeland and thought Ruth should remain with her people in Moab. But Ruth loved Naomi and desired to stay by her side.
Ruth 1:16-17
“Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried.”
Life back in Canaan was difficult for Naomi and Ruth. Without anyone to care for them, Ruth had to pick left over grain from the fields simply to have enough to eat. Fortunately, Jewish law made provisions for this type of charity to the poor. As a poor foreigner in a strange land, this was a very humbling time for Ruth.
After two harvesting seasons of faithfully gathering food for herself and Naomi, Ruth married Boaz who owned the field where she worked. They soon had a son, and Naomi was allowed to help care for the boy. Their life had suddenly, and wonderfully, improved. And though Ruth must have been relieved and pleased to have a son, imagine her amazement when she is allowed to look back and view the results of her life from God’s perspective.
Ruth’s husband, Boaz, was an Israelite from the tribe of Judah. Their son was named Obed: “He was the father of Jesse, the father of {King} David” (Ruth 4:17). From this same family line (fourteen generations later), Mary would give birth to a boy named Jesus.
Our view of God’s Kingdom is VERY limited. No matter how much we desire otherwise, there are simply pieces of the puzzle we are unable to fit together. While we walk this earth and breathe this air, we most likely will never see the purpose of our struggles. Yet, we must closely follow the One who leads and give ourselves wholeheartedly to each task we are given. We must learn to trust His perfect plan!
A shining light will always penetrate the darkness. And though we may not see the impact we have on others, one day we will stand with our Heavenly Father and rejoice as He reveals how we were used for His glorious purpose. One day we will watch our life unfold and clearly see the use of every helping hand, every encouraging word, and even every smile we shared in the midst of our trials. The shining light of our life has great meaning and purpose – true meaning and purpose which we will joyfully witness when we are allowed to look back from eternity.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Hebrews 12:28-29

Ice will turn to water at a temperature just above zero degrees centigrade. We might consider the water to be consumed as it turns to steam at one hundred degrees centigrade. Wood must be heated to a much higher temperature before it’s consumed, and metal must be heated even more. I wonder how much heat is required to finally consume the works of my flesh and burn away my selfishness and pride.
Hebrews 12:28-29
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.”
When we begin to understand the Kingdom we’ve inherited through Christ, we dare not enter His sanctuary with anything but pure praise and worship. Whatever else we attempt to bring is born in our flesh with a spirit of pride. If we say, “Look at what I’ve brought You, my Lord!” He will simply burn it to ash. We might protest, “But God, look at all I’ve done for You!” but the heat will be turned up until all we hold is consumed.
Is our greatest ambition to impact the world for Christ? Is our motivation to be significant in the eyes of God or become a major player in the advancement of His Kingdom? Beware! Though these sound good and have the appearance of being pleasing to God, they are conceived in pride and will be consumed.
We truly can bring Him NOTHING of worth except a pure heart; “All our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). Our greatest desire (our ONLY desire) must be to praise and worship the King through all we think, say, and do. All our striving to be obedient and produce good works – all of our “Godly” motivation and ambition – must flow simply as a direct outpouring of our worship.
If we are still trying to conquer something for Christ, we have not yet fully submitted to His leading nor found complete rest in His strength. Jesus came with all knowledge and power, and yet He walked with absolute surrender and submission; “the world must learn that I love the Father and that I do exactly what My Father has commanded Me” (John 14:31).
This is a daily challenge, one of the more subtle battles between the Spirit and the flesh. While we must strive, we must also remember that God does not need anything we produce. True fruit which pleases our Heavenly Father comes only as we “remain in the vine” (John 15:4), and love Him with all our heart.
The same fire that will one day burn all our righteous acts can be used today to cleanse our heart. Let’s come into His presence and worship with pure reverence and awe. Let’s allow every selfish desire and every fiber of pride to be burned away in His consuming fire.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

John 3:16

In the message “At The Lord’s Command” we saw how, for forty years in the desert, the Israelites moved or stayed based on the movement of God’s cloud. Being able to recognize God’s “cloud” and sense its movement is one of our great challenges. For this challenge there is no answer but to draw closer to God through prayer, study, and worship. He will reveal Himself if we will wait and place all our hope and trust in Him. But when we hear Him call, we must be prepared to look beyond our ability and trust He knows our strengths…and weaknesses.
After His death and resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples and many others. He called them to believe and tell the world of the truth. But with Peter, Jesus took time to speak directly and personally.
John 21:15a
“When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you truly love Me more than these?’”
Jesus used a word meaning absolute, unconditional love (agape). With one simple question, Jesus was forcing Peter to analyze his faith. Peter had previously stated: “Even if all fall away, I will not” (Mark 14:29), and even more boldly, “Even if I have to die with You, I will never disown You” (Mark 14:31).
And yet, Peter failed Jesus in the garden: “Are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour?” (Mark 14:37). Peter failed again when he denied Jesus three times – the third denial being violent: “Then he began to call down curses on himself and he swore to them, ‘I don’t know the man!’” (Matthew 26:74). Peter knew how his actions had fallen tragically short, so he now said his love was more of a deep affection – a brotherly love (fileo).
Jesus continued His questioning until Peter finally replied; “You know all things, You know that I love You” (John 21:17b). In this statement, Peter was humbly saying that Jesus knew from experience his level of love…or his lack! But even with a complete understanding of Peter’s weaknesses, Jesus still called: “Follow Me!” (John 21:19). Jesus had a plan for Peter that would not be hindered by Peter’s failures.
As we grow to a better understanding of God’s love, we will ultimately face how small our love is by comparison. But let’s take comfort that God knew our weaknesses when He called us into His Kingdom. He has a wonderful plan and will always provide what we lack in order to accomplish all He desires. There is nothing hidden from God. He knows everyone He calls; so let’s boldly follow, in spite of our weaknesses!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Deuteronomy 11:17-20

