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.
Night Prayer
My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.
Inspiration
God only wants the best for us. On days we feel defeated and lost, we continue to have hope in God. He delivers us from our darkest moments, and with Him, we will always find peace. Our Lord is mighty and dependable. We surrender our lives and find happiness living according to His will, and we rest peacefully in His loving arms.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we submit our lives to You. You are trustworthy and good. We praise Your name for the unconditional love You bestow upon us. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion Loss or GainFrances Taylor Paul is telling us and the Philippians that whatever he has suffered, whatever he has lost, it is nothing compared to what he has gained in Christ. Whenever we make changes in our lives, we lose as well as gain. When we move on from high school to the work force or to college, we will gain friends and lose friends. If we change jobs, we may even lose the ability to see our families as often as we had been able to do. If we change our religion or our religious habits, we also may lose friends or even connections with our family members. Christianity requires changes in our lifestyle if we are to be faithful to God's will. Doing the right thing becomes more important than hanging out with friends who can lead you in a different direction. Attitudes can change and your behavior with them. You're no longer the fun person who likes the dirty jokes who doesn't complain about foul language, who won't go to the x-rated movies, or engage in other activities...
Morning Prayer
Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
Inspiration
Good things generally happen to good people. If you commit good deeds, think good thoughts, and surround yourself with good people, in time you will be rewarded with a good harvest. However, it doesn't take many rotten apples to ruin a harvest, so think carefully with, how you spend your energy, how you spend your time, and who you spend it with.
Prayer
Everyday we are surrounded with the beautiful reminders of your creation God: flowers, trees, animals, people. I pray that you make me work, to use me as a vessel to blossom and spread my gifts to the world, spreading your joy to all that encounter me, just as you did with Jesus Christ. His eternal harvest is one that keeps on giving, and I pray that you help me give all that I ...
