Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #25 (Grace). July 13, 2013

Hello my dear friends,

Today's Psalms of Discipleship gives comfort to the person who feels surrounded by his or her enemies. Some disciples of Jesus default to fear when the battle is near. Other disciples follow the example of the Psalmist and trust in the Lord.

Learning with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #25

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 16 Who will stand up for me against evildoers? Who will take his stand for me against those who do wickedness? 17 If the LORD had not been my help, My soul would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence. 18 If I should say, "My foot has slipped," Your lovingkindness, O LORD, will hold me up. 19 When my anxious thoughts multiply within me, Your consolations delight my soul. Psalm 94:16-19

Core Value: Grace

Have you ever felt you were surrounded by someone or something that was opposing you at every turn? Have you ever experienced the feeling of being outnumbered by your foes? Have you ever considered throwing up the white flag of surrender during the heat of battle and just giving up? One of the great struggles the disciple of Jesus faces is the struggle of confrontation. Sometimes it can be demonic. Sometimes, the battle lies within. And there are other times where the opposition comes in the form of other people, perhaps even from other Christians.

It is important to note the strategy the Psalmist took. First, he posed the logical question: “Who will stand up for me?” Second, he offers the best solution to his circumstances: He assigns the credit (the glory) to the One who has a history of delivering him and comforting him.

What lesson can we learn from his example? It is okay to raise the question of “who will stand up for me?” Perhaps the enemy is Satan, or the thoughts within, or even in the appearance of another person. It is also okay to confess that Jesus is our defense.

Principle #25 & Personal Application: Quality disciples look to the Lord for help when enemies seek to overwhelm and destroy.

• We can take comfort in the fact that the Lord will stand up for us against evildoers

• We can take comfort in the fact that the Lord is our help

• We can take comfort in the fact that the Lord’s lovingkindness (mercy) will hold us up

• We can take comfort in the fact that the Lord will console us and comfort our soul.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

How does the grace of God help me not be overcome by worry and anxiety?

Because the Lord has given me grace, what comfort does He offer me when my “foot has slipped?”

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I am grateful that You will stand up for me against evildoers who do evil things to me. I am thankful for Your presence in my life. Without Your presence I would be lost and forsaken forever. And when I do stumble and fall, You are there to pick me up and pour out Your mercy upon me. And just when I cling the edge of despair, You are there to comfort me and delight my soul.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #22 (Prayer). June 16, 2013

Hello my dear friends! Today's Psalms of Discipleship reveals the heart of our Great God. He does care, really care, for you and for me. It is a Psalm of deliverance, a Psalm of what it means to have an intimate relationship with Jesus, a Psalm of the power of prayer, and a Psalm of promise and hope.

A witness to His great promises,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #22

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 14 "Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. 15 "He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honor him. 16 "With a long life I will satisfy him And let him see My salvation." Psalm 91:14-16

Core Value: Prayer

This passage of Scripture is quite personal. In June of 1998, I had this Psalm written on an index card and kept it in my shirt pocket, often reflecting upon it throughout the day. On July 2, I had a massive heart attack. During the aftermath, it was touch and go: either it was going to be graduation day and I would finally meet Jesus face to face, or He would extend my life on this earth. After my heart attack my wife found the index card on my dresser and she began to claim the wonderful promises mentioned in these verses. By no means are these promises a “formula” for getting what we want. Instead, the promises of God are based upon the relationship we have with Him, trusting Him for the outcome that will bring Him the greatest glory.

In His mercy, He delivered me. In His mercy, He answered and rescued me. In His mercy, He has added almost 15 years to my life. In His mercy, He will be there for you too.

Principle #22 & Personal Application: Quality disciples love and know the Lord and communicate with Him too.

• We pray because we love the Lord. Because we love the Lord, He desires to deliver us.

• We pray because we know His name. Because we know His name, He desires to set us securely on high.

• We pray because when we are in trouble we know that we can call upon Him. Because we call upon Him, He will answer us and rescue us and honor us.

• Because the Lord is our Shepherd, our Refuge, Our Mighty God, He will satisfy us with a long life and allow us to see His salvation.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I pray (especially when I am in trouble or burdened) do I do so out of a heart of love and worship or is my motive to relieve my discomfort?

There are many promises in this passage of Scripture for the disciple of Jesus. Which one resonates with me?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, may I always have a heart that is full of love for You. May I become fully acquainted with knowing Your name. Thank You for delivering me from the things that are harmful to my walk with You. Thank You for the provision of prayer where I can cry out to You and receive Your protection. Thank You for showing me Your great Salvation.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #21 (Prayer). June 9, 2013

Hello my dear friends! Prayer is the lifeline God has given to us. In today's Psalms of Discipleship we see an example of how our confession is so important when we are surrounded by our enemies.

Learning to pray,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #21

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High Will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 I will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress, My God, in whom I trust!" 3 For it is He who delivers you from the snare of the trapper And from the deadly pestilence. 4 He will cover you with His pinions, And under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. Psalm 91:1-4

Core Value: Prayer

Prayer offered up in the name of Jesus is one of the believer’s most essential spiritual tools. When you are surrounded by a host of your enemies, its important to make sure you have a reliable connection to the Lord. Perhaps you may remember these lyrics popularized by The Manhattan Transfer:

Operator
Information
Give me Jesus on the line
Operator
Information
I'd like to speak to a friend of mine
Oh prayer is the number
Faith is the exchange
Heaven is the street
And Jesus is his name
Operator
Information
Please give me Jesus on the line
By Russell Jones, Chad Hugo, and Pharrell Williams

His help is only a call away.

