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
Give Good Example
Frances Taylor
If we ever needed a reminder of how important it is to practice what we preach, this is it. Not only are we encouraged to help others, but we are also warned about giving bad example or leading others, particularly children, away from the Lord.
I have spoken to many people who say that they became a Christian because of the example of people in their family, friends or strangers whose joy is so great they want a part of it. I also know people who have turned away from the faith they once had because they consider those who proclaim themselves to be Christian are hypocrites. Most people don't start out wanting to be Christians because of doctrine. They are influenced one way or another by people. Are you someone whose life exhibits the joy of knowing Jesus and his saving power? Am I? Do your actions give testimony to your beliefs? A person can go to church each week, Bible classes during the week and give every impression of being a devout follower of ...
Morning Prayer
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Inspiration
There is nothing at all – nothing on the earth and nothing in the spiritual realms – that can separate us from the love of Christ. No matter what any person or principality tries to do in our lives, they will never be able to quash the love Christ has for us. The love God has for us is eternal – it is here to stay for good.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for the love that you have for me. Thank you, Lord, that this love will never leave me and it will never forsake me. No matter what anyone tries, or whatever may come my way, Lord, I thank you that your love will always be with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
Inspiration
As Christians, we know that we find peace in God. And today, we’re reminded that He promises peace to His people. But we have to do our part, which is listening. It’s when we turn away from wisdom and pursue foolish and selfish endeavors that peace eludes us. But when we turn our ears to His wisdom, He leads us on the path to peace.
Prayer
God, in You I have received peace that passes understanding. Speak Your wisdom to me, and teach me to not be distracted by my own foolish ambitions. Give me ears to hear You so that I may remain close to You and move in Your peace wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
