Devotion
Be humble in the sight of the Lord
David Jacobs
Many of the world's leading scientific thinkers are not religious. The accomplishments of man have led us further and further into discovering why the universe acts in the way that it does and also helps us understand our role in it. There is no doubt that we have taken tremendous steps forward in terms of technology, but has our understanding of existence really improved at all? When you look at the stars, we may now know what elements they are made of, but does it really explain how they got there and where the elements came from? There are certainly theories, many of them are quite sound and based on the talents and efforts of humanity's most diligent and intelligent people. Any advancement, any theory, any understanding we may have does not come from us. It comes from God.
Today, temptation and the false path is often confused with salvation, which comes in many forms: drugs, sex, idolatries, consumption, or other forms of false prophets can offer quick fixes. When we forget that it is not us, it is not humanity, it is God that is in the driver's seat, we become our own worst enemy. This can be said for all people, even the most intelligent and successful. It is only through Christ's divination that we may understand true and everlasting salvation. It is only with our faith in the Lord, and not in oneself or other false prophets, that we may find grace.
Prayer
Our Lord in Heaven, hallowed be thy name and the relationship between you and humanity. Lead me away from worldly temptations. Help me find the courage to strengthen my faith in thee and only thee, my Lord, in whom all true redemption and grace is found. Amen.
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.