In the message “Guard The Good Deposit” we saw the importance of protecting what God places on our heart. He often gives us moments of Divine intimacy as a taste of the life He desires for us – a life of continual passion for God; a life where all our thoughts, words, and deeds become an act of worship.
As these moments fade, we either take definite steps to follow God’s call, or we allow our heart to slowly drift away. The nature of this world is to pull us from what God desires and cause us to forget He has even called. So how do we really “guard” what God has given and truly accept His invitation to draw near?
Deuteronomy 11:17-20
“Fix these words of Mine in your hearts and minds; tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gate.”
When God called the children of Israel, He knew they would face the same difficulties we face today: “Be careful, or you will be enticed to turn away and worship other gods and bow down to them” (Deuteronomy 11:16). He said the values of the world must never distract from our primary duty to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (Deuteronomy 6:5).
God told His chosen people that the best way to remain near to Him was to remain near to His Word through disciplined reading, teaching, discussing, and applying. When our lives are completely immersed in His Word, the “enticements” of the world lose their power and no longer pull us from God’s path.
But His desire was never for us to stop with outward disciplines. While disciplines are somewhat useful in themselves, the desired end is always for His Word to be written on our heart and for our thoughts to remain with Him all through our day! Only as He is allowed to truly live through us will our lives become a complete sacrifice of worship.
If this is the life we desire, then we must begin with a disciplined approach to God’s Word. We must become immersed in His Word such that His truth becomes a part of every portion of our day. God will soon reward us with a more intimate relationship as His Word becomes written on our heart and our thoughts turn more toward Christ. The world will still try to pull us away, but it will no longer succeed; for we will be walking in His Presence and will have learned how to guard His deposit.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Hebrews 12:1 

In January, 2004, I ran a marathon in Phoenix Arizona. I’ll spare you some of the painful details of running out of energy at the twenty mile point and being passed in the last mile by a 65 year old woman. I learned many lessons that day, but the thing that struck me the most was how the cheering crowd helped me to run faster and farther than I thought possible. The 26 mile course was lined with thousands upon thousands of people. No one except my dear family knew my name, but they were ALL shouting words of encouragement.
Our journey with the Lord is like a marathon in many ways. We must maintain a disciplined training program to ensure we are prepared. The race itself can be long and hard – there will be times we run out of energy and want to quit – but crossing the finish line will be more rewarding than anything we can imagine! And along the way, we will certainly learn to appreciate the encouragement we receive from the cheering crowd.
Hebrews 12:1
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
This verse follows what we often refer to as The Great Hall of Faith. The eleventh chapter of Hebrews describes many people from the Old Testament who were commended for their faith: Able, Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Gideon, Samson, David, and many others.
At the end of this impressive list, we read that even though they were faithful, “none of them received what had been promised” (Hebrews 11:39). Their reward was postponed until the coming of Jesus; “God had planned something better for us so that only together with us would they be made perfect” (Hebrews 11:40). The testimony of the faithful is meant to give us great encouragement. It’s as if they are cheering us on with great anticipation, knowing that one day we will be “caught up together with them” (1 Thessalonians 4:17) to receive our eternal reward.
This cloud of witnesses now also includes the testimony of New Testament believers as well as Christians throughout the last 2000 years. It also includes Brothers and Sisters who love us and pray for us today. As we run the race and sometimes grow weary – sometimes even stumble and fall – these witnesses continue to cheer and encourage our every step; “You can do it, I believe in you! And if you stumble, I’ll help you back up!!”
We can run faster and farther than we think! Yes, the race is long and sometimes difficult, but we’re definitely not alone. Let’s run with renewed perseverance; and when we become discouraged, let’s listen for the cheers from the great cloud of witnesses!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

1 John 5:10

God desires that we know Him in an intimate and personal relationship. He has therefore revealed Himself and provided a way to know Him through the life and sacrifice of His Son; “Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father… Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me?” (John 14:9-10). As we grow in our faith and begin to know Him better, it becomes essential to know the promises of His Word. But it’s even more important to believe His promises are true! We may say we believe God’s Word is true, but do our actions reflect our belief?

1 John 5:10

“Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Anyone who does not believe God has made Him out to be a liar, because he has not believed the testimony God has given about His Son.”

Yes, our old nature sometimes clouds our ability to clearly see the truth; and yes, some of God’s truths can be hard to accept and actually put into practice. But, we either believe His words and begin to take steps to apply them in our life, or we do not believe and call God a liar by the way we live.

