Angels, February 29, 2008

Angels, February 29, 2008

"The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one.
"The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels.
"Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age.
"The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness,
"and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
"Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

Matt 13:38-43, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, You used parables to teach us the fundamentals of our faith, very often. We see here that there are good seeds, sons of the kingdom, and tares (bad seeds) sons of the wicked one. You tell us the devil sowed the bad seeds and that they will be reaped by the angels at the end of the age, burned in fire.

The bad seeds were sown among the good seeds but when the seeds bear fruit, one bears good grain (fruit) and the other bad. We understand that as we mature we will be known by the kind of fruit we bear.

You teach us that You, Jesus, will send out the angels to gather those who offend and who practice lawlessness. Then, after that, the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of the Father.

Jesus, we do have ears and we do hear. The warning is too ominous to ignore. We want to be sons of light, Your Light in us. Help us today to be the righteous persons You have called us to be. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

Conscience February 28, 2008

Conscience February 28, 2008

...sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit,
There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,
who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.

1 Peter 3:15-18,21-22

Father, You have called us saints and yet our hearts convict us. Here You tell us to sanctify our hearts, an active process of cleansing and renewal by You, that in good conscience we might provide others with a good defense of our love for You in meekness and fear, avoiding arrogance or the suggestion of appearing judgmental.

If we suffer due to our witness Father, we read here that Christ also suffered dying for the sins of each of us that we might enter Your presence, not as sinful flesh, but made alive in the Spirit just as Jesus.

You then teach us water baptism cleanses and that it is good but it is standing before Jesus with a clear conscience, renewed by the indwelling Holy Spirit, which saves us when Jesus, who has all authority, will judge all things.

Again God, we feel so unworthy when the flesh rules our lives. Please help us to be as Jesus this day. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

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Joy February 27, 2008

Joy February 27, 2008

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,
who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,
that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,
whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory,
receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.

1 Pet 1:3-9, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You promise us that through our faith in the resurrection of Jesus, we have eternal life. From this side we do not completely understand nor appreciate that which awaits but we will. Salvation from sin, suffering and weakness is assured. We know that joy and celebration will characterize heaven.

The tests here will continue but they too shall cease. Lead us, today, in paths of righteousness even in the presence of turmoil. Give us internal peace known by us and suspected by others. Give us a witness in this place. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

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Prayer, Part I, February 26, 2008

Prayer, Part I, February 26, 2008

“And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
”But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
”And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
”Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him.

Matthew 6:5-8, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, we thank You for these specific teachings. We read Your word because it is a lamp unto our feet. You guide us in paths of righteousness. Here You make it clear that prayer is not a performance nor a vain repetition of words that are repeated over and over.

Teach us Jesus to be comfortable talking with You all day, privately and in public (pray unceasingly in your heart about every circumstance and be grateful for every gift, for all of creation, constantly).

We know that You know our needs but we also see that You want us to express them to You. Help us to be open to Your leading and give power to our prayers. What a great thought You express when You tell us that what we pray in private You will rewarded openly. And when You do answer our prayers, give us a sense of humility and gratitude. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

Revenge, February 25, 2008

Revenge

Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge.

There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy. Who are you to judge another?
James 4:11-12

Dear Jesus, Your half-brother (Mary was his mother too but he had a different father) received a great deal of specific instruction from You. James understood the Law. You taught him and us that to love your neighbor as yourself was a command that summarized the last 6 of the 10 commandments. We can not love a person, unsaved or not and still be their judge. We would ourselves be breaking the Law.

Father, some of us are very good at following the first 4 commandments wherein we are to love You with all our heart, mind, soul and strength. Some of us are very weak in loving the unlovely, the down trodden, the disobedient and those who do not love You. Help us to know, today, that You Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be our Counselor, or internal Guide and Strength. Help us to show others we love You by loving them as well. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

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Mind of Christ, February 24, 2008

Mind of Christ

… He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love,
having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will,
In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will...

Ephesians 1:4-5, 11, www.solascriptura.com

Father, Your Holy word says that You knew Jeremiah before he was in his mother's womb. Here we learn that You chose us as well, having predestined us to adoption as Your children, enabled by the willing sacrifice of Jesus, to enter into Your presence.
Yet Father, we have choices. We have been given the power of volition. We are not puppets. How then Father, can we be predestined to be Your children? Thank You for teaching us that You are never surprised by anything we do, say or think because you are omniscient, knowing the beginning from the end. You see what is unseen, by us, You know what is unknown by us and what choices we will yet make.
Father, we earnestly pray that You will help us in what seems like a quest to us, an effort to follow You. If our journey seems uncertain, in terms of events and goals, we can have assurance that all things work to the good for those that love You and obey You. Give us comfort this day that You are present and that You care, constantly. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #1

O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; you understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O LORD, You know it altogether. You have hedged me behind and before, and laid Your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain it. Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me. How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them! If I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; when I awake, I am still with You. Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Psalms 139:1-10,17-18,23-24, www.solascriptura.com

Father, Your omnipresence in our lives and world is beyond our comprehension. We know you have none of the boundaries of the flesh and that You created each of us. Now, You teach us that You search us, You know when we arise and lay down, You know the words on our tongues and the thoughts of our hearts. You encompass us, Your thoughts toward us are greater than the sand, a quantity beyond counting.

Father, if we could but respond to You in the same way and give the same consideration, attention and time back to You that You give to us, that would keep our focus on our source of strength. We have access, all day long, to Your wisdom and presence. Help us to respond, constantly. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #2

...sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit, There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.

1 Pet 3:15-18,21-22

Father, You have called us saints and yet our hearts convict us. Here You tell us to sanctify our hearts, an active process of cleansing and renewal by You, that in good conscience we might provide others with a good defense of our love for You in meekness and fear, avoiding arrogance or the suggestion of appearing judgmental.

If we suffer due to our witness Father, we read here that Christ also suffered dying for the sins of each of us that we might enter Your presence, not as sinful flesh, but made alive in the Spirit just as Jesus.

You then teach us water baptism cleanses and that it is good but it is standing before Jesus with a clear conscience, renewed by the indwelling Holy Spirit, that saves us when Jesus, who has all authority, will judge all things.

Again God, we feel so unworthy when the flesh rules our lives . Please help us to be as Jesus this day. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #3

Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully.

I, the LORD, search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.

...I am He who searches the minds and hearts. And I will give to each one of you according to your works.

1 Peter 2:17-19, Jeremiah 17:10, Revelation 2:23, www.solascriptura.com

Father, honoring You is easy and right. Honoring the king, when the king is not honoring You is very difficult, from a human perspective. Thank You for teaching us that we are to be different in that regard. Our obedience to people that You have placed in authority is Your will. While we pray for their souls we must be courteous and obedient to the laws of the land and to those You have given authority.

If we only honor the good and gentle we have not distinguished ourselves from others in the world. We are to be known by our love for You and for our neighbor and if our neighbor has been granted authority by You (You, Father are sovereign), so be it. The test is theirs.

You search our minds and our hearts. Our agenda, our thoughts and actions are bare before You. How else could You be omnipresent and omniscient if that were not true? It is true and we pray that this day You will not only be a light unto our paths but we acknowledge You as companion and friend. Help us to seek your counsel constantly. In Your Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #4

"This is the covenant that I will make with them...says the Lord: I will put My laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them," ... brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 10:16, 19-23, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we are so grateful that we are no longer judged by the Law. If we were to choose to remain under the Law, our sins would still be with us. For the New Covenant, we are grateful. You not only cleansed us of our sins but You then inscribed the truth on our hearts and minds, forever, and the miracle of being born again with a new purpose in life is ours if we would but love and obey.

We no longer stand outside the Holy of Holies, but we are invited behind the veil, right into Your presence and there You call us friends. Such truth is too great for us to fully comprehend.

Let us draw near to You Jesus, our High Priest and more, for cleansing, strengthening, counseling, and comfort. No one on this earth can do for us what You have already done and what You are yet able to do if we but trust and obey. The refreshment of Your cleansing water in our lives daily is like none other. You are the Living Water. Fill us afresh. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #5

... I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.

2 Corinthians 7:9-11, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You have taught us that humility and contrition precede repentance and now we see that it is accompanied by sorrow, genuine sorrow for our sins. This sorrow is not the sort of sorrow the world feels about having made mistakes but it is sorrow leading to repentance and to the joy of a changed heart.

You teach us that this sorrow leads to joy, a cleansing of the spirit, a clear conscience, a zeal to serve You and a sense of no longer being guilty, being vindicated by You Jesus. Father, we are not always successful in forgiving ourselves for our sins. We tend to forget how much You suffered for our sins, taking them upon Yourself at the Cross. Help us, this day, to know that our sin is as separate from us as the east is from the west, never to be remembered against us again. If You can, after much suffering, push our sins from Your sight, surely we can acknowledge and accept that cleansing.

The Scriptures say "east from west" because once you head east you will never be headed west unless you turn around and return to your sin. Not so, if You had said "north from south", since if you go north long enough you will eventually be headed south, back to your sin. Thank You for the wisdom of Your Holy word. Keep us in it every day we pray. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #6

... it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Like a flitting sparrow, like a flying swallow, so a curse without cause shall not alight.

Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

2 Corinthians 4:6, Proverbs 26:2, 2 Corinthians 7:1 www.solascriptura.com

Father, You, who created light in the darkness, also gave us the Light that abides in us. You call it the light of knowledge. Help us to know today that Your knowledge is in us if we would but turn to that Light within. Your light is like a built in lie detector wherein every thought, action and vision is evaluated by You and taught to us. We are truly without excuse when we fail to turn to the Light.

You have taught us that curses, like a flying bird, do not light upon people without a cause. Help us this day to be obedient to your laws and to receive blessings, not curses.

Your promises are to those who seek You. May we flee from sinful thoughts or deeds knowing that if our own heart condemns us we will be without excuse.

Conscience #7

My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him. For if our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things. Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence toward God. And whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is His commandment: that we should believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ and love one another, as He gave us commandment. Now he who keeps His commandments abides in Him, and He in him. And by this we know that He abides in us, by the Spirit whom He has given us.

I John 3:18-24, www.solascriptura.com

Father, help us this day, not to publicly portray ourselves as Your children and then privately, in our hearts, go right on thinking wrong thoughts and doing things in private that are clearly sinful, as judged by our own hearts.

It is so hard Father to be "perfect" and none of us are. You have taught us that it is the perfection of Jesus, in whom we abide, that makes us acceptable in Your sight. Teach us to meditate on Your truth, Your commandments and Your compassion for our circumstance as we move through this day. It seems a miracle Father that You would love us at all, given our sinful nature. Without the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit in us, we stand no chance of pleasing You.

Help us this day to love You with all of our hearts, mind and soul and to love our neighbor as ourselves. In Jesus name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #8

...Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still... Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, ...and purify your hearts...

Psalms 4:4-5, James 4:8, www.solascriptura.com

Father, as wonderful as a good night's sleep is, it is equally wonderful to know that when we awaken, too early, You are there, waiting for us to acknowledge Your presence in the affairs of our lives. We do have "agendas". Sometimes they press in on us and seem to force You out. What a grave error it is Father when we proceed as if You were not present and as if You did not care.

Drawing near to You in all circumstances and at all times is Your desire for us. You have told us that Your thoughts toward us exceed number. What a wonderful reality. Help us, this day, to respond to that truth by acknowledging Your presence and asking for Your guidance In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #9

...our boasting is this: the testimony of our conscience that we conducted ourselves in the world in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God...

... as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.

When You said, "Seek My face," my heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek." Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD!

2 Corinthians 1:12, 1Thes 2:4, Psalms 27:8, 14, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we are each so prone to boast. We even have pride in serving You. Your word tells us that You expect us to boast, but not about our fleshly achievements, but instead about how Your grace to us leads us to joyful feelings of having been Your person, this day. It is a joy to know that You love us and empower us to serve You.

