Devotion
The only thing you owe others is love
David Jacobs
Although devotion to God's moral law comes first, this passage in Romans highlights the importance of staying obedient to the law. Considering the time it was written, it can be a bit puzzling why Paul says these things. Why would a Christian who has been persecuted and killed by the Roman government also pledge allegiance and pay taxes to Caesar? They would be paying for the people that are attacking them! In context, it might sound strange, but the definition today may perhaps be broadened.
First, it is important to realize that God "removes kings and sets up kings" (Daniel 2:21). There may be an unjust government in place, but God put them in power for a reason, one that you may never understand. In Mark 12:14-17, Jesus is asked whether followers should give money to Caesar to which he replies: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." Paul writes this to reinforce what Jesus had taught.
In modern times, charity, volunteer or missionary work and donations could perhaps all be considered latter-day tributes. The only debt that you owe another man is love. It is our civic responsibility to pay monetary taxes and help to take care of our fellow humans, but it is another thing entirely to pay back society with the greatest gift of all: love.
Prayer
Wonderful Jesus, I marvel at your strength and selflessness! Lord Jesus, it is not easy for me to forgive some of the sins that other men or governments have committed. You did, dear Jesus, and I beg that you grant me a fraction of your forgiving nature. With it I intend to pay a tax of love with all of my thoughts and deeds. This tariff will continue to be paid forward, as your love has continued to be paid for all of eternity. I pray this in your name, Jesus. Amen.
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.