It may be a difficult process, but we must confront our beliefs and begin to make them real. When we face a trial and don’t know which direction to turn, do we believe the words, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6)? Do we really believe that as we trust Him, He will remove the confusion and guide our steps?

When our circumstances seem out of control, do we believe “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28)? Do we really believe that as we continue to love Him, God works for the good in ALL things, regardless of our understanding? And when we feel alone, do we really believe God’s promise to always be near; “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).

How about the promise of being content (Philippians 4:12), or being given the peace of Jesus (John 14:27), or the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23); can we really “do everything through Him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13)? Parents, have we given up hope for our children or do we believe, “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it” (Proverbs 22:6)?

God’s Word is true and His promises are real!! Let’s praise Him all the rest of our days and let our lives demonstrate we REALLY know and believe. Let’s make sure our actions and decisions, fears and anxieties, hopes and dreams, are governed by truth and NOT based on calling God a liar.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Ephesians 1:16-17

When a child is born into a family, there is almost an instant bond of love. The parent and child spend LOTS of time together and truly begin to know each other. The parent knows the needs of the child, and the child knows the parent as the provider of comfort and security. 
But as the child grows, other activities and friends begin to limit time together. In the search for independence, there is often rebellion toward parental instruction and counsel. Soon, the parent and child drift apart and no longer communicate as they once had – they sadly cease to know one another. 
Ephesians 1:16-17
“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know Him better.” 
Notice this is Paul’s continuous prayer, that we be given revelation and wisdom. Revelation is the unveiling of God’s truth and wisdom is the application of His truth in our lives. Both of these are necessary and serve the single purpose of knowing Him better. 
As we continue in our relationship with Jesus Christ, there is a tendency to hit those spiritual teenage years where we have things pretty well figured out – or so we think. We begin to gain “self” confidence and trust in our own ability. We get more involved in activities (maybe even “good” activities) and with friends (maybe even “good” friends), but one day we wake and find we’ve drifted. We didn’t intentionally walk away, but there is a definite loss of passion – we no longer really know God. 
As a loving father longs to hold his children, our Heavenly Father longs for us to draw near and know Him; “Let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows Me” (Jeremiah 9:24). The Bible always speaks about knowing someone as a very personal and loving relationship; “Adam knew his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain” (Genesis 4:1 KJV). Jesus even defined eternal life as a state of knowing; “Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent” (John 17:3). 
The road back to a restored relationship begins with spending time together. No matter how busy we get we must continue to humbly come into the presence of God, confess the sin which causes separation, fellowship with Him in prayer and the quiet study of His Word, and listen intently for His direction. Let’s commit (or recommit) to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength; and let’s be determined to take the necessary steps to draw near and know Him better.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

 In the message “Faith to Move Mountains” we saw that, though our faith may appear small, all genuine believers in Jesus Christ have the faith to move any and all mountains which stand between us and a close relationship with our Heavenly Father. HOWEVER…Not all trials represent mountains which must be moved! Many things we view as obstacles are perfectly aligned with God’s plan. This can definitely be a difficult and unpopular message!

Our Christian walk never promises freedom from trouble. In fact, Jesus promised us just the opposite; “In this world you will have trouble” (John 16:33a). Fortunately, Jesus immediately followed these words with a message of hope; “But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33b). Though trials may come and remain much longer than we’d like, we can still be set free by abiding in The One who has overcome.
The Apostle Paul had many trials during his ministry: “Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea” (2 Corinthians 11:24-25). But Paul was able to keep his trials in proper perspective by focusing on what was eternally relevant; “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18).
Toward the end of his ministry Paul was arrested for the “offense” of preaching the gospel. While awaiting trial in Rome, Paul spent two years under the guard of a Roman soldier and wrote a wonderful letter of encouragement to the Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4). Though he was confined, Paul allowed himself to be used by God to encourage many others toward an increase in their faith.
Philippians 1:14
“Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.”
Every time we experience a trial, the world watches to see the substance of our faith. Often, there is no better witness than to continue to trust and praise in the middle of our own trials. The best way to show that God is real is by making Him real in our own life.
Let’s take a new look at our trials. Some are truly mountains which must be moved; but others are simply the chains we must patiently endure for the sake of the gospel. Let’s turn what the enemy meant for harm into something which glorifies God. Let’s encourage others to draw nearer to a loving Father as we praise Him with all our heart…in spite of our chains.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

