Devotion
Passing the torch
David Jacobs
Older generations tend to view younger generations as spoiled. So much has changed in modern times from generation to generation that it is quite hard to accurately compare them. So much responsibility and sometimes so much burden is placed on each new generation that it can seem daunting for the younger people in the world. How can they live up to the expectations of previous generations? The older generation may also think that they have failed their children, because the world may be "worse" than it was when they lived. All we can do is try to teach one another, and learn what we can from past experiences.
In these verses, King David is handing the throne and much of its responsibilities to his son, Solomon. Solomon has been chosen by God to construct a temple in Jerusalem. You can imagine the pressure that the not-yet-appointed King Solomon would be feeling; first, he must follow in the footsteps of his father, one of the most-beloved kings in history, and second, his first order of business is to construct a temple in God's honor. It could make any person of any generation crumble.
Luckily, David gives Solomon his blessing and constructive advice on how to rule. The most important tenet of the advice: serve God with a perfect heart and a willing mind. Now imagine modern society doing the same: what a perfect world we would live in!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pray to you today asking to help me create your temple on earth. Let your heavenly kingdom be the focus of all humanity, now and forever. Lord God, give me the wisdom like Solomon, the goodliness of Saul, and the obedience of David, so that I may serve you with a perfect heart and a willing mind. Amen.
Devotion
Give Good Example
Frances Taylor
If we ever needed a reminder of how important it is to practice what we preach, this is it. Not only are we encouraged to help others, but we are also warned about giving bad example or leading others, particularly children, away from the Lord.
I have spoken to many people who say that they became a Christian because of the example of people in their family, friends or strangers whose joy is so great they want a part of it. I also know people who have turned away from the faith they once had because they consider those who proclaim themselves to be Christian are hypocrites. Most people don't start out wanting to be Christians because of doctrine. They are influenced one way or another by people. Are you someone whose life exhibits the joy of knowing Jesus and his saving power? Am I? Do your actions give testimony to your beliefs? A person can go to church each week, Bible classes during the week and give every impression of being a devout follower of ...
Morning Prayer
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Inspiration
There is nothing at all – nothing on the earth and nothing in the spiritual realms – that can separate us from the love of Christ. No matter what any person or principality tries to do in our lives, they will never be able to quash the love Christ has for us. The love God has for us is eternal – it is here to stay for good.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for the love that you have for me. Thank you, Lord, that this love will never leave me and it will never forsake me. No matter what anyone tries, or whatever may come my way, Lord, I thank you that your love will always be with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
Inspiration
As Christians, we know that we find peace in God. And today, we’re reminded that He promises peace to His people. But we have to do our part, which is listening. It’s when we turn away from wisdom and pursue foolish and selfish endeavors that peace eludes us. But when we turn our ears to His wisdom, He leads us on the path to peace.
Prayer
God, in You I have received peace that passes understanding. Speak Your wisdom to me, and teach me to not be distracted by my own foolish ambitions. Give me ears to hear You so that I may remain close to You and move in Your peace wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
