Devotion 

A House Divided

Frances Taylor 

Today, Christianity is divided. I'm not necessarily speaking about denominational differences because as long as a denomination is accurately presenting Jesus' message of the Good News, there is no problem. The problem comes when people who call themselves "Christian" preach and teach a false gospel. Just as there were Jewish leaders who tried to challenge Jesus in his own time because they didn't like what he was teaching, there are people today who don't want to follow the totality of his message. We learn from Paul that there is "One Lord, One Faith and One Baptism, One Lord of All." If this is true, then why do we consider one baptism more valid than another? If the Lord is Lord of all, then why do some claim to belong more to the Lord than others?

Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, chastises them for their divisions saying, "I am of Paul and I am of Apollos," etc. Paul reminds them that if they were baptized into Christ, that should ...

Morning Prayer 

And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.

Inspiration 

God is holy, His name is great, and He is good. At times, He is profaned by those who claim to follow Him but do not act in His will. They do evil and say it is His will when it is not. God will not let His name remain profaned. He will make unbelievers know that He is God and that He is good. Maybe you know someone who drags God's name through the mud. That can be frustrating and even infuriating to watch. Take heart. God is mightier than them. He will make Himself known.

Prayer 

LORD, You are mighty and good. You will make Your character known. Show Your might to the nations. Make unbelievers tremble at the knowledge of You. Show them You are God. You have the power to do anything. Let Your will be done. Let men bow before ...

Night Prayer 

Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.

Inspiration 

Often it is too easy to want what others have. Particularly when we see others who have built up wealth, comfort, and prestige through dishonest actions that have hurt others. God warns us to set aside such envy. When we covet the things that are attained by evil means, we open ourselves up to the temptation to follow their ways.

Prayer 

Father God, protect my heart from all envy and jealousy. Teach me to not dwell on the riches and comforts of evil men. Turn my attention to the riches of Your kingdom so that I may dwell on heavenly things. Help me to remember how richly blessed I am because of knowing You. In Jesus’ name, amen.