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
And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.
Inspiration
We cannot surrender part of our lives to serve the Lord; we must surrender it all. We see multiple occurrences in the New Testament when Jesus says, 'follow me,' met with an excuse or other business that needed to be taken care of first. We like to think that, given the opportunity, we would follow immediately, but that may not be true. We put many earthly activities before the Lord. We make idols of technology, sports, and other activities or people. These secondary priorities cause us to wander away from the Lord instead of closer to Him. We must analyze our walk closely and remove all stumbling blocks that distract us from the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we want to serve You with all our hearts. Help us analyze our lives and remove stumbling blocks that slow our walk with You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
