Devotion
The Word Be With You
David Jacobs
Gift of gab, "a silver-tongue", "smooth-talker"...think of someone you know that you would describe with these words. Would you say that their words also come with power? Probably not. I have certainly been at church and listened or caught myself talking almost solely for the sake of hearing the words myself.
I am reminded of "Chicken Little" claiming that the sky was falling and of "the boy who cried "wolf," examples of messages that lose their power because of the words that they chose, the examples that they shared, and the messages themselves. The word of the Lord is different: "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). God is not a slick-tongued used car salesmen. His words carry weight, power, enough that it leaves followers astonished. His words do not balance themselves neutrally hoping to encompass all sides. God's words should be taken for what they are, as the way and the truth and the life.
I remember some instances that I felt very embarrassed because I was unsure of how to answer a question or when someone responded to an argument that I posited but left me stumped. God never feels this way. He is omnipotent and gave us His holy word so that we may better understand him. As his devout followers, we must study the word and be challenged, encouraged, and learn to be more like Him. He sent Jesus Christ to earth so that we could see His desires in our own likeness, to hear His words out of a human mouth, but what we do with these blessings is up to us.
Do not worry yourself with offending others or remaining neutral. However, it is imperative to study the word of God and know what He would want you to say and when to say it:
Proverbs 17:27-28 - " He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding."
James 1:19 - "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath"
2 Timothy 3:16 - " All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:"
Ecclesiastes 3:7 - "A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; "
Prayer
You are equipped with the tools to do good. Learn the Lord's word and your words will also carry power, as He intended. Thanks be to God.
Devotion
They Turned Away
Frances Taylor
Once Joshua died, it didn't take long for the Israelites to turn away and worship Baal. It only took one generation. The latest Pew Report on religious affiliation shows rapid decline in those who declare themselves to be Christian as well as those who attend church on a regular basis. This decline has been going on for several generations and who knows where it will end? Forty years ago, most states had laws preventing businesses being open on Sunday. Today, people get offended if a business closes on Sunday. It's not that long ago that sports for youth could not take place until the afternoon so that families could attend church. But then greed took over and stores are now open as if it's just another day. When Sunday openings first happened, workers had a choice whether or not they were willing to work; now they have no option. Sunday mornings are now for youth sports because their parents want to stay home on Sunday afternoon and watch sports ...
Morning Prayer
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Inspiration
It is Christ who found us first, not the other way around. He has chosen us to propagate the gospel across the whole world – regardless of our social standing, our nationality, our race, our financial statues, or anything else. God has called every single one of His children to spread the word of His love that was shown through his son, Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray that I remain focused on what you have always called me to do – spread the message of the gospel. I desire that more and more people in this world will come to the knowledge of who you really are. Father, may you help me in every moment to spread the word of the gospel. May I never be intimidated or afraid, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
Inspiration
We have nothing to fear when disaster and misfortune become visible upon the horizon of life! God's love is more powerful than we can fathom, and He is present in every moment. He understands the difficulties we face each day and actively seeks to lift our burdens by turning devastation into abounding blessings. With God alive in our hearts, there is no hurdle we can't jump and no obstacle we cannot overcome.
Prayer
Dear God, You are always with us and intend our misfortunes to produce opportunities for spiritual growth. We are thankful for Your oversight and presence in our lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