1 Peter 1:23 

In the message “Scatter The Seed” we considered our call to “scatter” God’s Word to as many people as possible without becoming preoccupied with the condition of the soil. We also saw how our technique or ability had little to do with yielding a spiritual harvest; all growth is by the grace of God and we must simply be faithful farmers who plant the seed.However, we are definitely responsible for the type of seed we are planting. The deceptive enemy of this world is very good at helping and encouraging us to plant weeds, and seeds which never bear fruit. It does no good to scatter seed which has no hope of germination and growth.
As we walk out into the field, we must remember that God’s message of Salvation is not about a new set of regulations; we are not saved by trying extra hard to live according to God’s commandments. His commands are an essential guide for our spiritual walk, but no amount of obedience will ever result in the transformation which identifies us as a child of God. Our effort will never yield eternal life and we hinder the harvest when we spread such a message!
When Jesus was talking with Nicodemus, He said, “no one can see the Kingdom of God unless he is born again” (John 3:3). He then said this second birth is not of the flesh but of the Spirit. When we believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sin, God’s grace gives us a spiritual birth as a new creation; “The old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Peter wrote to those who already believed in Jesus. They had been “born again” and had become “new creations” in Christ, but they had come under great persecution for their faith. Peter encouraged them (and us) to remember the eternal nature of our second birth.
1 Peter 1:23
“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring Word of God.”
Our first birth resulted in our physical bodies – praise God! But, one day, these earthly vessels in which we live are guaranteed to run down and stop functioning – we were birthed of a perishable seed. In contrast, our second birth is of a seed which does not perish – a seed which results in eternal life.
We must never settle for a “good” life or allow our message to stop with good morals and “right” living. These are also perishable seeds which will fade away and lead to death. True life which is abundant and eternal is only found by His grace through faith in the forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Let’s plant a true message of our need to be born again by ensuring we always scatter imperishable seed.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Matthew 14:33 

Immediately after feeding five thousand men, plus women and children, with five loaves of bread and two fish, “Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of Him to the other side” (Matthew 14:22). The disciples had begun to cross the Sea of Galilee when a storm arose which caused them to “strain against the oars” (Mark 6:48). It was the middle of the night, and after already rowing about three and a half miles they found themselves fighting against the wind and waves. 
Why had this happened? The disciples had done exactly what Jesus told them to do and now they were facing a major struggle. They had clearly heard and obeyed but they were still confronting a very difficult situation. The story continued as Jesus walked on the water, called Peter out of the boat to join Him, and then miraculously calmed the storm. But couldn’t the struggles have been avoided by telling the disciples to simply wait until morning to travel? 
This wasn’t the first time the disciples faced a storm with Jesus. During a prior boat ride, Jesus had been asleep when the storm arose: “The disciples went and woke Him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’” (Matthew 8:25). When Jesus calmed the wind and waves of this first storm, the disciples asked each other “What kind of man is this?” (Matthew 8:27). During the first crisis, the disciples saw Jesus as an amazing man. But now, in the middle of the night, when Jesus again calmed the storm, the disciples began to understand. 
Matthew 14:33
“Then those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘Truly You are the Son of God.’” 
As was the case with the disciples, Jesus often sends us into a storm for the purpose of revealing Himself and drawing us closer to His side. While in the middle of a storm, we can see God’s love and witness His ability to protect, strengthen, and guide. “These {storms} have come so that your faith – of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire – may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed” (1 Peter 1:7). 
Our Father loves us very much. He loves us enough to give us His Son as a sacrifice for our sin; enough to give us His Spirit as our guide; enough to never leave us, and enough to finish the good work He began in our lives. Let’s receive His love and learn to rejoice in ALL things. Let’s learn to look with new eyes and see His hand working around us each and every day. Let’s praise Him and look for new revelations of His love, even as we are sent into the storm.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Several years ago I went to the store to buy four small bricks I needed to complete a project in the backyard. Nothing special, just four bricks; and after considering the selection I decided on a charcoal black which cost a little more than the standard red brick. The store was busy with several long lines of shoppers intent on completing projects before the end of the day. I chose a line and waited my turn.
The lines moved slowly and there seemed to be an impatient tension all around. When it came my turn, the clerk quickly computed the price and took my money. As I received my change, I felt something was wrong. And as I stepped toward the door, I knew I had been charged a lower price.
My mind knew a mistake had been made, but my feet kept walking out the door and toward my car. I knew I should have revealed the mistake, but my mind raced into high gear justifying my inaction: “I don’t want to make others wait while the correction is made!” “The mistake is small – little more than the cost of a bar of candy.” “The profit from my other purchases during the year will certainly make up for this small loss.” It’s amazing how easy it was to find reasons to keep walking.
Fortunately, my conscience began to counter my rationalization; and by the time I reached my car, that small inner voice was screaming at me to correct the error – and correct it NOW! I walked back into the store, waited in another long line, pointed to the error, and paid the extra money. My conscience hasn’t always been so sensitive – and I confess, it’s not always so sensitive now – but on this day it was, and I praise God!
Acts 24:16
“I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.”
God has created us all with a conscience deep within our soul. At a very young age our conscience helps us maneuver the complex path of right and wrong. And when we place our trust in Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, we are given the Holy Spirit who ignites our conscience and guides us toward the presence of God and a life of holiness.
But when we ignore the prompting of the Holy Spirit, our conscience slowly becomes burned. The burning usually begins small – a little lie, a small deception – but over time, our conscience can become “seared as with a hot iron” (1 Timothy 4:2). Then, when needed in a time of great temptation, there is no “inner voice” to keep us from falling. Our conscience is a precious gift, and it’s hard to believe I nearly damaged such a gift in exchange for such a small amount of money.
Is our conscience sensitive to the prompting of the Spirit, or has it developed a hard crust. Let’s live so that all areas of our life bring Him glory and honor. In ALL we do, let’s listen intently, obey completely, and protect God’s wonderful gift as we strive to maintain a clear conscience.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Luke 15:31