I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, And I am saved from my enemies. Psalm 18:3

Principle #21 & Personal Application: Quality disciples experience the awesome wonder of praying to a powerful God.

• We experience His power as we dwell in the shelter of the Most High, abiding in the shadow of the Almighty (vs. 1)

• We experience His power as we confess to Him that He is our refuge and fortress (vs. 2)

• We experience His power as we trust in Him to deliver us and protect us (vs. 3-4)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

In a very practical way, what does it mean to dwell in the shelter of the Most High?

When trouble comes my way, how have I seen the Lord become my refuge and fortress?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, it is by Your grace that I can dwell in the shelter of the Most High. By grace, I can abide and live in the shadow of the Almighty. By faith I can declare that You are my Refuge and my Fortress, my God in whom I trust.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

Got your copy of A One Year Journey With The Shepherd yet? Only $19.99. Free shipping in the USA. Click on this link for more information.

Dr. Denny Bates | Leading with Quality in Mind | A One Year Journey With The Shepherd

www.dennybates.com

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #17 (Prayer) May 13, 2013

Hello dear friends! Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a fresh and timely reminder of how practical prayer really is for those of us who are tied up in knots.

Learning with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #17

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 O LORD, the God of my salvation, I have cried out by day and in the night before You. 2 Let my prayer come before You; Incline Your ear to my cry! Psalm 88:1-2

Core Value: Prayer

Knots. Everyone has had them, one time or another. Knots in a drop cord; knots in a shoestring, and sometimes, even knots in a stomach. It’s the knots in the stomach that really get our attention when life becomes much with us. Worry hovers over us. Anxiety seeks to plant its toxic tentacles into our mind. And the knots come, often in bunches. What is a believer to do? When the knots come, we can go to the One who loosens our knots. The procedure is called prayer. The recipient of our prayers is Jesus.

Principle #17 & Personal Application: Quality disciples make prayer the first resort when facing life’s challenges.

• When we pray, we pray to the Lord, the God of our salvation

• When we pray, we pray both day and night

• When we pray, we pray with the expectation that He will hear us and respond

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I pray, am I usually more concerned about what I need or am I more focused upon Who I need it from?

When is the last time I really connected with the Lord in prayer? What was the experience like?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You that You are the God of my salvation. By faith, I will cry out to You both day and night. May my prayer come before You. May You turn Your ear to me and hear my cry.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #15 (Grace) April 21, 2013

Hello my dear friends! Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a reminder of how powerful the grace of God is for the disciple of Jesus. It not only saves us but it also empowers us to experience the abundant life of Jesus.

Living in Amazing Grace,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #15

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 11 Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. 12 I will give thanks to You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And will glorify Your name forever. 13 For Your lovingkindness toward me is great, And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol. Psalm 86:11-13

Core Value: Grace

Every disciple needs a frequent reality check: without the grace of Jesus we have no destination other than hell, eternal separation from the love of God (John 14:6). This is true: when God takes the initiative, we are able to respond by taking positive steps. Because of His grace we are able to walk in His truth. When we are walking in truth there is an even deeper awareness of how great He is. A heart that has been infused with grace responds in thanksgiving and worship. Grace not only keeps us out of hell, it empowers us to experience an abundant life in Him.

Principle #15 & Personal Application: Quality disciples have both a teachable and thankful heart.

• By His grace we are able to learn His way and walk in His truth

• By His grace we are able to fear His name and give thanks to Him with an entire heart

• By His grace we are able to embrace His lovingkindness (mercy) and avoid having to spend eternity without Him

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

From my perspective, how is my life impacted when I walk in the Lord’s truth?

In what ways can I cultivate and enhance a thankful heart?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I am asking You to teach me Your way as I make a fresh commitment to walk in Your truth. May I always have a great respect for the greatness of Your name. By grace, help me to offer thanks to You with a humble and thankful heart. Thank You for pouring out Your love and mercy upon me and delivering my soul from a Christ-less eternity.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #13 (Prayer). Apirl 6, 2013

Hello my dear friends! On occasion, we can find ourselves facing impossible circumstances. These impossible events can either become stepping stones to an even greater faith or the stones that cause even deeper wounds. By God's grace I am learning to cast my cares upon Him, especially the ones that are impossible.

Growing with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #13

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 Incline Your ear, O LORD, and answer me; For I am afflicted and needy. 2 Preserve my soul, for I am a godly man; O You my God, save Your servant who trusts in You. 3 Be gracious to me, O Lord, For to You I cry all day long. 4 Make glad the soul of Your servant, For to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. 5 For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in lovingkindness to all who call upon You. 6 Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; And give heed to the voice of my supplications! 7 In the day of my trouble I shall call upon You, For You will answer me. Psalm 86:1-7

Core Value: Prayer

"This one is going to take a miracle!” Have you ever allowed these words to enter your heart and come out of your mouth? Perhaps you were facing a financial crisis or were emotionally reeling from a severely wounded relationship that had crashed and burned right in front of you. Maybe you had lost your way and had no clue on how to get to where you needed to go. All that you knew was your hope for a good outcome was running on fumes and at any time you were ready to give in and give up in your “day of trouble.” When we are in trouble, there is no better time to offer up our impossible circumstances with impossible prayers to the God who makes all things possible.

Principle #13 & Personal Application: Quality disciples present their impossible needs to the only One who can answer impossible prayers.

• We pray impossible prayers when we are afflicted and needy

• We pray impossible prayers to a God we cannot see but by faith we know He is listening

• We pray impossible prayers when our circumstances are far greater than our ability to fix them

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What impossible prayer am I asking from the Lord?

