Devotion
Jonah and Me
Frances Taylor
We are all acquainted with the story of Jonah. He didn't like the path the Lord planned for him, so he ran – sailed – in the opposite direction. We know the end of the story as well. Jonah finally did what the Lord wanted him to do. Jonah didn't want the people of Nineveh to be saved from the Lord's wrath, so he didn't want to help save them. I have always loved the story of Jonah because it reminds me of myself and my often unwillingness to go where the Lord calls me to go. When I was in college I avoided all classes that would lead me to teach. My father finally convinced me that I needed to be practical if I wanted to get a job! Many years later, I recognized his wisdom and became what I had fought against – I taught! Life provided me with opportunities to bring the gospel to areas of the world I never thought I would see. In Tanzania, I had the opportunity to be a part of bringing God's love to Christian and Muslim alike. I am often in wonder of the graces God bestowed on me once I realized the plans he had for me and followed his call. God challenges each of us, just as he challenged Jonah to go in a direction not of our choosing. We can run in the opposite direction, but sooner or later, God points us in the right direction and our lives are better for it, and his mission for us, is accomplished.
Prayer
O Lord, I know I can be stubborn just as Jonah was, but I truly desire to do your will. Help me to be more open to your plan for me. Amen.
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.
