Tag: prayer

Night Light

As children, many of us were, at one time or another, afraid of the dark. Our parents would remedy the situation with a night light. Though the wattage of these bulbs was low, it cast enough light into the room to chase away the monsters.

As adults we still sometimes find ourselves afraid of the dark in this world. Hostilities in the world, political uncertainty, marital problems, and family hardships can all cast shadows of darkness across our days. Trouble, anxiety, confusion and skepticism have us reaching to turn on the night light. We need something to chase away the uneasiness in our hearts.

Psalm 27:1 reminds us that God gives us His light: “The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” The everlasting light of God shines in this world. When we look at God all the shadows, grays and darkness of this world are dispelled. Our worries about the day, our angst about life and even our dread of tomorrow are swallowed by the inextinguishable Light of God in Christ. light casts away the darkness of this world and opens our eyes to the reality of God’s glorious kingdom. There- fore, “Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you . . . Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light” (John 12:35, 36).

The Light of Christ shines in this world, so we do not have to be afraid of the dark.

Photo: Rohan Makhecha

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Prepare Now For Lent

John 4:32 and 34 have intrigued me for a long time, and I am using one period of Lent to study and ask the Holy Spirit to show me what Jesus means in these verses. “I have food to eat that you know nothing about,” and, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent me and to finish His work.”

Food is any nourishing substance that sustains life. Substance is the essential part or element of anything and it belongs intrinsically to a thing by its very nature. Jesus is saying that His substance sustains life. That is, His nature sustains life and His nature is divine. He is God. Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die” (John 11:25-26).

However, Jesus also has a human nature and experienced all that we do as humans. God incarnate felt the necessities of life as the Son of Man. Think about this, Jesus needed to eat to sur- vive, yet He is the Lord, the giver of Life. Jesus came to die for sinners, but He had no sin. Jesus died on the cross and was buried but He rose again from the dead. The immortal becomes mortal; God becomes man; and the Crucified becomes the

Risen. Within One Person, Jesus Christ, all the fullness of human nature and the fullness of divine nature exist.

God the Father gave the Son a human existence to accomplish what must be done on the cross so the world would be saved through Him.

Let Jesus, the Son of Man and the Son of God, be your Lenten focus.

Photo by Ahna Ziegler

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

We Belong Together

Photo Courtesy of Panitan Punpuang

Over the weekend, I had an opportunity to watch the sun rise over Chicago. Its rays shimmered across the icy waters of Lake Michigan and bounced off the windows of the high rises and towers reflecting columns of light across the frozen waters. While splashing light across the awakening city, the sun also painted soft hues of pink across the heavens.

I like watching the sun’s glory mingle with man’s magnificent buildings and structures. It reminds me that God and man belong together. Each daybreak is an opportunity to recall that God is exalted over all the earth. Man, as a creature, is to walk with God, the giver of Light, in a posture of humble adoration. As the sun continues to rise higher in the morning sky, God’s abundant light pours into the world, casting out the darkness.

God’s Son mingled on earth a man with men. He said, “While I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:5). While Jesus was in the world He sent the light of God into the shadows of sin and death, casting out the darkness. He shines brightest on the cross, where the piercing light of Holy God could not be vanquished by the charging forces of darkness. “Light has come into the world” (John 3:19) “and the darkness has not overcome it” (John 1:5).

Brighter than any sun, Christ’s light still shines in the world through the power of the Holy Spirit, who brings the truth to mankind that God and man belong together.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

When He Appears

Photo Courtesy of Jordan Wozniak

I spend a great many hours reminding gymnasts that they must expect to make their routines at a meet. This past weekend, I could tell easily by a gymnast’s body language and facial expressions whether she had expected to perform well at the competition. I could tell who hadn’t, too.

Gymnasts with an attitude of expectation exhibit certain traits at the meet that the others do not display. There is a confidence and calmness about them. I can sense that they trust their coaches and believe that the hours they have spent practicing in the gym have made them ready for the competition.

As Christians we should be living with an expectation: that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ will return. Jesus said, “You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” (Luke 12:40).

Like athletes who expect the expected, Christians should be prepared for the arrival of our Lord. We should also be training for His return. In this way, we will live as an example to the world that Christ will indeed come again. We must be diligent in prayer, asking for Christ to come. We should be invested in the study of Scripture and committed to attending worship.

When we are persistent in our training, our lives will be full of confidence in Christ’s promises, particularly His promise to come again. And we will have the calm assurance of knowing that His return will create a new world and we will be transformed in His likeness. “Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Surprises

Photo Courtesy of Andre Guerra

There is a comfort in knowing what to expect each year. Every year I can predict my day at the Chicago-Style Gymnastic Meet, in Chicago, Illinois. This event is one of my favorite meets of the season. I look forward to it every year. I have an opportunity to see old friends and encounter new ones.

But this year the meet presented something unexpected. I got to experience something new, thanks to a very good friend who invited me to her favorite vegetarian restaurant in Chicago. I ordered a buffalo chicken wrap, made with meatless chicken. (Yes, I know that seems to be an oxymoron.) However, this vegan meatless chicken tasted very similar to chicken. After all these years of not tasting meat, my taste buds were shocked by the taste, and I began to question whether this might actually be meat. It was shocking to taste meat. It was also a delicious surprise.

See, I thought that today was going to be the same. I thought I knew what to expect. But today was very different and new and a blast.

Sometimes we think we know what to expect from God each day, but He very often surprises us. But we must be open to His surprises. He likes to bring the unexpected into our lives. We have to be open to receiving it.

God makes all things new in our lives.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Rules

Photo Courest of i yunmai

Several years ago, I chose a vegetarian lifestyle that has helped me keep my body healthy. I supplemented my new lifestyle with additional rules to help me monitor and guard my health. Of course there are times when I break the rules, but my commitment to health is greater than my desire to break the rules.

Becoming a Christian means that we undergo a lifestyle change. We can no longer live according to our “old self with its practices” (Colossians 3:9b), but “have to put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:10).

To help maintain the health of our “new self,” Paul gives us some practical rules to incorporate into our daily lives. In 2 Timothy 2:16 he writes, “Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly.” He also wrote, “but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). And he cautions Timothy to “watch your life and doctrine closely” (1Timothy 4:16). All these rules can be kept only through the power of the Holy Spirit, and we stay close to the Holy Spirit through diligent reading of the Scriptures.

These rules simply offer a means of monitoring the health of our “new self,” and when we keep the rules, we are testifying to our pledge to live in a manner pleasing to Jesus Christ through the Holy Spirit. Certainly, we will err; however, we should want our commitment to the Lord to be greater than our desire to break the rules.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

The Tyrant

Photo Courtesy of Element5 Digital

Going into fourth grade, I heard all sorts of horror stories about the teacher. The playground buzzed with upper-level students telling us lowly third graders about the terror of fourth grade and the tyrannical teacher.

