Devotion
What would you like to be known for?
David Jacobs
What qualities would you use to describe yourself in three words? Think about it for a minute. The first word on your three-word list is probably the quality that you value the most in yourself. The first word that comes to my mind is "funny." I have traveled and lived in many places, and I have found humor to be one of the most effective ways to break language and culture barriers. It is also something that has gotten me out of (and into) trouble. Most of all, it is a characteristic that I value highly and think that is unique about me. I know it is not the most Christian answer, but we are all gifted in our own ways.
The name Solomon is synonymous with wise, even today. Think of how wise he must have been for his name to still be related to wisdom! The book of 1 Kings is filled with examples of his wisdom, patience, and measured approach to difficult situations. He is a stark contrast to his father, King David, who was an emotional and brash leader. Both kings had their strengths and weaknesses, and I would say that their strengths were required given the times that they led.
Solomon was wise, David was devout. David made sure to teach Solomon about the importance of a strong relationship with God.
Prayer
Whatever your strengths, be it wisdom, passion, or humor, God wants us to share it with the world. He also wants us to share it with Him, and through our relationship with Him, as was the case with Kings David and Solomon, our best attributes will be enunciated. God will help us understand how He plans to use us, but we must first go to Him, ask, and listen. What gifts can you share?
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.
