The Lord is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; - 2 Chronicles 15:2
Some days, we spend feeling victorious and joyful in the midst of a personal victory.
Some days, we feel like we're in the lowest pit that can be found after a crushing disappointment.
Most days we spend somewhere between those two extremes.
The one constant in all of those conditions, though, is that God is there with us. All we need to do is slow down enough to realisze that. We need to take some time to realize God's very tangible presence in our lives. When we pause to pray, to praise, and to study His word, we draw close to God. When we take time to sense God's presence, it makes a difference in our day...no matter which extreme that day may fall at.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Day 13: Choosing to Persevere
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. - I Corinthians 15: 57-58
We live in a day when everything passes at a whirlwind pace. We can communicate across long distances almost instantaneously. We have vehicles that can carry us further in a few hours than the average person in times past might travel in a year...or their whole life. We even zap our food from frozen to heated and ready to eat in a few moments and next to no effort. "Waiting" for something is almost a taboo concept. (Overnight it if you want it delivered tomorrow...even if you can live without it, that's just not tolerable!) When we do simply wait, we make sure we bring a diversion so we don't get bored.
The idea of persevering...of not just being bored, but actually being in an unfavorable situation AND having to wait seems absolutely unbearable. And yet that ability to wait, be patient, and anticipate the realization and fulfilling of God's promises is in large part what separates us from the rest of the world. When we are faced with adversity and yet we still continue to do what is right and to stay the course that God has set for us, we are blessed with his peace and endurance to get through whatever he has called us to walk throguh. We are also an example for others, as they see us dealing with problems or situations that may not be much different from their own struggles...and keeping out feet under us and our peace about us. (God's peace in reality!)
Whatever you're walking through today...keep at it. Whatever you're thinking of giving up on...don't- so long as you know it is God's will for you to do.
We live in a day when everything passes at a whirlwind pace. We can communicate across long distances almost instantaneously. We have vehicles that can carry us further in a few hours than the average person in times past might travel in a year...or their whole life. We even zap our food from frozen to heated and ready to eat in a few moments and next to no effort. "Waiting" for something is almost a taboo concept. (Overnight it if you want it delivered tomorrow...even if you can live without it, that's just not tolerable!) When we do simply wait, we make sure we bring a diversion so we don't get bored.
The idea of persevering...of not just being bored, but actually being in an unfavorable situation AND having to wait seems absolutely unbearable. And yet that ability to wait, be patient, and anticipate the realization and fulfilling of God's promises is in large part what separates us from the rest of the world. When we are faced with adversity and yet we still continue to do what is right and to stay the course that God has set for us, we are blessed with his peace and endurance to get through whatever he has called us to walk throguh. We are also an example for others, as they see us dealing with problems or situations that may not be much different from their own struggles...and keeping out feet under us and our peace about us. (God's peace in reality!)
Whatever you're walking through today...keep at it. Whatever you're thinking of giving up on...don't- so long as you know it is God's will for you to do.
Monday, November 28, 2011
Day 12: Letting God Transform Your Life
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. - 2 Corinthians 5:17
When we invite Christ into our lives and give our lives to him, at that moment, we each become a new creature. We are born...again. The Spirit of God in our lives continues to transform and mold us into Christ's image, but from that first moment of surrender onward, there is an immediate and profound change. You should be able to notice the change, and so should those around you.
The lesson today encourages you to look at the old you...the you before you knew Christ personally...and the new you...the creature you became since. And to evaluate what has changed. It points out the unless you're radically different because of your relationship, then your faith isn't what it could or should be. I'd encourage everyone to go a step further and consider that if your life is not radically different because of your relationship with Christ, you should take a step back and make sure you HAVE a relationship with Him. It doesn't matter if you walked down an aisle, got baptised, prayed a certain prayer, or attended church all your life. Salvation is based on your personal relationship with Christ, and if you haven't seen a change in your life as that relationship is central to who you are, you should look closely to be sure that you have that relationship.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
What are some ways that Christ can bring change to a person's life?
ACTIONS
Consider carefully your relationship with Christ - starting with do you have one? (If you do not, and you want to, feel free to contact me at saturday.dm@gmail.com or find a friend you know is a believer to talk to.) Then consider your relationship and what place it holds in your life and how you can strengthen it.
When we invite Christ into our lives and give our lives to him, at that moment, we each become a new creature. We are born...again. The Spirit of God in our lives continues to transform and mold us into Christ's image, but from that first moment of surrender onward, there is an immediate and profound change. You should be able to notice the change, and so should those around you.
The lesson today encourages you to look at the old you...the you before you knew Christ personally...and the new you...the creature you became since. And to evaluate what has changed. It points out the unless you're radically different because of your relationship, then your faith isn't what it could or should be. I'd encourage everyone to go a step further and consider that if your life is not radically different because of your relationship with Christ, you should take a step back and make sure you HAVE a relationship with Him. It doesn't matter if you walked down an aisle, got baptised, prayed a certain prayer, or attended church all your life. Salvation is based on your personal relationship with Christ, and if you haven't seen a change in your life as that relationship is central to who you are, you should look closely to be sure that you have that relationship.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
What are some ways that Christ can bring change to a person's life?
ACTIONS
Consider carefully your relationship with Christ - starting with do you have one? (If you do not, and you want to, feel free to contact me at saturday.dm@gmail.com or find a friend you know is a believer to talk to.) Then consider your relationship and what place it holds in your life and how you can strengthen it.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Day 11: Very Big Plans
Teach me to do they will; for thou are my God: they spirit is good; lead em into the land of uprightness. - Psalm 143:10
Psalm 143 is filled with two recurring themes: A request for guidance and an assertion that the writer is God's servant. These two things go hand in hand. When we desire and expect to see God's guidance, we must be living in the way He desires for us to live. We must be attentive to his commandments, careful to do them, and prayerfully searching out His will by staying in the Word. Conversely, when we are faithfully doing what God has asked of us, whether small or large and whether flashy or mundane, He then reveals to us what His will is. He may reveal to us the answer to a single choice, the course for the next day, or inspire us to know what ministry He has for us for the rest of our lives. But if we are not in a place where we are listening, we will miss that revelation.