I was not looking forward to fourth grade. On the first day, I entered the classroom with great fear and trepidation. My dreams had produced a picture of a Herculean-sized woman standing at the classroom door wielding a paddle in each hand smacking students about like ping pong balls.

As it turned out, the rumors were wrong, and my dreams were even further from the truth. She turned out to be the best teacher I have ever had. Some things you must find out for yourself.

We spend many hours listening to the world tell us about God. It yammers on about how frightful the Lord is. It points to the cross and tells us how unloving the Creator can be. It smears the name of Jesus and ridicules anyone foolish enough to believe in Him. There are many, many rumors about God, and sadly, we listen to them instead of the Holy Spirit.

The truth about God is found in Scripture, not the world. When it comes to finding out who God really is we must find out for ourselves through the help of the Holy Spirit.

“I am the Lord your God, Who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go” (Isaiah 48:17). Does this sound like a frightful tyrant?

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Unending

Photo Courtesy of Luke Tanis

My gym clothes are comfortable and appropriate for work. It is clothing that is useful and functional for the job that I have as a gymnastics coach. I would guess that most of us have work, casual and dress clothes. The malls, lined with retail clothing stores, confirm that we have clothes in our closets for all occasions. We should wear clothing appropriate to specific functions. Depending upon the social engagement, certain types of clothing are expected. A person should not wear beach party attire to a funeral. Nor should anyone wear a muscle shirt and spandex to a wedding.

In Scripture, Jesus tells a parable about a man attending a king’s wedding. The king arrives, and as he greets his guests, he notices one guest has not worn wedding clothes. Without hesitation, the king removes him from the celebration.

God has a dress code. Our carnal human nature is not appropriate dress before the Almighty. Our sinful nature is an affront to God, so it is not welcome in His presence. God Himself sent His Son to die on the cross so that through Him our sinful wardrobe could be changed into a wardrobe of holiness. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we receive apparel fitting to wear in the presence of God.

Isaiah 61:10 says, “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness.”

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

He’s All Around Us

Photo Courtesy of kazuend

People have many reasons for not attending church on Sunday or participating in spiritual activities during the week. In fact, excuses are abundant. For instance, I have heard people say, “I’d like to go to church, but I was up late.” And, “I really should join a Bible study, but I’m just so busy.” Or, “My children would like to attend youth group, but I just can’t add one more thing to my schedule.” These might all seem to be legiti- mate reasons for not observing the Sabbath, but they are, ultimately, excuses. People are not easily roused to action, but they are quick to defend why they don’t act.

These are just typical examples. However, our proficiency in making excuse spills over into other areas of our spiritual lives. Instead of facing and confessing our sin, we make excuses for the sin in our lives. Making an excuse for our sin does not remedy sin. We know the solution is faith in Jesus Christ, but we do not heed the call to come to Christ for salvation, through the power and conviction of the Holy Spirit. Instead, we let sin fester in our hearts, minds and souls. An excuse does not change the condition of sin.

Christ is the change agent. Christ did not come into the world to listen to our excuses for sin. Nor did He come to excuse our sin. Christ came into the world to endure our sin on the cross and take the punishment we deserved for our transgressions against God.

Jesus bled and died for our sin. His atoning sacrifice set us free from sin and its consequence, death. Therefore, we no longer have an excuse for our sin; the cross is God’s divine remedy for sin.

Jesus said, “If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin. Now, however, they have no excuse for their sin” (John 15:22).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

What To Wear

Photo Courtesy of Adrienne Leonard

Gymnasts frequently struggle with Yurchenko vaults. This skill is very difficult to execute properly because the athlete must run as fast as she can toward the vault table, round off onto the vault board, do a back handspring onto the table, use her hands and shoulders to block (a very quick push) off the table, do a full twist in the air and land. In order for this skill to be powerful, the gymnast must focus on the approach to the table. If they run too slowly and do not get the round off turned over quickly they will have problems blocking off the vault. The approach determines the strength or weakness of the vault.

Likewise, if our prayer lives seem dull and weak, and we think God is not listening, perhaps we should consider our approach to Him. The Lord said to Moses, “Among those who approach me I will show myself holy” (Leviticus 10:3).

When we pray we are entering the presence of Holy God. Still, we tend to ignore the holiness and purity of His essence. We race into His throne room spouting requests, usually without even pausing to appreciate His wonder and majesty. We hasten from His presence without offering Him the respect and homage He deserves. Then we’re baffled when we don’t hear Him answer.

We need to demonstrate adoration of and admiration for God. Part of prayer is learning to sit in awe of God and wait for the Spirit to usher us into His presence. God is eager to grant us audience, but we must approach Him offering the honor due His name.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Our Many Reasons

Photo Courtesy of Alexandra Gorn

It’s strange for me to be tired. However, the schedule over the last few days has finally taken its toll, and both my mind and body are fatigued. I don’t appreciate the vulnerability that accompanies this state of weariness. I prefer the feelings of power and strength that energy produces. My energy level usu- ally runs on high, so this low is uncharacteristic. But I know that a little rest will recharge my system, and I will be full throttle again tomorrow.

As strange as this feeling is to me, I am reminded of how unusual it had to be to Jesus. In John 4:6, Jesus’ ministry schedule had caught up with Him. He had traveled between Judah and Galilee at least twice and on this day, the trip wore Him out. John says, “Jesus, tired as He was from the journey, sat down by the well.” How strange is it to think that the eternal Son of God sat down because He was tired?

How uncharacteristic for the everlasting God, the immortal, omnipotent God to feel fatigue. He who was infinite in power and might was tired from walking. Perhaps His feet were sore, His legs were weak and His body ached from walking. “Very God of very God” (Nicene Creed) was exhausted.

My own fatigue reminds me of just how much God sacrificed for me. Jesus chose to live the human life, within the limitations of a body. He labored, He tired and He died. God sat down so we could rise up.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

The Approach

Photo Courtesy of Edoardo Busti

My girls chatted with me for several hours tonight, filling me with stories about their weekend. I enjoyed every facial expression, gesture and detail of their recaps. We sat for nearly three hours in the upstairs hall. None of us wanted to leave the presence of the others.

Yes, the temperature in Rockford is 1 degree tonight with a minus 8 wind chill; there are 16 inches of snow on the ground, and I am wrapped in three layers plus a blanket as I write. But this is home. And home is where your family can sit in a hallway enjoying one another’s presence.

Scripture says, “In the shelter of Your presence you hide them . . .  in Your dwelling you keep them safe” (Psalm 31:20). For a Christian, home is God’s presence. We don’t have to wait for eternity, He is near now. And where the presence of the Lord is there is shelter, protection and safety.