Even as we tell others of our love for You and Your Holy word we see that You have entrusted us with this role, not to please men but to pass the test of focusing on Your presence in the process. Our personal righteousness is truly as filthy rags. We seek to be covered in Your cloak yet we feel so unworthy. Help us to know it is never our worthiness that counts, but it is Your Spirit in us that counts. May we wait upon You to lead us this day. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #10

... for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live. However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse. But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol's temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols? And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.

... the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith,

1 Corinthians 8:6-13, 1 Timothy 1:5, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You emphasize, in several places, that food and drink are gifts to us, to be enjoyed. Here You tell us that we should not let our liberty in your gifts get in the way of our witness to those who believe that certain foods are not to be eaten. We know Father of our liberty; now help us to place our witness and our love for others above our liberty.

You tell us that if we are insensitive to the needs of a weaker brother that we are sinning against You. That is a powerful reason for us to show patience when we are inclined to do otherwise. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #11

Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things. For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him. Who are you to judge another's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand. One person esteems one day above another; another esteems every day alike. Let each be fully convinced in his own mind. He who observes the day, observes it to the Lord; and he who does not observe the day, to the Lord he does not observe it. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks. For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living. But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: "As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God." So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way. I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men. Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another. Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. All things indeed are pure, but it is evil for the man who eats with offense. It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles or is offended or is made weak. Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.

Romans 14:1-23, www.solascriptura.com



Father, help us not to judge others but to do what is right according to the truth you have taught us. Jesus, your word says it is "Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man." Matthew 15:11 In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #12

Paul, the apostle, wrote: ... we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice.

Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. I find then a law, that evil is present with me, the one who wills to do good. For I delight in the law of God according to the inward man. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?

I thank God—through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin.

Romans 7:14-25, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we thank You for giving us the letters and wisdom of the apostle Paul. He has taught us that there is a perennial war experienced by every living person between the will of our flesh and Your will for us, as revealed by the new covenant, the truth that You have written upon our hearts.

Yes Father, we experience the tug of war for our souls every day and You have told us that Satan seeks to win us over to sin. Father, we are frustrated by the pressures of life where sin abounds and where we fail in our efforts to be like You Jesus. Thank You seems too trite and sometimes insincere. It is truly a miracle that You care for each us, even in our sin. Help us this day not to give into sin as we seek to serve You and to know that it is only by the power of Your Holy Spirit in us that we (through You) can win the constant battle for our souls.

If the Apostle Paul can write and experience the words above, how can we expect any less pressure? Strengthen us we pray, in the name of Jesus, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #13

... as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.

Romans 2:12-16, www.solascriptura.com

Father, Your chosen people, some of whom have not yet claimed the Messiah as their Savior, are now being judged by the law, the same law that you gave Moses on Mt. Sinai. We know Father that no man that ever lived, aside from Jesus, Yourself incarnate, is without sin and that You will not let sin or sinful people enter into Your presence. Yet Father, Israel belongs to You and man will not frustrate Your plan of redemption for Your people. We pray for Your chosen people in this time of testing for them and acknowledge our faith as coming from the truth which You revealed to them.

Now Father, You have told us that the truth is written on the hearts of Gentile believers. We, unlike Israel, who were given the truth by the law, have been given it in an indelible way; it is written upon our hearts. We, and Israel, may choose to look away from the truth of the new covenant, brought about by the healing sacrifice of Jesus, but if we do, we shall remain in our sin and will be judged by the law.

You have said that our conscience (the truth inscribed on our hearts) either accuses us or excuses us. We never wonder whether we are sinning. We always know and because this is true You have sent the power of the Holy Spirit to help, comfort, counsel and teach us how to deal with temptation and sin. Father, this day, help us come to Jesus and to be as much like Him as possible. We must decrease; He must increase, in the affairs of our lives. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #14

"The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. "But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other...

And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts...

...I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets. "I have hope in God... "This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

Matthew 6:22-24, Luke 16:15, Acts 24:14-16, www.solascriptura.com

Father, the world presents a great array of sinful opportunities. You have permitted Satan to tempt man in these times in bold and public ways. Help us not fall victim to "joining in" simply because everyone seems to be willfully sinning, more and more. Help us, as you did Joseph, to flee from sinful opportunities as a person truly escaping the clutches of sin.

Our flesh is disposed to sin but Your Spirit in us trumps sin if we will but call up on You. Teach us to call out, constantly, for Your Holiness in us. Give us a clear conscience before You about the events of this day, knowing that yesterday's sin, once forgiven, is as separate from You as the east is from the west, never to be remembered against us again. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #15

"The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. "But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other...

And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts...

...I worship the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the Law and in the Prophets. "I have hope in God... "This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men.

Matthew 6:22-24, Luke 16:15, Acts 24:14-16, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know that which we choose to look at enters into our minds and sometimes invades our hearts. Help us to simply look away from evil and not to hesitate and gaze upon that which You hate. We know we can not serve two masters, evil and good, and that when we choose to give space in our lives to evil that You not only notice but that it actually grieves You.

Help us O'God never to disappoint You. Lead us in path of righteousness, every moment of every day, that we might have a clear conscience. We know Father that eternity belongs to those who belong to You. Help us to be Your obedient and trusting children. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Law of God, February 23, 2008

Law of God

"You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.'
"But I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.
"If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.
"And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.

Matthew 5:38-41 www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, this teaching goes against our nature. We seek revenge when we are wronged, as a natural instinct. Why, Jesus, would You have us act in this way? The answer is clear enough in all of Your teaching; one can not say they love You and continue hating their brethren.
Jesus, only by Your strength in us can we behave as You have instructed. Your word tells us that when we befriend someone that does not deserve it, that person feels a weight upon them. Our supportive actions confuse them and they feel as though our kindness is as "coals of fire heaped upon their head". Jesus, we do not intend our kindness to those who do not deserve it, to be an act that brings glory to us. Help us to say "I live, yet not I, but You live in us" so we can endure praise without falling victim to pride.
We know this is a "love your neighbor as yourself" circumstance. We will need Your Spirit in us to do so. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

End Times #1

... Jesus went out and departed from the temple, and His disciples came up to show Him the buildings of the temple. And Jesus said to them, "Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down." Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?" And Jesus answered and said to them: "Take heed that no one deceives you. "For many will come in My name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and will deceive many. "And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. "For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. "All these are the beginning of sorrows.



Matthew 24:1-8, www.solascriptura.com



Jesus, You teach us that at the end of this age, prior to the millennium, the 1000 years of peace preceding the final judgment, there will be no buildings that will remain standing. All that we see will no longer be the same. Thus, everything that we own and all that we have built, will be of no value. Jesus, are You teaching us that when end times are upon us that treasures we may have laid up here will no longer exist? We know that You teach us elsewhere that we should lay up treasures in heaven where neither thief nor pestilence or rust can diminish them.

What, Jesus, is a treasure that will never fade away? We know Your answer. Our demonstrated love for You and our neighbor will be recorded forever and our sins will never be remembered against us again.



We now, by all appearances, are either living in the End Times or that period of time is rapidly approaching. The beginnings of sorrows are upon us and Your children say "come quickly Lord Jesus, come quickly". Jesus, when You lift our hearts in praise and when we experience Your joy, here and now, we are less anxious to depart than we are to serve. While there is still time, help us to do Your Holy will, every moment of every day. In Your Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #1

Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love.

I John 4:17-18 www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, if we were to visualize what it will be like to stand in Your presence on judgment day, will we feel bold? How can we possibly be bold before You, given our sin? We know the answer and the Apostle John reaffirms it; if we have sincerely and humbly sought to be as You Jesus, in this life, from the moment of rebirth forward, then we stand before You, wrapped in Your righteousness, not ours and that allows us to do so boldly.

Because of Your love for us, we will not experience the torment of fear and trembling nor grinding or gnashing of teeth, which is what You say will be the experience of those who do not love You.

You teach us that fear is a result of separation from You and that our boldness comes from our dependence upon You. How else could it be? Bless us this day, we pray. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage

Conscience #2

... God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind

Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love.

2 Timothy 1:7, 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we seldom experience the kind of fear that is being felt by those who are in war zones and those who are being discriminated against, every day. We pray for them, we pray that You will give them peace and comfort.

We know from Your word that perfect love casts out fear. That is why, Father, we can approach You with confidence. Help us to remember that neither man nor evil circumstance can do anything that would destroy Your love for us or our love for You. Help us to be helpful, kind, considerate and loving so that Your love for us shines through. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #3

... I ..., after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

Ephesians 1:15-21 www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, this is the perfect prayer that we should offer for each other. Paul says he continues in prayer for these children of God. Can we do less? Help us today to focus on praying for each other and to encourage each other in the faith.

Paul says witness of who Jesus was and why He matters in your life. His name is above every name! We pray that His name and our Lord's Holy name is only spoken in fear and reverence. Forgive those who believe Your name, O' God, is an exclamation point. How Father did we become so irreverent? Have mercy on the souls of those who are disobedient, we pray. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #4

... though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me. And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

2 Corinthians 12:6-10 www.solascriptura.com

Father, Paul was a lot like us. He wanted to boast of his good works in Your name but he knew that was not Your will. You allowed him to experience many difficulties and You told him it was for his own good.

We too do not always have smooth sailing in our Christian walk. The difference between us and Paul is immense, in terms of outreach and effectiveness, but he too experienced physical weakness and pain. It is his Spiritual strength that captures our attention. You, at the same time, gave him challenges and successes and taught him and now us, that his successes, even in a weakened physical condition, are proof that You can use anyone, no matter how weak they are as long as they trust in You.

Jesus, we are weak, in so many ways. Here we learn that it is in our recognition of our inadequacies, that You empower us to serve. It is in Your strength that we go forward. How else could it be without our pride becoming a burden? Take away any trace of arrogance in our lives, we pray in Your name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #5

... let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God.

For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame."

Philippians 1:27-28, Romans 10:11, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, as Paul toured the area and preached he appealed to his listeners to be diligent, whether he was present with them or not. We know many did faithfully follow his teaching concerning You and some lost hope.

Unlike Paul, who could only be in one city at a time, Your Spirit, Jesus, is everywhere. You are always present, always aware of our thoughts, actions and words. Jesus, help us to be Your good and faithful servants, constantly.

Empower, us this day, to access the depth of Your presence, Your support and Your love. You are, at the same moment, our Friend and our Lord. Bless us as we seek You this day. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #6

...we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.

Romans 8:24-25 www.solascriptura.com

Father, the Apostles walked with Jesus and we can see from a very large body of evidence that he did indeed live among the people and that they saw the miracles and experienced the teachings of Jesus first-hand.

We base our faith and our hope in things that we did not see nor experience. It is so hard, Father, to be certain in our faith, at times, because we simply can not understand ethereal and spiritual things, perfectly, from this earthly viewpoint. We confess the unevenness of our faith and pray that you will breathe upon us afresh, strengthening our resolve to go forward in hope.

There are some things, Jesus, which we can directly experience. We can experience the renewal of our lives, the uplifting of the Spirit and the counsel of Your Holy word. Yes, Jesus, You do love us, You do hear our prayers and You do attend to our needs. To whom else can we turn? Our hope in is You. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #7

"I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness, and will hold Your hand;

"For the Lord GOD will help Me; therefore I will not be disgraced; therefore I have set My face like a flint, and I know that I will not be ashamed. He is near who justifies Me; who will contend with Me? Let us stand together. Who is My adversary? Let him come near Me. Surely the Lord GOD will help Me; who is he who will condemn Me? Indeed they will all grow old like a garment; the moth will eat them up. "Who among you fears the LORD? Who obeys the voice of His Servant? Who walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the LORD and rely upon his God.

Isaiah 42:6, 50:7-10 www.solascriptura.com

Father, this first verse capitalizes "You". We know, therefore, that the prophet was saying that You, God, will hold the hand of Jesus during His time with us. Then we notice that all of these verses pertain to Jesus except the last one, wherein You address us.

We are to obey the voice of Your Servant, Jesus. We are to rely upon You God, in the same way Jesus did.