Has it been my habit to pray prayers that I can answer or have I been praying prayers that will take a miracle?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that when I pray, You hear my heart: the words that are spoken as well as the secret cries stored away in the depths of my soul. No matter my circumstance, You have promised to answer me.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #1 (Prayer). January 5, 2013

Hello my dear friends and a very happy new year to you! Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a good lesson to remind us once again that there is power in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It does what we cannot do. Save us and forgive us.

He is mighty to save.

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #1

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Your name; And deliver us and forgive our sins for Your name's sake. Psalm 79:9

Core Value: Prayer

There are some things we can fix, and there are some things that we cannot fix. The problem comes when we spend energy trying to fix the things we cannot fix and ignore the things we need to fix.

For example, we can fix our eyes on the unseen by having faith
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18 NIV)

We are to fix our eyes on His ways
I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Psalm 119:15 (ESV)

We are to stay focused upon the right things
25 Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. 26 Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. 27 Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:25-27 (NLT)

What we cannot fix is our own sin problem through works or trying to be better or to work harder. This is the message of the Gospel, the Good News: Only Jesus can deliver us and forgive us of our sins.

Principle #1 & Personal Application: Quality disciples look to Immanuel, God with us, for the cleansing power of His blood that not only delivers the sinner from the penalty of sin, but also forgives them of their sin.

• It is because of Jesus and His love for us that He is the God of our salvation

• It is because of Jesus and His great name that He is our deliverer

• It is because of Jesus and His shed blood that He is the forgiver and cleanser of our sins

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

--> In what ways does the fact that Jesus is the God of my salvation cause me to live in obedience to Him?
 
Are there any sins that have entangled me where I need His deliverance and forgiveness?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me, I pray; O God of my salvation. For the glory of Your name, deliver me from destructive habits and forgive me of my sins, for Your name’s sake.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Are you looking for a helpful resource that will guide your spiritual growth in 2013? I'd like to recommend this book, "A One Year Journey With The Shepherd." Now in e-book and printed versions.

http://www.dennybates.com/#!a-one-year-journey-with-the-shepherd/c6pu

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #39 (Grace). October 20, 2012

Hello my dear friends! One of the greatest challenges for the disciple of Jesus is to admit need . . . to oneself, to others, and sometimes even to God. Contrary to popular belief, being in need is not a sign of weakness but a fact of life. Jesus not only meets our every need, He is our greatest need.

I need Him every hour. You do too.

Denny



Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #39

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 12 For he will deliver the needy when he cries for help, The afflicted also, and him who has no helper. 13 He will have compassion on the poor and needy, And the lives of the needy he will save. 14 He will rescue their life from oppression and violence, And their blood will be precious in his sight; Psalm 72:12-14

Core Value: Grace

How needy are you today? We live in a culture where being in need is seen as a weakness. It takes courage to admit need. It takes a measure of humility to come to the place where it feels safe to be real enough to accept help. Spiritual pride says, “no thanks. I’ve got it.” Spiritual humility says, “thanks for offering. I’ll take it.”

What do you need to do with your needs? Give them, all of them, to Jesus.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33 (NLT)

And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 (NLT)

Principle #39 & Personal Application: Quality disciples need rescuing by the only One who can save.

Note: This is a Messianic prophecy that points to Jesus Christ, the Righteous King.

Application:

The quality disciple needs rescuing by the only One who can save.

• There is no one like Jesus: Only Jesus can rescue the needy and afflicted when they cry for help (vs. 12).

• There is no one like Jesus: Only Jesus can offer the kind of compassion for the poor and needy that will transform their lives (vs. 13).

• There is no one like Jesus: Only Jesus can grant His peace to those who are in places of oppression and violent conflict (vs. 14).

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I am going through a difficult circumstance, how does the grace of God help me cope?

What can I learn from Jesus’ example on how He relates to the needy, afflicted, and the poor?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, May I have Your heart, Your passion, for those who are in desperate need of rescue by You. May I have Your ears so I can be in tune with the cries of those who are hurting. May I have Your hands so I can touch the needy with Your love. And may I have Your feet that will lead me down the path of service done in Your name.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Looking for an easy way to boost your devotional life? Add Psalms of Discipleship: A One Year Journey With the Shepherd to your library. Now in ebook format.

http://www.dennybates.com/#!A%20One%20Year%20Journey%20With%20The%20Shepherd/c6pu

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #36 (Prayer). September 29, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Have you ever run out of your own hope? You have hoped, and hoped, and hoped for it seems a long, long time and remain unsatisfied. What is the key? The psalmist shows us the power of hope is not in hope itself, but in Whom we place our hope.

Resting in the One who gives us hope,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #36

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge; Let me never be ashamed. 2 In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; Incline Your ear to me and save me. 3 Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come; You have given commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress. 4 Rescue me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, Out of the grasp of the wrongdoer and ruthless man, Psalm 71:1-4

Core Value: Prayer

It is has been said that hope is not a strategy, but it is a great thing to have in hand. Sometimes we can hope for better circumstances, we can hope for “enough” faith to gain the victory, we can have hope in hope and never have enough equity built up in our hope account. So what is the answer for the disciple of Jesus? The answer is we need to have our hope fixed upon the character of the Lord. Here are a few examples of hope that is well placed:

Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD. Psalm 31:24 (HCSB)

I put my hope in You, LORD; You will answer, Lord my God. Psalm 38:15 (HCSB)

5 Why am I so depressed? Why this turmoil within me? Put your hope in God, for I will still praise Him, my Savior and my God. Psalm 42:5 (HCSB)

Sustain me according to Thy word, that I may live; And do not let me be ashamed of my hope. Psalm 119:116 (NASB77)

I wait for the LORD, my soul does wait, And in His word do I hope. Psalm 130:5 (NASB77)

Principle #36 & Personal Application: Quality disciples, with great confidence in the Lord, cry out to their Deliverer for help.

