Devotion
Say Thank You
Frances Taylor
As small children we were all taught to say please and thank you, but as adults we sometimes forget. This psalm reminds us that we owe God a thank you for everything we have. Gratitude is so important but we often forget that it is God who provides us with what we need. When things go wrong, or when we want something, we have no problem asking God to intervene and provide us with what we want. We sometimes get upset with God when things don't go the way we wanted, when God says no or maybe later, but how often do we remember to say thanks? When things are going smoothly, we also can forget about God. Do we ever think that things going smoothly is a result of God's goodness? I try very hard to remember to say thanks every night before going to sleep. I find it a habit I have developed over the years thanks to my grandmother and if I forget, I wake up later as if she's prompting me from heaven! God is not going to strike me with lightening if I forget, but I know that my life is more peaceful when I remember. Gratitude is a habit we should all develop and it helps us recognize how much more we have than how much we lack. It helps us focus on the positive rather than the negative and that leads to a more joyous life. We all know that God has saved us, but do we also think about the small gifts he gives us each day? Let's always remember to say thank you.
Prayer
Lord you give us so much. It's easy to think that the small victories we have each day are of our own doing, but without you, we can do nothing. Thank you for your abiding presence. Amen.
Devotion
How Do You Choose Your Friends?
Frances Taylor
How do we choose our friends? This week's gospel is about this question as much as it is about humility. I'm sure that when we make up an invitation list for a party or other special event we consider a lot of things, but Jesus is trying to tell us something important in this week's gospel that goes beyond just who we invite, he is also telling us to consider some things about ourselves. This can apply to all age groups!
Our children will learn from us and sometimes we need to learn from our children. Are there people we don't include in our circle of friends because of what other people might think? Perhaps people who are of another race, those who earn less money, people whose educational level is not the same as ours? I know that weddings can often be a bone of contention in families because someone feels the need to invite "the boss" or other people of influence even though there has never been any social interaction before. There ...
Morning Prayer
I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?
Inspiration
Remember the childhood phrase, "Sticks and stones can hurt my bones but words can never hurt me? " Now think about how often we are hurt by the words of another person. Most of us are very sensitive towards the words and actions of other people, rarely seeking refuge in the love of God. Next time someone does something that hurts you, focus on God's love instead of the evil thoughts that can easily follow these times. Gradually, God's love will set you free.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for all that you have done for me. I thank you for loving me and helping me understand what love is. Strengthen me in times that are difficult, aiding me when I am hurt so that I can love even my enemies. I know that through you, all things are possible, and I humbly ask that you help me grow with you in life's ...
Night Prayer
But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
Inspiration
We must be sincere with our generosity and give in abundance. God blesses us beyond our means, in some form or fashion. He allows us to provide for those in need with our finances, labor, or time. Our world is broken and filled with those who desperately seek light amidst the darkness. We minister to them by providing for their needs, making our actions reflect Your love.
Prayer
Dear Lord, show us opportunities to share all Your blessings. Help us, minister, to others in a manner that reflects your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
