Devotion
Where is our manna from Heaven?
David Jacobs
One thought that I have often had when reading the Bible is what I would do if I were in the place of several of the most famous characters. How could Thomas doubt Jesus so much if he was with him all the time? How could Judas betray Jesus if he bore witness to so many miracles? Why would the followers of Moses not be willing to do anything that he asked considering all the things that he had clearly done for them? Certainly I would be different! If only God would give me a sign as strong as He gave to them, then I would be more certain. Then, if only then, I would know how to behave!
I may have acted differently than certain characters in the Bible. In fact, I may have acted better than them at times. However, what selfishness I display when demanding a sign similar to theirs! Is my own life not a sign enough? Is my relationship with God not sign enough? Jesus Christ was sent to Earth to live amongst us and died so that we could be forgiven. If I need a stronger sign than that, I am not sure what I would have done differently than even the most selfish characters in the Bible.
Manna was sent from Heaven to Earth in the Bible. We have our manna: Jesus Christ. Just as sustenance was sent for the disciples of Moses, Jesus was sent so that we may all be his disciples. He is our sustenance, our sign, our manna. Doubt leads to hunger and belief leads to nourishment. We have many characters with which to compare ourselves, but ultimately the choice is ours.
Prayer
Dear Lord, I wish to thank you for the host of characters in the Bible that have helped feed my faith and assist me on my journey. Without them, seeing both the quality of their triumphs and the depths of their falls, I and other Christians, would not have the same relationship with you that we do today. Permit me Christ Almighty, to eat from your word, and drink from your truth. With your permission, I ask to be filled with your word, so that I will never be hungry. I pray this in your name, knowing that you have sacrificed your body and blood so that I may be sustained. 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.