The parable of the prodigal son contains so many practical lessons on relationships (particularly for parents) that we often forget Jesus spoke this parable in response to an accusation from the Pharisees; “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). The message of the prodigal son is really about our Heavenly Father who rejoices every time a “sinner” turns their heart to Him in repentance. But why did Jesus talk about TWO sons? What was the message of the son who remained at home?
He was the son who quietly watched his younger brother make disrespectful demands on his father; “Give me my share of the estate” (Luke 15:12). He was the son who stayed at home to work the fields while his brother “squandered his wealth in wild living” (Luke 15:13). And he was the son who became angry with his father and refused to celebrate his brother’s return: “All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders. Yet you never gave me even a young goat” (Luke 15:29).
This was the son who walked the straight and narrow – walked the path of disciplined obedience – but he missed his opportunity to receive true blessings as he walked.
Luke 15:31
“‘My son,’ the father said, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.’”
The son had been “slaving” in the hope of a future blessing, but his heart was not joyfully serving. He missed the real blessing of walking with his father and having free access to everything his father owned.
As believers in the saving grace of Jesus Christ, we understand that people can be saved at any point in their life – regardless of past sins. The thief on the cross received his Salvation only moments before he died. But there is always part of us that cries “foul!” Somehow it doesn’t seem fair when others have worked so hard for so long.
This attitude shows we also have missed the blessing of walking with our Lord. Heaven is never a reward for “obedient” living; it is a free gift to those who believe in Jesus. We should never feel we are “slaving” under the burden of His commands in order to earn His favor. Rather, we are to joyfully follow because we know that only in Him is there true peace, true contentment…true blessings!
Let’s follow our Lord with a firm perspective of eternity; but let’s never become so focused on the future that we miss the blessings given to us today – the blessings of the journey! Let’s renew our joy at being allowed to walk every day with our Heavenly Father and rejoice whenever a repentant heart returns home. Let’s never make the sad mistake of living the burdened life of the other son.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Romans 11:33-36

As I look back through the Scriptural account of history, I can see how God sent His Son to be born in a manger, grow and live among us, and die for our sins upon a cross. I can clearly see how the sacrifice of Jesus allows us, through faith, to enter into God’s presence. I can even see the purpose of His humble birth as a permanent example of humility and service. But what I don’t think I’ll ever fully understand is why. Oh, sure, I know the reason is love; “For God so loved the world that He gave…” (John 3:16), but I seriously doubt I’ll ever understand the amount of love required to sacrifice so much – the amount of love He had (and has)…for me!
Paul wrote his letter to the Romans with the intent of setting foundational beliefs for the church. In this letter, Paul presented the greatest amount of teaching found anywhere in the Bible. Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Paul wrote on topics ranging from sin and judgement, to faith and salvation; from the purpose of the Law and life through the Spirit, to the sovereignty of God and the future of Israel. But toward the end of the letter, Paul paused and wrote a short prayer of praise and glory.
Romans 11:33-36
“Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out! Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor? Who has ever given to God, that God should repay Him? For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.”
We almost get the feeling that Paul had reviewed the first portion of his letter and just couldn’t continue writing without praising the Lord. Paul had wrestled through many difficult issues and learned a most valuable lesson: God is God…and sometimes this simple truth defies understanding.
God has a perfect plan where every piece fits neatly together; but there are MANY connections which our finite minds fail to comprehend. I almost never see the purpose of my trials until long after they have past. I get impatient and frustrated with God’s timing – I want to know His plan, now! And yet, I know His love for me gave everything; “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross!” (Philippians 2:8). I may not fully understand this love, but the little I know is enough to create a desire to live a life of devotion and faith. One day, I will stand before His throne and all His mysteries will be perfectly revealed. Until then I will simply continue to worship and trust.
We may never fully understand, but I pray we are all drawn a little closer today. If you have never experienced His love, I pray that you will release your heart into His care. If you’re feeling unloved by the world, I pray you will look to Him and see a Father who gave His Son so He could hold you for all eternity. He is an unsearchable God who has poured out, for you, an unsearchable love.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Psalm 46:1-3

In these times of great uncertainty – with concern about things like war, terrorism, and the economy – let’s always remember, our Heavenly Father is the Creator of the Universe. He formed the Heavens and the Earth out of nothing; and, as we place our trust in Him, He has given a basic promise: “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). His desire is for us to draw nearer in our love and worship, and allow His Spirit to remove all fear. 
Psalm 46:1-3
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.” 
Although we are uncertain what tomorrow may bring, we ought to have confidence in the One who really controls tomorrow. If we believe Jesus died for our sin, rose again in victory over death, and is seated at the right hand of the Father – if we surrender our life to who He is and what He has done – our eternal home has been firmly established; “Our citizenship is in Heaven” (Philippians 3:20). As a child of the Sovereign King, as one who believes in our eternal future, we no longer have reason to fear; “For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship” (Romans 8:15). 
We no longer have a reason, but still we fear. The unknown is scary and makes us feel out of control. But as we pray for an end to violence, and as we strive to make this world safer, better educated, and more prosperous, we must understand there is only one true solution to our fear. 
Our fear will only be removed as we love the Lord with ALL our heart, soul, mind and strength. When we understand that our life is not our own, we will love with a complete abandonment to His desire. We will pray and live each day with the surrender demonstrated by Christ; “Father…not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). As we live each day to bring Him glory and honor, fear WILL begin to fade: “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear” (1 John 4:18). 
Yes, these days contain some uncertainty. If we continue to focus on what we can see, there will always be uncertainties. But our faith, hope, and joy are in His eternal glory, not in this world which will one day pass away. Let’s refuse to let our fear of the unknown cripple our service for God. There is still much work He has for us to do. Let’s pray that our love will increase, that our worship will intensify, and that we will boldly stand up and proclaim, “We will not fear!”
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

