Devotion
Holding His tongue
David Jacobs
As an American, it can be difficult at times to contemplate how other nations consider us. Much of the world derides the United States of America because of our foreign policy. When I have traveled or lived in other countries, I could feel the attitudes of people change towards me based on what our government was doing in other countries. I know that the heart of most Americans is good, pure, and does not want us to be involved in wars in any country. Unfortunately, our government sometimes has a different approach, and much of the world considers us in a similar way to the Chaldeans in these verses.
In the selected passage, Habbakuk speaks about the Chaldeans, a vicious and violent people that offend others, kill, deride, and believe in their own God. He wonders how God can stand beside and not look upon them with iniquity. He wonders how God can hold his tongue and not correct the behavior of these wicked people, devouring the good and letting evil reign. I understand the anger that he might feel, but I also understand the opposite side.
Americans are not totally evil! Some people may disagree, but I know that there is good in every person, country, and religion. Humans are not responsible for passing judgment and dictating how God should act.
Prayer
Be patient, faithful, and remember the gifts that God has given you, rather than thinking about the negative actions of others. Focus on the good in you, others and God. Evil begets more evil, good more good, love more love. Thanks be to God.
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.
