Devotion
A Tree is Known by its Fruit
Frances Taylor
We have often heard the phrase, "By their fruits you shall know them." Perhaps you weren't aware that it comes from Luke's gospel. But this phrase refers to much more than trees, as you can see. The truly gentle person does not make fun of people even in jest. He or she knows that put downs aren't funny, they are cruel. We have all been exposed to people who think that sexually charged jokes, racial and ethnic slurs are acceptable, but they also are not. I once took a trip to Tanzania and was told by my sister who had been there many times, not to make any negative comments about anything because the people of Tanzania do not and wouldn't understand why anyone else would. I found this to be true and it was a privilege to walk among such kind people.
We also need to be reminded that, as Christians, we are held accountable for what we say and do. As Christians, we represent Jesus walking today among the people of the world. A good question to ask ourselves is, "Would I follow and listen to someone who acts and speaks as I do?" If Jesus expects us to lead others to him, we need to take responsibility for how we act. Would others describe us as good, kind, forgiving, compassionate, and loving? I'm hoping no one would ever describe me as evil, but I know that I am not always the person God wants me to be. How about you?
Prayer
Gracious God, help me to be a better example of your son Jesus so as to lead others toward him and not be an obstacle to anyone's ability to come to you. Amen.
Devotion
Lot’s Rescue
Frances Taylor
When I read about Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, I tend to think about Lot's wife and her turning back just when salvation was in her grasp. The angels had brought the whole family to safety; all they had to do was follow God's instruction not to turn back. It sounds so easy. I wonder what was so important to Lot's wife that she turned back? I'm sure that Lot was grateful to God and to the angels for rescuing him and his family and also saddened by the loss of his wife. We, too, have been rescued. We have been rescued from the fear of death, from the effects of our sinfulness and from eternal damnation. We have chosen to follow our deliverer, our Savior, Jesus Christ. What is there in our lives that is so important to us that we risk losing it all? Because we do turn back, just as Lot's wife. We often return to old habits, old companions that lead us into sinful situations, old temptations that we think won't entrap us. We choose to...
Morning Prayer
Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
Inspiration
When it comes to judging situations, we should never be partial in our reasoning. If we try to favor one party, instead of being just, we are doing a great injustice to the wronged person, and we are also doing a great disservice to ourselves as children of God. Be fair in every situation and strive to do the right thing. There is no honor in partiality.
Prayer
Dear God, I ask for your wisdom when I am asked to mediate situations. Lord, may I never be swayed by money, or anything else that could cause me to be partial. May my reasoning be just and pleasing before you, and may it be the truth I speak and nothing else, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.
Inspiration
We cry out to the Lord when we are troubled. We ask for guidance, help, and protection because we know He is always listening. God comforts our anxious spirits and calms the brewing storm within our hearts; We can always count on our Heavenly Father to be present and prepared to help us fight any battle we encounter. God has been our refuge since the beginning; He will remain our rock of salvation until the end.
Prayer
Dear God, we are thankful for Your presence in our lives. We know we can always call out to You in times of trouble. You are always present and prepared to help us when we need You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
