Devotion
How much more will God give you?
David Jacobs
I never wanted anything when I was a child. My parents were generous but did not spoil my siblings and me, and we were lucky to live a comfortable life. My parents made sacrifices that still amaze me, giving up much of their youth that many people cling to like a life preserver in the sea. However, my parents don't view it as a sacrifice at all; instead, they see it as a fulfillment of their dream, being able to raise great children in a happy family.
My parents have a great attitude about it, and it is one that I am sure many people wish their parents also had. I was fortunate, but we all are. For our Father in heaven, hallowed be His name, will give more than my parents could ever dream of. No matter our plight in life, God is waiting patiently for us to ask Him for something.
Prayer
What we ask for is up to us. If you asked me for some food and I gave you a chair, it wouldn't make any sense. God does not fool us; He does not want to give us something different from what we ask. The most important thing that all Christians must remember: we will get what we ask for...but; first, we must ask!
Night Prayer
The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
Inspiration
When a king rules with fairness and justice, his kingdom will flourish. If the same king accepts gifts or bribes, his kingdom will fall. We've all observed a person in a leadership position who acted wrongfully. Perhaps a boss did not discipline employees fairly, or a political leader accepted kickbacks for legislation decisions. These corrupt actions lead to their demise. Scripture advises leaders to maintain justice with fair decision-making. As leaders, we must reflect on the mercy and grace God shows to us and lead others in the same fashion.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for coaching us in our leadership endeavors. We have faith in Your Words and will lead Your people accordingly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Devotion
The Widow of Naim
Frances Taylor
This story of Jesus' raising the son of the widow of Naim gives us some information that lets us know just how important it was for this widow. At that time, women had no way to earn a living. They were property of their parents until they became property of their husbands, and actually moved into the home of the husband. Now that this widow's son had died, she had no one to take care of her. The compassion that Jesus showed meant life to that widow. I'm sure the leaders weren't too happy that the power of God to raise someone from the dead rested in Jesus. There must also have been those who were saying, "Why her and not me?" We all will die and we will all lose someone we love including those of us who have and will lose children. We can easily read this passage and question. It can be difficult to understand God's plan for us, even though we keep trying. It is better to concentrate on the positive than the negative. A priest I once knew lost ...
