Devotion
One rule to rule them all
David Jacobs
Having spent significant time in Asia, I am fascinated by its culture. Confucius was one of the most important thinkers in Eastern philosophy. His doctrines were responsible for the development of much of eastern societal norms, structure, and culture. There is a book that his followers wrote, taking note of the most important teachers of their master. I was surprised at how similar much of his teachings were to our master, Jesus Christ.
Out of all of the 'Analytics of Confucius', there were two that stood out. The first was the teaching that Confucius believed was the most important, "Let there be no evil in your thoughts." The second one may sound familiar: "What you do not wish on yourself, do not do unto others." A real beauty in simplicity.
It should be no surprise that the most important philosophies of all cultures are similar. However, all of the greatest philosophers, leaders, scholars, and kings pale in comparison to the goodness that Christ was and is. We do not need to analyze this verse so deeply; it speaks for itself.
Prayer
Do you follow the advice of this verse? Most of the world's important philosophy, religions, and codes of ethics use this "Golden Rule" as the backbone. How foolish would we be not to adhere to it?
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.