2 Chronicles 15:12,15

By Steve T. on January 10, 2012

In the message “An Unknown God” we were encouraged to live a life of sincere love and faithful service while we worship a God we truly know and adore. But this type of consistent life, where our daily activities match what we profess to believe, does not come easy or initially feel natural. Living such a life requires a firm commitment and a determined perseverance.
King Asa was the great-grandson of Solomon and led the southern kingdom of Judah about 900 years before Christ. He began his reign with ten years of peace because he “did what was right in the eyes of the Lord his God” (2 Chronicles 14:2). Asa took definite action to remove the idols and places of false worship from the country and commanded his people to “seek the Lord and to obey His commands” (2 Chronicles 14:4).
When Judah was invaded by a foreign army, Asa realized he was greatly outnumbered with little hope of victory. As he went into battle, his faith was strengthened while calling on God: “Help us, O Lord our God, for we rely on You, and in Your name we have come against this vast army. O Lord, You are our God; do not let man prevail against You” (2 Chronicles 14:11).
After God granted them victory on the battlefield, the people gathered in Jerusalem to solidify their commitment by making a covenant to follow God.
2 Chronicles 15:12,15
“They entered into a covenant to seek the Lord with all their heart and soul. All Judah rejoiced about the oath because they had sworn it wholeheartedly. They sought God eagerly, and He was found by them.”
Every child of God has a deep hunger for a more committed life. Once we have answered God’s call and begun our journey with Him, we will not truly be at peace until His praise fills every area of our life. But this requires we establish priorities which allow us to actually spend time getting to know Him, His ways and His love.
Our Heavenly Father longs for us to abide in His presence: He rejoices when He is found by those who seek Him in a committed life of worship. He even promises to help those who begin down a committed path; “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).
Our time on this earth is very, very short. Let’s not waste another day by aimlessly wandering through life, allowing the concerns of this world to choke off our relationship with God. Let’s live with purpose and eagerly commit to seek Him with all our heart and soul – to seek Him “wholeheartedly.” Let’s make the decision today to enter into an eternal covenant of worship.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Romans 6:20-22

 We often consider our need to more fully submit our life to God and the leading of His Spirit – to place our life in His hands and release our “self” control. We desire to be in His perfect will and serve Him with all our heart. But does our desire to serve go so far as to consider ourselves a slave?

Romans 6:20-22

“When you were slaves to sin, you were free from the control of righteousness. What benefit did you reap at that time from the things you are now ashamed of? Those things result in death! But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.”

Slavery has many negative connotations; but, in truth, we are all born into slavery…born a slave to sin. The only way to be set free from the mastery of sin and death is to ask for a transfer of ownership and become a slave to God. Our new Master then has the grace and power to shatter the bonds of sin and give us the gift of true freedom. We are never free unto ourselves, never our own master. Many live under the illusion of freedom, but we are either a slave to sin or a slave to God. If we refuse to be directed by God, we will absolutely be directed and controlled by the sinful pulls of the world.

If we are struggling to break the bondage of sin, we must first stop fighting and submit our life to God. Sin is not a battle we can win with our own strength! The only way to be set free is to receive forgiveness through faith in Jesus…and submit. Submission is not just an optional step for the “mature” Christian; rather, it is the essence of a saving faith. A saving faith first understands we cannot save ourselves but must submit to the grace of God. It then continues in submission by daily trusting in His grace to live according to the ways of His Spirit.

Romans 8:5-6

“Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace.”

God is sending out His call around the world today. In the stillness of our heart we’ve heard Him call us to a closer and more intimate relationship – a more consistently submitted life of true devotion and praise. But He is requiring us to make a choice: “Choose this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15). We have been offered freedom from the power of sin and death. Let’s fully embrace His gift, submit to the leading of His Spirit, continue to submit at every opportunity, worship Him with all our heart, and forever become…His devoted slave.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel

God’s Daily Word Ministries

In the message “Protection of Truth” we saw that loving the truth of God is our protection against the deceptive attacks of the enemy. By knowing the truth, we can recognize the lies of “worldly wisdom,” and continue along God’s path without painful detours into the weeds. But we must be willing to faithfully apply the truth in all areas of our life and share the truth with others at every opportunity.
Prior to the final invasion of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, God spoke through Jeremiah to warn the people of their coming destruction and their need to repent. Needless to say, this was not a popular message and Jeremiah was not a welcomed prophet. But there were other self-proclaimed prophets who provided a much more comfortable message. These prophets made people feel good by telling them what they wanted to hear – telling them they could continue down their same path without fear. But God warned about falling into their seductive trap of false security.
Jeremiah 23:16-17
“Do not listen to what the prophets are prophesying to you; they fill you with false hopes. They speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord. They keep saying to those who despise Me, ‘The Lord says: You will have peace.’ And to all who follow the stubbornness of their hearts they say, ‘No harm will come to you.’”
The ministry of encouragement is a vital part of our Christian walk. We all face valleys and need encouragers to provide a lift. And since we know there are many others who are walking through valleys today, we should encourage in every way possible; “Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today!” (Hebrews 3:13).
However, in our zeal to encourage and build up, we must never compromise by presenting a message which falls short of the absolute truth. We must never present an “all is well” message if all is not well. When God’s children wander from His path and plant themselves amongst the weeds, there must be someone willing to “gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance” (2 Timothy 2:25).
Our task as an encourager is not always to make others comfortable or to deliver a pleasing message; we are not called to tell people “what their itching ears want to hear” (2 Timothy 4:3). Rather, our task is to “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15). We never help when we make someone comfortable with sin.
The absolute best encouragement we can give is to help someone have a right relationship with their Heavenly Father through a surrendered faith in Jesus Christ. God’s truth can and will set us free (John 8:32)! Let’s encourage in every way possible; but let’s make certain we always encourage with a message of truth!
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Acts 20:24 

   Paul was returning to Jerusalem at the end of his third and final missionary journey. By this time in his ministry, Paul had been a Christian for nearly twenty years. Twenty years since Jesus called Paul, “My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Twenty years of faithful service, and now… “In every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me” (Acts 20:23).

Paul was returning home, but his life was not going to be easy. He knew there were many trials ahead, but his life had a purpose far beyond his immediate surroundings.

Acts 20:24

“I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.”

It was several more years before Paul wrote; “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation” (Philippians 4:12); yet here, when facing certain hardship, Paul showed he had already learned the secret. The particular circumstances in Paul’s life had become of minor importance. He knew his contentment was not based on current events, but on bringing glory and honor to God. His life had a wonderful purpose even in the face of great adversity and harsh conditions.

We were all created for the same purpose as Paul – we were created to bring glory and honor to God! Our specific tasks may differ and change from time to time, but we each have the same unchanging purpose. Everything we do, say, and think should bring glory and honor to our Heavenly Father!

God’s race is run in the deepest part of our heart, not in the flurry of activity. Running well is not defined by doing more; rather, we run a “successful” race as we do every little task we are given with the complete and absolute devotion of our heart.

His race is long and often difficult. There are many distractions which seek to slow us down and even pull us from the track; and at times we may even wonder why we’re running. But being a participant in God’s eternal race is infinitely more rewarding than standing on the sidelines and simply watching! He has called us to run – and to run well!!

We must run the path God places before us with all the strength He provides, and within the sure and calming protection of His grace. Let’s run with the motivation of bringing Him glory and honor by loving Him with ALL our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Let’s continue to run well, and with a burning desire to finish the race.

Have a Christ Centered Day!

Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

1 Corinthians 9:22

The Apostle Paul was a pillar of strength who saw the ways of God more clearly than any other individual. He had a unique boldness in his message because he had received the gospel directly from God: “The gospel I preached is not something that man made up. I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:11-12).
There is no doubt that Paul had a special blessing from God: “This man {Paul} is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15). But if Paul would have remained attached to this highly favored position of strength and superior knowledge, his ministry would have been severely limited.
1 Corinthians 9:22
“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.”
Paul was so devoted to preaching the Gospel that he could humbly minister to anyone! He was determined to reach every person God placed in his path – even if this meant lowering himself and becoming weak.
We must be careful to understand that weakness does not mean we engage in sin! God NEVER asks us to violate His commands in order to accomplish His will; we never need to sin in order to reach someone with the gospel. Rather, becoming weak means showing compassion without regard to a person’s status; it means having the “strength” to walk beside the weak, who may be living in terrible sin, and minister the love of Jesus without condemnation. Godly weakness means showing grace to others because we understand the grace we’ve been given.
As we minister to the lost – as we touch those without Christ – our message must focus on His saving grace. Without Jesus we are ALL lost and on our way to an eternal damnation; “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). We must never forget this basic truth. We must never let our position in Christ cloud the message of the cross. We have been saved and set free; “He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness” (Colossians 1:13). But now that we are free, we need to understand that the world around us is in desperate need of this same gracious Savior.
We each have a message to share – a message which can encourage and be used to draw others to faith in Jesus. Let’s begin to share this message with ALL. Let’s begin to step outside our select and “comfortable” group – outside the group we relate to and claim to understand. The Good News of Jesus is a precious life-saving gift! Let’s begin to share this gift with ALL – by ALL possible means.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Acts 15:37-39 

