It's Day 25 and we're in 1 Thessalonians 3.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 9 - As a pastor, I get this. The joy of seeing those in your church family grow is a big deal.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
60IN60 Day 24 - Wed Jul 30
It's Day 24 and we're in 1 Thessalonians 2.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - As a pastor, I get this. You so want to see your congregation grow spiritually.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - As a pastor, I get this. You so want to see your congregation grow spiritually.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
60IN60 Day 23 - Tues Jul 29
It's Day 23 and we're in 1 Thessalonians 1.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 5 - I want to see that power.
Help:
- Verse 6 - Not that Paul was perfect, but he was trying to authentically model a true spiritual life.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- "That is a very difficult book!! Those chapters were not captivating to me. I may need to find a quiet place and re-read those." - Yes, Genesis is a difficult book. Unlike much of the reading in the New Testament where the point is explicitly laid out, in the Old Testament it is mostly story and so we have to look in the story to see where God is speaking.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 5 - I want to see that power.
Help:
- Verse 6 - Not that Paul was perfect, but he was trying to authentically model a true spiritual life.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- "That is a very difficult book!! Those chapters were not captivating to me. I may need to find a quiet place and re-read those." - Yes, Genesis is a difficult book. Unlike much of the reading in the New Testament where the point is explicitly laid out, in the Old Testament it is mostly story and so we have to look in the story to see where God is speaking.
Monday, July 28, 2014
60IN60 Day 22 - Mon Jul 28
It's Day 22 and we're in Psalm 28.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - I like the thought that thinking of what He's done for us fills us with joy.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - I like the thought that thinking of what He's done for us fills us with joy.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Sunday, July 27, 2014
60IN60 Day 21 - Sun Jul 27
It's Day 21 and we're in Psalm 26.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 2 - It's essential to come before God regularly and ask Him to reveal where we've still got work to do. He wants to see us make progress.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 2 - It's essential to come before God regularly and ask Him to reveal where we've still got work to do. He wants to see us make progress.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Saturday, July 26, 2014
60IN60 Day 20 - Sat Jul 26
It's Day 20 and we're in Psalm 25.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 3 - Sometimes we're out on a limb for Him, trusting that He's going to come through. He will not let us down.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 3 - Sometimes we're out on a limb for Him, trusting that He's going to come through. He will not let us down.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Friday, July 25, 2014
60IN60 Day 19 - Fri Jul 25
It's Day 19 and we're in Psalm 24.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 1 - All that was created was created by Him.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 1 - All that was created was created by Him.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
60IN60 Day 18 - Thurs Jul 24
It's Day 18 and we're in Acts 4.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 14 - The hard-headness is amazing. They have no reply and know something amazing has happened (verses 15-18), but yet they are so tied to their position and their power that they won't consider changing.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 14 - The hard-headness is amazing. They have no reply and know something amazing has happened (verses 15-18), but yet they are so tied to their position and their power that they won't consider changing.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
60IN60 Day 17 - Wed Jul 23
It's Day 17 and we're in Acts 3.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 19 - That's a nice phrase: "times of refreshing."
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 19 - That's a nice phrase: "times of refreshing."
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
60IN60 Day 16 - Tues Jul 22
It's Day 16 and we're in Acts 2.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 43 - I'd like to see more of that "awe" today.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 43 - I'd like to see more of that "awe" today.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Monday, July 21, 2014
60IN60 Day 15 - Mon Jul 21
It's Day 15 and we're in Acts 1.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - I don't remember noticing this verse before. This has a lot to say to preachers who spend endless time speculating on end times possibilities.
Help:
- Verse 11 - The latter half of the verse is a reference to the Second Coming.
- Verses 15-26 - I think this is a mistake by Peter. He was not told to fill that twelfth spot. I think God had Paul in mind as being Judas' replacement and Peter did something he wasn't asked to do. If so, that means the first major decision by a Christian after Jesus left was a mistake.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 7 - I don't remember noticing this verse before. This has a lot to say to preachers who spend endless time speculating on end times possibilities.
Help:
- Verse 11 - The latter half of the verse is a reference to the Second Coming.
- Verses 15-26 - I think this is a mistake by Peter. He was not told to fill that twelfth spot. I think God had Paul in mind as being Judas' replacement and Peter did something he wasn't asked to do. If so, that means the first major decision by a Christian after Jesus left was a mistake.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
60IN60 Day 14 - Sun Jul 20
It's Day 14 and we're in Genesis 43.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Nothing really jumped out to me.
