Devotion
God-Centered Friendships
Chipo Biti
Jonathan and David's friendship was centered on God, which is probably why it was loving as it was. When David had to flee from Saul's rage, he and Jonathan wept because they were not sure if they would ever see each other again. But they wished each other well and went their separate ways. In other circumstances, Saul's rage could have actually had a negative impact on their friendship. Saul was Jonathan's father. The fact that his father wanted to kill his best friend put Jonathan in an awkward position. But he rose above it and chose to do right by his friend.
Choosing to defend David was a very risky choice but Jonathan didn't care. He felt that their friendship was worth defending. When Saul was on the rampage, Jonathan was quick to go to David and inform him of his father's plans. This helped David escape Saul's murderous mission. It broke their heart to see such a situation occur. David held no resentment against Saul. He looked up to Saul. Saul's motives were inspired by jealousy. This is why you should never accommodate jealousy in your heart, it can lead to disastrous consequences.
David and Jonathan looked out for each other. They were concerned for their wellbeing. Jonathan risked his life several times to protect David. Saul would have punished Jonathan severely if he discovered that Jonathan was assisting David. That did not scare Jonathan. To him, his friendship with David was worth the risk.
Prayer
We should strive to have friendships that are just as fulfilling as this one. Friendships like this are not built overnight - and they do not fall from the sky. You need to commit your friendship to God, making Him the center of it so that in everything the two of you do, God is glorified.
That is a friendship worth having.
Devotion
I Am Not Ashamed Of The Gospel
Frances Taylor
Paul was a learned Jew who had first been an opponent of the early Christians even to the point of participating in the stoning of St. Stephen and the imprisonment of other Christians. When he became a Christian himself and then began preaching the Good News of salvation, he was driven out of town by the Jews who believed he was a fraud out to entrap them. Some probably believed he was a traitor to Judaism. Either way, he spent the better part of his life preaching to the Gentile world. He was not afraid to admit he had been wrong about Jesus, about Christianity. He was not ashamed to preach his new found truth. Most of us have always been Christian. Have you ever been ashamed to admit it? Now, I'm sure not all of you go to church on a regular basis, so I'm not judging, but I do have a question for those of you who do. Have you ever been embarrassed while on vacation or while attending a conference to ask where the nearest church is ...
Morning Prayer
Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
Inspiration
Jesus Christ intended for us to be with him for life. This salvation that we have is not a temporary salvation – it is eternal. Christ prayed that we be with him at all times – and that prayer has come to pass. As we go through our daily lives, we should never forget that Christ is with us at all times. Nothing can ever separate us from His love and that will not change anytime soon.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for this gift of salvation that is eternal. I thank you, Lord, that wherever I go you are always with me. It is a great comfort to know that I never have to face anything on my own; your love and peace comfort me and give me the strength I need to keep moving. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.
Inspiration
We have chosen to live in Christ; therefore, our lives must reflect His love and grace. As Christians, we consider our words and actions, understanding that we are an example to others. We will study Scripture and apply it to our everyday activities as we share witness to others and strengthen our relationship with the Lord. We are children of God who live in the world when we are not of the world.
Prayer
Dear God, We are blessed to be Your children and will continue to live our lives according to Your will so we may be a reflection of You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