• The prayer of faith is founded upon safe refuge in the Lord: “In You, O LORD, I have taken refuge; Let me never be ashamed.”

• The prayer of faith is founded upon the Lord’s righteousness and great salvation: “In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; Incline Your ear to me and save me.”

• The prayer of faith is founded upon the Lord’s faithfulness and trustworthiness: “Be to me a rock of habitation to which I may continually come; You have given commandment to save me, For You are my rock and my fortress.”

• The prayer of faith is founded upon the Lord’s ability to rescue and deliver completely: “Rescue me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, Out of the grasp of the wrongdoer and ruthless man”

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I am feeling overwhelmed by discouragement, fear, or doubt, how may this passage of Scripture bring comfort to me?

What steps do I need to take in order to pray more and worry less?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, may I always live like I am completely dependent upon You. In You I can find refuge and be safe. In You I focus my prayers upon the One who is righteous and true. In You I can rest upon Your faithfulness and trustworthiness. In You I trust to rescue and deliver me completely.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

What does a Disciple-Making Ministry look like? It looks like . . .

SOMETHING NEW

"Do not call to mind the former things, or ponder things of the past;
Behold, I will do something new . . .” Isaiah 43:18, 19a

MISSION STATEMENT

Something New exists to challenge believers in Jesus to experience a lifetime commitment to spiritual growth, and to empower disciples of Jesus Christ to multiply His life in all of the world. This remarkable journey of faith begins in our Jerusalem: in our home and in the marketplace where we work and play.

CORE VALUES

We value the Grace of God. It is free, undeserved, and deeply appreciated. Being recipients of the gift of grace, we desire to give it away to others who do not deserve it.

We value the worship of God. Worship is not only singing songs. Biblical worship includes a sacrifice, a submission of our will to His (Genesis 22).

We value the Word of God. We believe the Bible, revealed in 66 books, is God's truth. It is perfect and is meant to be read by believers on a regular basis. The goal of Bible reading, and even Bible study, is not the collection of more theological trivia. The goal is to experience the truth and then make the personal application that leads to personal transformation.

We value connecting with God through prayer. We believe that prayer is not a monologue, but a dialogue with God. We believe God has provided the way for us to make known to Him, not only our needs, but also our love and adoration of Him through prayer.

We value community with other believers through authentic relationships. We believe that no one can effectively live the victorious Christian life alone. We believe the "one anothers" of the Bible can only be practiced and lived with power and credibility in the presence of other believers. We value creating a safe place where we can be honest with ourselves, with each other and with God.

We value using our spiritual gifts by serving others. We believe that the spiritual and natural gifts we each have, are given by God and to be freely shared with those who are in need of our gifts.

We value living out our faith by sharing with others the love of Jesus. We believe that the Gospel Of Jesus Christ is not only Good News but is the greatest story ever told. We desire to share this love by whatever means we have.

We value growing disciples who are making other disciples for Jesus!

Wish to learn more about Something New? In box me on Facebook.

 

Psalms of Discipleship (Prayer) Principle #35. September 22, 2012

Hello my dear friends,

One of the great blessings of the Psalms is the transparency we observe from the psalmists who are in trouble. They are in trouble. They are real. And they pray. Good reminders for every disciple who follows Jesus.

In His grip,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #35

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 O God, hasten to deliver me; O LORD, hasten to my help! 2 Let those be ashamed and humiliated Who seek my life; Let those be turned back and dishonored Who delight in my hurt. 3 Let those be turned back because of their shame Who say, "Aha, aha!" 4 Let all who seek You rejoice and be glad in You; And let those who love Your salvation say continually, "Let God be magnified." 5 But I am afflicted and needy; Hasten to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O LORD, do not delay. Psalm 70:1-5

Core Value: Prayer

Prayer offered during times of great duress is our connection between hopeless and hopeful. One of the wonderful aspects of the Bible is we are shown, time and time again, the inner thoughts of those who are facing impossible, gut-wrenching circumstances. And time and time again, the Saints of God are helped by the Hand of God in order to live out the Purpose of God.

Principle #35 & Personal Application: Quality disciples, because of grace, can turn to the Lord in times of great trials and experience His help.

• When we pray, we pray with a sense of urgency and expectation (vs. 1)

• When we pray, we pray for protection from those who wish to attack us (vs. 2-3)

• When we pray, we pray with a heart of worship and thankfulness (vs. 4)

• When we pray, we pray honestly and to the point: Lord, help me (vs. 5)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I feel I am under attack, how do I usually respond: with prayer or with panic?

How can a heart of worship help me to trust in Christ more?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when I need help, help me to keep my eyes upon You. May I always look to You as my Helper and Deliverer.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #32 (Prayer). September 1, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Have you ever been in a situation where the only thing you can do is . . . PRAY? Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a wonderful illustration of what desperate believers in Jesus can do: We can pray to the One who makes all of the difference in the world.

Desperate for Jesus,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #32

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 Save me, O God, For the waters have threatened my life. 2 I have sunk in deep mire, and there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and a flood overflows me. 3 I am weary with my crying; my throat is parched; My eyes fail while I wait for my God. 4 Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head; Those who would destroy me are powerful, being wrongfully my enemies; What I did not steal, I then have to restore. Psalm 69:1-4

Core Value: Prayer

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt so overwhelmed with stress that you had a hard time breathing normally? Have you ever faced a circumstance where you felt alone and very vulnerable? Have you ever been on the verge of losing all hope? If you have answered anyone of these questions with a YES, then it confirms that you are a normal disciple of Jesus. Some would refuse to admit any inkling of fear and being out of control. Those folks live in an unreal world.

