Devotion
Fly like an Eagle
David Jacobs
What do you do right before you go to sleep? In this day and age, I think most of us worry about the day or days ahead, probably checking our phones or computers to see what to expect. We are tethered to these electronic devices because they make our lives "easier." Much of modern technology and infrastructure was developed to make our lives easier, faster, and simpler. Does your life feel easier? Think about ways that we can actually make it easier and simpler.
Consider the verses selected: people have had similar anxieties and pressures for all of our existence. Worry and anxiety are biological responses to our desire to survive, but do they make our lives easier? How can we improve?
Have faith in God. Trust that the Lord will take care of you. What comes tomorrow is going to come regardless. Detach yourself for a moment from the hustle and bustle of modern society. Take a moment to contemplate what matters to you and what matters to God. Notice birds flying, singing, and eating. God takes care of them; He will take care of you.
Prayer
I trust in you, Abba Father, but my confidence often wavers. Strengthen my faith so that I may grow closer to you. Help me care for myself and for all of your creations, the birds in the sky and the animals on the ground, as you so generously care for us. Thank you, almighty God, my father, my love. Amen.
Night Prayer
To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
Inspiration
When multiple flocks of sheep become blended, there is no need to worry. The good shepherd will call out to his sheep, and they come directly to him because they know his voice and will not confuse it with others. As God's people, we often become mixed up in things of the world. Sin is tempting as we surround ourselves with the wrong crowd; God is always watching and calls us back to the fold. We find Him when we are lost because we know the sound of His voice; it's the only one we've chosen to follow, and we do not confuse it with others.
Prayer
Dear God, when we are lost, we listen for You. Your voice is precious and will guide us back to the fold where we belong. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion
The Word of God
Frances Taylor
If there's one thing I know about Christians and the Bible, is that there is an ongoing debate about whether it is the word of God or the word of men, and what that means. We all agree that the Bible is the living revealed word of God, but! There are wide differences in how that is interpreted. There are some who believe that every word of the Bible was dictated to someone who wrote it down. For others it is purely men's thoughts. For others, men were inspired by God to write their experience of God. I don't know where you find yourself on this continuum.
For most people who believe that the Bible is inspired either word for word or as guided by God, the Bible tells God's truth. Unfortunately for those of us who speak English, we have to rely the sources we have had over the years as guides to how the Scriptures should be interpreted. I have had many people ask me which translation is correct, but there's no clear answer.
The Bible has been translated ...
Morning Prayer
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
Inspiration
Suffering will be a part of our lives as Christians. The New Testament is filled with warnings about the suffering Christians will incur because of their decision to follow Christ and not the ways of the world. Millions of Christians across the world are subjected to torture, isolation, and mockery just because they have chosen to follow Christ. But Christ has also assured us that we will not endure this suffering alone, and a reward lies ahead for all of those who suffer for the name of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray that in times of persecution and great tribulations, may you strengthen me and encourage me to keep going on. I also pray for my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who endure great pain and torture for choosing to follow you. May you comfort them in these trying times, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
