Devotion
The Start of Something New
Chipo Biti
On this day, a day that may have seemed like a regular day to other people, Christ was born. He was born in a manger, a birthplace that would not be fitting for a King. But this was the start of something great - something new. The Savior had finally come to the earth and all the heavens were celebrating. An angel appeared to shepherds who were minding their flocks in the field, carrying on with their daily lives. The angel came to announce the great thing which had happened - the Savior had been born. The angel described where they would find the child and they left immediately.
When they reached the stable, in Bethlehem, and they shared what they had experienced. The shepherds were filled with joy to see that the word of the Lord that they had been given was true. They saw this moment as a momentous occasion; they did not take it lightly. When they finished their visit, the shepherds left, glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard.
This day was a major day for the world, even if they did not know it, because God's redemption plan was finally in motion. His redemption plan being Jesus Christ, who had come to fulfill the law, die for our sins, and raise from the dead. He completed all His tasks, setting us free from the power of sin and the bondage of the enemy. All of this started from this small birth in a manger, that may have appeared to be an insignificant event but it was not.
Prayer
We still celebrate this day today because of what it signified. The birth of a new era. Salvation surely did come to the earth and we, God's children, are all recipients of this precious gift. Now, it is our responsibility to pass on this good news to all who will hear, hoping that they will give their lives to Christ as well.
Night Prayer
Let me not be ashamed, O Lord; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, and let them be silent in the grave.
Inspiration
We humble ourselves before the Lord when we come to Him with earthly burdens. We understand we do not have the power to control or fix our problems alone, so we lay our egos down and align our lives with the will of God. We are proud to be His servants and accept His help throughout our struggles. His love is unconditional, and His wisdom parallels none other.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we humble ourselves before You, seeking Your wisdom and guidance all the days of our lives. Thank You for Your presence and unfailing love. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion
You are a Temple of The Holy Spirit
Frances Taylor
This is a hard saying in today's world. Sexual immorality is so rampant and public that few people believe it to be immoral! People no longer think of sexual behavior outside of marriage as wrong and, in fact, have no problem with going from one person to another quite publicly, broadcasting their behavior on social media and if you're famous enough, on twitter, on TV, in magazines, etc. What happened to "Thou shalt not commit adultery?" I guess I'm old fashioned. I'm not about to condemn anyone who truly loves another and is faithful to them regardless of marriage, but I don't understand and cannot condone random sexual encounters that are not based on love but lust, have no desire for permanency but are literally just to satisfy a sexual itch.
Sorry if I offend anyone, but if we believe that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit to be kept holy, how can we treat them as what – toys, prizes? I'm aware that women have often ...
Morning Prayer
For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.
Inspiration
Think of a grudge that you held on for a long time. Did you feel better from holding this grudge? Now think about this deeper: what if God held a grudge against us? Wow, how blessed we are that he forgives our sins! He leads by example, forgiving those of us that do exactly what he asks us not to do. We all should all be more forgiving, like God is to us.
Prayer
You sent your only son to the world to die so that we may be forgiven, merciful God. Forgive me, once again, for being too selfish and proud to not forgive those that trespass against me. I wish that I can sin less and ask for forgiveness and guidance when I need it. I thank you for sending your son to us, Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior. Amen.