The problem is many of us do not seek the presence of God through the Holy Spirit. We endure the cold of the world, instead of taking refuge in God. We race through this world, trying to find a place where we belong instead of settling at home in God’s presence to receive His comfort and security. We fail to come into God’s presence through Christ to embrace the love and joy and peace God offers through His Son.

God is home. Come in out of the cold of the world.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

The WOW Factor

Photo Courtesy of Sandro Schuh

As I write this, I’ve just watched Super Bowl XLIX. It will occupy our conversations for the next several weeks. We saw spectacular plays and a stunning conclusion. It was a Super Bowl like no other. And whether your team won or lost the last thing any of us could say was WOW!

The final 30 seconds changed the game. It looked as though Seattle would finish the game as the victors. But that never happened. And the victory went, once again, to the Patriots.

More than 2,000 years ago, history records six hours that changed the world. During those six hours, a Jewish man, Jesus Christ, hung on a Roman cross to die as a felon. It looked as though His death would put an end to His message, purpose and will. Crowds lined the streets to watch this man die. Once the last breath escaped from Christ, the spectators were certain that would be the end of this insurrectionist.

But His death changed everything. When Jesus died on the cross, sin and death appeared victorious. However, His death was the vehicle to His conquest and when the six hours passed, and three days went by, the game changed. Sin and death were conquered by the Savior and everlasting life was the prize of the victor.

For those of us who believe in the saving grace of Jesus Christ all we can say is WOW. Through His resurrection we to are raised to life. “Since then you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Facing Trials

Photo Courtesy of Riccardo Mion

After the meet this weekend, I realized that a gymnastic competition is just a trial and test to evaluate the training habits of the gymnasts. As I looked at this test, one thing became clear: gymnasts who had been impatient and worried during practice exhibited greater frustration, anxiety and disappoint- ment at the competition than those gymnasts who had submitted to coaches’ directions, assignments and corrections.

Every day we face many trials. The world accosts us with evil, sorrow comes our way, friends are burdened or we are suffering with heartache. If we respond to our trials with impatience and worry, that will lead to greater frustration, anxiety and suffering. Our hearts become heavy with burdens and restlessness. We have no peace; our minds fill with thoughts of hopelessness and our soul despairs. We crumble under the pressure of the trial.

However, if we respond to the trials with patience and prayer, God empowers us with His Holy Spirit to endure the trails we face. With the aid of the Spirit our minds calm and fill with the hope of Christ. As Christ dominates our thoughts our hearts find His peace, and our souls rest in the assurance that Jesus walks through our trials with us. Through our trial and testing, Jesus guides us, sustains us and strengthens our faith through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Christ will “strengthen and encourage you in your faith, so that no one would be unsettled by these trials” (1 Thessalonians 3:2-3).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Walk The Beach

Photo Courtesy of Genevieve Dallaire

I have always loved the ocean. Walking on the beach fills my mind with wonder and my soul with joy. All that water sparks my imagination as I consider the wonders and mystery within that vast body of water. Ocean beaches captivate me. There is always something new to discover because the waters wash ashore remnants from the deep, or draw ripple patterns in the sand, or bring forth the sounds of the underwater caverns to the surface.

This wonder and fascination with the ocean makes me ap- preciate the Creator. In Isaiah 51:15, God says, “For I am the Lord your God, who churns up the sea so that its waves roar.”

The ocean reflects God’s nature: deep and mysterious. And, yet, He willingly sent His Son into the world to reveal those mysteries and draw us down into His depths. From the shore, He gives us a view of His greatness and invites us to swim deeper and deeper into life with Him. He does not remain a mystery, but through His Son brings us into more knowledge and understanding about who He is and what He has done on behalf of humankind.

God’s creation displays His glory and the glory of His Son. Walk the beach with God.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Don’t Hang Back

Photo Courtesy of Artur Rutkowski

The way things are going, writing my Evening Reflection and my For the Weekend devotionals are going to bump into each other in the night. I am numb from traveling from Columbus, Ohio, to Phoenix Arizona, to Houston, Texas, for gymnastic competitions.

My weariness reminds me of a spiritual dilemma I face. Some days, I don’t feel like a sinner. I can keep myself so busy during the day that I don’t think about it. I can keep my mind occupied with other things. This forgetting my sin is denial, but it doesn’t change the fact that I am a sinner.

Sometimes, I get into a state I call sin numb. This numbness means my heart is hard and calloused toward God. When I am in sin numb I am also Savior numb. “If we claim we have not sinned, we make Him (Christ) out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives” (1 John 1:10). If I deny my sin, I deny my need for the Savior who came into this world to take away my sin.

While my essential nature is sin, Jesus Christ’s essential na- ture is salvific. It is as natural for Christ to save as it is for me to sin. Just because I don’t feel like a sinner doesn’t change the fact that my nature is sinful. I know it because Scripture con- firms it, the Holy Spirit exposes it and Jesus Christ died to save me from it.

“I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature” (Romans 7:18).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Two Types Of Listeners

Photo Courtesy of Kyle Smith

Recently I lined up our young gymnasts to give them instructions. They listened as I explained the drills and the order in which they were to be done. Most of the girls heard and fol- lowed the directions. However, one athlete moved randomly about doing her own thing. She failed to listen well. As a result, she was in the way of the others, causing a few of her team- mates to stumble, and she almost hurt herself. It took only a few moments to recognize that a bad listener destroys order.

Easy lesson here: God created a world of perfect order for Adam and before him set the instructions for maintaining it.

Unfortunately, Adam was a bad listener. He failed to follow God’s instructions, so God’s created order was destroyed.

Desiring to restore order, God sent Jesus Christ into the chaos of this fallen creation. He was a good listener. He was so attuned to God that He spoke only what He heard His Father say “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me” (John 8:28). By listening to the Father, the Son was perfectly obedient to the Father. And through the Son’s obedience, He reconciled the world to the Father.

We have two choices. We, like Adam, can continue, to run through this world without listening to the Word of God. Or we can by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and by the power of the Holy Spirit listen to God and live as His obedient children.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

“Prayer for Financial Miracle” by Daily Effective Prayer

Let us pray…

Watch the video for the rest of
“Prayer For Financial Miracle“

This prayer video from Daily Effective Prayer was
originally featured on their YouTube Channel.

Heavenly Father, we gather together here online and come into agreement in the wonderful and powerful name of Jesus. Where two or more are gathered there You shall surely be and anything we agree upon as touching You will surely do. I lift up those watching this video and we come into agreement and ask for a financial miracle for their life.

We come to you in the name of Jesus concerning their financial situation. We know that You hear us right now. Father, they are redeemed from the curse of the law. Christ has redeemed them from poverty, sickness, and spiritual death. Jesus has delivered them from poverty and given them wealth. He has even freed them from sickness and given them health.