It is You Jesus who will not be disgraced or ashamed in the eyes of the Father; it is You that God justifies. Who can contend with You, who is Your adversary? You Jesus will judge us; You will uphold those that seek You. You and the Father are one and we can be one with You. That is true empowerment and a bit beyond our understanding. We simply acknowledge that it is true. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #8

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.' "Behold, all those who were incensed against you shall be ashamed and disgraced; they shall be as nothing, and those who strive with you shall perish. You shall seek them and not find them—those who contended with you. Those who war against you shall be as nothing, as a nonexistent thing.

For I, the LORD your God, will hold your right hand, saying to you, 'Fear not, I will help you.'

Isaiah 41:10-13 www.solascriptura.com

Dear God, what powerful promises these are. Even in the midst of fear, You lift us up, You extend Your hand to us, in a very personal way. You are our God!

You clearly teach that those who choose to try and bring us down, to upset our faith, will be as non-existent. Their taunts and derisive comments will be silenced and we who endure, through faith in You, will know eternal peace.

Father, even though these words are true, we pray for the enemy; we seek to experience the truth of the New Covenant, where Your truth is written upon our hearts. Yes, if the enemy chooses to remain Your enemy as well, they will perish but help us to help them. Give us a heart to love those who do not deserve our love just as we, when we came to You as sinners, did not deserve Your love. Strengthen us. We can never be as You in our own strength. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #9

The wicked flee when no one pursues, but the righteous are bold as a lion. Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but such as keep the law contend with them.

The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe.

Proverbs 28:1, 4, 29:25 www.solascriptura.com

Father, Solomon teaches us something that is not always obvious. The wicked know they are being wicked and they are always looking over their shoulder, worrying about getting caught!

Those who love You prefer to seek You in righteousness and obedience and we know that when we do, we are comforted by You, not apprehended by the law.

The wicked applaud the wicked and in spite of the fact that each of them know they are sinning, they look away from Your impending judgment. Help us never to develop a hardened heart, one that tries to dismiss You, God. We know, Father that even with the clear evidence that sin will be harshly judged, men and women ignore You and go on sinning.

Your word teaches us that eventually, on judgment day, they will drop to their knees and confess, they will be overtaken with fear and they will plead for Your mercy. We hear Solomon say "...whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe". Help us to trust You and to stop willfully sinning if any of us are doing so. Grant us Your mercy. Oh how we pray for Your mercy. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #10

The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens; By His knowledge the depths were broken up, and clouds drop down the dew. My son, let them not depart from your eyes—keep sound wisdom and discretion; So they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck. Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble. When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet. Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes; For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.

Proverbs 3:19-26, www.solascriptura.com

Father, the magnificence of Your creation is constantly before us. You tell us that the clouds are as dust to Your feet and that You have named every star. Solomon advises us to never lose sight of Your omnipotence, Your omniscience and Your omnipresence. You have created every thing that exists, You are in complete control.

The wonder of it all is as grace to our neck, as a gentle refreshing breeze.

Solomon make us feel that our love of You will keep us from failing, from falling prey to wickedness. We know that means that our relationship with You will keep us from the sort of fear that grips non-believers. We will fear evil and embrace goodness and You, Father, will help us through even the worst of circumstances here and You will deliver us to Your side, forever. Bless us we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #11

Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; you will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and Your right hand will save me. The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Psalms 138:7-8 www.solascriptura.com

Dear God, we all have various kinds of difficult situations, troubles that seem to come at us, whether deserved or not. When we are within Your will, we know we will still have difficulties and troubles, but the Psalmist says You will stretch out Your hand against our enemies.

Father, losing battles here is almost guaranteed. Help us not to get discouraged, not to give up hope in You. You allow us to be tested; You put us in situations that cause us to exercise our strengths. Help us, today to know that we need to rely on You if we intend for our actions please You.

The Psalmist has it right, "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me". You will cause every challenge, met in Your strength, to end up in victory, either here or there. We commit ourselves to seeking Your will in good times and bad times. Bless us this day, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #12

Consider how I love Your precepts; revive me, O LORD, according to Your lovingkindness. The entirety of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever. Princes persecute me without a cause, but my heart stands in awe of Your word. I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure. I hate and abhor lying, but I love Your law. Seven times a day I praise You, because of Your righteous judgments. Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.

Psalms 119:159-165 www.solascriptura.com

Father, the Psalmist says he loves your teachings; they revive him and us, because the entire Bible is Your truth. What a great gift You have given us. We know the initiative is ours. We must reach out and seek You and Your word. Help us to do so, we pray.

Father, it is so hard, especially for busy parents, to take time to be alone with You, but when we do, we rejoice in the light you shed upon us. Father, help us as parents to find a way to open the Scriptures with our children, frequently. Help them grow up seeing our commitment to You.

The Psalmist prays to You seven times a day. Help us to know that Your thoughts toward us exceed number, thus our response, though diligent, is meager in relation to Your focus on us. There are literally millions of angels watching after us and every child has their own angel assigned to them (Matthew 18:10). You are never absent! Grant us a special moment with You, this day. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #13

Concerning Your testimonies, I have known of old that You have founded them forever. Consider my affliction and deliver me, for I do not forget Your law. Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Your word.

Salvation is far from the wicked, for they do not seek Your statutes. Great are Your tender mercies, O LORD; revive me according to Your judgments. Many are my persecutors and my enemies, yet I do not turn from Your testimonies. I see the treacherous, and am disgusted, because they do not keep Your word.

Psalms 119:152-158 www.solascriptura.com

Father, the Psalmist reminds us that he has known for a long time that Your testimony to us, the Holy Scriptures will last forever. Father, there is so little in our lives that will last forever. It all seems so transitional as we move through life with constant change ever present. Thank You for being the same, forever.

You, Jesus are our anchor, You plead our cause. What a magnificent truth. Our advocate is the Son of God!

The Psalmist says a person is wicked if they do not seek Your statutes. That is such a harsh statement but please, Father, have it not apply to any of us. Draw us unto You and Your word every day. Grant us Your tender mercies this day We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #14

I cry out with my whole heart; hear me, O LORD! I will keep Your statutes.

I cry out to You; save me, and I will keep Your testimonies.

I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help; I hope in Your word.

My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.

Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness; O LORD, revive me according to Your justice.

They draw near who follow after wickedness; they are far from Your law.

You are near, O LORD, and all Your commandments are truth.

Psalms 119:145-151 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we see that the Psalmist cries out to You, with his whole heart. When God, have we felt such anguish, such concern? Jesus Himself talks about the times he "rose up early" to talk to You, to cry out for the needs of Your people. Here the Psalmist does the same and is sometimes awake through the entire night, meditating on Your word.

O' God, it seems the Scriptures point to a people that earnestly sought You, day and night and their words are here before us now. Would You have us be more like them, more diligent and courageous? You are truly near to us and Your commandments are truth. Help us to appropriately respond to Your love. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #15

Righteous are You, O LORD, and upright are Your judgments. Your testimonies, which You have commanded, are righteous and very faithful. My zeal has consumed me, because my enemies have forgotten Your words. Your word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget Your precepts. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your law is truth. Trouble and anguish have overtaken me, yet Your commandments are my delights. The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting; give me understanding, and I shall live

Psalms 119:137-144 www.solascriptura.com

Father, the Psalmist proclaims his love and loyalty and then laments over the loneliness of his circumstance because his enemies do not seek You and love You.

Father, give us courage when we feel that our witness is not well received. Give us understanding in the face of rejection, when it occurs. In the eyes of many, we are insignificant. If it were not for Your approval we would feel out of step, not always fitting in.

Help us, today, to know that our purpose in seeking You rises above any earthly, transitional concerns we may have. Encourage us and bless us we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #16

I opened my mouth and panted, for I longed for Your commandments. Look upon me and be merciful to me, as Your custom is toward those who love Your name. Direct my steps by Your word, and let no iniquity have dominion over me. Redeem me from the oppression of man, that I may keep Your precepts. Make Your face shine upon Your servant, and teach me Your statutes. Rivers of water run down from my eyes, because men do not keep Your law.

Psalms 119:131-136 www.solascriptura.com

Father, will we ever open our mouth and pant, as one trying to grasp life from You. Here the Psalmist does so, begging You to fulfill his need for Your instruction, presence and compassion. If a moment of gasping for Your air, Your mercy lies ahead of us, would it not be when the end is near? Do we need to wait Father for dire circumstances before we seek You?

The Psalmists laments, with tears, because men do not keep Your law. Give us a heart for the lost Father and help us, today, to show Your love to others. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #17

It is time for You to act, O LORD, for they have regarded Your law as void. Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, yes, than fine gold! Therefore all Your precepts concerning all things I consider to be right; I hate every false way. Your testimonies are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them. The entrance of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.

Psalms 119:126-130 www.solascriptura.com

Father, sometimes we want You to raise Your hand against the enemy of Your people, now. We know You will but we see evil conquering good, too often. Give us patience as You allow or cause events to happen on Your timetable. We love Your commandments and because we do, we dislike evil. Help us to know that evil will be dealt with and help us in the meantime to pray for the salvation of all souls.

We pray, Father, that the entrance of Your word floods our lives with light and understanding this day. Bless us as we seek to serve You, in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #18

Be surety for Your servant for good; do not let the proud oppress me. My eyes fail from seeking Your salvation and Your righteous word. Deal with Your servant according to Your mercy, and teach me Your statutes. I am Your servant; give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies.

Psalms 119:122-125 www.solascriptura.com

Father, You are our guarantor, the One who stands in the gap for us, the One lifts us up in times of trouble.

Oh if it were true that our eyes failed us as a result of our continually seeking Your word and Your righteousness.

We beg of You to teach us Your statutes. Help us, today, to know that the initiative to learn is ours. The truths, Your statutes, lie before us. Give us understanding, peel back the uncertainty and reveal Yourself afresh, we pray. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #19

In You, O LORD, I put my trust; let me never be put to shame. Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; you have given the commandment to save me, for You are my rock and my fortress. Hold me up, and I shall be safe, and I shall observe Your statutes continually. You reject all those who stray from Your statutes, for their deceit is falsehood. You put away all the wicked of the earth like dross; therefore I love Your testimonies. My flesh trembles for fear of You, and I am afraid of Your judgments. I have done justice and righteousness; do not leave me to my oppressors.

Psalms 71:1-3, 119:117-121 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we usually are not in an "escape" mode. We seldom feel trapped by our enemies. Yet, there is an enemy that seeks to entrap us, one who would rob us of our joy. Evil is in hot pursuit of us, daily. We are tempted in every way, it seems, every day.

We know Father, that if we do not call, You will not answer. You implore us to seek relief from temptation by placing our trust in You, by standing in the shadow of Your wings. You lift up and save the obedient. Help us to take comfort in the certainty and permanence of Your laws.

We do, in all humility and with all contrition, fear You, but it is a fear that turns to confidence in You as we obey You. Bless us, today, as we turn to You and thank You for being there when we do. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #20

I will abide in Your tabernacle forever; I will trust in the shelter of Your wings... For You, O God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear Your name.

Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Psalms 61:4-5, Philippians 4:12-13 www.solascriptura.com

Father, our courage emanates from You. It is Your tabernacle in which we will abide forever, it is Your wings that cover and protect us. Help us as we look heavenward to grasp the extent of Your reach, the extent of Your love.

You God have heard our vows. It is to You that we must remain loyal, even when earthly pressures and stress make us want to rebel and to do our own thing. Our heritage, our children are Yours. How we pray for their enlightenment, faith and safety. Bless our heritage; bless our entire family we pray.

We know that we will have days of abundance and days of need. It is You who strengthen us to hang in there, to seek Your mercy and presence. There is no One like You God. Bless us this day, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #21

Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), in God I have put my trust; I will not fear. They gather together, they hide, they mark my steps, when they lie in wait for my life. Shall they escape by iniquity? In anger cast down the peoples, O God! You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book? When I cry out to You, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because God is for me. In God (I will praise His word), in the LORD (I will praise His word), In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid...

Psalms 56:3-4,6-11 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we live a life of comfort, largely free from fear of the type David experienced. What kind of fear do we face? We fear failure, we fear not having enough of what we need to face tomorrow and we fear being outside of Your grace and mercy. What is it Father that You would have to do with fear of every type?

