Devotion
You Are With Me
Frances Taylor
Jesus has come to show us the path of life. All we need to do is follow it. We all want joy and happiness in our lives, and we spend a lot of time looking for ways to get it. Think about the times that have made you happy. They probably aren't about things. They're probably times that have been spent with loved ones, or experiences we have shared. As much as the advertising agencies might try to convince us, things won't make us happy. Oh, we might have a momentary thrill when we get a new car, or a great outfit, or nice piece of jewelry, but how long does the feeling last? Unless that new piece of jewelry was an engagement ring, probably not long! But watching your children sleeping, or sharing a beautiful sunset with a friend brings us happiness not just for the moment, but every time we recapture that memory. Love brings us joy, doing the right thing gives us a feeling of satisfaction that no "thing" can give. When we walk in the light of Christ, knowing that God is with us, we can even get through the dark days with confidence that we will come out the other side and we will find joy again. The key is to walk in the light of faith just as Jesus did, knowing his Father was at his side.
Prayer
Lord, help us to keep our eyes on Jesus who will always be with us to show us the way to true joy and true happiness that will last beyond this lifetime. 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.