Fortunately, for us, the Psalmist was real with his feelings. Writing from his own struggles, he offers us a glimmer into his life by committing his great challenges with great prayer to a great God. Are you going through great problems? Take them to a great God. When will you begin?

Principle #32 & Personal Application: Quality disciples realize when persecution comes their way, prayer is the tool that draws them closer to the Lord.

This is the testimony of the psalmist whose enemies had no mercy upon him. When our enemies attack us, we can relate to his experience.

• We can pray while the waters or persecution flood us: Save me, O God, For the waters have threatened my life.

• We can pray when it feels like we are sinking: I have sunk in deep mire, and there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and a flood overflows me.

• We can pray when we are weary and parched: I am weary with my crying; my throat is parched; My eyes fail while I wait for my God.

• We can pray when others hate us and wish for our ruin: Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head; Those who would destroy me are powerful, being wrongfully my enemies; What I did not steal, I then have to restore.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

How does Jesus, in me, allow me to face personal attacks?

What steps can I begin to take that will sharpen my ability to pray when I feel threatened by my enemies?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for drawing me close to You when it seems I am about to drown in the deep waters of persecution. May I always turn to You when trouble comes my way.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

http://www.johncmaxwellgroup.com/dennybates
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

 

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #14 (Worship). April 14, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Worship of Jesus is to be a very intimate experience. Some of our best worship experiences are not always in a church service with hundreds (or even thousands) of other believers. Instead, we may often experience a deeper worship while taking that walk in the park, when driving alone in our car during a long trip, or even when we are alone with our thoughts in our favorite chair. Today's Psalms of Discipleship reminds us that our worship must become deeply personal before we attend the next corporate worship service.

Does any of this resonate with you? I'd love to hear your feedback.

Learning to worship the Lord as an audience of One,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #14

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: But as for me, I shall sing of Your strength; Yes, I shall joyfully sing of Your lovingkindness in the morning, For You have been my stronghold And a refuge in the day of my distress. Psalm 59:16

Core Value: Worship

Worship is a very personal experience. Yes, there are times when it is appropriate to worship with other believers. When corporate worship is focused upon Jesus and His glory and is not distracted by those who those who either intentionally or unintentionally draw attention to them, corporate worship can be a good thing, a very good thing to do. However, unless we are able to worship our God in a personal way and learn how to be alone with Him, our corporate offerings of worship can be shallow, lacking any depth of an authentic worship experience.

The Psalmist gives a very practical testimony: “But as for me.” May that be our response also. “But as for me, may I sing of Your strength, of Your lovingkindness, and of Your protection.”

Principle #14 & Personal Application: Quality disciples have a heart that sings of the Lord’s strength, His lovingkindness, and His protection.

In this Psalm, David’s enemies have surrounded him on every side. His foes desired to crush and humiliate him. What can we learn from his experience? Even though our enemies may surround us, like David, we can offer to the Lord a heart of worship:

• We can sing and worship Him for His strength

• We can joyfully sing of His lovingkindness (mercy) in the morning

• We can worship Him for His protection: “For You have been my stronghold And a refuge in the day of my distress”

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I feel overwhelmed by the enemies of my soul, what do I need to do?

Is there a heart of worship inside of me? What do I need to do in order to cultivate the kind of trust that will help me get through the difficult challenges of life?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You so much for being with me during my times of troubles. My enemies are great, but You are greater! Remind me to offer my worship to You. Help me to sing of Your strength. Help me to sing of Your lovingkindness (Your mercy) in the morning, and help me worship You for Your great protection to me.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Are you interested in going deeper in your walk with Jesus? Check out my website for a list of resources that will help you become "A Quality Disciple."

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #13 (Prayer). April 7, 2012

Hello my dear friends! As we celebrate Resurrection weekend, its a good time to remind ourselves that Jesus defeated our greatest enemy, death, when He went to the cross, died, and rose again on the third day. Today's Psalms of Discipleship gives a unique perspective on how to handle the other enemies that harass us.

He is Risen. He is Risen, Indeed!

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #13

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; Set me securely on high away from those who rise up against me. Psalm 59:1

Core Value: Prayer

One of the great challenges that disciples of Jesus face is how deal with an enemy, in the right way. No matter how spiritual a person might be, there will always be enemies who will harass and oppose us. Now, here is the hard thing to swallow: sometimes it appears that even another member of the Body of Christ acts like an enemy to us. Instead of calling down fire from heaven upon them, what are we supposed to do?

Here is what Jesus suggests is the proper response (Luke 6:27-28): We are to . . .

• Love our enemies

• Do good to those who hate us

• Bless those who curse us

• Pray for those who mistreat us

Impossible? Yes. But with God’s help, it’s entirely possible. Resting in grace and being fueled by prayer is the only way to overcome the power of our enemies.

Principle #13 & Personal Application: Quality disciples look to the Lord during times of spiritual danger.

During times of spiritual danger, the believer . . .

• Can pray and ask God for deliverance: Deliver me from my enemies, O my God

• Can pray for a place of protection: Set me securely on high away from those who rise up against me

• Can pray and look to the Lord with faith knowing that the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep.

9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. John 10:9-11 (NLT)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

The disciple of Jesus has many enemies. What kinds of enemies are stalking me that require the Lord’s deliverance?