The answer is clear. We must trust in You, knowing that nothing happens in our lives and in the lives of our families of which You are unaware. What a marvelous truth Father; You love us and if we love You, You direct our footsteps, You counsel us and comfort us, even when we feel absolutely frustrated by our circumstances.

You number our wanderings. You put our tears in a bottle and You record them in the Book of Life, a complete composition of all that Your children think, experience and feel. We are unworthy of such love. Help us to respond in a perfect way. We pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Courage #23

Righteous are You, O LORD, and upright are Your judgments. Your testimonies, which You have commanded, are righteous and very faithful. My zeal has consumed me, because my enemies have forgotten Your words. Your word is very pure; therefore Your servant loves it. I am small and despised, yet I do not forget Your precepts. Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and Your law is truth. Trouble and anguish have overtaken me, yet Your commandments are my delights. The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting; give me understanding, and I shall live

Psalms 119:137-144 www.solascriptura.com

Father, the Psalmist proclaims his love and loyalty and then laments over the loneliness of his circumstance because his enemies do not seek You and love You.

Father, give us courage when we feel that our witness is not well received. Give us understanding in the face of rejection, when it occurs. In the eyes of many, we are insignificant. If it were not for Your approval we would feel out of step, not always fitting in.

Help us, today, to know that our purpose in seeking You rises above any earthly, transitional concerns we may have. Encourage us and bless us we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #22

No king is saved by the multitude of an army; a mighty man is not delivered by great strength. A horse is a vain hope for safety; neither shall it deliver any by its great strength.

To You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; for God is my defense, my God of mercy.

Psalms 33:16-17, 59:17 www.solascriptura.com

Father, here King David confesses that his personal army, his personal strength (which was mighty) cannot save him. He agrees that the mounted warrior and his mighty steed cannot save him. What, Father, does David say will save, not only him, but us?

It is You Father who are his defense, in You his strength lies. It is to You that he sings praises for his victories. Father, one day we will meet King David. Prepare our hearts now to understand his teachings. We too cannot win the battles of life as individuals. Our victories, if they come, must result in our proclaiming You as our Deliverer, You as our strength.

This is such an obvious truth, yet we often take pride in our accomplishments. Help us to know, this day, that it is You who are directing our footsteps, You who see the path we must choose in order to bring glory to You. It is simply amazing that You care about us and intervene for us as You do. Bless us this day, we pray in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #16

Save me, O God! ...
I am weary with my crying; my throat is dry; my eyes fail while I wait for my God.
O God, You know my foolishness; and my sins are not hidden from You.

Even a child is known by his deeds, whether what he does is pure and right.
The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the LORD has made them both.

Psalms 69:1, 3, 5, Proverbs 20:11-12, www.solascriptura.com

Father, our sins are truly clear in our own sight. We know we do nothing in secret and that every act and thought are known to You. Help us this day to declare our need for Your cleansing and give us the power to stop making sinful mistakes. It is so hard Jesus to be as You since You are perfect and we are still here in our flesh, constantly tempted to hear, see or commit sin.

Your word says that even a child knows when they are wrong or right. Father, give us the pure heart of a child before You. Strengthen our will to seek Your will in our lives that we might give glory to You. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #17

I cried out to God with my voice—to God with my voice; and He gave ear to
me.

In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; my hand was stretched out in the night
without ceasing; my soul refused to be comforted.

I remembered God, and was troubled; I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed....


You hold my eyelids open; I am so troubled that I cannot speak.

I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times.

I call to remembrance my song in the night; I meditate within my heart, and my
spirit makes diligent search.

Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place?


He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an
idol, nor sworn deceitfully.

He shall receive blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his
salvation.

Psalms 77:1-6, 24:3-5, www.solascriptura.com

Father, David cried out in the night, stretching his hand toward You, unable to
close his eyes, meditating on the songs he had written and searching his heart.


Sometimes Father, we too are so troubled that we can not sleep. We know that we
are not sinless and that we often are distracted by the cares of this world but
we also know that Jesus came that we might have the burden and worry of past sins,
behind us, never to be remembered against us again.

Refresh our hearts, this day, and breathe upon us and cleanse us afresh. In Jesus
Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Law of God, February 22, 2008

...we know that the law is good if one uses it lawfully,
knowing this: that the law is not made for a righteous person, but for the lawless and insubordinate, for the ungodly and for sinners, for the unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,
for fornicators, for sodomites, for kidnappers, for liars, for perjurers, and if there is any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine,
according to the glorious gospel of the blessed God which was committed to my trust.
And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry,
although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.

1 Timothy, 1:8-15, www.solascriptura.com

Father, Paul is teaching us, in this letter to his young protege, Timothy, that the law, when adhered to, does not present a problem. It is law breakers that will feel the rod of correction, sometimes physically, and sometimes in ways that simply convict us and make us feel terrible.

We know that the wages of sin is death and that we all have sinned. Thank You, Jesus, for making it possible to have every sin that we have ever committed to be expunged from our record, gone forever.

Every one of us, Father, can say, with Paul, “I am a sinner and except for You, Jesus, my sins are still with me.” But thank You God, our confession of our sins, in all humility and contrition, and our will to sin no more, separates our sin from us as far as the east is from the west. What a relief to stand before You, Father, as if we had never sinned. Your mercy and grace make it so. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Prayer, Part 2, February 21, 2008

Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust.
O my soul, you have said to the LORD, "You are my Lord, my goodness is
nothing apart from You."
As for the saints who are on the earth, "They are the excellent ones, in
whom is all my delight."
Their sorrows shall be multiplied who hasten after another god O LORD, You
are the portion of my inheritance and my cup; you maintain my lot.
The lines have fallen to me in pleasant places; yes, I have a good
inheritance.

Psalms 16:1-6, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know that our goodness, absent the presence of the Holy Spirit in
our hearts, is more than just inadequate. When our fleshly instincts take
over, we know we are running away from Your presence. Your word tells us
that You delight in Your saints, a designation none of us feel able to
accept, yet it remains Your expectation. What is a saint, Father, but one
whose life reflects Jesus? Help us this day to be more consistent in our
walk with You.

You, Father, are not a transitory, undependable, Father made of flesh. You
are our permanent Heavenly Father, thus we do have a good inheritance. We
are, gratefully, Your children. Your love for us exceeds human boundaries.
What a wonderful designation....Your child. Amen and Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #18

LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?
He who walks uprightly, and works righteousness, and speaks the truth in his heart;

Hear a just cause, O LORD, attend to my cry; give ear to my prayer which is not from deceitful lips.
Let my vindication come from Your presence; let Your eyes look on the things that are upright.
You have tested my heart; you have visited me in the night; you have tried me and have found nothing; I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.

The LORD rewarded me according to my righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands he has recompensed me.
For I have kept the ways of the LORD, and have not wickedly departed from my God.
For all His judgments were before me, and I did not put away His statutes from me.

Psalms 15:1-2, 17:1-3, 18:20-22, www.solascriptura.com

Father, these prayers of David teach us much. We know that David sinned and here he knows he was forgiven and that the life that he led was in pursuit of righteousness. Help us each O’God, to know that our love for You and our obedience of Your statutes is a base line expectation that You hold.

Help us as we humbly come before You, this day, to be reassured, as David was, of your forgiveness and love. Thank You Jesus for making all of this possible, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #2

For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you. Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?

2 Corinthians 13:4-5, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know that when Jesus went to the cross He could have, by Your Holiness in Him, destroyed every person responsible for his being crucified. He chose to do Your will Father and was crucified. His enemies thought they had won the day.

In fact, His choice and His subsequent resurrection paved the way for the redemption of all who will believe. No crucifixion and no resurrection and we would all still be alienated from You, God.

Here You tell us to examine ourselves, to look into our hearts and ask ourselves if the Holy Spirit, Jesus in us, actually exists. The answer, if we are to be saved, is yes, yes, He lives in my heart and every time I turn to Him I am making the right decision, the right move. Bless each of us and help us as we seek to know You better. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #1

… He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love, having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will,

Ephesians 1:4-5, 11, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You know the beginning from the end, the alpha from the omega. Nothing we do surprises You. You "see" what is not yet and our faith and love for You, though a choice by us, was foreknown to You. Thus we are predestined, adopted as sons, Holy and without blame, only because of the cleansing of Jesus.

The Scriptures say that is gives You pleasure when we serve You and it grieves You when we disappoint You. The fact that all of our thoughts and intentions lay bare before You should help us to behave, to seek to be sinless and to have our lives bring glory to You. It is such a privilege to be Your child. We pray these things in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #3

... because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

Galatians 4:6-7, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we have learned that "Abba" is translated as Daddy, a term of endearment we use to express love and trust. Has anyone that has embraced a child not understood what a privilege it is to be as "Daddy" to a child? There is nothing much more tender than a child absorbing the love and embrace of their father or mother.

This scripture teaches us of Your love. It is a scripture that says we are no longer slaves, but we are Your children, You are our Father, who tenderly loves us. You say we are heirs to Your throne because Jesus has cleansed us and we are now encapsulated in His purity. We do not come into Your presence Father on our own merit. We are only able to enter into Your presence because we have been regenerated from sinner to son, from failures in the flesh, to sons and daughters able to radiate Your love.

When we see the purity of our children, our babies, we see a picture of how we appear to You. Innocent, even though guilty, cleansed even though we need daily renewal. Bless us as we seek Your perfection. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #4

... as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.

Colossians 3:12-13, www.solascriptura.com

Father, it is so right to bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control) and so wrong to be the opposite of these words. We do not need anyone to tell us when we are bearing bad fruit, those behaviors which are clearly not within Your will for our lives.

If we yield the fruits of the Holy Spirit, we will be as "sanctified", a posture we seek but which eludes us some of the time. Help us to be more consistent. We know, Jesus, that being like You, in our relationships, is Your desire for us. You equip us to do so when we ask. For Your forgiveness, we are grateful. Help us today to be forgiving towards people just as you are constantly there for us, always forgiving. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #5

Now early in the morning (Jesus) came again into the temple, and all the people came to Him; and He sat down and taught them. Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. "Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?" This they said, testing Him, that they might have something of which to accuse Him. But Jesus stooped down and wrote on the ground with His finger, as though He did not hear. So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. Then those who heard it, being convicted by their conscience, went out one by one, beginning with the oldest even to the last. And Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more."

John 8:2-11, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, You teach us much in these verses. We pray for wisdom and discernment in understanding. You, again, cite, "early in the morning" as the time You went to the Temple to pray and teach. Prime time with the Father seems to be "early in the morning".

Then You teach us that the scribes (lawyers) and Pharisees (religious leaders) are in the role of accusers. You did not say they accused falsely, Jesus, You said they too commit sins of various kinds and if any of them thought they were without sin, then step up and cast the first stone in the killing process.

You then teach us that everyone has a conscience that either accuses them or excuses them and that we personally know when we have sinned whether other people know it or not.

Then, in Your mercy, you teach us that adultery is not a sin unto death if one confesses and repents (changes). You forgive the woman and you encourage her. O' God, if we could but have that kind of mercy and hope when we see sin in action. Help us today to be part of the healing process, not part of those that accuse. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #6

To You I will cry, O LORD my Rock: do not be silent to me, lest, if You are silent to me, I become like those who go down to the pit. Hear the voice of my supplications when I cry to You, when I lift up my hands toward Your holy sanctuary.

Also do not take to heart everything people say, lest you hear your servant cursing you.

Psalm 28:1-2, Ecclesiastes 7:21, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we cry out, we make requests of You, we seek You in times of trouble. Help us O'God, to develop a balance between asking and praise. We often ask too often and praise too little. Yet, we know You hear all of our words and know all of our thoughts. Such knowledge is too wonderful for us. Where, O'God, would we be without You?

When Solomon said "don't take to heart everything people say" he was reminding us that people sometimes say too much, more than they truly feel. Help us to speak less and to mean more when we do speak and to never say harmful things when they are better unsaid. And when people do say things that are critical, help us not take it to heart but to return kindness when it is not expected or deserved. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #7

Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my mind and my heart. For Your lovingkindness is before my eyes, and I have walked in Your truth.

Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When You said, "Seek My face," my heart said to You, "Your face, LORD, I will seek." Do not hide Your face from me; do not turn Your servant away in anger; you have been my help; do not leave me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation.

Psalms 26:2-3, 27:7-9, www.solascriptura.com

Father, Sometimes we want to say, with King David, examine me, try (judge) my mind and heart. But too often we would rather not have you examine us because of our mistakes.

Give us, this day, confidence that when we seek You, You do not turn Your face from us. Father, we know that we need to seek You more frequently and that then temptations to sin will diminish proportionately.

Our prayers, in the midst of trials, lift us above momentary circumstances. The circumstances pass and we are blessed. Help us to know that is Your will. Our trials turn into triumphs, righteousness replaces sin and we feel cleansed. Thank You God for presenting us with a "you can count on Me" relationship. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #8

... when I say to the wicked, 'You shall surely die,' if he turns from his sin and does what is lawful and right, "if the wicked restores the pledge, gives back what he has stolen, and walks in the statutes of life without committing iniquity, he shall surely live; he shall not die. "None of his sins which he has committed shall be remembered against him; he has done what is lawful and right; he shall surely live.

Ezekiel 33:14-16, www.solascriptura.com

Father, you, under the Old Covenant, made the same type provision You have under the New Covenant. Obedience to Your laws brought forgiveness.

We too need to be obedient but we have a huge advantage as we strive to meet Your expectations. We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, Comforter and Enabler. Jesus, what You did for us on the cross rendered the sacrifice of animals meaningless as it pertains to cleansing us of our sins.

Our gratitude for the love You have shown us is able to be demonstrated in our obedience to Your laws and our love for our neighbor. Strengthen us, through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit that we might serve You this day. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #9

...forgive all my sins. Keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in You. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You.

Psalms 25:18, 20-21, www.solascriptura.com

Father, when King David asked you to forgive all of his sins, he meant all. That includes thoughts and actions of every kind which he knew displeased You.

We too, Father, have committed sins of every imaginable type. There is no way we cannot be ashamed but we know from other references that David trusted You to remove his sins from him as far as the east is from the west, never to be remembered against him again.

That being done, in the case of a repentant believer, we too can say, "let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you". Help us today to know Your expectations better and better. Sanctify us we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #10

For since the beginning of the world men have not heard nor perceived by the ear, nor has the eye seen any God besides You, who acts for the one who waits for Him. You meet him who rejoices and does righteousness, who remembers You in Your ways. You are indeed angry, for we have sinned-- in these ways we continue; and we need to be saved. But we are all like an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are like filthy rags; we all fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. And there is no one who calls on Your name, who stirs himself up to take hold of You; for You have hidden Your face from us, and have consumed us because of our iniquities. But now, O LORD, you are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand. Do not be furious, O LORD, nor remember iniquity forever; indeed, please look-- we all are Your people!

Isaiah 64:4-9, www. solascriptura.com

Father, indeed, ear has not heard not eye seen, Your equal. Those who pursue false gods are looking in the wrong places. You, Father, have revealed Yourself to all mankind, we all are Your people. Your truth is written upon our hearts if we would but seek You.

Help us, this day, to be joyous about Your presence in our hearts and righteous in our attitudes and works, seeking to be like You, Jesus. Our righteousness is as filthy rags, a verse we should never forget. When we do well, as good and faithful servants, it is because we have been blessed with the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, a gift of immeasurable value when the difficulties of life are upon us. None of us feel worthy. Help us to be more dependent upon You, hungering and thirsting for Your Word. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #11

Do not withhold Your tender mercies from me, O LORD; let Your lovingkindness and Your truth continually preserve me. For innumerable evils have surrounded me; my iniquities have overtaken me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of my head; therefore my heart fails me. Be pleased, O LORD, to deliver me; O LORD, make haste to help me!

Psalms 40:11-13 , www.solascriptura.com

Father, here King David admits that his iniquities have overtaken him. Father, at times some of us feel the same; our iniquities weigh so heavily on us that we don't know how You could possibly love us or forgive us. That is the miracle, Father that makes life worth living. It is never about the present, with its moments of difficulty, but it is about the future. We know that is only true if we admit, as David did, that we need Your help.

We do, at times, feel we need to say "hurry up Lord" because we are overwhelmed with a sense of our impotency. We can not win when it comes to fighting the power of the flesh but You teach us we never need fight that fight alone. It is the Holy Spirit, sent by Jesus that empowers us and leads us away from sin.

We pray, this day, that You do not withhold Your tender mercies from us and that as we sense Your forgiveness, love and mercy, help us to extend that kind of attitude towards others. We pray these things in the name and in the power of Jesus. Amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #12

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way.

Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand.

Psalms 37:23-24, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know from other references that our personal righteousness is as filthy rags compared to the righteousness of Jesus. Jesus, Himself, rebuked a man for calling Him good, prior to his transformation as the perfected Son of God, saying "Call no man Good, except God in heaven". But here King David, tells us that our steps, if we love the Lord, are ordered by the Lord and that as we follow in His way, God delights in us. Are we, Lord, aware of Your delight? Whom else would we rather please?

We are even told that if we fall, even for a moment, and surely we shall err in some way this very day, that we are not utterly cast down. Our Lord sees our sin, sees our uncertainty and sees our thoughts and then, because we are His, He upholds us with His Hand. What a perfect vision, our Lord upholding us with His Hand. We are never alone, even in our weakness. Bless us this day, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #13

Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

Matthew 5:7-9, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, for these promises, we are thankful. We see that we must be merciful to others in order to receive mercy from You. Clearly, Jesus, if we do not show mercy to others when we have the opportunity to do so, we are declaring that we do not expect to receive mercy from You. But that is such a bad game plan, who would behave in that way?

In the same way Jesus, You tell us if we are pure in heart, a challenge we can not meet every moment of every day, we shall see God. Thank You for teaching us that it is not our purity, but Your purity in us, that carries the day. We shall see God because You have allowed us to stand before Him in Your purity.

Jesus, we know what a peacemaker looks like. We see people trying their best to smooth out rough circumstances where other people are not getting along. Those who do so, in Your righteousness, are called sons of God. Grant us the opportunity, today, to be a peacemaker. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #14

"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'

"But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,

"that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

"For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?

"And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?

"Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

Matthew 5:43-48, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, When You tell us the rain falls on the just and the unjust, You remind us as long as we are on this earth there will be trials for everyone. Part of the difficulty lies in personal relationships where some people seem more likable than others. We naturally tend to like those who are like us. But what we seem to miss is the fact that every soul is a soul You created and every person is either moving toward being like You or away from being like You (Your Word already taught us that being lukewarm, trying to drift along without a real commitment is an error).

Help us today, to look at all people as able to move toward You and guide us as we have opportunities to enrich someone else's life, by pointing them toward You. You call us to perfection and we need Your constant companionship for that to ever be true. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #15

"... if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.

"But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

"...I tell you not to resist an evil person. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

"If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also.

"And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.



Matthew 6:14-15, 5:39-41, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, You make it clear that harboring ill feelings towards someone that has wronged us, is prohibited. You did not say it was not a good thing; You said if we do not forgive others, You would not forgive us. That is a very heavy burden for some of us to bear. Help us to examine our hearts and see if we are holding any grudges or ill feelings toward someone and then release us from that burden. Surely, Your word says that this is not an option for us, but a requirement.

How Jesus, can we ever turn the other cheek when struck or give a demanding person, not only our sweater, but our coat as well. Such teaching is too hard for us. We want revenge, we want to keep what we feel is ours and we don't want to travel twice as far as we think we should just because someone wants us to.

We know the answer to these dilemmas. In short, we, in the flesh, can not do as You have commanded. It is only by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in us that we can be as You. Change our hearts, this day, and enable us to be as You, we pray in Your Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels #1

Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels.

The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, and delivers them.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

Hebrews 13:2, Psalms 34:7-8 www.solascriptura.com

Father, are angels for real? Your words confirm that angels are indeed real and that we interact with them and are observed by them more than we know. It is sort of a scary thing, at first, because we don't know when we are entertaining an angel unaware or if we are just in the presence of a person that seems a little more interested in us that we would expect.

Father, your advice seems to be that we should treat all encounters with an expectation of hope and love because some of these encounters are ordained for our own good.

Your word tells us that angels are encamped all around those who love You. Are angels only serving, leading, protecting and nurturing believers? Your word says "The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him." That seems to answer the question. We should not expect deliverance if we do no fear You (reverently love, honor and obey).

The Psalmist says, "taste and see that the Lord is Good." This free sample wasn't provided without cost. We know the price You paid, Father. Your grace is sent to us, constantly, and the "taste" turns into a daily feast and an eternal banquet. May we draw near to You, today? Your answer is yes! We pray in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels #2

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, "He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust."
Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence.
He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; his truth shall be your shield and buckler.
You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day,
Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.
For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.
In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.

Psalms 91:1-6, 11-12, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we read of Your protection and how we abide under the shadow of Your wings. How is it Father that You can be so aware of our needs and be so ready to help us?

Here, You answer the question; Your angels have charge over us, they are present, they are the ever present reality, sent by You to bear us up, to keep us from stumbling.

Father, that is why we are unafraid when others may be afraid. Pestilence and destruction may come but Your angels are escorting us through every anxiety. We may trip on the pitfalls of this earth but if we do and if we are taken to Your side, we are escorted by angels into Your presence.

Father, can death be joyful? Certainly not for those left behind but Your word tells us that heaven is a perfect place of peace. We do not seek to leave this place before our service to You is complete, so help us today to take every advantage You offer us to love You and to love our neighbor as ourselves. Thank You for sending Your angels to look after us. In Jesus' name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #3

The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.
Bless the LORD, you His angels, who excel in strength, who do His word, Heeding the voice of His word.

Bless the LORD, all you His hosts, you ministers of His, who do His pleasure.

Psalms 103:19-21, www.solascriptura.com

Father, here we learn that Your angels excel in strength. We sometimes feel the obstacles of life are insurmountable, but we forget that we do not have to accomplish everything in our own strength. It has been said that what we begin in our own strength, we must finish in our own strength and that is a formula for failure, in the long run.

We do not fully understand what kind of power the angels have but since they do Your good pleasure it seems safe to assume they can do anything You want them to do. We often limit our hopes by placing our own earthly perspective on things that simple exceed our understanding and sometimes exceed our faith.

Help us to know afresh that Your love for us exceeds our understanding and that as we look to You, constantly, that You take joy in our doing so. We truly never walk alone. Bless us this day, in Jesus name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #4

It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan.
And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove.
Then a voice came from heaven, "You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."
And immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness.
And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.

Mark 1:9-13 www.solascriptura.com

Father, You chose to proclaim Jesus as Your only begotten Son and Your Spirit descended upon Him like a dove. Even now, Father, when a dove comes near it seems like a reminder of Your presence. What a beautiful, peaceful bird. Your decision to use this bird as a symbol of Your presence affords many of us an opportunity to turn our attention to You very often as You remind us of Your constant presence.

Father, You tell us that Jesus went into the wilderness and was tempted for 40 days and nights. He was hungry and subject to the elements and dangers of the wilderness for a very long period. You provided safety and Spiritual strength, sending Him ministering angels.

Father, we know the outcome of this ordeal. Jesus remained obedient and faithful and Satan was not able to tempt our Savior beyond what He, in Your strength, was able to bear.

Father, we too are tempted but seldom under such strenuous circumstances. Please remind us to look for the ministering angels, to acknowledge Your presence in every situation. We may feel deserted and alone but that is never true. Lead us today, beside the still waters and into the serenity of green pastures as we walk with You. Comfort us we pray, in Jesus name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels #5

"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's will save it.
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?
"Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
"For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels."

Mark 8:35-38, www.solascriptura.com


Jesus, You finish this admonition with the warning that if any of us are ashamed of You and Your words, You will be ashamed of us, and then You tell us the holy angels will be present with You when You return to us.

