Devotion
Fool’s gold
David Jacobs
In this passage the Apostle Paul shares his goodbye address with the Ephesian elders, that is, his final instructions to the church leaders in Ephesus. He has much to say, but let's focus on the three traits that he says should characterize good shepherds (good leaders).
First, he says a good shepherd will "feed the church of God" (28) "the word of his grace" (32). The first job of a pastor is to teach the Scriptures. Your pastor may not be perfect, but if he is teaching you the Bible week in and week out, be thankful for him.
Second, a good shepherd points people to the ultimate Good Shepherd, the Lord Jesus. Paul says in verse 30 that false leaders try "to draw away disciples after them"—that is, after themselves rather than Jesus. Perhaps you serve in a pastoral or teaching role and are sometimes discouraged that your messages and lessons aren't more exciting. But do they point people to Jesus? Do they encourage people to trust God more? Then you are being faithful and God is pleased with you.
Third, a good shepherd leads by example. That is what Paul meant when he said "I have shewed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak" (35). He had set a good example for them in ministering to those in need. Good examples are so important! I read about a dad who was hiking with his little boy when the climb became difficult, even dangerous. The dad stopped to consider which way to go and heard a little voice over his shoulder: "Pick a good path, Dad. I'm coming right behind you."
Prayer
We're all examples to someone. Can others find Jesus by following in your footsteps? If not, determine today to make whatever changes are necessary to be a good shepherd.
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.
