Devotion
Do As I Say, Not As I Do
Frances Taylor
How often have we heard these words! We know what to do, we can even teach others what is right, but do we follow through and listen to ourselves? I believe that is why we get so upset when a teacher, minister, judge or policeman gets into trouble for doing the wrong thing. After all they are the ones who either teach or enforce the rules for others. As Christians we are expected to be examples, role models for Christian behavior. We are called to be loving and forgiving, and therefore called to a higher moral standard than non-believers I once heard an interesting question given during a sermon: "If the Christians were being persecuted today, would there be enough evidence to convict you?" Would they find kindness, would they see a life dedicated to serving others? If they followed you, or me, for a week, could they tell that you are the Christian in the group? I can only judge myself and know that there have been times when I would have been embarrassed by my behavior. I know that I was not always patient with my children, or kind to co-workers, or friends. There certainly have been times when I could have been less judgmental and more willing to go the extra mile for a friend. I only ask that God gives me the grace to be a better example going forward.
Prayer
Lord, you expect more from me than I have been willing to give. Help me to be a better teacher by my actions than I have been in the past. Amen.
Night Prayer
To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
Inspiration
When multiple flocks of sheep become blended, there is no need to worry. The good shepherd will call out to his sheep, and they come directly to him because they know his voice and will not confuse it with others. As God's people, we often become mixed up in things of the world. Sin is tempting as we surround ourselves with the wrong crowd; God is always watching and calls us back to the fold. We find Him when we are lost because we know the sound of His voice; it's the only one we've chosen to follow, and we do not confuse it with others.
Prayer
Dear God, when we are lost, we listen for You. Your voice is precious and will guide us back to the fold where we belong. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion
The Word of God
Frances Taylor
If there's one thing I know about Christians and the Bible, is that there is an ongoing debate about whether it is the word of God or the word of men, and what that means. We all agree that the Bible is the living revealed word of God, but! There are wide differences in how that is interpreted. There are some who believe that every word of the Bible was dictated to someone who wrote it down. For others it is purely men's thoughts. For others, men were inspired by God to write their experience of God. I don't know where you find yourself on this continuum.
For most people who believe that the Bible is inspired either word for word or as guided by God, the Bible tells God's truth. Unfortunately for those of us who speak English, we have to rely the sources we have had over the years as guides to how the Scriptures should be interpreted. I have had many people ask me which translation is correct, but there's no clear answer.
The Bible has been translated ...
Morning Prayer
For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;
Inspiration
Suffering will be a part of our lives as Christians. The New Testament is filled with warnings about the suffering Christians will incur because of their decision to follow Christ and not the ways of the world. Millions of Christians across the world are subjected to torture, isolation, and mockery just because they have chosen to follow Christ. But Christ has also assured us that we will not endure this suffering alone, and a reward lies ahead for all of those who suffer for the name of Jesus Christ.
Prayer
Dear God, I pray that in times of persecution and great tribulations, may you strengthen me and encourage me to keep going on. I also pray for my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who endure great pain and torture for choosing to follow you. May you comfort them in these trying times, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