Help:
- Verse 23 - The steward thought this was true, but 42:25 tells us otherwise.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Nothing really jumped out to me.
Help:
- Verse 23 - The steward thought this was true, but 42:25 tells us otherwise.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Saturday, July 19, 2014
60IN60 Day 13 - Sat Jul 19
It's Day 13 and we're in Genesis 42.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 24 - He is moved by their sorrow, but not enough to forgive.
Help:
- Verse 4 - Yes, Jacob is showing favoritism again and that is bad parenting. The Bible describes what Jacob does but that doesn't mean it endorses it.
- Verses 7-17 - I think this comes from Joseph's resentment over how he was treated. Some think Joseph is more mature than that and this is just a little drama, but I think Joseph still had hard feelings.
- Verse 28 - They were concerned they'd be accused of stealing.
- Verse 37 - Offering two sons as a bounty had to do with the honor system they had back then.
- Verse 38 - Yes, Jacob is playing favorites.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Questions:
- "What's your opinion of this part of verse 8? "Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.”" To me it sounds like Joseph is claiming to be God. Obviously, I know he didn't think that, but it seems as though he should have said something like, "Only God can interpret dreams, but He uses me as a conduit to share those interpretations with others," or similar. Thoughts?" - I think that's what Joseph meant. "Dream belong to God and He has chosen to speak through me." I think it's a phrasing issue because I don't think Joseph had an ego problem.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 24 - He is moved by their sorrow, but not enough to forgive.
Help:
- Verse 4 - Yes, Jacob is showing favoritism again and that is bad parenting. The Bible describes what Jacob does but that doesn't mean it endorses it.
- Verses 7-17 - I think this comes from Joseph's resentment over how he was treated. Some think Joseph is more mature than that and this is just a little drama, but I think Joseph still had hard feelings.
- Verse 28 - They were concerned they'd be accused of stealing.
- Verse 37 - Offering two sons as a bounty had to do with the honor system they had back then.
- Verse 38 - Yes, Jacob is playing favorites.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Questions:
- "What's your opinion of this part of verse 8? "Then Joseph said to them, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.”" To me it sounds like Joseph is claiming to be God. Obviously, I know he didn't think that, but it seems as though he should have said something like, "Only God can interpret dreams, but He uses me as a conduit to share those interpretations with others," or similar. Thoughts?" - I think that's what Joseph meant. "Dream belong to God and He has chosen to speak through me." I think it's a phrasing issue because I don't think Joseph had an ego problem.
Friday, July 18, 2014
60IN60 Day 12 - Fri Jul 18
It's Day 12 and we're in Genesis 41.
Sometimes things get busy and you miss a day or two. Don’t get discouraged and quit. Just lay aside those readings you missed and jump in with today’s reading.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 1, 40 - The timing of the famine determined when Joseph got out of jail. It was a longer wait than he'd have liked, but as verse 57 indicates many lives were saved by what Joseph went through.
Help:
- Verse 38 - Pharaoh gave Joseph too much credit in presuming that the divine spirit dwelt within him. He did have help from God, but he wasn't part divine.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Sometimes things get busy and you miss a day or two. Don’t get discouraged and quit. Just lay aside those readings you missed and jump in with today’s reading.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 1, 40 - The timing of the famine determined when Joseph got out of jail. It was a longer wait than he'd have liked, but as verse 57 indicates many lives were saved by what Joseph went through.
Help:
- Verse 38 - Pharaoh gave Joseph too much credit in presuming that the divine spirit dwelt within him. He did have help from God, but he wasn't part divine.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
60IN60 Day 11 - Thurs Jul 17
It's Day 11 and we're in Genesis 40.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 14-15 - Sometimes what looks like it's obviously going to be the open door fails to materialize.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 14-15 - Sometimes what looks like it's obviously going to be the open door fails to materialize.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
60IN60 Day 10 - Wed Jul 16
It's Day 10 and we're in Genesis 39.
