Devotion
He has not failed one word of his great promises
David Jacobs
I have bounced around to several churches over the years, partially because I have changed locations and partially because my perception of the congregations changed. It is important to feel comfortable in the place that you worship and be surrounded by people that you are motivated by and can trust. It is more important that you are motivated by God and feel that you can trust in Him.
There is not much that needs to be said about these verses. I think that it is a beautiful prayer and is a good summation of what Solomon believes. Read these words and consider your own life and the community that you worship and share ideas with: do you/they walk in the ways of the Lord? Reflect on Solomon's message and give praise to God.
Prayer
Blessed be the Lord and those that come in the name of the Lord! Caring God, you have not left my side and have forgiven me when I have left yours. In my darkest moments I have felt alone, but you have kept your promises and waited, patiently, for me to return to your side. Lord I ask that you help me to keep your commandments and continue to walk your path to salvation, helping others to follow you along the way. May the blessings of my mind and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Amen.
Night Prayer
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
Inspiration
Sin will enslave us and become the master of our lives if allowed. Sin binds us in darkness, and we become submissive to our fears. Jesus is a light in the dark, and we have accepted Him as our Lord and Savior. Sin has no control over us! We have repented our sinful ways and surrendered our lives to the will of God. Serving Him replaces a life of misery with joy and peace.
Prayer
Dear God, we ask forgiveness for our transgressions. We surrender our lives to You and will serve You instead of our sinful desires. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion
Are You Wise or Foolish?
Frances Taylor
Today's gospel concerns a group of bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom to come and whether or not they will be prepared. Five are pretty sure that the bridegroom will show up when expected and so do the least they need to do and the other five decide that something may come up and want to be prepared just in case. What about ourselves? Whether you are sick or healthy today, you don't know what tomorrow brings.
I remember when my father was ill. He would enter the hospital, then somehow rally and be sent home. When this happens more than once, it is easy to be lulled into a sense of false security and believe that he would always rally. That kind of thinking can make it harder when the final day comes. My son rarely had a sick day in his life and yet was cut off while riding his motorcycle and was dead before he even had a chance to be afraid. It has always been my hope that both were wise and had lived their lives prepared to meet the ...