You are a very present help in trouble and You are more than enough. Grant the listener wisdom regarding godly prosperity in the name of Jesus. Light their path and by the Holy Spirit, lead them in the way they should go that leads to a financial miracle. Teach the listener to prosper Your way. Thank You that according to Phil 4:19 You shall supply all the need of those listening according to Your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Help the listener to delight themselves in You and Your Kingdom because when they do, You promised that You would add everything they need into their life. They lay their income at Your feet and together we ask that You show them where they should give, how often they should give, and how much. We declare that what they give as unto the Lord is given to them good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over.

A financial miracle comes their way! We bind Your peace around their mind, will, and emotions. We declare that Your peace shall keep them during the storm. You, oh Lord, are their Shepherd and they do not want. Blessings are coming upon those listening and overtaking them, as You Lord, daily load them with benefits. Please send godly and wise financial counselors and teachers across their path who can teach them the principles of good stewardship with what You have entrusted them with.

We bind and rebuke the enemy off of their finances now! Devil, loose their money in the name of Jesus! We declare life and life more abundantly over those listening in Jesus Name! We declare financial increase that brings glory to God over their life! Father, it is You who gives them the power to get wealth so that You may establish Your covenant here on earth… The listener is the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus so the wealth of the sinner is laid up for them. We declare that that wealth is finding it’s way into their hands.

We receive a financial miracle for those listening right now and thank You for it. We declare that those listening prosper in every way and their body keeps well. We give You all the glory!

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Scripture References:
Gal 3:13-14
Deut 28
Eph 3:20

Psalms 56:1
Mal 3:8-12
2 Cor 9:8
Deut 8:18-19
Phil 4:19
Isa 53:5-6
John 10:10
John 5:24
Psalm 37:4
Luke 6:38
Psalm 23:1
Josh 1:8
Isa 1:18-19
Psalm 35:27
Gal 3:14
Rom 5:17
3 John 2

More financial prayers

A White Hot Poker

Photo Courtesy of Jack Catalano

Proverbs 17: 3 provides this reminder, “ . . . the Lord tests the heart.” God created the human heart to love Him exclusively. And with loyalty to the Creator the heart could steer the mind with right thoughts of God and direct the soul to rest, be one, in the Lord.

Sin shattered the heart, filling it with thousands of rival loves and unfaithfulness towards God. Devotion for God became deception towards God (Jeremiah 17: 9; Hosea 10: 2). The erring heart misled the mind and frustrated the hopes of the soul in order to satisfy its desires for carnal lusts. God comes to test the heart. He comes with a white hot poker to purify it of all deceit, unfaithfulness and treachery. He sets the heart ablaze with the Holy Spirit until the impurities of sin and its rival loves have been burned in the fire of holiness.

God will keep the fire of the Spirit burning until purification is complete and the heart is steadfast in Him. Pray for a burning heart.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Spiritual Parents

Photo Courtesy of Geovanny Velasquez

Isaiah 8: 18, “Here am I, and the children the Lord has given me . . . ”

Consider that any person God impresses upon your heart to pray for is a spiritual child He has given you. Perhaps your labor is not in a hospital but in the prayer closet; God desires to deliver all His children safely home. “Let the little children come to me” (Luke 18: 16).

Pray a path to God for your children. The task is daunting but the Spirit empowers spiritual parents to “train up a child in the way they should go” (Proverbs 22: 6 KJV). Many spiritual children will be rebellious children” who will choose not to “honor your father and mother” (Deuteronomy 5: 16) or seek counsel from God. They are walking the wide road of destruction. So, as parents, we work in prayer with the Spirit until the way of righteousness is made plain, and God sets their feet on the solid ground of Christ the Lord.

As our children are born into life with Christ, our parental responsibilities go forward. We are to feed them “pure spiritual milk” (1 Peter 2: 2) of wisdom and knowledge of God. We are to nurture and protect them from false gods and idols. We are to teach them the commandments and the ways of Christ so they can grow up in their salvation.

May God bless you with many spiritual children.

“Happy is the man whose quiver is full of them” (Psalm 127: 5).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Promise Keeper

Image Courtesy of Hunter Newton

Matthew 11: 3 asks, “Are you the one who was to come?”

On the family tree, John was the crazy cousin whom everyone tolerated at birthdays and holidays. He was such a curiosity that people traveled to the desert just to hear him and watch him. He had been consecrated to the Lord and spent his ministry teaching and offering a baptism of repentance to the people.

As odd as he was, God used him to “make straight paths” (Isaiah 40: 3 NIV 2011) for Jesus. Then word came that he was in prison and his ministry ended and his life would soon be over as well. Doubts battered his soul, and he needed confirmation that Jesus was the Christ. Jesus’ report to John affirmed that He was exactly whom John had been expecting.

His words of healing and preaching were testimony to God’s prophecy and the promise to Isaiah was fulfilled in Him (Isaiah 35: 1-10). Jesus verified His identity through Scripture, so John would know God had kept His promises.

When God makes a promise, nothing stands in the way of its fulfillment. He promised and delivered His Son of Promise and the frailty of the flesh, the cruelty of mankind and even death couldn’t thwart the salvation that comes to us through Him. The Son of God arrived in the manger, to reveal to the world that God kept His word by giving us His Word.

“Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing: O come, let us adore Him . . . ” (O Come, All Ye Faithful, John F. Wade)

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Start Working

This morning, like last evening, is dark and cold. If I were a caribou, polar bear or snow monkey I would be thrilled with the current weather conditions. But I am a human being, a very cold, wishing-for-summer human being.

As I snuggle more deeply under the covers of my warm bed I think that the bears have learned how best to cope with the cold. Sleep through it. But I can’t sleep through my days. There is work to do. I don’t mean my job or the laundry or the dishes. I mean the critical work of prayer must be done. People are suffering, and we need to bring them to God in prayer.

This world has some very cold, harsh moments, and those people hit by those moments need prayer warriors to rise each morning and pray. If God has graciously given you a vibrant prayer life, let nothing stop you from going before Him. We need to pray for our friends, family and strangers. We need God to show us for whom and what we are to pray. We must pray so that the suffering of others is lifted and they can find faith, hope and love in God.

It may be cold outside, but get up and get to your job of prayer. Someone’s day depends on it.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Remaining Silent

My gymnasts occasionally run into difficulties during training. Unfortunately, the girls rarely express the reasons for their troubles. They remain silent when asked about the problem; they do not want to admit weakness.

We are the same with God. We have a troublesome time confessing our sin. We hold on to it, because we don’t want to admit our weakness before God. So, instead of admitting our transgressions we vow to abstain from sin in the future.

