Devotion

Gimme gimme gimme!
David Jacobs

When I was about 5 years old, I stole for the first time. I was with my family at a museum in a different city. I saw a kaleidoscope and was in awe of the amazing shapes, colors, and patterns that I saw in it. I knew that I had to have it, and went to ask my mom. She told me that we already had one at home and that I could play with it as soon as we got back. There was one big problem with her logic: I wanted it now! So, I stuck it in my pocket and out the door I went.

I wasn't the cleverest thief, because as soon as we got out of the door, I pulled the kaleidoscope out and start using it. My mom obviously saw me with it, scolded me and made me take the walk of shame back to the store. Although she intended to teach me a lesson, and I suppose that she did, the shopkeeper was generous and felt pity for the cute thief, and gave it to me for free. In this instance crime paid off...but really I think it was the morals that my mother instilled in me ...

Morning Prayer 

In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

Inspiration 

Specifically, this refers to how women dressed and cared for their hair. Then, as now, church gatherings were not an appropriate time to dress seductively or for attention. Clothing styles vary, and tastes change based on time and culture. All the same, how women (and men) dress should be appropriate for worship of God. Paul's point is not that certain hairstyles are necessarily sinful; rather, the message and the motives are. In the culture of Ephesus, braided hair was a luxurious status symbol. In that era, it required much time and financial costs. This was the equivalent of modern hairstyles requiring significant time and cost. Those who put so much energy into hairstyles suggest that their emphasis is on themselves, rather than ...

Night Prayer 

House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the LORD.

Inspiration 

We may consider prudence as an irreplaceable trait for a man, but this blessing holds true for a woman also. A prudent wife is of great worth and a wonderful gift from God. Great families need more than wealth for prosperity. They also need the blessing of virtuous women, for by their character, diligence, reputation, and training, families are helped to greatness. Great women make great families. Finding an average wife is easy; finding a great wife is like searching for hidden treasure.

Prayer 

Holy God and righteous Father, please bless me as I seek to discern your will in my decisions today. I recognize that each breath that I take is a gift and that each success is because of your grace. Please use me to your glory and help me find your path for my life. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.