One problem that regularly bothers me as I read is a wandering mind. A word in the text will make me think of something that I have to do that day and my mind is off to the races, leaving the Bible behind. I've found it helpful to have something near me that I can make a note on when that happens so I can write down that thing I need to do later and get back to concentrating on the reading in front of me.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 21 - It's an interesting comment here. Within the larger bad thing, God showed kindness to Joseph in a smaller way. Of course, we'd usually just avoid that struggle altogether.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
One problem that regularly bothers me as I read is a wandering mind. A word in the text will make me think of something that I have to do that day and my mind is off to the races, leaving the Bible behind. I've found it helpful to have something near me that I can make a note on when that happens so I can write down that thing I need to do later and get back to concentrating on the reading in front of me.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 21 - It's an interesting comment here. Within the larger bad thing, God showed kindness to Joseph in a smaller way. Of course, we'd usually just avoid that struggle altogether.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
60IN60 Day 9 - Tues Jul 15
It's Day 9 and we're in Genesis 38.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 24-25 - He was so indignant over her sin even when he had secretly committed that same sin. What are the sins I publicly condemn while privately accommodating?
Help:
- Verses 7, 10 - This is not something that usually happens, but it does sometimes.
- Verses 14-18 - Yes, this is Jerry Springer stuff. The Bible describes what this family does and that doesn't mean that God approves of what they do. Pretty sick stuff.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 24-25 - He was so indignant over her sin even when he had secretly committed that same sin. What are the sins I publicly condemn while privately accommodating?
Help:
- Verses 7, 10 - This is not something that usually happens, but it does sometimes.
- Verses 14-18 - Yes, this is Jerry Springer stuff. The Bible describes what this family does and that doesn't mean that God approves of what they do. Pretty sick stuff.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Monday, July 14, 2014
60IN60 Day 8 - Mon Jul 14
It's Day 8 and we're in Genesis 37.
We're going to be reading the Joseph stories out of Genesis. In many ways, he's the most impressive character in Genesis, although he does give into resentment in meeting his brothers in Egypt.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 34 - Did the brothers think about the consequence to their Dad before they did it, or were they just focused on their own feelings?
Help:
- Verse 3 - "Israel" is Jacob.
- Verse 3 - Yes, this is bad parenting. Genesis tells what they did, but that doesn't mean what they did was always right.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- "The Bible says "Words of Christ in Red". When I read; I have been assuming the words in red are those of Jesus Christ...so he is the one speaking. In Matthew 20 Verse 18; it reads in red: Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death," I thought Son of Man was Jesus Christ. If words of Christ are in red; why does it sound like someone else is speaking? Am I reading wrong? Am I assuming wrong?" - "Son of Man" does refer to Jesus. He is speaking of Himself. He uses the phrase "Son of Man" because there are Old Testament prophecies associated with that title. He's trying to put His upcoming death in the context of fulfilling prophecy.
We're going to be reading the Joseph stories out of Genesis. In many ways, he's the most impressive character in Genesis, although he does give into resentment in meeting his brothers in Egypt.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 34 - Did the brothers think about the consequence to their Dad before they did it, or were they just focused on their own feelings?
Help:
- Verse 3 - "Israel" is Jacob.
- Verse 3 - Yes, this is bad parenting. Genesis tells what they did, but that doesn't mean what they did was always right.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- "The Bible says "Words of Christ in Red". When I read; I have been assuming the words in red are those of Jesus Christ...so he is the one speaking. In Matthew 20 Verse 18; it reads in red: Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death," I thought Son of Man was Jesus Christ. If words of Christ are in red; why does it sound like someone else is speaking? Am I reading wrong? Am I assuming wrong?" - "Son of Man" does refer to Jesus. He is speaking of Himself. He uses the phrase "Son of Man" because there are Old Testament prophecies associated with that title. He's trying to put His upcoming death in the context of fulfilling prophecy.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
60IN60 Day 7 - Sun Jul 13
It's Day 7 and we're in Matthew 21.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 13 - A defining characteristic of the church should be our prayer.
- Verse 43 - He wants fruit from us.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 13 - A defining characteristic of the church should be our prayer.
- Verse 43 - He wants fruit from us.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
60IN60 Day 6 - Sat Jul 12
It's Day 6 and we're in Matthew 20.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 34 - How often am I "moved with compassion"?
Help:
- Verses 1-16 - Two possible interpretations: a. This refers to the opening door for the Gentiles to come into the Kingdom after it'd been just the Jews for so long; b. It refers to those who are saved late in life and have little time to serve God.
- Verses 22-23 - They would die for the Kingdom, but that authority had already been granted.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- Matthew 19:28 - "Another judgement? This time for the Jews?" - Some see this as happening during the Millenium; others believe that there is a definite Jewish element to the New Jerusalem/New Earth final era.