This deal with God is really our attempt to satisfy the requirements of God’s law apart from Him, to show Him our strength. We quickly fail. We have no strength to combat sin. It is an enemy so potent and diabolical that even if all humanity linked arms against it, we would not prevail. Sin snaps human strength with the ease that one person can snap a toothpick. Only omnipotent, omniscient God can battle and defeat sin. And He did it through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Sin could not withstand Christ’s indomitable will: He battled on the cross. And, yet, as His human strength was draining, His divine strength was gaining.

At last the gates of hell collapsed and heaven’s gates stood secured. Christ battled in our place.

Christ is our strength to overcome sin. “It is finished.” (John 19: 30).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

A prayer for a good day tomorrow and prosperity

Father God, I am so in love with your love. Thank you for all the opportunities in this life that you have given me. God help me do well with everything that you have put in my life. God please be with me and protect me with all the days left that I have to perfect before entering into your kingdom. Yes, I pray for perfect health, but I need to trust in you for a longer time to perfect my life on earth. It seems so little time that we have, especially when it came to learning. I started late in life, so I wish you extend my life if you could because I rather spend the rest of my life pleasing you. God I love you and want very badly to show that special love to my devoted and beloved family. Please protect me job so that I could be stable enough to take care of myself and my family. Let me do all that I can to protect it. Amen!

Let There Be Quiet

And God said, “Let there be quiet.” He didn’t say that, but He would have if he had spent this weekend at the gymnastics meet I did.

We humans are loud. We think the louder we are the more energy we can create, the more convincing our argument and the more powerful our words. Loud is nothing more than exceptional volume, and it drowns out the gentle whisper of God’s calling.

God is in the quiet. He doesn’t have to shout or be loud or increase His volume. In fact, Scripture says that if God raises His voice the earth melts (Psalm 46:6). And the earth is not melting so that means God has kept the sound of His voice at a barely audible level. Scripture also reminds us that God “leads me beside quiet waters” (Psalm 23:2) and that “He will quiet you with his love” (Zephaniah 3:17).

Oh what peaceful, restful promises those are. Quiet is that wonderful moment when the noise of the world is silenced so the gentle voice of God is heard. Escape into the quiet; escape into God.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Inconsistent Choices

We were at a gymnastics meet today. Between sessions I ran for some provisions for my friend. She wanted a mineral water and a bag of potato chips. Anyone see the discrepancy here? She drinks healthy but eats unhealthy.

I laughed at the many ways we make inconsistent choices. In our relationships with each other we also make inconsistent choices. We decide whom to love, whom to be mad at, whom to befriend, and even whom to make an enemy. However, there appears to be no particular standard for our decisions other than what someone has done to us, or what we think they may have done or what we think they may do. Or it could be based on how we are presently feeling, how we have felt in the past or how we think we will feel in the future.

In addition to these inconsistencies with our fellow human beings we act on whims in our relationship with God as well. God has noticed, “These people honor me with their lips but their hearts are far from me” (Mark 7:6). God does not return our shabby treatment of Him, which is what makes Jesus such a remarkable man. His devotion to God and His devotion to man were consistent. Here is both the miracle and the mystery of Jesus the man: He loves God and man totally and unconditionally.

There are no inconsistencies in His actions or thoughts towards His Father or those His Father sent Him to save.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Travel Details

As I was packing for a trip recently, it occurred to me that I had very few details about where I was going, when I was going to arrive or even where I was going to stay. It didn’t particularly alarm me that I had limited information.

My good friend had the itinerary, and, eventually, I trusted that she would tell me it was time to go and then disclose the destination. As long as I knew that she was going, I knew that I was going to get to the intended location. I don’t get too worried about travel details.

I rather like the adventure and the surprise of the unknown, which is what I like about the Christian life. I am never absolutely certain where I will be going. I pray that I am traveling with the Lord, my good friend, and that He will guide me through the specifics of this journey.

There are a few times, however, when, like Peter, I have to ask, “Lord, where are you going?” (John 13:36) And He gives me the same answer He gave Peter, “Where I am going you cannot follow now, but you will follow later” (John 13:36).

You see, it doesn’t really matter where I am going. What matters is where Christ is going. Then when the time is right He will reveal the next phase of the journey. “Later” is in the details, and so long as I trust Jesus Christ, my itinerary is planned, and I will get to my intended destination.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Flying

I am flying tomorrow. I absolutely enjoy my time in a plane. No matter what the circumstances are on the ground, at 30,000 feet the world, the heavens, and life look gorgeous.

My favorite place on the plane is any window seat. I like peering out that portal and staring at the ground below. Everything is so tiny. It’s like viewing Matchbox City. The smallness of the world is apparent up in the clear blue, endless heavens. It offers a terrific perspective on how small we really are. God, however, is in those endless heavens.

I have no idea where God really is. I know He dwells in the hearts and minds of the believer. But, I like to think of His being in that cloudless expanse. The endless light of the skies makes me think of His holiness and purity. Yet, if God doesn’t live in the heavens, then the heavens certainly still reflect His essence.

Scripture says that one day, “You will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:62). Boy I hope I am flying that day.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Spiritual Instincts

Today I learned that slow feet plus concealed ice equals staples.

I had just finished my morning walk and was strolling leisurely down the sidewalk, when my feet left the ground. Fortunately my head stopped my fall. I went down so fast that I am certain that I could have achieved Guinness World Record status.

With the back of my head feeling as though it had been pushed through my forehead, I pulled myself off the ground and made it home. My husband saw the blood and off we went to the Quick Care. Before leaving the house I did two things: called a co-worker, which I don’t totally remember, and prayed.

I can’t tell you what I asked God at that point either. He may still be laughing. Anyway, at that moment I discovered that, after years of faith, God gives you spiritual instincts. I knew I had to pray. So whatever I said, the Spirit interpreted. And I am sitting comfortably at home writing this.

The other thing I learned is just how fast the “twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:52) really is. That is how long it will take for our Savior to make His second entrance and finish history. “In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:52), I hit the ground. That is the same amount of time it will take for Christ to bring me home.

On that day, like today, I will hope that my spiritual instincts will kick in, and I will be in prayer when He returns.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

“Morning Prayer Starting Your Day With God” by Daily Effective Prayer

Let us pray…

Watch the video for the rest of
“Morning Prayer Starting
Your day With God”

This prayer video from Daily Effective Prayer was
originally featured on their YouTube Channel.

Heavenly Father, we gather together here online and come into agreement in the wonderful and powerful name of Jesus. Where two or more are gathered there. You shall surely be and anything we agree upon as touching You will surely do.

The Bible says that if there is any unforgiveness that it should be dealt with before praying. Therefore we release any anger, bad feelings, resentment or any other wrong attitude before You now. We lay it at your feet and we release and forgive those who have wronged us.

I lift up those watching this video and we come into agreement and lift up the listener to You. Father, thank You for this new day for the listener. This is a day that You have made and we will rejoice and be glad in it.

