Devotion
A peculiar treasure unto God
David Jacobs
I lived in Africa for one year on a mission trip in my 20s. Although some people spoke English, most of the people in the village that I was living did not speak any. It was difficult leaving everything that I knew and was accustomed to and moving to a place with different food, language, and culture, but I was lucky to become great friends with a couple about 20 years older than me. We had a peculiar bond: they were decades older than me and we could not speak the same language. For whatever reason, they cared for me like I was their own son, getting me out of trouble more times than I even care to remember! Although we would eventually be able to have basic conversations as I learned their language, it was hard for me to explain why I treasured their friendship as much as I did. Basically, I just knew that they were good people.
Prayer
God says to the Israelites that He too, treasures them in a peculiar manner. He carried them out of horrible slavery in Egypt, and had shown favor to them once again. The Israelites remained fearful and obedient, and God rewards their obedience by making them a "kingdom of priests." Why the Israelites and not another nation? As was the case with my friends in Africa, it might be difficult to explain why. God knew they were good, knew they would continue to be good, and the Israelites did not let Him down. This loyalty is rewarded and although God and the Israelites talked through a medium in Moses, we too, can learn to grow closer to Him by knowing that He treasures us. Like my friends in Africa, if God knows that we are good, we do not need to directly speak. We can feel it.
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.
