Devotion
Life will vanish away
David Jacobs
It seems that a large portion of society has embraced the disturbing notion that nothing matters. We can see how sinful things have permeated our society and become commonplace. Many people have decided to live a life of decadence and pleasure while one has the chance. Younger generations especially have embraced this idea. How can we resist these temptations? Listen to the words in this passage, because any rejoicing like this is evil.
The idea that nothing matters comes from people without a true sense of the afterlife, for God knows what we do here on earth. Sinful behavior may seem more enjoyable, but is it? Even if one ignores the afterlife, is living a secular and hedonistic lifestyle truly more enjoyable? In my own experience, it is not. Sins in the eyes of God are to protect us, not to enslave us. Think not of the pleasures of 'today,' but see rather living in Gods' image as an investment. We cannot expect to live healthy spiritual lives if we surrender only to passing pleasures or fleeting temptations.
Prayer
Lord God, my shepherd and light, guide me through this life in obedience as you deem worthy. Help me not to rejoice in life's secular pleasures and to focus on a spiritual life that will lead me to your side. Let me not fall into the temptations of this earth, in despair at its brevity. This life is fleeting Lord, and I place my faith in your teachings, realizing that what awaits me is far greater than anything I can experience on earth. In your holy name I pray. 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.