When do I feel the safest, the most secure from my enemies? What kind of actions can I take that will remind me of God’s protection over my life?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for Your promise to protect me from my enemies. All praise to You for setting me securely on high away from those who rise up against me. My heart can rest in knowing that You are the Good Shepherd who cares for His sheep.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Are you interested in going deeper in your walk with Jesus? Check out my website for a list of resources that will help you become "A Quality Disciple."

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship (Grace) Principle #8, March 4, 2012

Hello my dear friends! I'm one day late this week with Psalms of Discipleship due to my son's wedding this past weekend. It has been rather surreal: the entire experience went by so fast and so slow at the same time, if you know what I mean. Time and time again, I was reminded of how blessed I am, a man who has been forever changed by the abundant provision of God's grace. Remember, grace is getting something we don't deserve. For me, grace is expressed in a wife who loves me just as I am, adult children who respect me as a dad and consider me to be their friend, and now, a new daughter in law who loves me too.

Today's Psalms of Discipleship will be an encouragement to you as a wonderful reminder of what grace can do for the person who needs to saved.

Saved, and I love to proclaim it!

Denny

PS. I've just received a new shipment of my latest devotional book: A One Year Journey With The Shepherd. See the information below on how you can purchase your copy today!



Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #8

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: For You have delivered my soul from death, Indeed my feet from stumbling, So that I may walk before God In the light of the living. Psalm 56:13

Core Value: Grace

It’s good to be saved. Saved from a life of no direction or purpose, saved from a life marked with no hope, saved from a life of darkness and spiritual death.

It's good to be saved.

It’s good to be saved for a life where Jesus is our Good Shepherd and He will lead us wherever we need to go. It’s good to be saved for a life where hope and joy spring forth no matter how challenging our circumstances might become. It’s good to be saved for a life where God’s light focuses like a beam and wherever we walk, the testimony of God’s saving grace is seen in us and through us loud and clear.

It’s good to be saved. It’s good to be saved, saved by grace.

Principle #8 & Personal Application: Quality disciples rejoice in all that Jesus has done on the Cross, empowering them to walk before God’s life-giving light. God’s grace allows the believer . . .

• To have one’s soul delivered from death

• To keep one’s feet from stumbling

• To walk (or live) with assurance and safety before God’s life-giving light

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

How has the grace of the Gospel impacted the way I live before the Lord?

I need to think back over the events of my life and ponder these words: “I may walk before God In the light of the living.” Can I think of an example where I sensed God’s life-giving light (in facing temptation, etc.)

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, how I thank and praise You for delivering my soul from death. Without Your intervention on the Cross, my feet would always stumble and I would never be able to live or walk before You in Your life-giving light.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.


What others are saying about A One Year Journey With The Shepherd:

“Denny hit a home run in Psalms of Discipleship, his sincerity in writing brings you into an atmosphere of worship and learning.” Jeff Hoffart. Upper Level Manager, Business Consultant

“I am consumed with excitement and a fresh love for the Lord after reading A One Year Journey With The Shepherd!!! . . . The personal application sections are thought provoking, and attainable. I believe they are challenging in a way that creates a desire, instead of being out of reach for the growing believer.” Ericka Miller, MA Clinical Counseling

Now available in print and eBook formats. See http://www.dennybates.com/Home/OneYearJourney.html for how you can purchase your copy today!

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship (Prayer) Principle #6. February 18, 2012

Now available in Ebook format!

Hello my dear friends! Multiplied grace and peace to you this day. Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a prayer of desperation offered up by the psalmist. He was in trouble. He was under attack from his enemies. They wanted to devour him and he was becoming weary of the fight. Instead of surrendering to them, he surrendered to the Lord. Its a great example of how we are to respond when we are facing our enemies: we need to pray.

Praying for you. Thanks for praying for me.

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #6

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 Give ear to my prayer, O God; And do not hide Yourself from my supplication. 2 Give heed to me and answer me; I am restless in my complaint and am surely distracted, 3 Because of the voice of the enemy, Because of the pressure of the wicked; For they bring down trouble upon me And in anger they bear a grudge against me. 4 My heart is in anguish within me, And the terrors of death have fallen upon me. 5 Fear and trembling come upon me, And horror has overwhelmed me. Psalm 55:1-5

Core Value: Prayer

What are we to do when we are being attacked by our enemies? In a perfect world, everyone would get along with each other, be kind to each other, and would love each other too. It is easy to assume that those who have yet to become disciples of Jesus would be the greatest source of our troubles. After all, they don’t “know” the Lord like we do. However, far more often than not, our greatest challenges can come from within the body of Christ, from those who claim to “know” the Lord. Instead of edifying us, encouraging us, loving and accepting us, they hurt us instead. We begin to experience what I call “Cannibal Christianity” where believers are devoured just as Paul reminded the Galatian churches when he wrote, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself. But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another (Gal. 5:14b-15).

Here is the biggest challenge disciples of Jesus face when they are attacked by other believers: to retaliate and bite back or to pray and yield to the power of the Spirit which allows us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh” (Gal. 5:16). When we walk by the Spirit, we will do spiritual things . . . like pray.

Principle #6 & Personal Application: Quality disciples, when faced with circumstances that cause overwhelming fear, turn to the Lord in prayer.

The Psalmist David was in serious trouble. His enemies sought to harm him and were sparing no energy in attempting to do so. Like us, he was human. Like us, he was in desperate need of His Lord. A disciple of Jesus who faces the terror of life. . .