Jesus, we not only do not want to be ashamed, but we want to be courageous in sharing Your love with others. It is not easy to witness to some people. They just do not want to hear it but in such cases, help us to show people how Your love for us spills over and that we can be loving, even when our instincts are otherwise.

You teach us that if we gain all the possessions, notoriety and admiration of the world and yet lose our soul, we will count the gains as nothing. There is nothing we can gain in exchange for our soul that makes any sense. It seems that clinging to things, as though they can redeem us, is a recipe for disaster.

Teach us to use all of the assets You have given us, including money, intelligence and personal attributes, as leverage to better serve You. Make us each a Holy conduit, this day. We pray these things in Your Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #6

"Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.
"Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
"But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but My Father only.
"When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory.
Matt 24:34-36, Matt 25:31, www.solascriptura.com



Jesus, You teach us that everything we see around us will pass away; all things will become new. You and Your angels will come and those who love You and whose lives have been encircled by Your righteousness will enter into eternal peace with You, forever.

How, Father, can we speak with such certainty? It is because we believe that Your word is true. Heaven and earth may pass away but Your words will by no means pass away. If that is a fact Father, then the only thing that we have now that will endure is Your word.

Help us today to experience Your presence afresh, to abide in Your word and to learn of Your ways. Father, Your word is indeed a light unto our path. Let us not walk in darkness when the light is at hand. The treasure of eternal life is not buried and You have not kept it from us. Help us to draw near to you today, we pray in Jesus' Holy name, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #7

Angels, #7

"... in those days... the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light;
"the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in heaven will be shaken.
"Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.
"And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.

Mark 13:24-27, www.solascriptura.com


Jesus, You tell us of a calamitous moment, where the earth will be shaken, stars will fall and thereafter, nothing will be the same.

Jesus, there is nothing we can do to escape this moment except to place our souls in Your care. We want to ask, how could anyone not seek You and love You while the sun is still shining and the moon still giving its light. Jesus, these are good times for us because even when we are distressed, You are shedding Your light upon us.

Where would we be Jesus, without Your light, Your Holy word, Your angels looking after us. We would simply be lost and we would have turned into the darkest of all alleys, willingly.

O' Jesus, draw our friends and family unto You today. Give us a good and perfect witness, we pray. Prepare us for the marriage supper of the Lamb, that moment where You welcome us into Your eternal home.

You have extended Your hand of grace and mercy. Help us to reach out and become as one with You. In Your Holy name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #8

"... There will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
"...I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

Luke 15:7,10, www.solascriptura.com



Jesus, we confess we have sinned. It would be arrogant and incorrect to say otherwise. Why then do You specifically refer to "just persons" as being persons who do not feel they need to repent?

You make it perfectly clear that those who are righteous in their own eyes are in big trouble. It is the confession of a sinner that brings Your angels to a position of exuberance and a joyful celebration.

Jesus, most of have witnessed a sinner come to You and be forgiven. It is the most pivotal moment in their lives and it was the most pivotal moment in our lives. It is a specific moment in time. It is a Spiritual birthday and it only happens once.

We know that after our Spiritual birth we will continue to be imperfect but You have taught us that we are in a different position after our rebirth. Our souls have been saved. We are still accountable but as heirs, but we will not be judged as estranged sinners. We are Yours, forever.

Thank You is simply too trite a comment to mark this immense reality. Bless us and keep us we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #9

"... there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance.
"...I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

Luke 15:7, 10, www.solascriptura.com


Jesus, this seems to be a message to the "lukewarm church" you described in Revelation 3:14, where the church was neither hot nor cold. You teach us there that you would even rather we be cold than lukewarm. Why would that be? Perhaps it is because a cold church does not deceive anyone. It is not a vibrant, living body with a great witness.

You then tell us you would rather we be "hot" than lukewarm because our witness would be alive and effective, full of Your presence and energy, bringing glory to Your name.

But it is the lukewarm church that you detest. You use graphic language in describing their fate, "You will spew them out of Your mouth". Jesus, we are not able to stand before you "needing no repentance" and if we think we can, we delude ourselves. It is a sinner, saved by grace that causes the angels to rejoice, not a person who feels they need no repentance.

Jesus, help each one of us, this day, to never be "lukewarm". Give us a repentant heart, full of humility and contrition as we enter into Your presence. Then and only then will You and the angels rejoice and then You will fill our hearts with Your goodness and love. Bless us as we seek Your presence in our hearts, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #10

"... those who are counted worthy to attain that age, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage;
"nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection.

Luke 20:35-36, www.solascriptura.com



Jesus, most of us who are happily married often use words like "forever" to describe the depth of our love for our partner and how long we would like to be together. Is that a scripturally accurate perception?

On the one hand, we know that in heaven we will know people and be known; but on the other hand our relationship will not be there as it is here. There You teach us, we will be equal to the angels, neither to marry or to be given in marriage.

Jesus, what is it to be equal to an angel? You tell us we will be sons of God, sons of the resurrection. You already told us that we would not have a physical body, as we have here, but we will be a spiritual body that will function as You did on earth, after the resurrection.

We understand far less about our spiritual bodies that are yet to come than we would like to know but what we do know is coming is beyond our experience. Help us today to simply cling to what we know and not overly worry about what we do not know. We know angels are real here and will be real there and we can read about all the things You did after You were resurrected, things You said we will do as well.

Bless us as we look to You for greater understanding. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Angels, #11

"The field is the world, the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one.
"The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels.
"Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age.
"The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness,
"and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
"Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!
Matt 13:38-43, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, You used parables to teach us the fundamentals of our faith, very often. We see here that there are good seeds, sons of the kingdom, and tares (bad seeds) sons of the wicked one. You tell us the devil sowed the bad seeds and that they will be reaped by the angels at the end of the age, burned in fire.

The bad seeds were sown among the good seeds but when the seeds bear fruit, one bears good grain (fruit) and the other bad. We understand that as we mature we will be known by the kind of fruit we bear.

You teach us that You, Jesus, will send out the angels to gather those who offend and who practice lawlessness. Then, after that, the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of the Father.

Jesus, we do have ears and we do hear. The warning is too ominous to ignore. We want to be sons of light, Your Light in us. Help us today to be the righteous persons You have called us to be. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #8

He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?

The LORD is righteous..., he will do no unrighteousness. Every morning He brings His justice to light; he never fails, but the unjust knows no shame.

The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.

"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. "For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."

Micah 6:8, Zephaniah 3:5, Psalms 34:18-19, Matthew 11:29-30 , www.solascriptura.com

Father, You require so little of us and all that You require is good. Help us to choose the good, to take Your yoke upon ourselves and to take comfort in the fact of Your presence.

Father, righteousness is always better than evil and love better than hate. Thank You for making the choice so clear. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #9

Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, "I have no pleasure in them": While the sun and the light, the moon and the stars, are not darkened, and the clouds do not return after the rain; In the day when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men bow down; when the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look through the windows grow dim; When the doors are shut in the streets, and the sound of grinding is low; when one rises up at the sound of a bird, and all the daughters of music are brought low; Also they are afraid of height, and of terrors in the way; when the almond tree blossoms, the grasshopper is a burden, and desire fails. For man goes to his eternal home, and the mourners go about the streets. Remember your Creator before the silver cord is loosed, or the golden bowl is broken, or the pitcher shattered at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the well. Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it. "Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher, "All is vanity."

Ecclesiastes 12:1-8, www.solascriptura.com

Father, life is only futile if we believe that this life is all there is. We know that dust returns to dust and that our physical bodies are as nothing. It is only our spirit, united with Your Spirit, which gives meaning to life now and life forever.

If so, Father, teach us this day what it is that matters. Whether we are young or old Father, help us learn why we exist and how our spirit can exist forever.

Father, thank you for teaching us that life is not about three score and 10 years but instead showing us that it is a "proving ground" where we are able to be tested by You and where You will help us overcome evil spirits, spirits which are as real as you are Father and which we can not overcome by ourselves. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #10

Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him.

He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own is like one who takes a dog by the ears.

Let another man praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.

A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.

Do not be rash with your mouth, and let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; therefore let your words be few.

Surely I am more stupid than any man, and do not have the understanding of a man. I neither learned wisdom nor have knowledge of the Holy One.

Who has ascended into heaven, or descended? Who has gathered the wind in His fists? Who has bound the waters in a garment? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is His name, and what is His Son's name, if you know? If you have been foolish in exalting yourself, or if you have devised evil, put your hand on your mouth.

Proverbs 26:12, 26:17, 27:2, 29:5, Ecclesiastes 5:2, Proverbs 30:2-4, 32 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know that Solomon, though wise, sinned many times. Thank you for helping him express his own humility. Father, Surely if the wisest man who ever lived can say these words, then we can look to him and learn, even in the midst of his confessions.

Give us more than wisdom alone O'God. Give us discernment Father where we can utilize the power of the Holy Spirit to understand the full meaning of Your hope for us. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #11

Though the LORD is on high, yet He regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar. The LORD will perfect that which concerns me; your mercy, O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.

When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom.

Do not exalt yourself in the presence of the king, and do not stand in the place of the great; For it is better that he say to you, "Come up here," than that you should be put lower in the presence of the prince, whom your eyes have seen. It is not good to eat much honey; so to seek one's own glory is not glory.

Ps 138:6,8, Proverbs 3:34, 11:2, 25:6-7,27

Father, We thank you for the words of David and Solomon, his son. Just as your mercy perfected that which concerned David, that same mercy is ours. The wisdom of Solomon, which You gave, can be our wisdom as well.

Teach us not to seek our own glory but to look to meeting Your expectations of us. It is Your praise that we seek, not the praise of men. Bless us, we pray, in all that we do. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Humility #12

Bow down Your ear, O LORD, hear me; for I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am holy; you are my God; save Your servant who trusts in You! Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I cry to You all day long. Rejoice the soul of Your servant, for to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You. Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, for You will answer me. Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; nor are there any works like Your works. All nations whom You have made shall come and worship before You, O Lord, and shall glorify Your name. For You are great, and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and I will glorify Your name forevermore. For great is Your mercy toward me, and You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol. ...You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me! Give Your strength to Your servant...

Psalms 86:1-13, 15-16www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know King David lived in a time when many false gods were worshipped and he reminds us here that You are the only true and living God. Father, we too live in a time of many false gods and many are simply without any faith in any god.

O'God, help us this day to show men who You are by our faith and obedience to You. Give Your strength to Your servant...In Christ's name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #13

The LORD lifts up the humble; he casts the wicked down to the ground. He does not delight in the strength of the horse; he takes no pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His mercy. The humble shall see this and be glad; and you who seek God, your hearts shall live. When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom. He sets on high those who are lowly, and those who mourn are lifted to safety. LORD, You have heard the desire of the humble; you will prepare their heart; you will cause Your ear to hear, The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth, to such as keep His covenant and His testimonies. For Your name's sake, O LORD, pardon my iniquity, for it is great.

Psalms 147:6,10-11, 69:32, Proverbs 11:2, Job 5:11, Psalms 10:17, 25:9-11, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You have repeatedly told us how important it is to You that we come to You in all humility and contrition. Help us this day to know how humbling it is to stand in Your Holy presence.

We often wonder why, given the millions of persons on this earth, that You would notice us, individually. The fact that You do is very humbling indeed. In Jesus' enabling power we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #16

If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;

For so you will heap coals of fire on his head, and the LORD will reward you.

Proverbs 25:21-22, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know it is Your will that we take care of Your children when we have an opportunity and they have a need. You have taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves. You have said elsewhere, "They will know us by our love".

Your word teaches that when we help someone who does not deserve it , by their own judgment, it presents a very perplexing problem for that person. We have responded in love and they were expecting rejection. It is truly better to give than to receive. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #17

Out of the depths I have cried to You, O LORD;

Lord, hear my voice! Let Your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.

If You, LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?

But there is forgiveness with You, that You may be feared.

I wait for the LORD, my soul waits, and in His word I do hope.

My soul waits for the Lord more than those who watch for the morning-- yes, more than those who watch for the morning.

