Devotion
The Work Continues
Frances Taylor
Paul has branched out of Judea and into Lystra, where there were more Gentiles than Jews. On the strength of his preaching, both Jews and Gentiles came to believe in Jesus. But, there was also a growing crowd of both Jews and Gentiles who combined to drive him from the area. Paul and Barnabas were driven out but that didn't stop them from spreading the good news. Missionaries today go into areas where there are people who still need to know that God loves them and has a plan for their lives. They are also similar to Paul and Barnabas that they are sometimes abused, beaten or run out of the country. The world is still a dangerous place for anyone bringing change, especially change that challenges their way of life. Christianity does call for a change in the way the poor are treated and justice is seen as a way of bringing peace. People are still healed though usually with less fanfare. God is still making his presence known. Men and women still are willing to take their chances and work with God's people to witness the love of God to them. They work on bringing better housing, medical care, education, clean water and so many other necessary things to those in the greatest need to show them in practical ways that their brothers and sisters in Christ have not abandoned them. For those of us who cannot go into the field, we can pray.
Prayer
Lord, your children everywhere need to know of your love for them. May we pray for those whom you have chosen to work in the field. 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.
