MATTHEW 16-18

• Jesus uses unlikely means to provide
• Hard times are inevitable but we shouldn't make it worse
• Don't treat 'child-like belivers' (new Christians) arrogantly.
• If a fellow believer hurts - go and tell him. If he listens then I have a friend. If he doesn't listen, take one or two more as a witness - then if he won't listen start over.
• If we have been forgiven, we should show mercy and forgive!

MATTHEW 13-15

• Like Peter, if we keep our eyes on Jesus we can do the impossible
• Do I make a big who saying theright things - but the heart isn't in it?
• Do I act like I am worshipping but don't mean it?
• Do I just use God as a cover for teaching what suits my fancy?

MATTHEW 10-12

• Great irony - Proclaiming so much love - Experiencing so much hate
• Don't be bluffed into silence by threats from bullies. There's nothing they can do to my soul - my core being
• Save my fear for God who holds my entire life - body and soul in HIS hands
• Am I tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Go to Jesus - Get away with Him. He will show how to take a real rest. Walk with Him and learn the rhythms of grace.
• God would prefer a flexible heart to an inflexible ritual.

MATTHEW 7-9

• The way to life - to God is vigourous and requires total attention
• Who needs a doctor? The healthy or the sick? I'm after mercy not religion
• I should be about inviting outsiders not to codle insiders

From the challenge to read 3 chapters nightly:
Matthew 1-3

• Following instruction led them to where they would find Jesus
• Following instruction led to safety and protection

Matthew 4-6

• Jesus faced temptation and commanded the tempter to leave
• Listening to Jesus produces real results
• We're blessed at the end of our rope
• With less of me there is more of God
• I am blessed when I am content with who I am am - no more - no less - Then I OWN WHAT CAN'T BE BOUGHT
• When people attack it means God is too close for comfort for them
• Work things out with others before trying to make right with God
• I should make the first move
• Don't lay down smoke screens with pious talk
• Let enemies bring out my best
• GROW UP - I am a Kingdom subject - Live like it
• Live generously and graciously toward others
• When praying - shift focus from me to God and I will begin to sense His grace
• In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what I do
• God forgave - so should I
• Don't get worked up about tomorrow - God will help me deal when the time comes.