Devotion
Save me Lord, my shield
David Jacobs
You may know the story of Julius Caesar. He was the famous ruler of the Roman empire, known throughout much of the world, and held in high esteem for his wisdom and cunning abilities. He thought that he was well liked in his own country, leading in the senate amongst his friends, especially his best friend, Brutus. On the Ides of March, March 15th, three senators, Gaius Cassius Longinus, Decimus Junius Brutus Albinus, and Marcus Junius Brutus, his close friend, lead the assassination outside of the Theatre of Pompey, killing Julius Caesar. In the Shakespeare play of the same name, Caesar famously says, "Et tu, Brute?" (even you, Brutus?) A gang of conspirators that he thought were friends ended his life, taking power for themselves.
In life, it can sometimes feel like the world is conspiring against us, much like Caesar. Little things from our closest friends can hurt us, but why should we be hurt when we have the Lord as our shield? Consider these verses; they could have come in handy for poor Caesar. Our faith in God is our shield against all foes; He will defeat all of our enemies; He, and only He, will grant us salvation.
Prayer
It feels terrible when you are up against difficult odds: many things working against only you. Remember: it is not only you! God is with you and will always be there to protect you. He is our rock and shield. Instead of asking, "Et tu, God?" we will declare, "Et tu, God!" Thanks be to God.
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.