• Seeks out God in prayer (vs. 1-2)

• Shares the reality of the obstacles with the Lord (vs. 3)

• Speaks honestly with God in describing one’s feelings (vs. 4-5)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

In what ways does the Lord comfort me when I feel overwhelmed by fear?

Do I feel I can be honest with God with my inner feelings? In what ways can I be more honest with God?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when I am in trouble and feel threatened by my enemies, help me to remember to seek You out in prayer; to share with You the obstacles I am facing; and to speak honestly about what I am feeling.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

What others are saying about A One Year Journey With The Shepherd:

“Denny hit a home run in Psalms of Discipleship, his sincerity in writing brings you into an atmosphere of worship and learning.” Jeff Hoffart. Upper Level Manager, Business Consultant

“I am consumed with excitement and a fresh love for the Lord after reading A One Year Journey With The Shepherd!!! . . . The personal application sections are thought provoking, and attainable. I believe they are challenging in a way that creates a desire, instead of being out of reach for the growing believer.” Ericka Miller, MA Clinical Counseling

Now available in print and eBook formats. See http://www.dennybates.com/Home/OneYearJourney.html for how you can purchase your copy today!

Why A One Year Journey With The Shepherd May Be A Great Resource For You!

You are invited to spend some time reading and reflecting upon “Psalms of Discipleship: A One Year Journey With The Shepherd,” a simple, easy to use, devotional experience. By spending five minutes or fifty-five minutes on the weekly devotion and Bible study, you will be afforded the opportunity to enhance your spiritual growth. This unique devotional consists of fifty-two practical lessons designed for small group or individual study.

What Is Psalms of Discipleship?

Psalms of Discipleship is:

•Word-Centered
•Explained Simply
•Practical for Life Situations
•Reflective and Thought-Provoking
•Devotional in Format

This unique devotional consists of not only fifty two lessons designed for small group or individual study, but also includes a topical index for a deeper study as well as a topical bibliography for the quality disciple’s reading list.

It is our hope that Psalms of Discipleship will become a useful tool for you, the reader, to learn how to better live as a disciple of Jesus Christ. The format is simple, by design. The commitment to apply the Psalms to your life is up to you. May we all begin to experience a fresh approach to spiritual growth by living the discipled life with the help of grace, worship, Bible study, prayer, community, service, and evangelism.

http://www.dennybates.com/

www.dennybates.com

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #3--Prayer--January 28, 2012

Hello my dear friends! In a world where it seems the white noise of a busy life can drown out the concerns of our heart, there is One who can hear us. And because of grace, we can hear Him too.

Learning to pray,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #3

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 Save me, O God, by Your name, And vindicate me by Your power. 2 Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth. Psalm 54:1-2

Core Value: Prayer

Is anyone listening to me? Jesus is. Prayer is an intimate exchange between the needy and the One who meets our every need. Prayer is the process of making petition to the One who invites us to share the deep concerns of our heart. Prayer is the way, the only way, to have direct access to a loving and holy God who joys in hearing our heart.

Principle #3 & Personal Application: Quality disciples have full confidence to pray in God’s Name, knowing that He will save, vindicate, and hear the cry of the disciple’s heart.

• The prayer of faith cries out to God for His great salvation.

• The prayer of faith cries out to God for the power of His great vindication.

• The prayer of faith cries out to God knowing that He listens to the disciple.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I make my prayers to the Lord are they filled with faith in my ability (faith in my faith) or faith in His powerful name?

How can I know for sure that God is listening to me?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You have saved me by Your name. You have vindicated me by Your power. I am so grateful that You hear my prayer and give ear to the words of my mouth. May my prayers always be grounded in the faith that rests upon Your great name and timeless character.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Have you got your copy of A One Year Journey With The Shepherd?

What others are saying about A One Year Journey With The Shepherd:

“Denny hit a home run in Psalms of Discipleship, his sincerity in writing brings you into an atmosphere of worship and learning.” Jeff Hoffart. Upper Level Manager, Business Consultant

“I am consumed with excitement and a fresh love for the Lord after reading A One Year Journey With The Shepherd!!! . . . The personal application sections are thought provoking, and attainable. I believe they are challenging in a way that creates a desire, instead of being out of reach for the growing believer.” Ericka Miller, MA Clinical Counseling

Now available in print and eBook formats. See http://www.dennybates.com/Home/OneYearJourney.html for how you can purchase your copy today!

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #48--Prayer--December 10, 2011

Hello my dear friends! When you get in a jam and find yourself in trouble what can you do? For those who are disciples of Jesus, He provides to us a "life line" that always connects and always helps those who call upon Him. As we continue to experience Advent this season, its a great time to remember that we have access to the One who is called Immanuel, God with us. He is our lifeline. These clever pop lyrics remind us of this great truth:

Operator
Information
Give me Jesus on the line
Operator
Information
I'd like to speak to a friend of mine
Oh prayer is the number
Faith is the exchange
Heaven is the street
And Jesus is his name
Operator
Information
Please give me Jesus on the line

In His grip,

Denny


Need some encouragement on how to set in place a heart of worship and thanksgiving this holiday season? At the end of today's devotion is a link to a resource called "Christmas Meditations of Worship: Four Weeks of Advent. A Season of Worship and Celebration."

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #48

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me." Psalm 50:15

Core Value: Prayer

Anyone remember the television game show, “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?” As the questions to the contestant became more challenging and the risk to reward increased with each cash prize, a “life line” was offered. This last resort was used when the contestant was stumped and needed the help of a friend who would answer the phone (hopefully) and would have the correct answer (maybe). I never kept score on how many times the person on the phone was able to help, but I do know that not every call proved helpful. This is not the case for the believer who uses his or her lifeline to Jesus. He not only answers on time, but also is always helpful to anyone who calls upon His name.