Together we ask for wisdom, revelation, and understanding for the listener for the things they will face. We speak strength and peace over them in Jesus Name. We call them charged up to take on the tasks they will face. Help them to walk in love with those they come across. May they look at the world through eyes filled with the God-kind of love. Help them to be patient and kind. Help them to be gentle and humble – seeing others as You see them. Help them to watch their tongue in Jesus Name. May the words the listener speaks today be wrapped in love and lift up the person they are directed towards.

Right now we cast down every thought for fear and worry. We declare that thoughts that are pleasant in Your sight Lord fill the mind of the listener today in Jesus Name. When they submit to You and resist the devil, he will flee.

Help the listener be a light in this dark world. May others see Jesus in how they speak and the actions they make. All the praise and glory to You!

In Jesus Name.

Amen.

Scriptures:
John 3:16
3 John 2
Psalm 35:27
Deut 28:1-14
Heb 13:5

God’s Care

Escaping the crowds, Jesus and His disciples got in a boat and started for the other side of the lake. Jesus fell asleep in the stern of the boat. He was still sleeping when a “furious squall came up” (Mark 4:37).

As the waves were swamping the craft, the disciples woke Jesus, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” (Mark 4:38) Jesus responded with an unexpected action to show the disciples the depth of His care: He stopped the storm. Yet, the calming of the storm did not calm the disciples. They stared wide-eyed at Jesus and then at the calm waters. Maybe they had expected Him to start baling water out of the boat. But Jesus spoke, and the storm stopped. Now their fear of the storm was replaced by a fear of Jesus.

We are not so unlike the disciples; we too often wonder how deeply Christ cares for us. In this case, Jesus performed a miracle to make His concern for the disciples tangible. Other times, He uses the intangible avenue of faith to reveal His concern. Faith means letting Jesus be Jesus and God be God and accepting whatever the Triune God does to show us His deep concern for us. His ways may seem terrifying, but contained within our fear is the element of awe.

When God cares for us He reveals Himself in a new way, and we are allowed to glimpse more of His character. At first we are terrified of this unexpected discovery. Still, the more God reveals who He is, the more we grow in awe of Him and recognize His care for us.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Ask For The Obvious

Weather—have to live with it; can’t do anything about it. Or can we?

The disciples ran into a weather issue one night as they were crossing a lake. As they reached the middle of the lake a mighty squall hit and swamped the boat. Afraid of perishing in the storm, the disciples woke Jesus and begged him to do something.

Jesus, of course, did the logical thing. He simply insisted that the storm stop. He said, “Quiet! Be still” (Mark 4:39). It never occurred to the disciples to pray for the storm to stop. And Jesus observed and commented on their lack of faith. He was rather blunt when he asked, “Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40)

Ouch. Sometimes we fail to pray for the most obvious things. We are like the disciples and lack the faith it takes to pray for the rain to stop, the snow to quit or the wind to quiet. We lack the confidence in God that it takes to go out on a prayer limb and boldly ask for the simplest request. We don’t mean to lack faith. We just need to learn from the Holy Spirit how to have unwavering faith in God.

Then we can pray as Jesus taught us to pray: With absolute trust in the Father. And who knows? Maybe then we can tell this crazy weather to “Quiet! Be still!” Wouldn’t that be nice?

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

The Gift Of Weakness

I have hit my limit tonight. Fatigue, which is generally absent from my mind and body, has arrived. I am human, a tired, weak, ready-for-bed human.

That is a disappointing discovery, except that I could probably use my languor as an excuse to watch Castle and Big Bang Theory.

But I am reminded that being weak is a gift from God. It’s a strange gift. I doubt weakness is ever on the birthday or Christmas list. Yet, it is our human frailty that brings us to God’s strength and power.

As human beings all we know is weakness. Even on our strongest days we can’t make a storm stop, or raise the dead or save a sinner. Scripture says God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength.

Tonight I am feeling my weakness, but the truth is, compared to my Lord and Savior, I am always weak. That is not such a bad place to be. When I am weak I learn what really sustains me each day—grace. Jesus, who became human so He could experience my weakness, said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).

The more I recognize what little strength I have and how weak I truly am, the more I discover that God’s grace is all I need and through that God brings me His strength. “The Spirit helps us in our weakness” (Romans 8:26).

I would rather be weak and receive God’s grace and the Spirit’s help than to be strong in my own right.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Rejoice: The Forgotten Word

Philippians 4:4, “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

Rejoice is a word that rarely sees any action these days. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I used it in a sentence. My last recollection of the word in modern language was somewhere just after the leisure suit was banished from fashion runways.

Since it is no longer fashionable verbally, its meaning has also been stored in mothballs. It is time to unpack this word from our attics and crawl spaces and basements. This word expresses joy, delight and pleasure, and it needs to make a comeback.

Look at our verse, “Rejoice in the Lord always.”

Take delight, have joy and seek the pleasure of the Lord. When we go to God it is usually with an agenda. We should go to God just to be with Him, to enjoy His presence, to marvel at His beauty and experience His unspeakable joy. We should meet Him every day in the same way we would meet any friend. Whether we are home or working or worshipping, we should be rejoicing. Whether we are grieving, healing or celebrating, we should be rejoicing. According to Paul every circumstance is an opportunity to take delight in the Lord.

Rejoicing isn’t simply a word; it’s a life style.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Winter Scene, Holy Scene

Over the past couple of days my backyard, which usually is rich with birds, has been unusually quiet, as my feathered friends buried themselves deep in the trees out of the cold. Today, many of the birds—sparrows, starlings, and cardinals—returned to the feeders.

My favorite winter scene is the male cardinal sitting on a snow-covered pine tree branch. The vibrant red feathers pop against the snowy backdrop, and, for a moment, I am mesmerized by nature’s artistry. I had to ask myself why this winter picture is so captivating to me.

After pondering that thought for a few days, I arrived at a conclusion. This scene is rich with theological significance. The bright red color of the male cardinal reminds me of the precious blood that my Savior shed for me on the cross. The white snow is a reminder of the purity of Christ and the beauty of His resurrected body. And the green branches of the pine trees bring to mind the newness of life that I will one day experience in the presence of my glorious Lord.

God uses even the snow and cold and birds to bring His reality to light.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!

https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals

https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper

https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB

Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Prayer for son to pass drug test for job

Dear Father God
Please have mercy and allow the son to pass a urine test for a better job.
Please allow him to get the help he needs to cope with his anxiety.
Lord, show him you have not left him or forsake him.
Thank You, Lord.
In Jesus name Amen

For someone to reach out and speak to me again

Please heal my relationship with K – she hasn’t spoken to me for 18 months even though I’ve reached out. At times the situation seems hopeless but I refuse to give into negativity. I know she can reach out to and be friends again – hopefully, God (possibly through her friends) will give her a gentle push to do so.