- "More a general (and frequent) random thought than a connection to today's reading, but it bothers me that I don't know whether or not I am bearing fruit. And I wonder if I am the only one wondering?" - That's a great question. That actually would make a great sermon series because it's an important subject and there's a lot to say on it. I'll get to work writing that.
- "I'm finding my brain taking an interesting trip down the railroad tracks while reading the paragraph about cutting off a limb that causes us to stumble. I'll try to explain it concisely. When applying this to people/environments in our lives, I read it as if someone in your life is causing you to stumble, you shouldn't be spending time with him/her. However, we're also called to be a light, a witness, to Christ. So it makes me think that new Christians, who one would think have less willpower or whatever it is, should focus more on themselves and strengthening their bond w/ Christ and start spending less/no time with people who may cause slip ups. But then, once the Holy Spirit is firmly grounded in them, then they could begin witnessing and maybe spending time with people and in environments that were previously unhealthy. In my 20s, I did a lot of "clubbing." I went to bars/clubs, drank too much, and engaged in behavior far from Christian. I wasn't able to go to church b/c I felt so convicted about my behavior. When I rededicated my life to Christ, I was no longer able to go to clubs...I felt Christ's Spirit SO strongly it almost made me ill to be in that environment. Several years later, I went to a friend's birthday party at a club. Most of us there (our party was all women) were Christians. Yes, some of the women drank too much, but overall, we had a great time, didn't dance or dress provocatively, and really enjoyed ourselves. I was much more rooted in the Word at that time, so I think that's why I was able to be there and yet still be appropriate. Just some random thoughts. :-)"
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 34 - How often am I "moved with compassion"?
Help:
- Verses 1-16 - Two possible interpretations: a. This refers to the opening door for the Gentiles to come into the Kingdom after it'd been just the Jews for so long; b. It refers to those who are saved late in life and have little time to serve God.
- Verses 22-23 - They would die for the Kingdom, but that authority had already been granted.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments and Questions:
- Matthew 19:28 - "Another judgement? This time for the Jews?" - Some see this as happening during the Millenium; others believe that there is a definite Jewish element to the New Jerusalem/New Earth final era.
- "More a general (and frequent) random thought than a connection to today's reading, but it bothers me that I don't know whether or not I am bearing fruit. And I wonder if I am the only one wondering?" - That's a great question. That actually would make a great sermon series because it's an important subject and there's a lot to say on it. I'll get to work writing that.
- "I'm finding my brain taking an interesting trip down the railroad tracks while reading the paragraph about cutting off a limb that causes us to stumble. I'll try to explain it concisely. When applying this to people/environments in our lives, I read it as if someone in your life is causing you to stumble, you shouldn't be spending time with him/her. However, we're also called to be a light, a witness, to Christ. So it makes me think that new Christians, who one would think have less willpower or whatever it is, should focus more on themselves and strengthening their bond w/ Christ and start spending less/no time with people who may cause slip ups. But then, once the Holy Spirit is firmly grounded in them, then they could begin witnessing and maybe spending time with people and in environments that were previously unhealthy. In my 20s, I did a lot of "clubbing." I went to bars/clubs, drank too much, and engaged in behavior far from Christian. I wasn't able to go to church b/c I felt so convicted about my behavior. When I rededicated my life to Christ, I was no longer able to go to clubs...I felt Christ's Spirit SO strongly it almost made me ill to be in that environment. Several years later, I went to a friend's birthday party at a club. Most of us there (our party was all women) were Christians. Yes, some of the women drank too much, but overall, we had a great time, didn't dance or dress provocatively, and really enjoyed ourselves. I was much more rooted in the Word at that time, so I think that's why I was able to be there and yet still be appropriate. Just some random thoughts. :-)"
Friday, July 11, 2014
60IN60 Day 5 - Fri Jul 11
It's Day 5 and we're in Matthew 19.
As you read, listen for where God wants to speak to you. What jumps out to you? What speaks to situations you're dealing with right now?
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 21 - What's holding you back? What's holding me back? For this guy it was his possessions, but it might be something else for us.
Help:
- Verses 1-9 - This is not all the teaching on divorce that Jesus did.
- Verse 12 - This means that some are born without the "equipment" to have sex; some (not so much today, but it happened back then) were made eunuchs by people (like the man who would oversee the king's harem); some choose not to have sex because they feel God is calling them to a single life (this would not involve a physical change like the other two options).