Principle #48 & Personal Application: The quality disciple practices the kind of prayer that not only brings personal deliverance but honors God too.

• We are to pray when we are in trouble.

• We are to pray with expectancy that God will answer us and rescue us.

• We are to pray and give honor to the One who not only hears our prayers, but answers them too.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When you are experiencing a “day of trouble” how certain are you that the Lord will listen to you?

In what ways can you honor the Lord after He has answered your prayer?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, may I always call upon You in the day of trouble. Forgive me when the tough times come my way and I look to myself or others for deliverance. I take comfort in Your promise that You will rescue me in my day of trouble. May I always give You honor and praise.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.

"Christmas Meditations of Worship: Four Weeks of Advent. A Season of Worship and Celebration."

Sights. Smells. Sounds. Sales.

For many people, Christmas is nothing more than a materialistic exercise in futility. The hectic pace of the holiday season often depletes more than it fills, and the craziness of the season is normalized, causing many believers to settle for a “Christ-less” Christmas.

Reflection upon the first Advent is the first step towards regaining the reason believers celebrate Christmas: worship of Jesus Christ. You are invited to back away from the edge of Christmas season sanity and begin a four-week journey of reading, reflection, prayer, journaling, singing and serving that will give you the merriest Christmas of all.

Available in print ($10.00 includes shipping) and e-book ($5.00 pdf download) formats. Click this link to begin placing your order:

http://www.dennybates.com/Home/Advent.html

Also available at these fine retailers. Please give them your business!

Aroma Underground (Best coffee and ambiance in town)
Locals, in the Piggly Wiggly Shopping Center on 2nd Loop Road (Great burgers and bbq)

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #46--Grace--November 26, 2011

Hello my dear friends! The weekend of Thanksgiving is a convenient time to reflect upon the Lord and thank Him for the blessings He has poured out upon us. One of those blessings is His grace. It is because of grace that we do not have to live PERFECT lives in order to please Him and be accepted and loved by Him. One of the great truths of the Christian life is that all of us are living lives of process. In other words, we all have our stuff. And most likely, we always will have to deal with our stuff until we arrive in Heaven. Until then, what are we to do? We are to look to God's promises. In today's Psalms of Discipleship we are going to be reminded of our powerlessness to get better and His power to transform us.

Thankful for each one of you,

Denny

Need some encouragement on how to set in place a heart of worship and thanksgiving this holiday season? At the end of today's devotion is a link to a resource called "Christmas Meditations of Worship: Four Weeks of Advent. A Season of Worship and Celebration."


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #46

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of the grave. Psalm 49:15 (NLT)

Core Value: Grace

Quicksand. Once you fall into it, the more you struggle, the deeper you sink. No matter how much energy you expend, no matter how ingenious your plan, quicksand always wins when it is just you and it. Every one of us has our quicksand, our “stuff.” We have those besetting sins that so easily entangle us, the ones that cling to us no matter how hard we work to eradicate them (Hebrews 12:1). Some of those sins are the familiar addictions: to drugs, to alcohol, and even an addiction to pride.

There are also those sins that cling to us, having impacted our psyche over many years. For instance, of having the need to be perfect (all the time) as well as the need to hide behind the mask of acceptance, failing to feel safe enough for others to know the real me (the me who is still in process). All of these issues are quicksand. If we fall into these deadly traps and seek to deliver ourselves, we are in grave danger (pun intended). The way of works is the way of hopelessness and certain spiritual defeat.

However, there is another way that delivers us from the clutches of sin. It is called the way of grace. It is grace that throws us the lifeline that rescues us. It is grace that gives us the ability to float in our challenging circumstances. It is grace that allows us to breathe. It is grace that allows us to embrace the promise of a life that is redeemed by the power of God.

Principle #46 & Personal Application: The quality disciple embraces the promise of a life that is redeemed by the power of God.

• Grace makes it possible for the disciple to come to the right conclusion: “But as for me”

• Grace makes it possible for the disciple to experience a life that is redeemed: “God will redeem my life.”

• Grace makes it possible for the disciple to be snatched away from eternal death and to escape to eternal life: “He will snatch me from the power of the grave.”

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

Spend some time pondering this statement of truth: “God will redeem my life.” What kinds of thoughts come to my mind as I focus upon this truth?

Think about the time when you did not have a relationship with the Lord. What would be the key points of truth about your testimony that you could share with a “Christ seeker” who was looking for a way to be snatched away from the power of the grave?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, may I always have the kind of relationship with You where I “own” my faith. This is my statement of what I believe to be true: But as for me, God you did redeem my life and You did snatch me from the power of the grave. Thank You for saving me.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.

"Christmas Meditations of Worship: Four Weeks of Advent. A Season of Worship and Celebration."

Sights. Smells. Sounds. Sales.

For many people, Christmas is nothing more than a materialistic exercise in futility. The hectic pace of the holiday season often depletes more than it fills, and the craziness of the season is normalized, causing many believers to settle for a “Christ-less” Christmas.

Reflection upon the first Advent is the first step towards regaining the reason believers celebrate Christmas: worship of Jesus Christ. You are invited to back away from the edge of Christmas season sanity and begin a four-week journey of reading, reflection, prayer, journaling, singing and serving that will give you the merriest Christmas of all.

Available in print ($10.00 includes shipping) and e-book ($5.00 pdf download) formats. Click this link to begin placing your order:

http://www.dennybates.com/Home/Advent.html

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