Devotion
Heirs With Christ
Frances Taylor
Paul, in quoting Jesus, tells us that as children of God we have the right to call God" Daddy." This is what "Abba" means, not the more formal Father. We are heirs of heaven so we should not have a spirit of fear. Have you ever thought of what it means to have God as "Daddy?" I'd like you to think for a few minutes about what it might feel like. If we were in the same room, I'd ask you to close your eyes for this meditation. Picture your favorite peaceful spot. It may be in your home, or in a part, or as for me, watching the water lap the shore. You sit on a comfortable chair or bench and God comes and sits beside you. He invites you to share with him, all your concerns, worries, fears, all that is bothering you. You pour your heart out to him as he sits smiling at you. There is no judgment in his eyes, only love. Soon, you are finished and wonder what God will say. Instead, he puts his arms around you and tells you how much he loves you. He tells you that he is with you and will help you carry your burdens; you only need to trust him. After a few minutes, he gets up and walks away. Feeling lighter and refreshed, you return to your day, knowing you have a loving forgiving father that will always be there when you need to talk to him.
Prayer
Father, you are there watching over us as a loving parent. Help us to remember that we can always come to you when we need to talk and we believe that you will answer us. 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.
