Devotion
There have been many kings but only one God
David Jacobs
If you come from the western hemisphere and have studied history, there is a decent chance that you have heard of the notorious Henry VIII. Infamous for his romantic exploits and treacherous betrayals, King Henry VIII also gained notoriety for the schism with the Catholic Church in 1534. This may lead you to believe that he was a pious believer of God, but when you consider the litany of sins that he publicly committed, I think it is fair to say that he may have thought of himself on nearly the same level as God. The verses in this devotional discuss the importance that Timothy placed on all people, regardless of their position or status in life, giving thanks and praise to God. No matter the conditions or the situation that we live, it is important to give our thanks and praise.
The way that we worship the Lord is usually done in an environment of calm and serene communion. I feel this is true for the home or church as if is for our greater society. Whether we are King Henry VIII or an ordinary citizen, it is our duty to labor for God and partake in his creation, and support and nurture one another. If we dare to dream of the world we wish to inhabit as one conducive to worshipping his name, then it begins with generosity towards ones fellow man. Find the way that you feel most comfortable worshiping God, and give generously to Him. No matter what is going on in your life or around you, we owe everything to Him.
Prayer
Lord above, open my heart towards your creation. I ask that you grant me the strength to pray for those who do not pray for me. Humble me in thy sight, magnificent God, so that I may have an honest and clean heart to serve thee with, in turn serving my fellow man. Grant me all this Lord, so that your creation, as it is in Heaven, may all sing your praises. 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.