- Verse 17 - This presumably was because the man looked at Jesus as a human teacher.
- Verses 23-26 - This is not saying it's impossible for rich people to be saved, but it is harder. Why? They tend to love the things of this world and put their trust in their wealth.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
As you read, listen for where God wants to speak to you. What jumps out to you? What speaks to situations you're dealing with right now?
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 21 - What's holding you back? What's holding me back? For this guy it was his possessions, but it might be something else for us.
Help:
- Verses 1-9 - This is not all the teaching on divorce that Jesus did.
- Verse 12 - This means that some are born without the "equipment" to have sex; some (not so much today, but it happened back then) were made eunuchs by people (like the man who would oversee the king's harem); some choose not to have sex because they feel God is calling them to a single life (this would not involve a physical change like the other two options).
- Verse 17 - This presumably was because the man looked at Jesus as a human teacher.
- Verses 23-26 - This is not saying it's impossible for rich people to be saved, but it is harder. Why? They tend to love the things of this world and put their trust in their wealth.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
60IN60 Day 4 - Thurs Jul 10
It's Day 4 and we're in Matthew 18.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 34-35 - These are verses to think about slowly. If God really feels this way, that's different than most of us think of Him.
Help:
- Verse 10 - This is one of the two New Testament verses that hint at the idea of guardian angels.
- Verses 15-18 - This is the idea of "church discipline." It's how we are to treat serious sin within the church.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Questions:
- "I don't believe I ever have understood what the transfiguration was or it's significance." - I think the main purpose was to briefly reveal Christ for who He really was.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verses 34-35 - These are verses to think about slowly. If God really feels this way, that's different than most of us think of Him.
Help:
- Verse 10 - This is one of the two New Testament verses that hint at the idea of guardian angels.
- Verses 15-18 - This is the idea of "church discipline." It's how we are to treat serious sin within the church.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Questions:
- "I don't believe I ever have understood what the transfiguration was or it's significance." - I think the main purpose was to briefly reveal Christ for who He really was.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
60IN60 Day 3 - Wed Jul 9
It's Day 3 and we're in Matthew 17.
If you've got questions about your reading, I love answering those. Feel free to email me. Unless it's something personal, I'll usually anonymously share the question (and answer) in the following day's email so everyone can benefit from it.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 20 - How little faith we must have, since we see so little of His power.
Help:
- Verse 4-5 - Peter's mistake was that he should have realized the point of the vision was how great Jesus was, not that all three were equally impressive.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments:
- "I realized one day while reading Matt. 16;18 that I wasn't supposed to fort up behind the safe walls of my church, but go out and attack hell and Satan. We're on offense not defense! One of the most life changing things the Spirit ever revealed to me."
If you've got questions about your reading, I love answering those. Feel free to email me. Unless it's something personal, I'll usually anonymously share the question (and answer) in the following day's email so everyone can benefit from it.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 20 - How little faith we must have, since we see so little of His power.
Help:
- Verse 4-5 - Peter's mistake was that he should have realized the point of the vision was how great Jesus was, not that all three were equally impressive.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Your Comments:
- "I realized one day while reading Matt. 16;18 that I wasn't supposed to fort up behind the safe walls of my church, but go out and attack hell and Satan. We're on offense not defense! One of the most life changing things the Spirit ever revealed to me."
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
60IN60 Day 2 - Tues Jul 8
It's Day 2 and we're in Matthew 16.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 26 - One of my life verses.
Help:
- Verse 4 - The "sign of Jonah" refers to the fact that Jesus was going to be three days to the resurrection, like Jonah was three days in the fish.
- Verses 6, 11-12 - The "leaven" was their hypocrisy.
- Verse 18 - Catholics believe the "this rock" is Peter; Protestants believe it is his confession of Christ.
- Verse 20 - This was largely a timing issue. He had a timetable in mind.
- Verse 24 - As disciples, we need to be willing to make sacrifices for Him.
- Verse 25 - This means that rather than doing what I want to do, I instead obey the teaching of Christ, believing that obedience to Him will lead to true life.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 26 - One of my life verses.
Help:
- Verse 4 - The "sign of Jonah" refers to the fact that Jesus was going to be three days to the resurrection, like Jonah was three days in the fish.
- Verses 6, 11-12 - The "leaven" was their hypocrisy.
- Verse 18 - Catholics believe the "this rock" is Peter; Protestants believe it is his confession of Christ.
