Devotion
The dreams of the blind
David Jacobs
I enjoy studying psychology, and one day I pondered this question: can a blind person visualize things as they dream? I did quite a lot of research on the subject and found that it depends on when they became blind: the younger they lost their ability to see, the less likely the chance they would see images as they dreamed. Although it seems like such a shame, a person without the ability to use their eyes to see also has heightened senses and a totally different interpretation of the world than a person that can see. To say that one is objectively good or bad would be incorrect.
The Bible is full of references to 'eyes', of the Lord making the world 'visible' to his followers. On the other hand of course, many who do not follow are often 'blind' or 'blinded', often by sin or emotions. This passage is not to be taken literally, with an opening of the eyes a metaphor perhaps, for lifting the veil of ignorance. Physically blind people cannot help the fact that they cannot see; ignorant people that choose to live in sin can help it. The laws of the Lord are there to allow all of us to open our eyes to the ways of God. God's laws will open our eyes, his word is a lamp for our feet (Psalms 119:105). Choosing to be willfully ignorant is a choice to live in sin. Upon making such a choice, you will be truly blind, regardless of whether or not you have images in your dreams.
Prayer
Heavenly Lord, I pray for you to open my eyes to your divine Law. Show me the path towards light and truth, and allow me not to obscure this with my own will. Grant me wisdom to see further than my own feet, looking into the distance, towards your Heavenly Kingdom. Grant me the courage to follow you even when others do not, so that I may help lead the blind that thirst to see your face. I ask this in the name of Christ Almighty, 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.
