Devotion
Rich or poor? That is the question
David Jacobs
I lived in China for a few years, and the desire for wealth there is as much as I have ever seen. A famous celebrity gained infamy for uttering these words: "I would rather be crying in the back of a BMW than smiling on the back of a bike." The urge to obtain and collect possession is an obsession, greed on of the seven deadly sins. If it is considered such a sin, how have we allowed the consumer culture that we live in to grow to the extent that it has?
Much has been forgotten and most of our society does not consider the scriptures. This is why we, as devoted followers of Christ, owe it to ourselves and to all of society to be learned and knowledgeable in the ways of the Lord.
This proverb begins praising the poor but righteous and bashing the fool that is perverse in speech. If someone speaks without knowledge, they are a fool and a sinner, wicked in the eyes of the Lord.
The last verse is most striking to me: wealth may make many friends, but the poor is separated from his neighbor.
Prayer
However, what kind of friends are attracted to wealth? Are they not using you simply for your material belongings? When trouble hits you and you need a true friend, who would you be able to rely on? Some of the most generous are the poorest, as was the case with the widow's offering in the temple (Mark 12:41-44). She may not have a BMW that she can cry in, but she will have access to the kingdom of heaven, more riches than even the wealthiest on earth can possibly imagine.She shall inherit the earth. To the wealthiest among us: where will your false friends be?
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.
