Devotion
Remember the marvellous works that He has done
David Jacobs
I am fairly patriotic towards America (most of the time). There is a famous song called "This Land is your Land" by Woody Guthrie. Most Americans probably know some of the words of this song. It mentions some of the important landmarks and aspects of America: California to New York, the redwood forest to the Gulf Stream waters. At the end of most verses, he sings, "this land was made for you and me." The end of the song, however, takes a darker turn. Guthrie mentions "No Trespassing" signs; he mentions the relief office; he mentions hungry people; then he asks, "Is this land made for you and me?" Few Americans know the end of this song, and what most consider as a patriotic and welcoming tune has some dark questions at the end.
The poem that David commands his associates to use to praise God is more welcoming.
Prayer
God does not consider where you are from, who you are, how much money you make, or what color your skin is. He is the creator of Heaven and Earth; He is the judger of all things; all people should seek Him and rejoice in His name. The seas, fields, trees, and people all sing His praises. There is no division, no dark questions, only positivity and love. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel forever and ever. Amen!
Night Prayer
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Inspiration
We despise the thought of a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. The outside is easy to clean; it's the caked-up residue on the inside that's so difficult to remove. Jesus compares the scribes and Pharisees with dishes that have been wiped clean on the outside while dirty inside. The Pharisees took exceptional care of their outward appearance and neglected their inward spirits. We are guilty of allowing our hearts to be left filthy as well. We look and act as we should while our souls are full of darkness. We must continue to converse with the Holy Spirit daily and trust His guidance to cleanse our sinful nature.
Prayer
Dear God, Please forgive our sinful nature. We yearn for cleansing from within, so we are genuine witnesses to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
