Devotion
What Will I Render to God
Frances Taylor
What will I render to God for all his benefits? Have you ever tried to write down all the blessings and benefits that God has given you? When I try to count my blessings, I wind up thinking of something else just when I think I've finished.
First, I thank God for each day that I wake up. Sometimes I'm hurting from arthritis or I have a headache, or a cold, etc. But I woke up. I have a roof over my head and I pray for those who do not. I give thanks for the food in my refrigerator and again, I am reminded of those who wake up hungry and don't know what they will eat that day. I do give to organizations that actually spend their donations on the poor, and am grateful that I have enough to do that. I have a family that is doing well with a few members that are struggling with finding work and pray that they will find a job soon. The older I get, I find that I am loosing friends who have returned to the Father, and I pray for them as well as for those still fighting the battle of aging. I am grateful that I have the freedom to worship my God in whichever way I choose and I make sure that I do not take this for granted, so I show up on Sunday! I have vowed to follow Jesus and I don't take that vow lightly. I'm sure that you have many of the same blessings that I do. Although there may be many of you who also have the blessing of youth!
Today, take some time and count your blessings and benefits and decide how you will give thanks to God and what sacrifice you will offer in thanksgiving.
Prayer
Loving God, we don't take enough time to thank you for all you have done for us. Show me what I can do to truly give you thanks and praise. Amen.
Devotion
Give Good Example
Frances Taylor
If we ever needed a reminder of how important it is to practice what we preach, this is it. Not only are we encouraged to help others, but we are also warned about giving bad example or leading others, particularly children, away from the Lord.
I have spoken to many people who say that they became a Christian because of the example of people in their family, friends or strangers whose joy is so great they want a part of it. I also know people who have turned away from the faith they once had because they consider those who proclaim themselves to be Christian are hypocrites. Most people don't start out wanting to be Christians because of doctrine. They are influenced one way or another by people. Are you someone whose life exhibits the joy of knowing Jesus and his saving power? Am I? Do your actions give testimony to your beliefs? A person can go to church each week, Bible classes during the week and give every impression of being a devout follower of ...
Morning Prayer
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Inspiration
There is nothing at all – nothing on the earth and nothing in the spiritual realms – that can separate us from the love of Christ. No matter what any person or principality tries to do in our lives, they will never be able to quash the love Christ has for us. The love God has for us is eternal – it is here to stay for good.
Prayer
Dear God, I thank you for the love that you have for me. Thank you, Lord, that this love will never leave me and it will never forsake me. No matter what anyone tries, or whatever may come my way, Lord, I thank you that your love will always be with me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Night Prayer
I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
Inspiration
As Christians, we know that we find peace in God. And today, we’re reminded that He promises peace to His people. But we have to do our part, which is listening. It’s when we turn away from wisdom and pursue foolish and selfish endeavors that peace eludes us. But when we turn our ears to His wisdom, He leads us on the path to peace.
Prayer
God, in You I have received peace that passes understanding. Speak Your wisdom to me, and teach me to not be distracted by my own foolish ambitions. Give me ears to hear You so that I may remain close to You and move in Your peace wherever I go. In Jesus’ name, amen.