God has a plan for each one of us, but often we miss that plan because we are distracted with lesser things. Live today as God's servant first, before all else...and see where He sends you.
Psalm 143 is filled with two recurring themes: A request for guidance and an assertion that the writer is God's servant. These two things go hand in hand. When we desire and expect to see God's guidance, we must be living in the way He desires for us to live. We must be attentive to his commandments, careful to do them, and prayerfully searching out His will by staying in the Word. Conversely, when we are faithfully doing what God has asked of us, whether small or large and whether flashy or mundane, He then reveals to us what His will is. He may reveal to us the answer to a single choice, the course for the next day, or inspire us to know what ministry He has for us for the rest of our lives. But if we are not in a place where we are listening, we will miss that revelation.
God has a plan for each one of us, but often we miss that plan because we are distracted with lesser things. Live today as God's servant first, before all else...and see where He sends you.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Day 10: Entrusting Your Hopes to God
Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. - Isaiah 26:3
We all have hopes - in our personal lives, our professional lives, our families. And we all find those hopes challenged in times of trial or even just uncertainty. If you're facing a time in your life when something is uncertain, or maybe it's not uncertain and it seems like life has just come against you with everything it's got, it's easy to become discouraged. The best way to fend off hopelessness and discouragement is to use God's word. Read it for yourself, talk about it with others, and even find verses that speak to the situation you know someone else is going through. There's nothing quite as encouraging to you as seeing the look of joy on someone else's face when God uses you to speak encouraging, healing words to them. Let God be your source of hope today, rather than worrying, and you'll find that it's much easier to not be hopeless regardless of the situation.
We all have hopes - in our personal lives, our professional lives, our families. And we all find those hopes challenged in times of trial or even just uncertainty. If you're facing a time in your life when something is uncertain, or maybe it's not uncertain and it seems like life has just come against you with everything it's got, it's easy to become discouraged. The best way to fend off hopelessness and discouragement is to use God's word. Read it for yourself, talk about it with others, and even find verses that speak to the situation you know someone else is going through. There's nothing quite as encouraging to you as seeing the look of joy on someone else's face when God uses you to speak encouraging, healing words to them. Let God be your source of hope today, rather than worrying, and you'll find that it's much easier to not be hopeless regardless of the situation.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Days 8 & 9: Priorities and the Good News
Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. - James 4:8
As we begin each day, each new endeavor, and each decision in our life, it is important to remember, well, what is IMPORTANT. Each action we take moves us either closer to God or further from Him and His will for our life. When we make decisions with that reality in mind, we'll evaluate each decision by where it places us in our relationship with God. If our relationship with God is the central purpose of our life, and all else revolves around and is influenced by that, then our priorities will line up with God's priorities.
Our chief purpose in life is first a relationship with our Creator. God made us, individually and as a race of beings, to worship Him. A central part of that worship is to lead others to that same sort of relationship. As we imitate Christ, and as we let the Spirit lead us, we should always be willing to be led to situations and in such a way as to bring glory to God by sharing His truth with others.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. - Phillippians 1:2
We all have a testimony, and yours is uniquely yours. How God has shown grace to you in your life is different from how He's shown it in my life or your church members' lives. And that unique testimony makes you uniquely suited to tell someone whose path you cross today about what God has done for YOU. Taking that opportunity to share our faith with someone else is a way to worship, a way to show obedience to God, and a way to love your neighbor all at the same time. I encourage you to not miss that opportunity to make one of God's priorities your priority today!
As we begin each day, each new endeavor, and each decision in our life, it is important to remember, well, what is IMPORTANT. Each action we take moves us either closer to God or further from Him and His will for our life. When we make decisions with that reality in mind, we'll evaluate each decision by where it places us in our relationship with God. If our relationship with God is the central purpose of our life, and all else revolves around and is influenced by that, then our priorities will line up with God's priorities.
Our chief purpose in life is first a relationship with our Creator. God made us, individually and as a race of beings, to worship Him. A central part of that worship is to lead others to that same sort of relationship. As we imitate Christ, and as we let the Spirit lead us, we should always be willing to be led to situations and in such a way as to bring glory to God by sharing His truth with others.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. - Phillippians 1:2
We all have a testimony, and yours is uniquely yours. How God has shown grace to you in your life is different from how He's shown it in my life or your church members' lives. And that unique testimony makes you uniquely suited to tell someone whose path you cross today about what God has done for YOU. Taking that opportunity to share our faith with someone else is a way to worship, a way to show obedience to God, and a way to love your neighbor all at the same time. I encourage you to not miss that opportunity to make one of God's priorities your priority today!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Day 7: First Things First
Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; - I Peter 1:13
We have so many things that need doing...or that we should do...or that we want to do. Most of these things are good things, but no matter how good they are, we run into one problem: There simply aren't enough hours in the day to get them ALL done.
Housework, homework, possibly childcare or a career (or both), church, serving your neighbor, quiet time...and that's not even bothering to work in the trivial things like leisure and maybe even stopping to eat!
Maybe we are looking at the wrong thing. Instead of looking at what are all the GOOD things *I* want to do, perhaps a better question is: What are the BEST things that GOD wants me to do?
If you ask any church-going woman what is important to her, probably on the list somewhere in her top three, the answer is something along the lines of "Live the life God wants me to live." We ALL want that - or we wouldn't be reading this devotional book! The problem is that we forget that in order to live "the life" God wants us to live, we first have to live "the day" God has given us today in a manner that is pleasing to Him.
As an example, Daniel didn't start off jumping into the lion's den to prove he was faithful. He started by honoring God in the morals he exhibited in the king's palace, the food he ate, and the time he spent in prayer each day. He wasn't setting out to be a hero. He was setting out to be God's servant...the hero part came later, after he was ALREADY faithful in the everyday mundane things.
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: - Luke 16:10
Today, we should be faithful in "that which is least". Put first things first...ask GOd to order your priorities, and you'll find that you have EXACTLY enough hours in the day to do what He has planned for you to do.
ACTIONS
Look at your "to do" list today. Pray over that list, and ask if there are some things that can be shed from it, things that warrant being put by the wayside for today...or if there are things at the bottom that need to be a priority.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
If you're comfortable doing so, share what it is that you scratched off your "to do" list today...not because you did it, but because it just wasn't important enough to be there!
We have so many things that need doing...or that we should do...or that we want to do. Most of these things are good things, but no matter how good they are, we run into one problem: There simply aren't enough hours in the day to get them ALL done.
Housework, homework, possibly childcare or a career (or both), church, serving your neighbor, quiet time...and that's not even bothering to work in the trivial things like leisure and maybe even stopping to eat!
Maybe we are looking at the wrong thing. Instead of looking at what are all the GOOD things *I* want to do, perhaps a better question is: What are the BEST things that GOD wants me to do?
If you ask any church-going woman what is important to her, probably on the list somewhere in her top three, the answer is something along the lines of "Live the life God wants me to live." We ALL want that - or we wouldn't be reading this devotional book! The problem is that we forget that in order to live "the life" God wants us to live, we first have to live "the day" God has given us today in a manner that is pleasing to Him.
As an example, Daniel didn't start off jumping into the lion's den to prove he was faithful. He started by honoring God in the morals he exhibited in the king's palace, the food he ate, and the time he spent in prayer each day. He wasn't setting out to be a hero. He was setting out to be God's servant...the hero part came later, after he was ALREADY faithful in the everyday mundane things.
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: - Luke 16:10
Today, we should be faithful in "that which is least". Put first things first...ask GOd to order your priorities, and you'll find that you have EXACTLY enough hours in the day to do what He has planned for you to do.
ACTIONS
Look at your "to do" list today. Pray over that list, and ask if there are some things that can be shed from it, things that warrant being put by the wayside for today...or if there are things at the bottom that need to be a priority.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
If you're comfortable doing so, share what it is that you scratched off your "to do" list today...not because you did it, but because it just wasn't important enough to be there!
Monday, November 7, 2011
Day 6: Letting God's Word Light Your Path
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. – Psalm 119:105
The other half of conversation with God is listening to what He has to say. Prayer allows you to turn your cares over to God and to talk to him. While the Spirit can and does move in the life of believers when we are praying and listening for His answers, the primary method God has given for knowing his will is the revealed Word. The Bible is a remarkable book unlike any other, God’s word. It provides wisdom for life’s situations, comfort in times of trouble, and peace during life’s storms.
To ancient people, the verse above would have had great meaning. In our modern society, we live in a world with the convenience of electric lights. If you want to get up in the middle of the night and read a book, you can do so as easily as flipping the switch on your wall. When you go outside, your street is lit so brightly that you could take a stroll and not worry about tripping over anything. Unless you live far out in the country to intentionally get away from the lights and other aspects of the city, your world is lit more brightly than would have been imaginable to people at the time this verse was written.
Nighttime travel was dangerous in ancient times. A light to a traveler’s path in those times meant safety from several things. It could keep wild animals at bay. It lit the path so that the traveler didn’t stumble over hazards in the way. It could even keep the traveler from missing the path entirely and making a wrong turn, becoming lost. A light also meant comfort...beyond the practical applications of making the trip safer, a light meant that the traveler wasn’t constantly confronted with darkness on every side of them with no way to tell direction.
God’s word is like that lamp for us. It can keep us safe, guide us on the right path, and steer us clear of many of life’s hazards that we would otherwise walk into. The guidelines, law, and precepts in God’s word provide a clear map to navigate through the hazards of life, and it provides comfort along the journey.
One other aspect of nighttime travel in ancient times was the wisdom that safety could be found in numbers. Travel with a friend was safer than travel alone. When we read God’s word, follow His laws, and speak with him daily in prayer, doing so is like having a friend along for the journey. God wants to be that friend for you and have a personal relationship with you. He wants to share your everyday life with you, so that you are not traveling alone, stumbling in the dark through everything life throws at you.
ACTIONS
Learn a new verse about God’s word. It may be Psalms 119:105, if you do not have that one memorized already. Other possibilities are: Hebrews 4:12, Matthew 24:35, Colossians 3:16. There are many others.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
Share the verse you chose to memorize about God’s Word?
The other half of conversation with God is listening to what He has to say. Prayer allows you to turn your cares over to God and to talk to him. While the Spirit can and does move in the life of believers when we are praying and listening for His answers, the primary method God has given for knowing his will is the revealed Word. The Bible is a remarkable book unlike any other, God’s word. It provides wisdom for life’s situations, comfort in times of trouble, and peace during life’s storms.
To ancient people, the verse above would have had great meaning. In our modern society, we live in a world with the convenience of electric lights. If you want to get up in the middle of the night and read a book, you can do so as easily as flipping the switch on your wall. When you go outside, your street is lit so brightly that you could take a stroll and not worry about tripping over anything. Unless you live far out in the country to intentionally get away from the lights and other aspects of the city, your world is lit more brightly than would have been imaginable to people at the time this verse was written.
Nighttime travel was dangerous in ancient times. A light to a traveler’s path in those times meant safety from several things. It could keep wild animals at bay. It lit the path so that the traveler didn’t stumble over hazards in the way. It could even keep the traveler from missing the path entirely and making a wrong turn, becoming lost. A light also meant comfort...beyond the practical applications of making the trip safer, a light meant that the traveler wasn’t constantly confronted with darkness on every side of them with no way to tell direction.
God’s word is like that lamp for us. It can keep us safe, guide us on the right path, and steer us clear of many of life’s hazards that we would otherwise walk into. The guidelines, law, and precepts in God’s word provide a clear map to navigate through the hazards of life, and it provides comfort along the journey.
One other aspect of nighttime travel in ancient times was the wisdom that safety could be found in numbers. Travel with a friend was safer than travel alone. When we read God’s word, follow His laws, and speak with him daily in prayer, doing so is like having a friend along for the journey. God wants to be that friend for you and have a personal relationship with you. He wants to share your everyday life with you, so that you are not traveling alone, stumbling in the dark through everything life throws at you.
ACTIONS
Learn a new verse about God’s word. It may be Psalms 119:105, if you do not have that one memorized already. Other possibilities are: Hebrews 4:12, Matthew 24:35, Colossians 3:16. There are many others.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
Share the verse you chose to memorize about God’s Word?
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Day 5: Want Radical Changes? Pray for Them!
Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer. – Romans 12:12
Pray without ceasing. – I Thessalonians 5:17
How did you wake up this morning? What was the first thing you did?
I know I grabbed my phone and fumbled for the snooze button. Then woke up after the snooze and fumbled for it again…then realized I’d already hit it once. Then started running through what I had to do to get the day started, as I tried to get a few things done before waking the kids up, since it’s so much faster to get things prepared when it’s just me I have to worry about. Then the youngest woke up, and that’s the end of everyone else’s sleep…and the real get-ready whirlwind started. It was a good half hour before I even thought to stop and pray, and then it ran something like, “Thank you, God, that we’re not running late…yet.”
Then it was well over an hour before I got into God’s word. And saw the admonition in this lesson: Pray without ceasing. Be patient. Rejoice. I couldn’t help but think: How much better could my morning have gone if I got up and started the day with prayer and time with God instead of that first snooze? Could that particular fifteen minutes have been better spent…did that fifteen minutes of sleep REALLY make a difference? Or could the time have been spent aligning my attitudes with the ones God would have for me and fixing my thoughts on him? Hope…and especially patience…would have made the morning routine go much more smoothly.
That’s just one example of what we should be doing every day: Turning over the things in our life…even the little thing (perhaps ESPECIALLY the little things) to God. Throughout the day, we should remember that he is our strength, our help, and the he gives us what we need to get through life’s trials…whether it’s the everyday schedule grind or a crisis situation. We should take it to God first through prayer.
ACTIONS
When you’re tempted to be discouraged, angry, impatient, or simply frustrated with something to do, give it to God in prayer, and then let it go and let Him take care of it.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
How DID you wake up this morning? Was God first…or even near the beginning…in your morning routine?
What situation did you turn over to God today…and how did it turn out?
Pray without ceasing. – I Thessalonians 5:17
How did you wake up this morning? What was the first thing you did?
I know I grabbed my phone and fumbled for the snooze button. Then woke up after the snooze and fumbled for it again…then realized I’d already hit it once. Then started running through what I had to do to get the day started, as I tried to get a few things done before waking the kids up, since it’s so much faster to get things prepared when it’s just me I have to worry about. Then the youngest woke up, and that’s the end of everyone else’s sleep…and the real get-ready whirlwind started. It was a good half hour before I even thought to stop and pray, and then it ran something like, “Thank you, God, that we’re not running late…yet.”
Then it was well over an hour before I got into God’s word. And saw the admonition in this lesson: Pray without ceasing. Be patient. Rejoice. I couldn’t help but think: How much better could my morning have gone if I got up and started the day with prayer and time with God instead of that first snooze? Could that particular fifteen minutes have been better spent…did that fifteen minutes of sleep REALLY make a difference? Or could the time have been spent aligning my attitudes with the ones God would have for me and fixing my thoughts on him? Hope…and especially patience…would have made the morning routine go much more smoothly.
That’s just one example of what we should be doing every day: Turning over the things in our life…even the little thing (perhaps ESPECIALLY the little things) to God. Throughout the day, we should remember that he is our strength, our help, and the he gives us what we need to get through life’s trials…whether it’s the everyday schedule grind or a crisis situation. We should take it to God first through prayer.
ACTIONS
When you’re tempted to be discouraged, angry, impatient, or simply frustrated with something to do, give it to God in prayer, and then let it go and let Him take care of it.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
How DID you wake up this morning? Was God first…or even near the beginning…in your morning routine?
What situation did you turn over to God today…and how did it turn out?
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Day 4 – Keep Searching for Wisdom
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. - James 1:5-6
We all desire wisdom, whether we put that desire into words and know that it’s what we want or not. We want to know how best to raise our children, what career path to pursue, what is a sound financial decision on a certain matter. We have a tendency to look for these things in the wrong places first, then to God last…if we remember to look to Him at all for our answers.
When we’re faced with a decision, most of us tend to turn to our friends or to “the experts” (whoever they are) about the situation we are faced with. What we forget is that God is our closest friend, He is our ever-present help. And he is the most qualified expert, whether we’re seeking answers about relationships, money, our health, or any other situation. He designed it all, so that makes Him the ultimate expert.
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” – Colossians 1:17
When we’re tempted to look these other places, we should first go to God’s word. There’s nothing inherently wrong with looking for advice. In fact, the Bible says “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22). But we need to make sure we seek God’s will first, ask Him to provide us with wisdom. Seek His word for the applicable truths that will help us in the situation. And know His word thoroughly, so we can weigh any advice that friends or experts may give based on a scale of truth. If it matches up with what God’s word says…it is true and the advice should be listened to. If the advice is to do something outside of what God’s word says is right, then we should find another advisor who will not steer us false.
We need to know God’s word. Will it have the specific answers to every question we face? No. If you’re looking in the Bible to figure out who to marry, it’s not going to give you a name. But it will tell you to not marry someone who doesn’t share your faith.
If you’re looking for advice on whether to buy a new car, you won’t find instructions on which one…or even whether to buy at all. But you will find admonition against going into debt to do so.
Virtually every decision we make has applicable wisdom in the Bible. We generally turn to God for the big decisions, the life-changing alterations we see come along. But many people look at everyday decisions as just little things, a decision made in passing that isn’t really a big deal. But…many little things add up to a big thing eventually. In this case, many small decisions add up to how you choose to live your life on a daily basis. Whether you’re making a little decision or a big decision, how you treat that decision in relation to God’s word makes it inherently a spiritual decision. And our life and whether we live our life in the way God wants us to live it is the sum total of all those decisions.
ACTIONS:
Consider your decisions today, and make each one after evaluating it through a filter of God’s word. Especially if you don’t have anything that you think is life-changing on your plate, trust God with the small decisions thoughtfully, as spiritual decisions, today.
Memorize a verse applicable to a decision you are making today.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION:
Where do you turn most often for wisdom when making a decision?
Share what verse (and, if you’re comfortable with, it what decision it is applicable to) you decided to memorize for today.
We all desire wisdom, whether we put that desire into words and know that it’s what we want or not. We want to know how best to raise our children, what career path to pursue, what is a sound financial decision on a certain matter. We have a tendency to look for these things in the wrong places first, then to God last…if we remember to look to Him at all for our answers.
When we’re faced with a decision, most of us tend to turn to our friends or to “the experts” (whoever they are) about the situation we are faced with. What we forget is that God is our closest friend, He is our ever-present help. And he is the most qualified expert, whether we’re seeking answers about relationships, money, our health, or any other situation. He designed it all, so that makes Him the ultimate expert.
“He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” – Colossians 1:17
When we’re tempted to look these other places, we should first go to God’s word. There’s nothing inherently wrong with looking for advice. In fact, the Bible says “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22). But we need to make sure we seek God’s will first, ask Him to provide us with wisdom. Seek His word for the applicable truths that will help us in the situation. And know His word thoroughly, so we can weigh any advice that friends or experts may give based on a scale of truth. If it matches up with what God’s word says…it is true and the advice should be listened to. If the advice is to do something outside of what God’s word says is right, then we should find another advisor who will not steer us false.
We need to know God’s word. Will it have the specific answers to every question we face? No. If you’re looking in the Bible to figure out who to marry, it’s not going to give you a name. But it will tell you to not marry someone who doesn’t share your faith.
If you’re looking for advice on whether to buy a new car, you won’t find instructions on which one…or even whether to buy at all. But you will find admonition against going into debt to do so.
Virtually every decision we make has applicable wisdom in the Bible. We generally turn to God for the big decisions, the life-changing alterations we see come along. But many people look at everyday decisions as just little things, a decision made in passing that isn’t really a big deal. But…many little things add up to a big thing eventually. In this case, many small decisions add up to how you choose to live your life on a daily basis. Whether you’re making a little decision or a big decision, how you treat that decision in relation to God’s word makes it inherently a spiritual decision. And our life and whether we live our life in the way God wants us to live it is the sum total of all those decisions.
ACTIONS:
Consider your decisions today, and make each one after evaluating it through a filter of God’s word. Especially if you don’t have anything that you think is life-changing on your plate, trust God with the small decisions thoughtfully, as spiritual decisions, today.
Memorize a verse applicable to a decision you are making today.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION:
Where do you turn most often for wisdom when making a decision?
Share what verse (and, if you’re comfortable with, it what decision it is applicable to) you decided to memorize for today.
Bible Study - Sorry for the Delay
Ladies,
I am so sorry. I got bogged down with other things. In fact, things that should not have taken precedence. Things that seem urgent and important, but what I really should have done is slow down and take some time. Exactly what we're studying: GOD FIRST.
There...I set an example for your of what NOT to do. Don't copy it.
Well, I haven't done what I ought in this regard. But it's right back to it now. I'm very sorry to all for the delay!
Calinda
I am so sorry. I got bogged down with other things. In fact, things that should not have taken precedence. Things that seem urgent and important, but what I really should have done is slow down and take some time. Exactly what we're studying: GOD FIRST.
There...I set an example for your of what NOT to do. Don't copy it.
Well, I haven't done what I ought in this regard. But it's right back to it now. I'm very sorry to all for the delay!
Calinda
Monday, October 24, 2011
Day 3 - Your Spiritual Journey
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. - I Peter 2:2
One of the phrases used commonly in the Bible and in our churches is "born again". To shed the old life and be born to a new one...to become something else entirely. In this letter, Peter compares the word to "milk". Where the King James Version (above) says "sincere milk", The Holman Christian Standard Bible translates the words as "unadulterated spiritual milk".
When babies first come into the world, they have only one source of sustenance, one way that they can receive nourishment, and that is milk. Without this, they neither thrive nor grow. God's word is the same way. Through these verses, Peter uses the imagery of newborn babies to point out that though we're meant to be so much more than we are right now...just like a baby grows up from a helpless infant to a mature adult...we're not there yet. We're barely getting started, and if we want to grow and change into that creation that God has made us to be, we should desire His word just like the baby desires milk. We must keep in mind that the word is the source of nourishment for us, and just like the baby can't skip his midnight feeding (and if you've been a mommy of a newborn, you know he won't!)...we can't skip our daily - or more often - dose of the Word and expect to thrive, either!
Action:
Spend some time in the Word, besides this one short study.
Find a favorite passage and memorize (or refresh your memory) on it.
Take a passage that's applicable to where you are now, and keep it in mind in your current circumstances today.
Point for Discussion:
What is your favorite Bible passage?
One of the phrases used commonly in the Bible and in our churches is "born again". To shed the old life and be born to a new one...to become something else entirely. In this letter, Peter compares the word to "milk". Where the King James Version (above) says "sincere milk", The Holman Christian Standard Bible translates the words as "unadulterated spiritual milk".
When babies first come into the world, they have only one source of sustenance, one way that they can receive nourishment, and that is milk. Without this, they neither thrive nor grow. God's word is the same way. Through these verses, Peter uses the imagery of newborn babies to point out that though we're meant to be so much more than we are right now...just like a baby grows up from a helpless infant to a mature adult...we're not there yet. We're barely getting started, and if we want to grow and change into that creation that God has made us to be, we should desire His word just like the baby desires milk. We must keep in mind that the word is the source of nourishment for us, and just like the baby can't skip his midnight feeding (and if you've been a mommy of a newborn, you know he won't!)...we can't skip our daily - or more often - dose of the Word and expect to thrive, either!
Action:
Spend some time in the Word, besides this one short study.
Find a favorite passage and memorize (or refresh your memory) on it.
Take a passage that's applicable to where you are now, and keep it in mind in your current circumstances today.
Point for Discussion:
What is your favorite Bible passage?
Friday, October 21, 2011
Day 2 - Putting the Needs of Others Ahead of Your Own
Be strong and of good courage , and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed : for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD. - I Chronicles 28:20
This passage is about King David telling his son, Solomon, to build the temple. David had just laid out the specifications that were revealed to him by God. This was to be a massive undertaking and would be an expensive venture. This endeavor would be one which would cost Solomon considerable loss of respect and political power if it didn't pan out, in addition to the risk of wealth invested in it.
David knew that anything God said to do, God would provide the resources for the project. He wouldn't leave his servant stranded.
We should also remember that everything we do, whether it is us delivering a meal to a sick friend or Solomon building a temple, the only thing that makes it worthwhile is that God gets the glory for it. We're not working for our own glory or fame, but because we see a need God has equipped and instructed us to fill.
Action:
Today, find a need someone has, and meet it humbly - even anonymously if possible.
Point for Discussion:
When has someone met a need in your life, and it was clear to you that they were God's agent in the provision?
This passage is about King David telling his son, Solomon, to build the temple. David had just laid out the specifications that were revealed to him by God. This was to be a massive undertaking and would be an expensive venture. This endeavor would be one which would cost Solomon considerable loss of respect and political power if it didn't pan out, in addition to the risk of wealth invested in it.
David knew that anything God said to do, God would provide the resources for the project. He wouldn't leave his servant stranded.
We should also remember that everything we do, whether it is us delivering a meal to a sick friend or Solomon building a temple, the only thing that makes it worthwhile is that God gets the glory for it. We're not working for our own glory or fame, but because we see a need God has equipped and instructed us to fill.
Action:
Today, find a need someone has, and meet it humbly - even anonymously if possible.
Point for Discussion:
When has someone met a need in your life, and it was clear to you that they were God's agent in the provision?
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Day 1 - Putting God First
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. - Matthew 6:33
The best way to radically change your life is with God as your partner. Have we put God first in all things? Do we seek his kingdom and his righteousness?
Today's text is a familiar one. Many church members have it memorized, and we teach it to our children as a basic truth by which to live. It's likely that you learned it in song at children's camp or in Sunday School.
Let's look at the passage in its broader context. We all want "these things" to be added to us, but (without looking it up) do you know what things "these things" are?
Okay...if you knew the answer, give yourself a pat on the back. If not, here it is:
Therefore take no thought , saying , What shall we eat ? or, What shall we drink ? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed ? - Matthew 6:31
In this verse, Jesus laid out "these things" He was talking about:
FOOD
DRINK
CLOTHES
Have we learned to seek God first and not be distracted by running after these other things? None of these things are, of themselves, bad, and they're definitely things we all need. They only become a hindrance when we spend our time dwelling on them and worrying aobut where they're going to come from.
God says to us that we need to keep our eyes, our thoughts, and our concern on the big picture: his kingdom and righteousness. Keep prusuing the important things because God is more than big enough to take care of the little stuff like our basic needs.
ACTIONS FOR TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL
Take one or all of these actions to build on the lesson.
Memorize Matthew 6:33
Talk to God today in a personal time of prayer, especially if it's not your usual habit.
Examine your life and see if you have one of the "temptations, addictions, or distractions" mentioned in the book, and decide whether to get rid of it if necessary, or if it needs to simply be relegated to a lesser place - AFTER God.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
Please answer one or more of these questions below in the comments if you feel so led.
The best way to radically change your life is with God as your partner. Have we put God first in all things? Do we seek his kingdom and his righteousness?
Today's text is a familiar one. Many church members have it memorized, and we teach it to our children as a basic truth by which to live. It's likely that you learned it in song at children's camp or in Sunday School.
Let's look at the passage in its broader context. We all want "these things" to be added to us, but (without looking it up) do you know what things "these things" are?
Okay...if you knew the answer, give yourself a pat on the back. If not, here it is:
Therefore take no thought , saying , What shall we eat ? or, What shall we drink ? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed ? - Matthew 6:31
In this verse, Jesus laid out "these things" He was talking about:
FOOD
DRINK
CLOTHES
Have we learned to seek God first and not be distracted by running after these other things? None of these things are, of themselves, bad, and they're definitely things we all need. They only become a hindrance when we spend our time dwelling on them and worrying aobut where they're going to come from.
God says to us that we need to keep our eyes, our thoughts, and our concern on the big picture: his kingdom and righteousness. Keep prusuing the important things because God is more than big enough to take care of the little stuff like our basic needs.
ACTIONS FOR TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL
Take one or all of these actions to build on the lesson.
Memorize Matthew 6:33
Talk to God today in a personal time of prayer, especially if it's not your usual habit.
Examine your life and see if you have one of the "temptations, addictions, or distractions" mentioned in the book, and decide whether to get rid of it if necessary, or if it needs to simply be relegated to a lesser place - AFTER God.
POINTS FOR DISCUSSION
Please answer one or more of these questions below in the comments if you feel so led.
When have you consulted God before making a big decision - and been glad that you did?
When and where do you like to pray daily?
What have you been worried about that you need to quit worrying about and allow God to provide?
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
First Week: Introductory Material
This week, the study worked through the introduction and several verses of scripture that correspond to the points made in the introduction. Reading over the introduction in your text will be helpful before reading this devotional.
This post is a whirlwind of five different topics that were discussed in introduction, so it is rather long. Beginning this Thursday, the posts will be more keenly focused on just one aspect of the study...and consequently shorter.
Point #1: You will have a relationship with God...the only question is "What kind?"
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. - Matthew 7:21
Everyone or almost everyone showing up for a Bible study or reading this blog would say that we call Jesus "Lord". But do we really seek to do God's will? Maybe we're held back by apathy, as we figure going to church is good enough, and it's better than "most people", so that must count for some kudos. Maybe we're held back by fear because God is asking us to do something outside of our comfort zone, and so we think He can't possibly mean that we're actually supposed to step out and do what we think He's asking. Whatever the reason, it's unlikely that we're just consciously saying to God, "Nope...I won't do it because I don't want to!" We're saying, "Lord!" to him, saying we'll do what's asked, but then do we follow through when we know what we should do?
Point 2: Your relationship with God is continuous and it is evolving, and the direction it evolves in depends on the choices that you make...all day, every day.
...Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. - Psalms 119:1
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. - Psalms 119:11
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. - Psalms 119:105
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. - Romans 15:4
And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; - 2 Peter 1:5
The psalmist and the New Testament writers knew that the one way to make sure we know what God's will is - so that when we say to him, "Lord", we then know how to act in accordance with His lordship - was to study His word and to know His law. No matter how clever we may think we are, we can't follow a law we don't know.
Point 3: God doesn't call you to be lukewarm, and faith in Him is not a mundane practice of religion and set of rules. It is a vibrant relationship.
So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. - Revelation 3:16
Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. Matthew 22:35-37
These scriptures offer two contrasting views of the Christian life. One is the lukewarm approach that does just enough to get by. The other is a complete giving of not a half-hearted effort, but of your entire heart...and your soul and mind, as well. What would our lives look like if we lived according to that one greatest commandment? How would they differ from the way they are today?
Point 4: Once you've decided to follow Christ completely, He'll give you the courage and the wherewithal to change your life in the way He wants it to change.
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run , and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. - Isaiah 40:31
God doesn't expect us to do His will in our own strength. He expects us to step out in faith and say we're willing to do whatever He has planned for us. He expects us to WAIT upon him...If we respond with a "Yes" to what He asks...we can be confident that He'll take care of the "how".
Point 5: Following Christ will not remove all troubles from your life. In fact, it will introduce new ones, since you'll be at odds with friends, maybe even family, who do not share your desire to follow and, in fact, don't even understand it.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. - John 15:20
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. - John 16:33
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. - I Peter 4:13
Though God will provide any tool to accomplish His will when we submit to Him as Lord, He never promised that things would be easy on that path.
As we continue in this study, as we seek to align our lives with God's will and to re-arrange our priorities so that they match His, we'll run into times when that will not be easy. God promises that He'll give us the power and strength that we need to get through those rough times and to say "Yes" to His way when the easy answer is "No". Wait on the Lord in those times, so that we can have renewed strength and not grow weary or faint!
I'd like to ask you all, as we are at the beginning of this study, to pray for each other. By name or by need if you know a specific one, in general for all those in the study if you don't. We'll all be facing times when God's way is not the easy one, and we would find it easier to fall back into our old pattern of Self first...Others second...God - well maybe if I have time. One thing that will help immeasurably in those times is the prayers of others we're studying alongside of! The whole idea of a RADICAL change is that it isn't mundane. It requires God's intervention...and prayer is the way to make that request known to Him. If we could do it under our own steam...we already would have. ;)
This post is a whirlwind of five different topics that were discussed in introduction, so it is rather long. Beginning this Thursday, the posts will be more keenly focused on just one aspect of the study...and consequently shorter.
Point #1: You will have a relationship with God...the only question is "What kind?"
Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. - Matthew 7:21
Everyone or almost everyone showing up for a Bible study or reading this blog would say that we call Jesus "Lord". But do we really seek to do God's will? Maybe we're held back by apathy, as we figure going to church is good enough, and it's better than "most people", so that must count for some kudos. Maybe we're held back by fear because God is asking us to do something outside of our comfort zone, and so we think He can't possibly mean that we're actually supposed to step out and do what we think He's asking. Whatever the reason, it's unlikely that we're just consciously saying to God, "Nope...I won't do it because I don't want to!" We're saying, "Lord!" to him, saying we'll do what's asked, but then do we follow through when we know what we should do?
Point 2: Your relationship with God is continuous and it is evolving, and the direction it evolves in depends on the choices that you make...all day, every day.
...Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. - Psalms 119:1
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. - Psalms 119:11
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. - Psalms 119:105
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. - 2 Timothy 3:16-17
For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. - Romans 15:4
And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; - 2 Peter 1:5
The psalmist and the New Testament writers knew that the one way to make sure we know what God's will is - so that when we say to him, "Lord", we then know how to act in accordance with His lordship - was to study His word and to know His law. No matter how clever we may think we are, we can't follow a law we don't know.
Point 3: God doesn't call you to be lukewarm, and faith in Him is not a mundane practice of religion and set of rules. It is a vibrant relationship.
So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. - Revelation 3:16
Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying, Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. Matthew 22:35-37
These scriptures offer two contrasting views of the Christian life. One is the lukewarm approach that does just enough to get by. The other is a complete giving of not a half-hearted effort, but of your entire heart...and your soul and mind, as well. What would our lives look like if we lived according to that one greatest commandment? How would they differ from the way they are today?
Point 4: Once you've decided to follow Christ completely, He'll give you the courage and the wherewithal to change your life in the way He wants it to change.
But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run , and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. - Isaiah 40:31
God doesn't expect us to do His will in our own strength. He expects us to step out in faith and say we're willing to do whatever He has planned for us. He expects us to WAIT upon him...If we respond with a "Yes" to what He asks...we can be confident that He'll take care of the "how".
Point 5: Following Christ will not remove all troubles from your life. In fact, it will introduce new ones, since you'll be at odds with friends, maybe even family, who do not share your desire to follow and, in fact, don't even understand it.
Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. - John 15:20
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. - John 16:33
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. - I Peter 4:13
Though God will provide any tool to accomplish His will when we submit to Him as Lord, He never promised that things would be easy on that path.
As we continue in this study, as we seek to align our lives with God's will and to re-arrange our priorities so that they match His, we'll run into times when that will not be easy. God promises that He'll give us the power and strength that we need to get through those rough times and to say "Yes" to His way when the easy answer is "No". Wait on the Lord in those times, so that we can have renewed strength and not grow weary or faint!
I'd like to ask you all, as we are at the beginning of this study, to pray for each other. By name or by need if you know a specific one, in general for all those in the study if you don't. We'll all be facing times when God's way is not the easy one, and we would find it easier to fall back into our old pattern of Self first...Others second...God - well maybe if I have time. One thing that will help immeasurably in those times is the prayers of others we're studying alongside of! The whole idea of a RADICAL change is that it isn't mundane. It requires God's intervention...and prayer is the way to make that request known to Him. If we could do it under our own steam...we already would have. ;)
Housekeeping Things
A couple of quick non-study notes:
Organization/Materials
The book we are using for the study is 100 Days to a Radical Change: God First...Others Seconds and Me Last. This book is available in the North Pointe church office for $4.
We will be following behind the Thursday study by one week. So if the Thursday study covers seven days' readings, then we'll look at those seven readings, one per day, over the following week.
Disclaimer About the Internet
I have intentionally left the posts open and without requiring approval for replies, so that we can fellowship in as close to real time as we can, short of being in the same room. I have never had any problems with blogs in the past receiving objectionable posts, but since the internet is what it is, that is possible. (Not that any Bible study members would do that...but anyone can come look at the blog if they'd like, providing they find the address. And...guests are welcome.) If it becomes a problem, then I'll turn on the moderation, but I'm hoping to not need to do that.
However, if you do see something inappropriate, please feel free to send me an email about it at saturday.dm@gmail.com so I can remove it immediately, in case I have not seen it yet.
Thanks!
Calinda
Organization/Materials
The book we are using for the study is 100 Days to a Radical Change: God First...Others Seconds and Me Last. This book is available in the North Pointe church office for $4.
We will be following behind the Thursday study by one week. So if the Thursday study covers seven days' readings, then we'll look at those seven readings, one per day, over the following week.
Disclaimer About the Internet
I have intentionally left the posts open and without requiring approval for replies, so that we can fellowship in as close to real time as we can, short of being in the same room. I have never had any problems with blogs in the past receiving objectionable posts, but since the internet is what it is, that is possible. (Not that any Bible study members would do that...but anyone can come look at the blog if they'd like, providing they find the address. And...guests are welcome.) If it becomes a problem, then I'll turn on the moderation, but I'm hoping to not need to do that.
However, if you do see something inappropriate, please feel free to send me an email about it at saturday.dm@gmail.com so I can remove it immediately, in case I have not seen it yet.
Thanks!
Calinda
Welcome to the North Pointe Ladies' Bible Study - Virtual Edition.
Here we'll discuss the same materials being taught in the weekly meetings at the church. For those attending that study, this is a place to review the materials and share further insight and testimony about what the Word says to you. For those not attending the study, this will provide a place to share in the study and keep in touch. Though we can't all be physically at the study, whether due to work or other responsibilities, we can still be in fellowship with each other and share the blessings the Lord has planned for North Pointe's ladies as we delve into His word.
It is my hope and prayer that you find blessings, wisdom, and encouragement from other believers on this site.
Thank you, and God bless you!
Calinda Lucas
Here we'll discuss the same materials being taught in the weekly meetings at the church. For those attending that study, this is a place to review the materials and share further insight and testimony about what the Word says to you. For those not attending the study, this will provide a place to share in the study and keep in touch. Though we can't all be physically at the study, whether due to work or other responsibilities, we can still be in fellowship with each other and share the blessings the Lord has planned for North Pointe's ladies as we delve into His word.
It is my hope and prayer that you find blessings, wisdom, and encouragement from other believers on this site.
Thank you, and God bless you!
Calinda Lucas
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