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 into English many times over the years. One of the first English translations that was considered reasonable accurate was the King James Version. However, we have discovered ancient documents since then that have added greatly to our understanding. Even the King James has been updated and revised. The New American Bible, the New International Version, the Good News Bible, various study Bibles and themed Bibles have been published. Some of these Bibles will include those Old Testament Books and portions of books that were originally written in Greek, and some will not. The reason for this goes back to Martin Luther who decided that the Old Testament should contain only what was in the Jewish Hebrew Bible.
Regardless of which Bible we choose, we should read it, not hide it on a shelf, and learn from it what God wants us to learn. As the living Word, it has something to say to us, personally as well as collectively. Just read!
Prayer
Thank you, Lord for giving us your word to follow. We know that you are always guiding us to the knowledge of you and of your love for us. 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.
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.
Night Prayer
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.
Inspiration
A sheep pen typically has one door, which allows the shepherd and gatekeeper complete control over who may go in and out. Those who jump over the fence do not have permission and are considered thieves or robbers who intend to harm the flock. Jesus stands guard to prevent false prophets from jumping into our lives. He is on constant watch and lays His life down to defend the entrance. We are oblivious to danger lurking beyond our pen because our faith rests in the love of our Lord and Savior.
Prayer
Dear Lord, You consistently protect our hearts from dangers we do not understand. We love You and remain faithful to You always and forever. In Jesus' name, Amen.
