Devotion
Like father, like son
David Jacobs
When my older brother had children, I was amazed at how quickly they learned and copied the things that adults did. My nephews would mimic one another and their parents, often not understanding whether or not their actions were right or wrong. I specifically remember one instance when my older nephew lied to his parents. Any adult would be able to decipher that he was lying because it was probably one of the first lies that he ever attempted, and we told him not to lie. His younger brother, mere minutes later, copied what his brother had done, lying about something trivial, copying the example that had been set.
Absalom had many of the great qualities that his father did; he was charismatic and the most praised man in Israel regarding his looks (2 Samuel 14:25). He was also cunning and had an eye for the throne. Although it must have broken King David's heart to have his own son conspire against him, I think he must have really gazed in the mirror and thought about his own actions. Who would have had a greater impact on his son's behavior? David was not shy of conspiring against others himself, scheming to kill the honorably Uriah the Hittite after committing adultery with his wife, Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11). Like father, like son, and now King David must learn to live with his regrets as a father. Unfortunately, both David and Absalom made choices that displeased God, instead of obeying the word of their true Father.
Prayer
What is the impact that your parents made on you? Do you see similar character traits in your parents and yourself? If you have children, what kind of impact have you made on them? It is never too late to change. As with my nephews, habits can be learned quickly, so do your best to make positive habits for yourself.
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.