In the message “The Example of Barnabas” we saw how Barnabas played an essential role in Paul’s ministry. He boldly introduced Paul to the apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 9:27), and then searched for Paul when he had fled Jerusalem to his home town of Tarsus (Acts 11:25-26). After taking Paul to Antioch, Barnabas remained with him for several years while they encouraged the church…and each other.
Being an encourager was a way of life for Barnabas. His name was originally Joseph, but prior to even meeting Paul, the apostles had begun to call him “Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement)” (Acts 4:36). Barnabas was able to evaluate other people according to their ability in Christ – an ability determined by the strength of Jesus and not hindered by past failures. This allowed Barnabas to see great potential where others saw only weakness, and to encourage when others had given up.
Barnabas went with Paul on his first missionary journey where they jointly proclaimed the name of Jesus wherever they went. Another young man, named Mark, began this first missionary journey but then turned back (Acts 13:13). This apparent lack of perseverance bothered Paul so much that when he began his second missionary trip he refused to take Mark along.
Acts 15:37-39
“Barnabas wanted to take John, also called Mark, with them, but Paul did not think it wise to take him, because he had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in the work. They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus.”
Barnabas saw the Christ-given potential in young Mark and encouraged him as he had done with Paul many years before. As a result, Mark matured in his ministry and faithfully continued in his service to Jesus. He ministered along side the Apostle Peter (1 Peter 5:13), was reunited with Paul (Colossians 4:10, Philemon 24), and later wrote an account of the life of Jesus – the Gospel of Mark.
The early church faced many difficulties – many opportunities for discouragement – but God used Barnabas to strengthen those who had been called to the front lines of battle. We can’t all stand up and preach in front of large crowds or travel as missionaries to foreign lands, but we ALL have the ability to encourage those whom God places in our path.
The world is full of people crying out for someone to care for and believe in them. Individual lives can be changed, families can be restored, entire communities and even nations can be turned toward God, if each of us will encourage others to draw closer to our Heavenly Father, to love Him more, and to trust Him with all their heart. Let’s share the love of Jesus and effectively minister by seeing others, and then taking action, as a Son of Encouragement.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

James 1:2-4

In the message “Their Field of Pigs” we considered the parable of the prodigal son and were encouraged to remember that God will use every tool available (even pigs) to draw His children Home. Our highest desire for those who are lost must be to see them secure in the arms of God. Notice that in this parable there’s no mention of the father between the time the son left and when he returned home. The father appears to have watched his son leave and then simply waited for his return.
But the father must have known of his son’s condition while away; “this son of mine was dead and is alive again” (Luke 15:24). There must have been many reports of the son’s activities which were openly discussed with the rest of the family: “The older brother became angry…’this son of yours who has squandered your property with prostitutes comes home’” (Luke 15:28,30). And yet, while the son was away, the father never once stepped in to “rescue” him.
Was the father lazy and uncaring? Was this simply the product of a macho culture that didn’t show much emotion? Or rather, was this a father who truly knew how God’s grace could work a difficult situation toward a wonderful good?
James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
We often reference this passage during times of personal trial. These verses encourage us to understand the purpose of our difficult times and to trust God so fully that we actually rejoice because we know He is using our trials to make us complete.
Many of us understand and at least try to apply these verses in our own life. But it’s an additional step of faith (a very big step) to trust and apply these verses in the life of others – especially those we dearly love. If we are to rejoice in our own trials because of the good being worked within us, there is also a sense in which we should rejoice in the trials of others.
As painful as it must have been, the father allowed God to complete His work – even though it meant his son would actually long to eat with the pigs! And yes, this father loved his son.
When someone we love goes astray, let’s continue to lift them up in prayer – always let them know they are loved and continually speak a gentle message of truth. Let’s NEVER give up hope, but let’s allow God to finish the glorious work He’s begun. Let’s trust Him above ALL else and love enough to let go.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries

Psalm 27:8

In the message “Dressed For Battle” we considered how we all face an enemy who seeks to engage us in battle each and every day. The attacks are deceptive, but extremely methodical, as the enemy tries to pull, push, and lure us off the path of following after Christ. We then saw how our best defense against such attacks is to get properly dressed by putting on the full armor of God; “so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13).
The next natural question to ask is, “How do I put on the armor of God?” Though we may recognize the usefulness of God’s armor, it will never do us any good unless we actually know how to put it on.
Psalm 27:8
“My heart says of You, ‘Seek His face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.”
The armor of God is only available to those who diligently “Seek His face!”; to those who have given Him the totality of their life through a submissive faith in Jesus Christ. The armor of God is not a self-help formula to keep us protected and focused as we advance in the world’s system; it’s a covering of protection God provides as we enter into His presence and are reminded of His truth, faithfulness, and majesty.
Getting dressed for battle is therefore never a spiritual checklist or routine set of prayers. We receive His armor – in effect, He dresses us – as we humble ourselves and come before Him in prayer with a heart that desires to follow wherever He leads. Our Heavenly Father will never let us enter our daily battles without proper protection if we are diligent in seeking Him; “The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing” (Psalm 34:10).
How often should we seek Him? Well, how often do we wish to be naked when the enemy attacks? Getting dressed is not a one-time Salvation event nor even just a first thing in the morning event. We must put on His armor and keep it on throughout our day by developing the priority and habit of constant communion with God; “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). His protection against the enemy comes only as we enter and remain in His presence.
The attacks will surely come, but they need not be feared if we are properly dressed. Let’s learn to walk and minister in this world without ever leaving the presence of the Lord. Let’s seek Him in all we do and live each moment with the protection of His armor.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries