Livingstonian Faith by Keith Cook
"without faith it is impossible to please God" Hebrews 11:6
Directing a ministry that reaches out around the world can be a daunting task. Everyday you have to make decisions that affect the very souls of men. The world, the Devil, and even human intellect are constantly bombarding you with negative, critical, and faithless fears and accusations.
Daily, and oftentimes moment by moment, you hear the following questions flowing through your mind and heart:
"Are you hearing from God? Did God really say...?"
"Are you sure...? Prove it! Explain it!"
"How can we do...? Is it in the Budget? Do you have the money?"
The questions and the opportunities to turn back and shrink back into nothingness are always gnawing at your hearts gate.
Recently while I was battling my emotions and during a tense time of spiritual warfare my wife Joan asked me to find a quote for her by David Livingston. David was a pioneer missionary to Africa. I searched and searched the internet and my library but was unable to find anything she needed, but God used my study and research time to inspire me to have "Livingstonian Faith".
As I read quote after quote attributed to this missionary statesman my heart was challenged and encouraged all at the same time. David Livingston had the following to say about faith and trusting God.
"Lord, send me anywhere, only go with me. Lay any burden on me, only sustain me. Sever any tie but the tie that binds me to Thyself."
"The end of the exploration is the beginning of missionary enterprise."
"I will go anywhere, provided it is forward."
"Fear God and work hard."
"I will place no value on anything I have or may possess except in relation to the kingdom of Christ."
"I determined never to stop until I had come to the end and achieved my purpose."
"Nothing earthly will make me give up my work in despair."
"Do not think me mad. It is not to make money that I believe a Christian should live. The noblest thing a man can do is, just humbly to receive, and then go amongst others and give."
"Without Christ, not one step; with Him, anywhere!"
What a great legacy of faith and trust in God. We should all be challenged to live with this same kind of faith and commitment to Christ. I want to challenge you, as I was challenged, to live with "Livingstonian Faith"
Daily Prayer: Pray that God will truly give you "Livingstonian Faith," a faith that looks beyond the present and sees the hand of God.
On The Go Prayer Focus: Keith Cook Crusades, Celebrations, and Festivals. God has given Keith the opportunity and privilege of sharing the message of Christ both stateside and internationally. During each opportunity, Keith presents a joyful and enthusiastic, yet powerful and clear presentation of the Gospel and a call to commitment to Christ.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotional for October 1, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2004, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Sunday, October 1, 2017
Saturday, September 30, 2017
Mastering The Word
Mastering The Word by Keith Cook
"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." Joshua 1:8
Mastering the Word of God will always be a quest for me, sort of a vision quest. If I want more visions and dreams then I must master the Word that God is giving me. Mastering the Word of God requires not just busy work or something you have to do to please God. It is actually a privilege to meet with God each day and have holy dialog.
How can you begin to master the Word of God?
1) Read The Word - Reading God's Word takes discipline and time. You can read the Bible through in one year if you simply read the Bible each day for only fifteen minutes! Start today. If you miss a day pick back up where you stopped. Keep a simple checklist of what you are reading.
2) Hear The Word - Listen to great teachers and preachers. Go to church and attend services regularly. Take notes on each sermon or lecture you hear. Keep a notebook and write down the speaker's name, date, scripture, outline, illustrations, or points.
3) Study The Word - After a while you will want to dig deeper into God's Word. Get a Bible dictionary, commentary and study books and start making an effort to get at the historical, spiritual, and applicable meanings behind passages you read.
4) Memorize The Word - Practice, practice, practice. Start with a verse a week. Say it, sing it, shout it, tell it to a friend, write it down, tack it up on the Wall, or put it on sticky notes. The point is pick a scripture and learn it. It will be used of God in the future to help you or someone you meet.
5) Meditate On The Word - This is simply making the Word personal. Talk to God about what you are reading in the Word. Focus on a passage and pray it back to God. Talk to Him about what you hear Him saying in the Word. This is very fun and exciting.
6) Apply The Word - Take God's Word and use it in your daily life. Love, live, and be what you are reading.
7) Share The Word - Tell others about what God says in His Word. He loves them and has a wonderful plan for their lives.
Remember - The Word of God when it is mastered:
It is your Authority for all that you do.
It is your Tool to help others and yourself find the true meaning of life.
It is your Sword to defeat the enemy.
It is used by the Holy Spirit to Bring God's revealed Word and will to a situation.
When you take these seven steps to mastering God's Word you begin a lifelong journey that ultimately is completed in Heaven where everything about our lives and the will of God will be revealed!
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray that you will begin to master God's Word. Pray that you can apply these seven steps and praise God for the transformation these applications will bring.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteers.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for Daily Devotion for September 30, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." Joshua 1:8
Mastering the Word of God will always be a quest for me, sort of a vision quest. If I want more visions and dreams then I must master the Word that God is giving me. Mastering the Word of God requires not just busy work or something you have to do to please God. It is actually a privilege to meet with God each day and have holy dialog.
How can you begin to master the Word of God?
1) Read The Word - Reading God's Word takes discipline and time. You can read the Bible through in one year if you simply read the Bible each day for only fifteen minutes! Start today. If you miss a day pick back up where you stopped. Keep a simple checklist of what you are reading.
2) Hear The Word - Listen to great teachers and preachers. Go to church and attend services regularly. Take notes on each sermon or lecture you hear. Keep a notebook and write down the speaker's name, date, scripture, outline, illustrations, or points.
3) Study The Word - After a while you will want to dig deeper into God's Word. Get a Bible dictionary, commentary and study books and start making an effort to get at the historical, spiritual, and applicable meanings behind passages you read.
4) Memorize The Word - Practice, practice, practice. Start with a verse a week. Say it, sing it, shout it, tell it to a friend, write it down, tack it up on the Wall, or put it on sticky notes. The point is pick a scripture and learn it. It will be used of God in the future to help you or someone you meet.
5) Meditate On The Word - This is simply making the Word personal. Talk to God about what you are reading in the Word. Focus on a passage and pray it back to God. Talk to Him about what you hear Him saying in the Word. This is very fun and exciting.
6) Apply The Word - Take God's Word and use it in your daily life. Love, live, and be what you are reading.
7) Share The Word - Tell others about what God says in His Word. He loves them and has a wonderful plan for their lives.
Remember - The Word of God when it is mastered:
It is your Authority for all that you do.
It is your Tool to help others and yourself find the true meaning of life.
It is your Sword to defeat the enemy.
It is used by the Holy Spirit to Bring God's revealed Word and will to a situation.
When you take these seven steps to mastering God's Word you begin a lifelong journey that ultimately is completed in Heaven where everything about our lives and the will of God will be revealed!
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray that you will begin to master God's Word. Pray that you can apply these seven steps and praise God for the transformation these applications will bring.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteers.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for Daily Devotion for September 30, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Friday, September 29, 2017
"So You've Had A Bad Day"
"So You've Had A Bad Day" by Keith Cook
Everyday I encourage everyone to have a time alone with God. Recently I personally learned once again how important it is to let God speak to you every day.
Recently, I had a very hard day. I had gotten up out of bed and immediately been faced with one crisis after another. I jumped out of sleep into chaos. I had to hurry about my day putting out fires. I whispered a prayer several times through the day just to get through all the hurdles.
It was a horrible day:
One staffer had a flat tire and would not be at work, and another was away on a family emergency.
Someone I was mentoring was falsely ridiculed for being faithful and loyal to their family and for honoring their mother and father.
A festival committee that we had been working with over a year chose to invite another ministry to hold their event.
One long time friend severely hurts me and confounds me with their actions and words.
When I get home, Joan is deep in study. She had gone home early to prepare some notes for our upcoming project. I hate to bother her but need to talk. I replay my day and dump my emotional and spiritual baggage on her.
After dinner Joan retires for bed early and I slip into my easy chair to watch some television. Out of the corner of my eye I glance over and look at a table where Joan and I dump all our loads of books, papers, mail, and junk when we get in to the house. Sitting up on top of the pile is my big black preaching Bible. I hardly ever study or read from this Bible. It is reserved for sermon notes and outlines.
For some strange reason I pause the football game and go over to where the Bible is resting and pick it up. It is like God is inviting me to read a special message from Him.
This is some of what I read:
"The Lord will protect him and keep him alive, " Psalm 41:2
"Even my close friend, in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, Has lifted up his heel against me." Psalm 41:9
"As for me, Thou dost uphold me in my integrity, and Thou dost set me in Thy presence forever." Psalm 41:12
When I read this chapter it was just as if God was talking straight to me - He knew about the growing fear in my heart for the safety of my team - He knew about the pain I was feeling for being rejected by others and not being allowed to preach in a city I had been praying and working towards - He knew about the friend who was disappointing me. God knew it all. His Word had an answer for every situation I had faced during my day.
God told me several things from these passages. I believe they will speak to you also and that there are principles that each of us can look to for direction on those hard days.
1. God will protect me and He will protect you! At home or on the road I have His protection. God is so good to let me know - in advance - that I, and my team, are going to be safe traveling in and out of Pakistan. I just know that this is a personal word to me. This is not a horoscope - it is the Word of God. I can count on His protection.
This is not a guarantee that I can chant to assure protection but a promise made from a dad to his son for a specific task. You do not have to agree or see it - it is for me and my walk with God. It is not contrary to the Word of God, His character, His principles. Nor is it presumption - it is faith in the revealed Word spoken to my heart.
2. God alone gives life and takes it away. If I am trusting Him whatever happens to me I can count on it being for my good, and for His glory and in line with His divine plan. I want the Fathers will more than I want my will. When it is my time to leave this life and travel to the next it will be on God's terms not chance, fate, luck, tragedy, or the devil.
3. Even close friends can be wrong and can hurt you. Their actions, advise, and inactions can often sting greater than the fiery darts of the devil. To be hurt by someone you relax with and eat with is the ultimate hurt. You expect your enemies to hurt you but not your friends.
God in a very supernatural way, through His Word, let me know - and He can let you know - that He takes notice and cares about all my troubles. He wants me to know that he can heal my wounded spirit and fix my broken heart. He wants you to know that too. Let God work on that sorrow. Give Him a chance to work before you give up in despair.
4. My only course of action is to go and attack each situation with Integrity.
No complaining, yelling, accusing, and antagonizing co-workers for situations out of their control.
I am to pray for each of my friends and other believers that they can be strong even when they are falsely accused.
I can not react with pride, jealousy, or anger when I am denied a desire of my heart. (I must submit to the local church's authority and trust that they have the mind of Christ when they make a decision)
That means I must forgive my friends who wrong me and bless them with kindness and love, even as Christ loves me when I wrong and disappoint Him.
Fear must not be allowed to cause me to shrink back into mediocre ministry when God has a job for me to do. I am to be His servant.
No matter what my schedule says, how busy I get, how hectic my day - I am to be a man of integrity - I am to live every moment under the direction of the Holy Spirit. I do not have the right or carnal luxury of reacting in the flesh when God has given a divine direction or directive. I must act on the revealed will of God.
What about you? As you read the passages above or as you read you Bible or pray to God today - what is He saying to your heart? You may not get the same inspiration or inclinations that I have received. But, if you dig into His Word you will be given strength to make it through any day.
Thank you for letting me share a very personal and real incident in my life. I thought you might like to hear what God has been speaking to my heart. He knows all our fears, sorrows, opportunities, and plans.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your pastor, missionaries, evangelists, and others in Christian ministry that as they face spiritual warfare they will stand faithful and not grow weary. Send someone you know a note of encouragement today and let them know that you are praying for them.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteer.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 29, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Everyday I encourage everyone to have a time alone with God. Recently I personally learned once again how important it is to let God speak to you every day.
Recently, I had a very hard day. I had gotten up out of bed and immediately been faced with one crisis after another. I jumped out of sleep into chaos. I had to hurry about my day putting out fires. I whispered a prayer several times through the day just to get through all the hurdles.
It was a horrible day:
One staffer had a flat tire and would not be at work, and another was away on a family emergency.
Someone I was mentoring was falsely ridiculed for being faithful and loyal to their family and for honoring their mother and father.
A festival committee that we had been working with over a year chose to invite another ministry to hold their event.
One long time friend severely hurts me and confounds me with their actions and words.
When I get home, Joan is deep in study. She had gone home early to prepare some notes for our upcoming project. I hate to bother her but need to talk. I replay my day and dump my emotional and spiritual baggage on her.
After dinner Joan retires for bed early and I slip into my easy chair to watch some television. Out of the corner of my eye I glance over and look at a table where Joan and I dump all our loads of books, papers, mail, and junk when we get in to the house. Sitting up on top of the pile is my big black preaching Bible. I hardly ever study or read from this Bible. It is reserved for sermon notes and outlines.
For some strange reason I pause the football game and go over to where the Bible is resting and pick it up. It is like God is inviting me to read a special message from Him.
This is some of what I read:
"The Lord will protect him and keep him alive, " Psalm 41:2
"Even my close friend, in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, Has lifted up his heel against me." Psalm 41:9
"As for me, Thou dost uphold me in my integrity, and Thou dost set me in Thy presence forever." Psalm 41:12
When I read this chapter it was just as if God was talking straight to me - He knew about the growing fear in my heart for the safety of my team - He knew about the pain I was feeling for being rejected by others and not being allowed to preach in a city I had been praying and working towards - He knew about the friend who was disappointing me. God knew it all. His Word had an answer for every situation I had faced during my day.
God told me several things from these passages. I believe they will speak to you also and that there are principles that each of us can look to for direction on those hard days.
1. God will protect me and He will protect you! At home or on the road I have His protection. God is so good to let me know - in advance - that I, and my team, are going to be safe traveling in and out of Pakistan. I just know that this is a personal word to me. This is not a horoscope - it is the Word of God. I can count on His protection.
This is not a guarantee that I can chant to assure protection but a promise made from a dad to his son for a specific task. You do not have to agree or see it - it is for me and my walk with God. It is not contrary to the Word of God, His character, His principles. Nor is it presumption - it is faith in the revealed Word spoken to my heart.
2. God alone gives life and takes it away. If I am trusting Him whatever happens to me I can count on it being for my good, and for His glory and in line with His divine plan. I want the Fathers will more than I want my will. When it is my time to leave this life and travel to the next it will be on God's terms not chance, fate, luck, tragedy, or the devil.
3. Even close friends can be wrong and can hurt you. Their actions, advise, and inactions can often sting greater than the fiery darts of the devil. To be hurt by someone you relax with and eat with is the ultimate hurt. You expect your enemies to hurt you but not your friends.
God in a very supernatural way, through His Word, let me know - and He can let you know - that He takes notice and cares about all my troubles. He wants me to know that he can heal my wounded spirit and fix my broken heart. He wants you to know that too. Let God work on that sorrow. Give Him a chance to work before you give up in despair.
4. My only course of action is to go and attack each situation with Integrity.
No complaining, yelling, accusing, and antagonizing co-workers for situations out of their control.
I am to pray for each of my friends and other believers that they can be strong even when they are falsely accused.
I can not react with pride, jealousy, or anger when I am denied a desire of my heart. (I must submit to the local church's authority and trust that they have the mind of Christ when they make a decision)
That means I must forgive my friends who wrong me and bless them with kindness and love, even as Christ loves me when I wrong and disappoint Him.
Fear must not be allowed to cause me to shrink back into mediocre ministry when God has a job for me to do. I am to be His servant.
No matter what my schedule says, how busy I get, how hectic my day - I am to be a man of integrity - I am to live every moment under the direction of the Holy Spirit. I do not have the right or carnal luxury of reacting in the flesh when God has given a divine direction or directive. I must act on the revealed will of God.
What about you? As you read the passages above or as you read you Bible or pray to God today - what is He saying to your heart? You may not get the same inspiration or inclinations that I have received. But, if you dig into His Word you will be given strength to make it through any day.
Thank you for letting me share a very personal and real incident in my life. I thought you might like to hear what God has been speaking to my heart. He knows all our fears, sorrows, opportunities, and plans.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your pastor, missionaries, evangelists, and others in Christian ministry that as they face spiritual warfare they will stand faithful and not grow weary. Send someone you know a note of encouragement today and let them know that you are praying for them.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Safety In Travel for each On The Go staffer and GoTeam volunteer.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 29, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Thursday, September 28, 2017
Seek The Lord
Seek The Lord by Joan Cook
"Gather yourselves together, yes, gather together, O shameless nation, Before the decree is issued, Or the day passes like chaff, Before the Lord's fierce anger comes upon you, Before the day of the Lord's anger come upon you! Seek the Lord, all you meek of the earth, Who have upheld His justice, Seek righteousness, seek humility, It may be that you will be hidden in the day of the Lord's anger." Zephaniah 2:1-3
As a nation, we have a choice to make; we can turn toward God or turn away from Him and His ways. This nation was founded on Christian principles by God-fearing men who knew that it was God who could cause a nation to succeed or fail.
We must realize that we are in a critical time in our nation. We are at a crossroads. We will either choose to go God's way or our own way. I'm afraid in recent years, we have chosen the latter. God will not force Himself on anyone or force His ways on any nation. We have the freedom to choose!
As Christians, one of our responsibilities is to speak up when the things of God are being stepped on. You may not think you should get involved because it's the politician's job! I believe that the Lord wants us to stand up for the things of God. If our founding fathers had never stood up, we might not even be a nation today! The Bible tells us that we are to open our mouths against injustice and speak out for righteousness.
Before the Lord's wrath and anger falls upon us as a nation, we must seek the Lord and cause others to seek Him as well.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for the leaders of our country! Pray for our nation to come back to the Lord before it is too late!
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Interns who faithfully come to On The Go each year to work for Christ and learn how to do ministry that matters for the kingdom of God.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 28, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Gather yourselves together, yes, gather together, O shameless nation, Before the decree is issued, Or the day passes like chaff, Before the Lord's fierce anger comes upon you, Before the day of the Lord's anger come upon you! Seek the Lord, all you meek of the earth, Who have upheld His justice, Seek righteousness, seek humility, It may be that you will be hidden in the day of the Lord's anger." Zephaniah 2:1-3
As a nation, we have a choice to make; we can turn toward God or turn away from Him and His ways. This nation was founded on Christian principles by God-fearing men who knew that it was God who could cause a nation to succeed or fail.
We must realize that we are in a critical time in our nation. We are at a crossroads. We will either choose to go God's way or our own way. I'm afraid in recent years, we have chosen the latter. God will not force Himself on anyone or force His ways on any nation. We have the freedom to choose!
As Christians, one of our responsibilities is to speak up when the things of God are being stepped on. You may not think you should get involved because it's the politician's job! I believe that the Lord wants us to stand up for the things of God. If our founding fathers had never stood up, we might not even be a nation today! The Bible tells us that we are to open our mouths against injustice and speak out for righteousness.
Before the Lord's wrath and anger falls upon us as a nation, we must seek the Lord and cause others to seek Him as well.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for the leaders of our country! Pray for our nation to come back to the Lord before it is too late!
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Interns who faithfully come to On The Go each year to work for Christ and learn how to do ministry that matters for the kingdom of God.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 28, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Wednesday, September 27, 2017
Perfect Peace
Perfect Peace by Laurie McTier
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
God has used this verse in my life to be a source of encouragement and renewal. At times when I honestly did not feel that peace was even possible, God brought this verse to my memory and He reminded me that He is Source of our strength, the Author and Finisher of our faith, our Comforter, and our Peace.
When I think of these verses my mind immediately races back to 1993. This was a year of great transition and maturity. I had just graduated from nursing school, passed my state board examinations, and was looking to get an apartment of my own. I was working full time in the hospital, and I truly loved my job as I was able to help others in their times of need.
On May 3, 1993, it seemed my whole life came to a screeching halt. I had just finished mowing the yard and was getting ready to go to work when the phone rang. On the other line, my grandfather told me that my dad was in the emergency room and that the family needed to come quick. The news was not good. The doctors found a brain tumor and it was inoperable at that time.
As we drove to the hospital, my mom and my sister and I prayed the entire way. We began praying for God's healing and His grace and understanding of all that was about to occur. In the midst of this crisis, God gave each of us a perfect peace. Peace which I knew could only have come from Him. He assured us that He was right there beside us, He would never leave nor forsake us.
Over the next nine months, our lives completely changed. I was no longer seeking my own personal agendas, but God's will for my life. I began to see each day as a gift from God and an opportunity to serve Him. God brought healing into family relationships and He taught us so many things from His Word. I believe that everyone in my immediate family drew closer to Him, because in the midst of our struggle we had nowhere else to turn. We were driven to our knees as we cried out to Him. Every time we went to God, He gave us new and precious promises from His Word and they each served as great encouragement and strength to endure the road ahead.
As you are reading this devotional thought today, maybe you are going through some of the same struggles as you search for peace, wisdom, and discernment. I encourage you that your Father is just as close as the mention of His name. No matter what valley or crisis experience you are in today, God will not leave you. As His child, He is always right beside you. He promises to go before you and behind you. His grace is sufficient for every need that you have.
My prayer for you today is that God will bring healing and peace to your life. I hope that you will truly come to know God as your Father. He wants you to know that He loves you, and He wants to spend time with you. In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God. As we spend time giving thanks and sharing with others how He has worked in our lives, our hearts are encouraged and strengthened. No matter what you are struggling with today, God can give you perfect peace, found only as we trust Him, lean on Him, and call upon Him.
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for the perfect peace He gives you as you trust Him, lean on Him, and call upon Him.
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCamp ministry that trains believers all over the world how to share their faith.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 27, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27
God has used this verse in my life to be a source of encouragement and renewal. At times when I honestly did not feel that peace was even possible, God brought this verse to my memory and He reminded me that He is Source of our strength, the Author and Finisher of our faith, our Comforter, and our Peace.
When I think of these verses my mind immediately races back to 1993. This was a year of great transition and maturity. I had just graduated from nursing school, passed my state board examinations, and was looking to get an apartment of my own. I was working full time in the hospital, and I truly loved my job as I was able to help others in their times of need.
On May 3, 1993, it seemed my whole life came to a screeching halt. I had just finished mowing the yard and was getting ready to go to work when the phone rang. On the other line, my grandfather told me that my dad was in the emergency room and that the family needed to come quick. The news was not good. The doctors found a brain tumor and it was inoperable at that time.
As we drove to the hospital, my mom and my sister and I prayed the entire way. We began praying for God's healing and His grace and understanding of all that was about to occur. In the midst of this crisis, God gave each of us a perfect peace. Peace which I knew could only have come from Him. He assured us that He was right there beside us, He would never leave nor forsake us.
Over the next nine months, our lives completely changed. I was no longer seeking my own personal agendas, but God's will for my life. I began to see each day as a gift from God and an opportunity to serve Him. God brought healing into family relationships and He taught us so many things from His Word. I believe that everyone in my immediate family drew closer to Him, because in the midst of our struggle we had nowhere else to turn. We were driven to our knees as we cried out to Him. Every time we went to God, He gave us new and precious promises from His Word and they each served as great encouragement and strength to endure the road ahead.
As you are reading this devotional thought today, maybe you are going through some of the same struggles as you search for peace, wisdom, and discernment. I encourage you that your Father is just as close as the mention of His name. No matter what valley or crisis experience you are in today, God will not leave you. As His child, He is always right beside you. He promises to go before you and behind you. His grace is sufficient for every need that you have.
My prayer for you today is that God will bring healing and peace to your life. I hope that you will truly come to know God as your Father. He wants you to know that He loves you, and He wants to spend time with you. In every thing give thanks for this is the will of God. As we spend time giving thanks and sharing with others how He has worked in our lives, our hearts are encouraged and strengthened. No matter what you are struggling with today, God can give you perfect peace, found only as we trust Him, lean on Him, and call upon Him.
Daily Prayer Focus: Praise God for the perfect peace He gives you as you trust Him, lean on Him, and call upon Him.
On The Go Prayer Focus: On The Go's GoCamp ministry that trains believers all over the world how to share their faith.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotion for September 27, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2002, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Set Your Focus For The Future
Set Your Focus For The Future by Keith Cook
Today I would like to give you a simple little exercise that can help you "consider your future" and begin to look at God's vision for your time on earth. God wants us to all march boldly into our future. He wants us to storm the gates of hell and have signs and wonders following all who believe.
I want to send you a simple little tool that we have developed to help you prepare for your future. I will gladly send it to you if you write or email us today. Ask for the "Set Your Focus" booklet. Please use this exercise to find and focus on single words that represent your hopes or observations for each of the following areas of your life or important people in your life.
These are in no way "magic" words or even "divine" observations. They are simply words that represent your honest attempt to focus on your family, friends, life, career and ministry. God can and may use these words to remind you and help you pray and trust God in these areas.
Think and pray about what you write down and then focus on these single words and what they represent for that person or situation.
You may want to work through this exercise monthly or quarterly. Some find it necessary to go over this every year. The main thing is to give God an opportunity to inspire and direct you in these areas.
Try to fill in each applicable area and come back to these words as often as the Lord directs. You will be amazed at how simple it is to complete this exercise and what a blessing you will receive in giving this a special effort.
Reminder: Write in each word that you think of that relates to each area listed in the next section.
Take the time to use this exercise to:
1. Find out who you are - So you can have Peace in your natural man.
2. Know what you believe - So you will feel Secure in your spiritual man.
3. Know where you're going - So you will feel Confident for your Future.
4. Bring others with you - So you will be Used to bring others with you to Heaven.
Daily Prayer Focus: Please do this exercise some time this weekend. I will be praying that you will.
I know this is different but I know this will help you focus on God's will for your life. Email, call or write me with your results. I will pray for you and would love to encourage you in your focus and ministries.
For your hard copy write us at On The Go, PO Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, email info@onthego.org, or you can call us at 615/299-0222.
On The Go Prayer Focus: All the Ministry Partners, Missions, Missionaries that On The Go ministers with. It takes team work to make the dream of reaching the world a reality.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotions for September 26, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2017 On The Go / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
Founder/Director - Keith Cook, keithcook@onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Today I would like to give you a simple little exercise that can help you "consider your future" and begin to look at God's vision for your time on earth. God wants us to all march boldly into our future. He wants us to storm the gates of hell and have signs and wonders following all who believe.
I want to send you a simple little tool that we have developed to help you prepare for your future. I will gladly send it to you if you write or email us today. Ask for the "Set Your Focus" booklet. Please use this exercise to find and focus on single words that represent your hopes or observations for each of the following areas of your life or important people in your life.
These are in no way "magic" words or even "divine" observations. They are simply words that represent your honest attempt to focus on your family, friends, life, career and ministry. God can and may use these words to remind you and help you pray and trust God in these areas.
Think and pray about what you write down and then focus on these single words and what they represent for that person or situation.
You may want to work through this exercise monthly or quarterly. Some find it necessary to go over this every year. The main thing is to give God an opportunity to inspire and direct you in these areas.
Try to fill in each applicable area and come back to these words as often as the Lord directs. You will be amazed at how simple it is to complete this exercise and what a blessing you will receive in giving this a special effort.
Reminder: Write in each word that you think of that relates to each area listed in the next section.
Take the time to use this exercise to:
1. Find out who you are - So you can have Peace in your natural man.
2. Know what you believe - So you will feel Secure in your spiritual man.
3. Know where you're going - So you will feel Confident for your Future.
4. Bring others with you - So you will be Used to bring others with you to Heaven.
Daily Prayer Focus: Please do this exercise some time this weekend. I will be praying that you will.
I know this is different but I know this will help you focus on God's will for your life. Email, call or write me with your results. I will pray for you and would love to encourage you in your focus and ministries.
For your hard copy write us at On The Go, PO Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, email info@onthego.org, or you can call us at 615/299-0222.
On The Go Prayer Focus: All the Ministry Partners, Missions, Missionaries that On The Go ministers with. It takes team work to make the dream of reaching the world a reality.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotions for September 26, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2017 On The Go / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
Founder/Director - Keith Cook, keithcook@onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
Monday, September 25, 2017
Generational Vision For The Future
Generational Vision For The Future by Keith Cook
"Do you not say there are yet four months and then comes harvest? Behold I say to you, Lift Up Your Eyes, and LOOK on the fields, that they are white for harvest." John 4:35
Each new generation needs to hear the message like it has never been preached before. Right now half of our world is under 25 years of age. They need a new and fresh outpouring of God's love.
Nothing ever built arose to touch the skies unless some man dreamed that it should, believed that it could, and willed that it must.
The Bible states in Jeremiah 29:11, "I know the plans I have for you..." He wants you to have a vision.
1) You need a vision that crosses national and cultural boundaries.
2) You need a vision that focuses on the desperate plight of the lost.
3) You need a vision that moves you to action.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your generation and your part in reaching everyone in it! This is you time to make a difference.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Finances of Team as they boldly go out for Jesus Christ. Pray that all their needs will be met at home and for the projects they are working on.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotions for September 25, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
"Do you not say there are yet four months and then comes harvest? Behold I say to you, Lift Up Your Eyes, and LOOK on the fields, that they are white for harvest." John 4:35
Each new generation needs to hear the message like it has never been preached before. Right now half of our world is under 25 years of age. They need a new and fresh outpouring of God's love.
Nothing ever built arose to touch the skies unless some man dreamed that it should, believed that it could, and willed that it must.
The Bible states in Jeremiah 29:11, "I know the plans I have for you..." He wants you to have a vision.
1) You need a vision that crosses national and cultural boundaries.
2) You need a vision that focuses on the desperate plight of the lost.
3) You need a vision that moves you to action.
Daily Prayer Focus: Pray for your generation and your part in reaching everyone in it! This is you time to make a difference.
On The Go Prayer Focus: The Finances of Team as they boldly go out for Jesus Christ. Pray that all their needs will be met at home and for the projects they are working on.
Thank you for taking the time to pray for this important division of On The Go Ministries. For more information on any our ministries here at On The Go, you may send your questions to info@onthego.org.
On The Go Daily Devotions for September 25, 2017
Brought to you each day by On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Copyright (c) 2003, 2017 On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
Permission is granted to "forward" this devotional to friends and acquaintances. All other rights reserved.
On The Go Ministries / Keith Cook Team
P.O. Box 963, Springfield, TN 37172, (615) 299-0222, www.onthego.org
E-zine Editor, Laurie McTier, laurie@onthego.org
Send E-zine questions or comments to: ezines@onthego.org
______________________________________________
Subscribing - If you're reading a pass-along copy of this "On The Go" devotional e-zine and want to receive your own subscription, free of charge, simply fill out the online form at http://onthego.org/ezine_newsletters.php .
After registering online you will receive an e-mail asking you to confirm your subscription request, and you simply reply to that e-mail. Thank you and God bless.
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