Devotion
Give Thanks Generously
David Jacobs
A common misconception among young people and non-believers is that we pray to God to ask for something. Perhaps there have been times when you yourself have prayed for good and righteous things. But we shouldn't forget thanking Him for what has already been provided. God is not our concierge: in fact, we serve God.
In 2005 I found myself working on a film set as a stunt man in Bucharest, Romania. I had wanted to act since around 1999 but I had a terrible voice quality and was awfully shy. I prayed to God time and time again to provide me a big break and make me famous (for selfish reasons, too!). The stunt work was challenging, sometimes painful and I found myself surrounded by people that were often unpleasant. One evening, I returned to my hotel frustrated and began to cry. Why was I so close to achieving my dream but running on a hamster wheel? Why was it painful? Why was God mocking my ambitions?
I felt claustrophobic and decided to stand on my balcony under the Eastern European night sky. The cool breeze calmed me. My attention was pulled to two young gypsy girls begging in the street. My perception changed almost immediately, appreciating all the gifts that God had provided. That night was the first night I prayed to God to only offer thanks.
I thanked Him for inviting me into His glorious creation, for providing me with a means to follow my passion, and providing me an opportunity to share my privilege with those that need it, in His name.
Trust in Him, for God gives us what He deems is necessary for His children, and for this, we should continually show our gratitude.
Prayer
Thank you, Father, for inviting us into your church, for providing what is needed, and most importantly, not spoiling your beloved children.
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.