Psalms 130:1-6 www.solascriptura.com

Father, most of us have not faced the despair that King David describes here. When such moments come, and they surely will come to those who do not love You on judgment day, help us to know now, while we still have choices available, we should choose You.

How true that complete forgiveness is beyond our understanding. We seek revenge and if You thought like we do, we would be in big trouble.

Our souls truly wait upon You during the trials we face each day and when we awake to a new day, You are there. We learn from Your word, over and over, that "early in the morning" Your prophets and Your people have sought You. Why "early" each day? Perhaps it is because we can be alone with You before our hectic schedules begin. How can we seek You, Father? The answer is also repeated over and over; prayer and reading Your word is a personal encounter with You.

Teach us today that those who wait upon You will be comforted in a way that is unmatched by any thing or any one else. Lead us to Your word, this day. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

February 8, 2008, Family Bible Study topic, www.solascriptura.com

February 8, 2008, Family Bible Study topic, http://www.solascriptura.com/

I humbly declare that I out ran all of you!

We seem to have an inherent need to brag. We are so proud of our accomplishments that we can not wait to tell someone else how well we have done. Let's think about the nature of a child for a moment. Children thrive on praise, don't they? We sometimes, in our zeal to make them feel good about what they have done or who they are, overly praise them. We go "over the top" in our statements to them, generally because we truly love them and are truly proud, but we sometimes try too hard to lift up their spirits, even when they have not done as well as we and they had hoped to do.

This is a tendency that God knows we have and in the Scriptures He gives us some perspective on this matter. Listen: "But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Matthew 23:11-12 NKJV

We will never stop lifting up our children in praise. We must also try to teach them the importance of humility. When they do well, our praise should be consistent with reality. It is difficult enough to restrain our praise and especially difficult if the praise is intended to console them. Kids are smart. They do not want "false" praise. They do want your unconditional love, not based on their "winning" but based on your genuine support of their intentions.

We, as adults, still like praise. Everyone likes praise! Is this true? If so, what advice does the Apostle Paul offer us and what should we teach our children. Listen: "For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." Romans 12:3 NKJV: James, the brother of Jesus, makes a similar point: "For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there." James 3:16 NKJV Jesus said "…for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God." John 12:43 NKJV

Solomon summed this point up by saying, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud. Then Solomon compares praising yourself with having eaten too much honey. "It is not good to eat much honey; so to seek one's own glory is not glory." Solomon continues: "Do you see a man wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him." And finally, "Do not be overly righteous, nor be overly wise: Why should you destroy yourself?" Proverbs 16:18-19, 25:27, 26:12 Ecclesiastes 7:16 NKJV

Then the prophet Isaiah says, "For thus says the High and Lofty One Who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: "I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, And to revive the heart of the contrite ones." Isaiah 57:15 NKJV

Do you see a time when you will ever stop praising those you love? Not likely, but given what you have just read, what are some biblical guidelines about offering praise? It is one thing to focus on how we should properly praise other people but another thing to see ourselves in the proper light before God. If God does not want us to be "proud of ourselves" then how can we react to praise from other men?

Core Christian Value: We seek praise from men and we offer praise to our children. Praise can distort God's hope for us. He tells us to come to Him with all humility and contrition, not wise in our own eyes.

Bruce Caldwell

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The Narrow Gate #17

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it.
”Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.
”Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves.
”You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?
”Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. ”A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. ”Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. ”Therefore by their fruits you will know them.”
Matthew 7:13-20 www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, Matthew repeats the same admonition that Luke stated. The gate to heaven is indeed narrow. In this instance, where You remind us that few will enter the Kingdom of heaven, You tell us that the kind of fruit our lives bear is critical.

We know we are not to judge each other, Jesus that is Your job and Your word tells us that will happen, when in the twinkling of an eye, judgment day comes upon us. But here You say we will know a person by their fruits. The identity of those who love You and who do not love You, with all their hearts, mind and soul is made evident.

You tell us elsewhere that a brackish well does not yield fresh water and that an olive tree does not bear figs. Help us, today, to yield the kind of fruit that identifies us as Your disciples. That is what we want to be, Jesus; a follower of You who seeks to be to others as You have been to us. Strengthen us, we pray, in Your Holy name, amen.Bruce Caldwell

Temple of God #16

...you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”

Therefore “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.”

“I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”

2 Corinthians 6:16-18 www.solascriptura.com

Father, You say we are the temple, the temple in which You reside. It is a humbling thought indeed to believe that we are the building, the body in which You reside.

How Father, should we treat the temple? If we see ourselves, as we move through the day, as a temple in which You reside, how will that effect our interactions?

How Father shall we adorn the temple? Does it matter if we take care to have the body that houses the temple be clean and presentable? What expectations do You have of us for taking care of the temple? Is body piercing and tatoos alright? Are we too immodest at times? In what ways might we disappoint You as we present ourselves to the world?

O’ God, help us today to focus on the fact that we are temples of Your presence. Teach us how You would have us care for our bodies and to know what is acceptable and unacceptable in Your sight. You ask us to “Come out from among them and be separate.” In what ways are we to be separate, to be different and yet distinctly Yours?

We pray with questions and look to Your Holy word for answers. Given the fact that You have written the truth upon our hearts, perhaps introspection is all the inspection we need. We know that we must be in the world to be effective but help us not to become “of the world.” We pray these things in Jesus’ name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Salvation #24

... 'You are My Son, today I have begotten You.
Ask of Me, and I will give You the nations for Your inheritance, and the ends of the earth for Your possession.

Psalms 2:7-8 www.solascriptura.com

Father, we know the Psalmist is referring to Jesus here but we also know from many references that we are Your sons, Your children and that our birth was no surprise to You.

You have told us that Jesus has been given all authority when it comes to separating the saints from the sinners, the sheep from the goats and we see here that Jesus possesses everything that exists, now and forever. Our future is in Your care Jesus. When we have been claimed by You by responding to Your love, we belong to the Father. You and the Father are One.

Help us this day to look to You for guidance, comfort and counsel. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Revenge #17

‘You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD.

It is God who avenges me, and subdues the peoples under me; He delivers me from my enemies. You also lift me up above

Leviticus 19:18, Ps 18:47-48, www.solascriptura.com

Father, it is so difficult not to seek revenge when we are offended. We instinctively react in an aggressive manner whether we know the offender or not. That Father, is not Your way. You have told us not to hold a grudge about new or old offenses and to love others as ourselves. There is no way we can do that absent Your Holy Spirit in us. To be like You is to forgive as we have been forgiven.

Help us today to know that You are in charge and where offenders need retribution, we do not have to be their judge. It is You that subdues the aggressor and it is You that lifts us up. This is one of the very difficult lessons to learn Father and we ask You today to show us Your way, Your patience, and Your kindness in the midst of trials where we are tempted to avenge. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Providence of God #11

God has spoken once, twice I have heard this: that power belongs to God. Also to You, O Lord, belongs mercy; for You render to each one according to his work.
Blessed is the man You choose, and cause to approach You, that he may dwell in Your courts. We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, of Your holy temple.
By awesome deeds in righteousness You will answer us, O God of our salvation, you who are the confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of the far-off seas;

Psalms 62:11-12, 65:4-5

Father, the world will witness your power. Every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that you are Lord, including those who have not yet done so. It is your mercy that we seek. You have chosen us and even now You draw us near to You.

We know You provide for us materially but Father, please renew within us a right Spirit, one that responds to your constant presence and love. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Prayer Part II #15

I have proclaimed the good news of righteousness in the great assembly; indeed, I do not restrain my lips, O LORD, You Yourself know.
I have not hidden Your righteousness within my heart; I have declared Your faithfulness and Your salvation; I have not concealed Your lovingkindness and Your truth from the great assembly.
Do not withhold Your tender mercies from me, O LORD; let Your lovingkindness and Your truth continually preserve me.


Psalms 40:9-11, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we pray that it is true that each of us has proclaimed the good news of righteousness in our families and churches. Help us never to restrain our lips when the opportunity to share Your love with others arises. Help us to never hide Your righteousness in our heart, but to happily declare our faith.

We do pray for Your tender mercies in our daily walk. Since we never walk alone, help us to ask, constantly that Your direction, Your wisdom and discretion, will be ours.

Father, it seems like we have a huge number of decisions to make every day. Teach us that it is Your desire that we place every decision before You, asking for guidance. We know, that in the midst of this Satan has been given a license to try and discourage us. You not only permit the test but You provide us with a way out of trouble, if we will but look to You.

Bless us afresh, every moment, we pray. Guide us today; in Jesus' Holy name, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Prayer Part I #23

If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice! Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.
When You said, “Seek My face,” my heart said to You, “Your face, LORD, I will seek.”
Do not hide Your face from me; do not turn Your servant away in anger; you have been my help; do not leave me nor forsake me, O God of my salvation.

2 Chronicles 7:14, Ps 27:7-9, www.solascriptura.com

Father, We come to You in all humility, somewhat overwhelmed that You actually listen to such persons as us. We do seek Your face and we know we can not do so while standing in the midst of sin or when thinking sinful thoughts. Help us, this day, to turn from any and all sin and to experience the serenity of Your presence.

We know that if we seek You with righteousness and humility that You listen. Father we have huge needs and little needs and we know You will comfort us and lead us as we seek to serve.

Heal our land, teach us, lead us and comfort us every moment of this day and may our countenance be as one who loves You. Elevate our relationship with You this day, we pray. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Perseverance #14

...Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?”

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.
Do not be like the horse or like the mule, which have no understanding, which must be harnessed with bit and bridle, else they will not come near you.

Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; he shall never permit the righteous to be moved.

Job 2:10, Psalms 32:8-9, 55:22, www.solascriptura.com

Father, not every day seems to “go right” but we know that you allow us to be tested. Help us not to resist the testing as something negative, but to see it as a chance to depend upon You.

We do bring our worries to You and we know that You lighten our load when we do so. Thank you for the promise that the righteous, in the Lord, shall never be moved. Because of our dependence upon You, Eternity is ours! In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Peace #28

...You are my strength.
Into Your hand I commit my spirit; you have redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.

Make Your face shine upon Your servant; save me for Your mercies' sake. Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men!
You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; you shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

Psalms 31:4-5, 16, 19-20, www.solascriptura.com

Father, without You, we often feel impotent, unable to cope with the challenges. But when our hearts are filled with the Holy Spirit, we acquire Your strength. We have not only committed our spirit but we have gained redemption at the same time.

Your face continually shines upon us, Your mercies are ever-present. The fact that heaven awaits, a place of perfection beyond our present understanding, motivates us to seek more of Your presence now.

Then You tell us that You hide us from the plots of man, You protect us from the strife that would overtake us without Your care. Help us today to look inward and to consider what it means to be in a secret place with You. We are never alone and never in only our strength. We thank You Jesus. Amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Mind of Christ #17

“... know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the LORD searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever.

As for me, I will see Your face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in Your likeness.

1 Chronicles 28:9, Psalms 17:15, www.solascriptura.com

Lord and Father, what a wonderful promise. If we seek You we shall find You but what is it to forsake You? When Jesus, do we abandon You, when do we leave You out of the moments of our life? We admit it is far too often. You tell us that You search our hearts and know the intents of our heart. Lord, we hide nothing because nothing can be hidden from You.

This day, help us to know what it is to be like You, to have Your mind in us, Your Holy Spirit guiding us. We are, in a sense, blind about the events of the next few moments. But, You tell us Your Spirit, which knows all things, past and present, is with us if we but ask. We do ask, in all humility and contrition, for Your hand upon us this day. In the Holy name of Jesus we pray, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

Law of God #28

In the third month after the children of Israel had gone out of the land of Egypt, on the same day, they came to the Wilderness of Sinai.
...Israel camped there before the mountain.
And Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel:
’You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Myself.
’Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine.
’And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.”

Exodus 19:1-6 http://www.solascriptura.com/

Father, You tell us many times that Israel was chosen by You to be Your special people, that You would bless them and never forsake them. You also said that Your blessings required obedience and You gave them Your law. We know that Israel has been disobedient many times and we know Your mercy has prevailed.