The Growing Mustard Seed

Mark 4:31, “It grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants.”

It takes a faith only the size of a tiny mustard seed to believe in the atoning work of Christ to ensure salvation and secure entrance into God’s kingdom. God made His plan that simple. But salvation is only the start of our journey with God. It is the ground upon which our faith takes root. Yet, too often after realizing the assurance of eternity, people will put their faith on a shelf to collect dust until it is needed at the pearly gates.

Faith is not intended to stagnate, but to flourish and to grow. The Lord reminds us that the mustard seed begins as the smallest seed. “Yet, when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants” (Mark 4:32).

God desires to give us a dynamic life of faith, one that mirrors the life of our Savior. He expects us to drop our mustard seed of faith into the fertile soil of the cross so it can be nourished by the blood of the Lamb and sustained by the Light of the world.

Let God grow your faith into one of the “largest plants” in His Garden.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Follow Denise Larson Cooper on Social Media!
https://www.facebook.com/OrdinaryDaysDevotionals
https://www.instagram.com/deniselarsoncooper
https://twitter.com/ordinarydaysdev

Check Out Denise’s Books!
Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD
Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASB
Life Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Depend On The Spirit

Matthew 21:13—“My house will be called a house of prayer.”

Jesus is quoting the prophet Isaiah as a reminder to the chief priests and teachers of the law about their God-given responsibility to the spiritual life of the people. For generations the priests had become terribly sidetracked and negligent in their spiritual duties. (See Ezekiel 34:10; Hosea 4:6-7, 9; Mark 12:14, 38.).

The result of this diminishing attention to the people’s spiritual life was a lack of dependence on God’s Spirit. The people were spiritually stagnant, which was crippling the priests’ spiritual life as well.

How does that work? When the people receive poor instruction in Scripture from the leaders, their spiritual lives shrivel. They become weak and frail and ignore the prodding of God’s Spirit. Faith wavers and soon prayers cease. All prayers for the leaders stop because with a scarcity of faith, people turn their prayers on themselves to try and overcome the sense of hopelessness they feel. Without prayer support, leaders are ineffective.

Strong teachers produce strong students of faith with great knowledge of Scripture and dynamic prayer lives. Through them the church becomes revitalized and energized by the Holy Spirit.

If today your faith is strong and your prayer life flourishing in the Spirit, pray for strong teachers so the Church will become “a house of prayer.”

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

The Inward And Outward Life

John 4:23—“when true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth . . .”

When we live as a worshipper on earth our words and actions must be pleasing to God. We cannot act one way when we are alone with God and another way when we are out in public. Our outward and inward lives must match. Our behavior before God and man must be consistent and this is only possible if we rely solely on the power of the Holy Spirit to transform us.

The sinful nature rebels against an inward life and outward life that are consistent. The evil one increases temptations to try and make us look like hypocrites. The last thing the prince of this world needs is faithful men and women manifesting the truth and grace of God on earth.

When believers behave outwardly on earth as they behave spiritually in heaven, then Satan is thwarted. The Holy Spirit is so strong in a consistent life that the enemy has no foothold and is soon vanquished. Pray the Spirit will be the binding force that keeps your physical life and spiritual life one.

“What God has joined together, let man not separate” (Mark 10:9).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Love As Worshippers

Psalm 122:1 (KJV) rejoices, “I was glad when they said unto me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord.’”

God’s house is His “heavenly tabernacle,” His “holy temple.” It is always open and filled with celestial beings and the “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1) who have gathered to “sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in their hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16). Through prayer we join the heavenly throng worshipping God on high in “spirit and in truth” (John 4:24).

Every time we go to our room to pray we enter this eternal worship and participate in this service by offering a sacrifice of praise to our God. Our voice in prayer joins the heavenly hosts in declaring “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is and is to come” (Revelation 4:8).

Whenever we come to prayer we are to “give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne” (Revelation 4:9). And then we lay our “crowns before the throne” (Revelation 4:10). Our crowns are all those we labor over in prayer so that they will one day join us before God to sing, “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being” (Revelation 4:11).

Prayer transports us into the heavenly sanctuary and the presence of God for worship. It transforms us so our lives on earth will reflect our worship in heaven.

Live as worshippers in the world.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Our Prayer Room

John 14:2, “In my Father’s house are many rooms.”

Our prayer room is no ordinary room, it is a sacred place bought for us by Christ’s crucifixion and purified by His blood. From our room we witness Christ “offered himself unblemished to God” (Hebrews 9:14) and the tragedy of “the Lamb that was slain from the creation of the world” (Revelation 13:8).

When we go to our room to pray we are entering the room Christ has prepared for us through His sacrifice on the cross. It is an annex to God’s “heavenly tabernacle” (Hebrews 8:2 NLT) and holy eternal kingdom.

Our prayer rooms aren’t just spaces in our earthly homes. They are moments spent with Christ at the intersection of His heavenly and earthly ministry so He can teach us His will and equip us for His purpose in the world through the Holy Spirit.

Jesus told His disciples that He was returning to His Father’s house, “to prepare a place for you” (John 14:3). This was not an exclusive offer to the disciples, but an inclusive offer that is extended to all believers. In our room we are graciously permitted to watch the King of kings ascend to the throne and our Mediator kneel before God to intercede on our behalf.

Praise God, He has given you a room with a heavenly view.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Light In Your Eyes

John 3:19 declares, “Light has come into the world . . . ”

When Christ brought the light of the “dawn of redeeming grace” (Silent Night) into the world “the darkness hasn’t overcome it” (John 1:5 WEB) for this light is the “radiance of God’s glory” (Hebrews 1:3).

“God is light” (1 John 1:5). The entire being of God is illuminating, revealing light. At creation, when “the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface” (Genesis 1:2), God’s resplendence, His brightness, His effulgence shone forth. He flooded creation with light. On the sixth day, God formed man. And when Adam’s eyes were opened “the glory of the Lord shone around” him (Luke 2:9).

This light of creation shone in the eyes of the shepherds on the night of the Savior’s birth. This immutable light shines in our eyes when we glimpse the Son, lying as a baby in the manger, giving sight to the blind, healing the sick, and saving on the cross.

This light of creation is also the light of redemption, and it comes to us through the Light of the world. The continuous, steady stream of God’s glory shines in the world so we can see the Son and the Father. Jesus said, “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9).

Praise God for His marvelous Light.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Ask For What You Lack

1 Kings 3:5b reminds us, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”

Solomon was young when he became king over Israel. He called himself “a little child” and admitted to God that he did not know how to carry out his duties as king. His lack of experience as monarch drove him into the presence of the Lord. There he discovered the attributes of God that he lacked to be an effective instrument of God to the people.  He discovered his poverty in wisdom and discernment, so God obliged him, “I will give you a wise and discerning heart” (1Kings 3:12).

