The Power of Music

11/03/2016 2 Kings 3:15 PBJ Devotional
“But now bring me a musician. And when the musician played, the hand of the LORD came upon him.” (2 Kings 3:15 ESV)

Music played by someone who loves the Lord, is indeed, a “minister of music.” They create more than just sound. They create a pathway for the spirit of the Lord to flow into a situation that can bring clarity and refreshing. Anointed music can bring the presence and power of the Holy Spirit and usher in the prophetic word of God! Such was the case with Elisha.

“Composure and serenity of soul were essential if the prophet was to hear the voice of God within.” Ellicott’s Commentary

“…the playing of any skilled minstrel had a soothing effect on those possessing the prophetic gift generally, and enabled them to shut out the outer world, and concentrate their whole attention on the inward voice which communicated to them the Divine messages.” Pulpit Commentary
Anointed music can also sooth the depressed, drive back demonic spirits, and bring times of emotional and spiritual refreshing to the afflicted.

“Let our lord now command your servants who are before you to seek out a man who is skillful in playing the lyre, and when the harmful spirit from God is upon you, he will play it, and you will be well." (1 Samuel 16:16 NIV)

I am personally grateful for the men and women who have recognized their gifting and honed their skills for the sake of ministry to the body of Christ and the world. I have personally benefited over the years. I owe them a debt that I can never repay!

Titus 3:1-2 Devotional

11/01/2017 PBJ Devotional

“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Titus 3:1-2 ESV)

Throughout the Scriptures we are reminded, as in verse one, to do every good work. Here the work is defined with respect to our attitude toward others. Humility and determination will be needed to bring every prejudice into check. For us to be successful in this biblical admonition, we must not see ourselves as better than others. We are the children of God, by faith alone in Jesus Christ, but we are not better than our neighbor who may be carnal or unsaved! We are not of greater value to God than another, for he sent Jesus Christ into our world to save all men. How can we exemplify the love of God to the world in which we live if we believe that somehow, as Christ followers we are better than others? This is why we are instructed to have our speech seasoned with grace, to be peaceable, gentle showing every consideration for all men. Only as we walk in the power the Holy Spirit can we accomplish such a task!

Father God, as I consider the years that I have served I recognize that there have been many times when I have fallen short of this command. Forgive me for my pride and prejudice. Forgive me for speaking out of anger and being harsh with others. Help me humble myself that I may extend to all men the love of the Father, the forgiveness of Jesus, and the fellowship of the Spirit. Amen.