Devotion
From every mountain sing
David Jacobs
Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on earth. It is also one of the most dangerous. Many people have gone to Everest, seeking to climb the tallest peak and claim to have conquered it. Many have not lived to reach the top or the bottom again. Some of the bodies of those that did not make were left on the peak as a warning and also because getting the bodies down in their frozen state is far too difficult. The higher that you venture up, the more difficult and deadly your journey has become.
God will live forever, but the time that man can spend on earth is limited. No matter how high your achievements, how important you think you are, you will die. For those of us that can claim to be true believers of Christ, there is a way to live like God; follow His ways, love each other as Christ has loved us, and we can be redeemed. For those of us that choose to refuse God's welcoming embrace: the world is filled with their wasted bodies, a warning for any others that choose to go that path.
Prayer
Lord of life, creator of heaven and earth, hallowed be your name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Help us all to remember those words, so that we can work together to build a kingdom on earth that is in the image of your heavenly kingdom. Our time on earth is fleeting, but you have given us a chance of life eternal. I am so grateful, O Lord, and shall waste no breath on doing anything but praising your name. Amen.
Devotion
Abraham’s Sacrifice
Frances Taylor
Did you ever wonder what went through Abraham's mind when he believed that God wanted him to sacrifice his son? Of course, at that particular time in history, sacrifice of the first-born was not unusual and seen as an offering to the gods who would then allow the rest of the children to live. Did Abraham think that God was like the other gods? We will never know in this world. But God did not want sacrifice in the flesh, but sacrifice in the heart. Abraham was prevented from sacrificing Isaac and was given a ram instead, and for his willingness was promised great blessings. What are we willing to sacrifice for God?
Today, in America, we celebrate our independence. Many men and women sacrificed a great deal for this to happen and many people all over the world have sacrificed a great deal for their independence, independence from tyranny, independence to practice their religion, freedom from fear. Isaac was freed so that he could become the ...
Morning Prayer
But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
Inspiration
We can all remember the people that have taught us the most. People often exemplify the successful, rich, powerful, and beautiful, thinking that they will be happier and feel better if they were more like them. How often do we follow in the footsteps of the people that are the most holy around us? How often do we actively attempt to follow in the footsteps of Jesus? He gave his life for us to even have that chance and thankfully the Bible has written the guidelines for how we need to live our lives.
Prayer
My holy God, help me realize that I too can be holy through you. When I stray from the path of righteousness, I ask that you push me back towards the path, remembering and realizing all that you have taught me. Finally, I ask that you remind me of the sacrifices that you have made, giving your only son as a sacrifice so ...
Night Prayer
Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
Inspiration
God's heart breaks with us when we experience struggles in this life. He becomes disappointed and saddened when we get ourselves into trouble. We often find ourselves struggling, resulting from our inappropriate actions and choices. We feel regret, remorse, and helplessness. We ask God for guidance during these times because He is the only one who loves us and has the power to help us overcome our struggles. He is our refuge and looks upon us with mercy and grace. His love never fails.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we have faith in Your unfailing love. Thank You for showing kindness and mercy when we struggle due to misguided choices. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