God equips His servants with a portion of His nature so they can carry out their ordained responsibilities: Moses received the words of God, David a contrite heart, and Solomon wisdom and discernment. Jesus was “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14). God knows human nature lacks the divine essentials necessary to carry out His purpose; He shows us our lack so we will seek Him. That search will bring us to Christ and Christ will share all that belongs to Him in God with us, so we can participate in the ministry of the Incarnation.

Like Solomon, ask for what you lack of God’s attributes and He will give them to you.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

That Holiday Lull

Psalm 27:14 directs us, “Wait for the Lord.” The holiday lull has hit. The anticipation of the coming Christ child is over. Christmas carols have ceased for another year. And the world, which was sparkling with expectation, now seems to be wearing its gray winter coat. So now what?

Because Christ has come among us, we are to share in the ministry of the Incarnation alongside Him. And the first thing we must learn to do is wait. The disciples waited “in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high” (Luke 24:49). Only after the Holy Spirit filled them were they fit for ministry.

We also have to be fit for the ministry God gives us. This is the purpose for waiting. It is a period of preparedness. We must be spiritually fit so the Lord can tap our lives at a moment’s notice for His purpose. We cannot anticipate when the Spirit will use our lives to influence another life for Christ Jesus.

But what is certain is that an unfit spiritual life will not bear fruit for God. We must let the Spirit of God prepare our lives for His cause of redemption.

We stand “prepared in season and out of season” (2 Timothy 4:2) to share the work of God in Christ.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

God With Us

Revelation 21:3: “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them.”

The world will crowd back into our lives in the morning. Things will return to normal. But what the world won’t tell you is that this world will never be the same again. “God is with us” (Matthew 1:23). Perfect, Holy God joined the human race in the person of Jesus Christ.

This is no grand illusion designed by dreamers. This is a fact. Invisible God interrupted human history to make Himself and His eternal plan of salvation visible to humanity. Only the divine mind of God could design a plan that included the cradle and the cross.

Sinless God placed His sinless Son in a cradle and on a cross to conquer sin and save sinners. This is the miraculous gift of Christmas.

Tomorrow when the world tries to tell you that today was just another day, remember this: God not only lived among us, He died among us and He still dwells among us.

Those facts have changed the world.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Thank God Life Isn’t Fair!

Matthew 22:13, “Tie him hand and foot, and throw him . . . into the darkness . . . ”

Life isn’t fair. We have our gracious God to thank for that. If life were fair, all mankind would be thrown into total darkness, “where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” (Matthew 22:13). This darkness would be fair compensation and equitable punishment for humanity’s despotic behavior against God.

Before mankind’s insurrection, God had decided to extend grace to the inhabitants of earth. God’s inclination, His divine tendency, His prevailing disposition was to move with prejudice toward man. When man rebelled, God’s disposition did not change. He showed sinners unfair partiality by sending His Son, “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14), into the world to save the world, instead of sending His vast army to put down its rebellion and destroy it.

The world is guilty and deserving of death but the perfect Son of God “was crushed for our iniquities” (Isaiah 53:5) and the punishment that “our deeds deserve” (Luke 23:41) have been placed on the shoulders of the Man who has “done nothing wrong” (Luke 23:41), showing God’s bias toward sinners. The cradle reminds us that life isn’t fair; “born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11 KJV).

Merry Christmas!

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

An Expensive Season

At the bank this morning the teller and I exchanged a few words about the Christmas season. We acknowledged that it is not only the “most wonderful time of the year” but the most expensive as well.

Thinking later about our conversation, it occurred to me that this was a very expensive season for God as well; He sent His Son into the world knowing the outcome of His arrival would ultimately end in death. That was God’s extravagant gift to us for our salvation. This is the lavish, reckless love of God. He willfully and with unconditional favor toward mankind placed His divine Son in a cradle, in enemy territory, fully aware that the cross would be the conclusion. Jesus’ glory and holiness in the cradle would, by His life’s end, be exchanged for our shame and guilt. As the old hymn says, “What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul, what wondrous love is this, O my soul.” (What Wondrous Love is This, William Walker).

This was the goodwill the angels proclaimed. They rejoiced at His birth, knowing that the curse of sin and death would be lifted from the world. God in Christ had made visible His everlasting love toward humanity and He bore the cost of that love.

As Charles Wesley wrote, “Hark the herald angels sing, ‘Glory to the new born king, peace on earth and mercy mild, God and sinner reconciled!’” As you tally your Christmas expenses, ponder also the expense this season was to God.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Radical Transformation

The transformative work of the Holy Spirit should be so radical in the lives of Christians that an interest in Christ is awakened in those seeking and questioning the reality of God.

To be attractive to others, Christians must live agreeably with God. Our lives are to be “sound in faith, in love and in endurance” (Titus 2:2). If we are to be strong and healthy in our faith we must trust the Father as the Son trusted the Father. Even in His darkest hour on the cross the Son could still exclaim, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him” (Job 13:15 KJV).

In love we are to submit to the divine will of God with the help of our Savior so we can say, “not my will, but thine be done” (Luke 22:42).

When with patience and through faith we surrender our lives to the transformative work and teaching of the Holy Spirit we become image bearers of Christ. Therefore, let your attitude be the same as that of Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5).

When Christians live transformed lives Christ’s nature abiding in us will attract men. “But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32).

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2

Beyond Anger Management

Titus 1:8, “Rather . . . be . . . self-controlled . . . ”

We often think of self-control as merely anger management but it is much further reaching than curbing our tempers. Self-control means preventing the flourishing of our corrupt human nature. We should aim to subdue our personal interests, our ego, desires and pride and to allow them to be dominated by the Holy Spirit of God. We spend countless hours discussing the merit of developing self-esteem in a person.

Self-esteem contradicts self-control because it pursues the honor and glory of human nature. Christians are to “put off our old self which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires” (Ephesians 4:22) and to live godly lives that bring glory and honor to God in Christ.

Self-control surrenders our old self to the Holy Spirit to be “crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20). Once crucified the old self no longer lives, but “Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).

Christians cannot both nurture the divine life of our Savior and appease the corrupt nature of man. “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other” (Matthew 6:24).

Only through the power of the Holy Spirit are we able to put our old self in its rightful place on the cross and give Christ our Lord His rightful place in our life.

Denise Larson Cooper has a passion for Christ and sharing His Word. A wife and mother of two daughters, Denise currently works as a gymnastic coach.

Subscribe to Ordinary Days on iTunes!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ordinary-days/id1339262108

Check Out Denise’s Books!

Godnesia: Keeping God in Mind Each Day http://amzn.to/2GSquOD

Ordinary Days With an Extraordinary Savior – http://amzn.to/2mFGASBLife Is a Metaphor: Recognizing God in the Everyday – http://amzn.to/2De1rU2