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.
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.
