Devotion
Satan at work
David Jacobs
Before my brother had married his wife, she went through several tragedies in a very short period of time. Her father died, mother died, and then her stepmother committed suicide. This would test the mettle of any human, and she fell into a depression. She turned to drugs, alcohol, and was in a destructive relationship that she couldn't seem to get out of. God did not abandon her, and she thanks my brother for saving her life. She is one of the strongest people I have ever met, and if you met her, you would never think that she had gone through such a dark period in her life.
Satan is real. The temptation of sin bombards us, and with the ease of access that we have in the technologically advanced world that we live in, most of these sins are just a click or phone call away. Satan is lurking, ready to pounce when we least expect it, like a lion stalking a lamb. In these verses, God boasts of Job's excellence, and Satan vows to show God that Job will curse him when pushed to his limits. Poor Job! A good man made to suffer, a wandering lamb for the prowling Satan.
Prayer
What can we do to eliminate Satan's role in our life? By surrounding ourselves with a group of other faithful Christians, we will have strength in numbers. Two is greater than one, and it is especially useful to have a safety net of friends in faith when we are struck with misfortune. Like my sister-in-law, without this safety net, the suffering may wander and make her easy prey for Satan. As Christians, we are united, a mighty herd stampeding with goodness over all the earth.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
