Devotion
We do not belong here
David Jacobs
We have all been involved in an argument at some point in our lives. In my younger years, I had a far worse temper than I do now, and I would not always filter my words in the most appropriate manner. I remember one argument vividly: in a discussion with my father, I implied that he was not a true believer of Christ because he did not devote his entire life to it. He went to church and raised me as well as a man possibly could, and here I was, young, passionate, but naïve, slandering the man who raised me. We had an argument, mainly because I thought I was right at the time. Luckily for me, my father is a very patient man, and he listened to my words even though they surely hurt him, and a few days later he gave me a book, Mere Christianity, by C.S. Lewis. Reading it changed my opinion on Christianity and, of course, my father.
The word of God and those recorded by the Apostles are the most sacred texts available to us, but our interpretation of these texts may differ. For many, these texts represent the sanctity and bond between us and the Lord. However, for others they may not have made an impact and may never make an impact. Even the Disciples of Christ had their doubts, and to selfishly attempt to impose our own beliefs on another person when they may not be ready is not for us to decide. The choice is God's. As believers of Christ, we are not meant for this world, as the verses suggest. We know that we are called to something higher. Literally taken, the words of our Holy Bible are no different from any other book. How these words are used, habitually, practically, and personally, by each and every Christian is what separates it. We are not meant for this world: it is our duty to emulate and do what came so innately to Christ; to make this word flesh, to sanctify it to the heights of Heaven.
Prayer
Lord in Heaven, I cannot wait to join you there. I pray that my word and deed be in accordance with Christ's word, knowing full well that I am meant for another place. Instruct and guide me God, through the Holy Spirit, so that your word may be made flesh, and your Testament be made sacred. I pray this in Jesus' name. 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.