- Verse 20 - This was largely a timing issue. He had a timetable in mind.
- Verse 24 - As disciples, we need to be willing to make sacrifices for Him.
- Verse 25 - This means that rather than doing what I want to do, I instead obey the teaching of Christ, believing that obedience to Him will lead to true life.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Monday, July 7, 2014
60IN60 Day 1 - Mon Jul 7
It's Day 1 and we're in Matthew 15.
We have lots of excuses for why we don't read the Bible: "I'm too busy," "I don't know where to start," "I tried it once and got confused," "I just never got around to it." I hope "60IN60" helps you to be able to overcome those excuses and experience a rewarding time in the Word.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 4 - This is a challenging verse for me, because the penalty seems too severe. This is a part of the Word that I will have to keep wrestling with.
Help:
- Verses 21-28 - It seems harsh that Jesus declines her request. His mission at this point is exclusively to the lost sheep of Israel. In other words, He's come to try to win back God's people to God. Of course, we know that they will reject Him. But before they do that, He focuses His attention on them. You can't say yes to everything.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
* * * * *
Here are the next 60 days of readings:
3: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
17: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
24: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
31: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
38: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
45: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
52: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
59: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
We have lots of excuses for why we don't read the Bible: "I'm too busy," "I don't know where to start," "I tried it once and got confused," "I just never got around to it." I hope "60IN60" helps you to be able to overcome those excuses and experience a rewarding time in the Word.
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 4 - This is a challenging verse for me, because the penalty seems too severe. This is a part of the Word that I will have to keep wrestling with.
Help:
- Verses 21-28 - It seems harsh that Jesus declines her request. His mission at this point is exclusively to the lost sheep of Israel. In other words, He's come to try to win back God's people to God. Of course, we know that they will reject Him. But before they do that, He focuses His attention on them. You can't say yes to everything.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
* * * * *
Here are the next 60 days of readings:
1: Matthew 15 (Monday, July 7)
2: Matthew 163: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
15: Acts 1 (Monday, July 21)
16: Acts 217: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
22: Psalm 28 (Monday, July 28)
23: 1 Thessalonians 124: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
29: Matthew 23 (Monday, August 4)
30: Matthew 2431: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
36: 1 Kings 3 (Monday, August 11)
37: 1 Kings 838: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
43: Ephesians 4 (Monday, August 18)
44: Ephesians 545: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
50: Genesis 48 (Monday, August 25)
51: Genesis 4952: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
57: Revelation 21(Monday, September 1)
58: Revelation 2259: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
Sunday, July 6, 2014
60IN60 Next Round
We start a new round of "60IN60" on Monday.
There are four ways to get the new readings:
1. They are listed below.
2. You can get a one-page PDF on our church website here.
3. You can email me at butcher@ymail.com and I'll email you the one-page PDF.
4. For those of you who attend MBC, you can pick up a copy on the hallway table.
* * * * *
3: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
17: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
24: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
31: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
38: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
45: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
52: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
59: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
There are four ways to get the new readings:
1. They are listed below.
2. You can get a one-page PDF on our church website here.
3. You can email me at butcher@ymail.com and I'll email you the one-page PDF.
4. For those of you who attend MBC, you can pick up a copy on the hallway table.
* * * * *
1: Matthew 15 (Monday, July 7)
2: Matthew 163: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
15: Acts 1 (Monday, July 21)
16: Acts 217: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
22: Psalm 28 (Monday, July 28)
23: 1 Thessalonians 124: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
29: Matthew 23 (Monday, August 4)
30: Matthew 2431: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
36: 1 Kings 3 (Monday, August 11)
37: 1 Kings 838: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
43: Ephesians 4 (Monday, August 18)
44: Ephesians 545: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
50: Genesis 48 (Monday, August 25)
51: Genesis 4952: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
57: Revelation 21(Monday, September 1)
58: Revelation 2259: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
Saturday, July 5, 2014
60IN60 Invitation
We've just finished up our latest round of 60IN60 yesterday and we've got a new round ready to go for Monday.
Thanks for continuing to participate in 60IN60. I hope it's a spiritually productive part of your day.