We are personally grateful for Your mercy to us this day. We too have been disobedient even though the Law is written upon our hearts. Help us resolve to sin no more, to look to Your perfect Law and to the enabling power of the Holy Spirit in us. Thank You for not simply judging us for our sin, but instead, cleansing us by the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus.

Help us to be obedient to Your perfect, unamendable Law, this day. In Jesus’ name, amen

Bruce Caldwell

Joy #26

... you shall rejoice before the LORD your God in all to which you put your hands.

Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.
Declare His glory among the nations, his wonders among all peoples. For the LORD is great and greatly to be praised...

...the joy of the LORD is your strength.”

He will yet fill your mouth with laughing, and your lips with rejoicing.

Deuteronomy 12:18, 1 Chronicles 16:23-25, Nehemiah 8:10, Job 8:21, http://www.solascriptura.com/

Father, In this troubled world we find too little about which to rejoice. Yet You clearly instruct us to rejoice. We are to rejoice in our work, sing to You, proclaim the good news of salvation, joyfully, and declare Your glory among all the nations.

Your joy in us is our strength. In spite of the difficulties, You will yet fill our mouths with laughter and our lips will yet joyfully praise You. Your plan for us Father, is to experience joy in You, here and there. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

Industriousness #11

LORD, You have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.
You turn man to destruction, and say, “Return, O children of men.”
For a thousand years in Your sight are like yesterday when it is past, and like a watch in the night.
You carry them away like a flood; they are like a sleep. In the morning they are like grass which grows up:
In the morning it flourishes and grows up; in the evening it is cut down and withers.
For we have been consumed by Your anger, and by Your wrath we are terrified.
You have set our iniquities before You, our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.
For all our days have passed away in Your wrath; we finish our years like a sigh.
The days of our lives are seventy years; and if by reason of strength they are eighty years, yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
Who knows the power of Your anger? For as the fear of You, so is Your wrath. So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Return, O LORD! How long? And have compassion on Your servants.
Oh, satisfy us early with Your mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days!
Make us glad according to the days in which You have afflicted us, the years in which we have seen evil.
Let Your work appear to Your servants, and Your glory to their children. And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; yes, establish the work of our hands.

Psalms 90:1-17, http://www.solascriptura.com/

Father, for these Holy and wise words we are grateful. Help us O’ God to fulfill Your expectations and to use each day to Your glory. Life is truly finite, we see the end approaching quickly for ourselves or for others and we realize that our opportunities to serve You and others, on this earth, will be gone.


Help us Father, to make the most of what You have given us. Point us to a reunion, to an eternal life, with all those love you and in the meantime help our work be meaningful and joyful. In Christ’ name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Humility #14

...let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come.

LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty. Neither do I concern myself with great matters, nor with things too profound for me.
Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me.

Though the LORD is on high, yet He regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.

1 Corinthians 10:12, Psalms 65:2, 131:1-2, 138:6, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You require that we come to you in humility, not proud of ourselves. Help us Father to be joyful as we seek to serve without having our joy turn to self-serving pride.


Teach us when to be quiet and when to proclaim Your love and have those who observe our joy in You not see it as pride in ourselves. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.
Bruce Caldwell

Holy Spirit #1

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, "Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him." Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus said to Him, "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?" Jesus answered, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. "That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. "Do not marvel that I said to you, 'You must be born again.' "The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit."

John 3:1-8, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, here a Pharisee, one who knew and taught the Scriptures to others, comes to you by night, secretly. He knew his spirit was not in sync with Your Spirit. He knew something was missing. Jesus, we too know when we are out of sync with You. We never wonder about that fact, it is a certainty and when we come asking, what must we do to make things right, Your answer is that we must be "born again".

But what if we have been born again? Why do we continue to disobey? Jesus, You have taught us that we are not perfected, we are not yet raised up as Spiritual beings in eternity, we are a work in progress. We confess that we are very imperfect and we, as Nicodemus, seek perfection, in You.

Help us Jesus to realize that when we place our faith and trust in You, that by God's grace, we are "directed" as the wind. We are uncertain about the events of the next moment yet we take heart in the fact of Your love and presence. We who declare our love for You are born of the Spirit, we do have confidence that you know our every thought and action and that You will keep us from sin, increasingly, if we but ask.



Thank You Jesus for sending the Holy Spirit to us afresh, every moment. We feel so unworthy of such love. Help us to learn today that is Your righteousness in which we stand before the Father, never ours. In Your Holy name we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #18

Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.

Blessed is the man to whom the LORD does not impute iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.

When I kept silent, my bones grew old through my groaning all the day long.

For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer...

I acknowledged my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, "I will confess my transgressions to the LORD," and You forgave the iniquity of my sin...

Psalms 32:1-5 www.solascriptura.com

Father, when we stand before You, guilty of sin, we are truly blessed to have our sins forgiven. We know that in this life we have sinned against not only You but other people as well. We pray they are as generous in forgiving us as You have been. Father we too must forgive and forget the past sins of others. We must render to them the type of grace and mercy You have shown us.

Help us, this day, to recognize the power of forgiveness. Without it we are lost forever and it is certain that unforgiven sins against each other separate us from the love and mutual support that You intend. Help us this day to forgive someone that may have wronged us. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

End Times #2

"But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you...
"But it will turn out for you as an occasion for testimony.
"Therefore settle it in your hearts not to meditate beforehand on what you will answer;
"for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to contradict or resist.
"But not a hair of your head shall be lost.
"By your patience possess your souls.

Luke 21:12-19, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, You teach us that in the end times, which if we read prophecy correctly, seem to be coming at a more rapid pace than ever before. Whether we personally will be here when the times of extreme persecution of Your people begins, no one knows.

What we do know is that You promise to be with us and to help us respond with wisdom that exceeds our personal resources. It is Your Spirit in us that will provide us with the proper responses to those who do not love You and who hate us. We do study Your word and You have taught us a lot but here You say You will teach us even more.

What a wonderful sentence You have sent to us: "By your patience possess your souls." It will be a great moment when our spirit is lifted up by Your Spirit and our fear and anxiety will be subdued by You. By Your grace we will have chosen to preserve our souls! In Your Holy name, we pray for strength, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Courage #24

The righteousness of Your testimonies is everlasting; give me understanding, and I shall live. I cry out with my whole heart; hear me, O LORD! I will keep Your statutes.
I cry out to You; save me, and I will keep Your testimonies.
I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help; I hope in Your word.
My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.
Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness; O LORD, revive me according to Your justice.
They draw near who follow after wickedness; they are far from Your law. You are near, O LORD, and all Your commandments are truth. Concerning Your testimonies, I have known of old that You have founded them forever.
Consider my affliction and deliver me, for I do not forget Your law. Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Your word.

Psalms 119:144-154, www.solascriptura.com

Father, we admit that we are not courageous, in and of ourselves, when it comes to coping with wickedness and the evil powers that exist. We feel pressed upon by sinful communicators and sinful people who we know are created in Your image. They may have lost their way and they may be lacking in the courage they need in order to change the way they live, but we pray for their souls and that they will yet seek You.

When we feel afflicted You have taught us that we can look to You for deliverance. Our courage does not come from our own strength but from Your presence in our hearts. We know You will never require us to cope with the power of Satan. You promise to be there for us if we but rely upon You. Bless us this day with Your Holy presence, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Conscience #19

...till I die I will not put away my integrity from me. My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live. "May my enemy be like the wicked, and he who rises up against me like the unrighteous. For what is the hope of the hypocrite, though he may gain much, if God takes away his life?

...what is the allotment of God from above, and the inheritance of the Almighty from on high? Is it not destruction for the wicked, and disaster for the workers of iniquity? Does He not see my ways, and count all my steps? "If I have walked with falsehood, or if my foot has hastened to deceit, Let me be weighed on honest scales, that God may know my integrity.

Job 27:5-8, 31:2-6

Father, the entire book of Job is critically important to our understanding. Thank you for all that it teaches. Here Father, Job, after suffering great personal loss, says he will hold fast to righteousness, no matter what happens. Satan was permitted to tempt Job, Father, and You permitted the test.

We too are tempted by Satan more than we sometimes realize. Help us O'God to recognize temptation as it comes at us in so many different ways and to flee from it, to turn away from it and to refuse, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be overcome by it. You have taught us that what our heart tells us is sin, is indeed sin. We thank You father for writing the truth upon our hearts allowing us to discern between good and evil. In Jesus Holy name, we pray, amen.



Bruce Caldwell

Angels #12

..."Father, if it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless not My will, but Yours, be done."

Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.

Luke 22:42-43, www.solascriptura.com

Jesus, we know that when You suffered on the cross for our sins that it meant separation from the Father since the Father will not join Himself to sin or sinners. In taking our sin upon yourself, you suffered as we would have had to suffer if it was not for Your sacrifice. Your assumption of our sins accomplished for us what we could never accomplish on our own. There is no sacrifice available to us that will cleanse us our sins except Your shed blood. We are called by God's grace and saved by Your redemptive, sacrificial act.


Father, You sent an angel to Jesus helping Him to endure the pain, the suffering, the separation. Now You tell us that we have angels looking over us helping us in the same way. We truly never walk alone. Bless us abundantly we pray, in Jesus' name, amen.


Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #19

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

James 5:13-16, www.solascriptura.com

Father, no matter whether we are stressed out, cheerful or ill, James teaches us that we are to pray. Help us O'God to learn to pray unceasingly and to include You in all of the details of our life. Your word tells us that not a hair falls from our head without You knowing it. That sort of "presence", deserves/requires a response.

Some of us are very ill or some of the persons in our devotional group are in dire need. We know that if we love You, all things will work out to the good for the faithful. Father, we see that sometimes it means one of us may depart this world to find the glory that You have prepared for us.

Help us O'God not to feel that this life is all there is and that if we lost this life it would be a catastrophe. Certainly Father, our loved ones will miss us but help us all to focus on the fact that this life is the tip of an iceberg. What is seen is not what exists.

While we have time here Father, help us today to declare our love for You. Every day of life is a day of opportunity to serve You. We pray fervently for each other and our loved ones. Thank You for each day, in Jesus' name, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Forgiven #20

...be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

Ephesians 4:32, James 4:8, www.solascriptura.com

Father, You have taught us that there are two overriding commandments. First we are to love You with all of our heart, mind, and strength and second, we are to love our neighbors as our selves.

These two verses, the first by Paul and the second by James, Your brother Jesus, say precisely that. Paul teaches us that since we have been forgiven, it is only appropriate that we forgive others. How else could it be?

Then Father, James teaches us a verse we should all memorize. If we draw near to You, You will draw near to us. The initiative lies with us to respond but is Your grace and mercy Father that was first extended to us.

You seek a relationship with us. How many others truly seek a relationship with us and how much more worthy are they than You? Your friendship, counsel, leadership and encouragement can not be matched by any person on earth. Help us today to learn that fact. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen.

Bruce Caldwell

Heaven #1

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth

The LORD is in His holy temple, the LORD'S throne is in heaven; his eyes behold.

The LORD is high above all nations, his glory above the heavens. Who is like the LORD our God, who dwells on high.

Gen 1:1, Ps 4:4, Ps 113:4-5

Father, when we think of where You are, we know it is up and not down. We do not fully understand how far up and we even try to measure the immeasurable. Father, the depth of the heavens is surely greater than the universe we can partially see. We know it is a place from which angels come so it is real, not illusory or imagined.

Father, what we do not know about heaven far exceeds what we do know. Help us not to fret about not being able to define the circumstances of eternity but help us instead to confess that all that we see and know is Yours and is a gift, here and now, to us that we might serve You.

We confess there is no one like You. We acknowledge Your omnipotence, omnipresence and omniscience, words that in themselves exceed our experience. Father, we look to You and are so grateful that You sent Jesus to us, a living manifestation of Yourself. Jesus solved the mystery for all time of who You are and what You are like.

We lift our hands and our hearts in worship this day and we pray for Your Holy will to be made clear to each of us, this day. In Jesus' Holy name, we pray, amen

Bruce Caldwell

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