If you'd like to invite friends to join in via Facebook or email, here's some wording you're welcome to use (adjust as needed):
"I have been participating in a Bible reading group that I find helpful. It's "60IN60" - we read a chapter a day for 60 days. We have an assigned reading for each day, which helps keep me on track as well as getting a daily email with details about the chapter. Our leader Pastor Jim Butcher is getting ready to start another 60-day round on Monday, November 4th. If you'd like to get into the Bible, this can be a helpful tool. Get me your email address and I'll pass it on to him."
Thanks for continuing to participate in 60IN60. I hope it's a spiritually productive part of your day.
If you'd like to invite friends to join in via Facebook or email, here's some wording you're welcome to use (adjust as needed):
"I have been participating in a Bible reading group that I find helpful. It's "60IN60" - we read a chapter a day for 60 days. We have an assigned reading for each day, which helps keep me on track as well as getting a daily email with details about the chapter. Our leader Pastor Jim Butcher is getting ready to start another 60-day round on Monday, November 4th. If you'd like to get into the Bible, this can be a helpful tool. Get me your email address and I'll pass it on to him."
Friday, July 4, 2014
60IN60 Next Round
We start a new round of "60IN60" on Monday.
There are four ways to get the new readings:
1. They are listed below.
2. You can get a one-page PDF on our church website here.
3. You can email me at butcher@ymail.com and I'll email you the one-page PDF.
4. For those of you who attend MBC, you can pick up a copy on the hallway table.
* * * * *
3: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
17: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
24: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
31: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
38: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
45: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
52: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
59: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
There are four ways to get the new readings:
1. They are listed below.
2. You can get a one-page PDF on our church website here.
3. You can email me at butcher@ymail.com and I'll email you the one-page PDF.
4. For those of you who attend MBC, you can pick up a copy on the hallway table.
* * * * *
1: Matthew 15 (Monday, July 7)
2: Matthew 163: Matthew 17
4: Matthew 18
5: Matthew 19
6: Matthew 20
7: Matthew 21
8: Genesis 37 (Monday, July 14)
9: Genesis 38
10: Genesis 39
11: Genesis 40
12: Genesis 41
13: Genesis 42
14: Genesis 43
15: Acts 1 (Monday, July 21)
16: Acts 217: Acts 3
18: Acts 4
19: Psalm 24
20: Psalm 25
21: Psalm 26
22: Psalm 28 (Monday, July 28)
23: 1 Thessalonians 124: 1 Thessalonians 2
25: 1 Thessalonians 3
26: 1 Thessalonians 4
27: 1 Thessalonians 5
28: Matthew 22
29: Matthew 23 (Monday, August 4)
30: Matthew 2431: Matthew 25
32: Matthew 26
33: Matthew 27
34: Matthew 28
35: 1 Kings 2
36: 1 Kings 3 (Monday, August 11)
37: 1 Kings 838: 1 Kings 9
39: 1 Kings 10
40: Ephesians 1
41: Ephesians 2
42: Ephesians 3
43: Ephesians 4 (Monday, August 18)
44: Ephesians 545: Ephesians 6
46: Genesis 44
47: Genesis 45
48: Genesis 46
49: Genesis 47
50: Genesis 48 (Monday, August 25)
51: Genesis 4952: Genesis 50
53: Revelation 1
54: Revelation 2
55: Revelation 3
56: Revelation 20
57: Revelation 21(Monday, September 1)
58: Revelation 2259: Proverbs 16
60: Proverbs 17
Thursday, July 3, 2014
60IN60 Day 60 - Thurs Jul 3
It's Day 60 and we're in Proverbs 15.
Congratulations! You've completed the 60 days! A new round of readings will begin on Monday. If you need something to read the in next few days, may I suggest some chapters from the book of John?
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 8 - The second half of this verse is a great comfort to me. That when we're passionately pursuing God, He doesn't just put up with our prayers - He "delights" in them.
Help:
- Verse 6 - Again, this is not always true, but the fact that the most prosperous nation in world history (America) came out of the Protestant work ethic does speak to it.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
Congratulations! You've completed the 60 days! A new round of readings will begin on Monday. If you need something to read the in next few days, may I suggest some chapters from the book of John?
Where God Spoke To Me:
- Verse 8 - The second half of this verse is a great comfort to me. That when we're passionately pursuing God, He doesn't just put up with our prayers - He "delights" in them.
Help:
- Verse 6 - Again, this is not always true, but the fact that the most prosperous nation in world history (America) came out of the Protestant work ethic does speak to it.
If you want to read the chapter online, here's a link.
If you have a question or comment, email me at butcher@ymail.com.
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