Good Morning!! God loves us,...but we will still experience events that cause fear and pain. The loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or abandonment by one we love, may produce, or magnify these feelings of fear and pain. But harboring these emotions, rather than God's Love, can negatively impact our lives, to the point of making us emotionally crippled.
There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us.—1 John 4:18-19 (NRSV)
As we begin to give the fear and pain over to God, we start experience God's peace. Then, we become free, to show love to others, by acts as simple as smiling at a stranger,...or practicing understanding and self-control in a lasting and loving relationship.
Put simply; Letting go of old hurts and fears, frees us to embrace life.
Sweet Spirit of God, help us to keep the greatest of all commandments; LOVE. Help us to let go of our hurts and fears,...so that we may more fully accept and share the love our Father has so readily given to us. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Love Rather Than Judge
Good Morning!! Jesus was teaching in the Temple, when some local religious leaders brought in a woman. They sternly condemned the woman's adulterous behavior,...which was punishable by death. They intended to use her transgression to trap Jesus, in a response that might counter the law of Moses. Instead, Jesus began writing in the dust. He did not excuse the woman's actions,...but He told her not to do it again. Jesus understood that the real need in the woman's life was for love,...not judgment.
Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again."—John 8:11 (NRSV)
How frequently do we judge our others without knowing the facts,...or more importantly, without compassion? Like those religious leaders in the text, we sometimes have 20/20 vision regarding the errors of others,...while we remain blind to our own transgressions. During this Christmas season, let us open our hearts to God's grace, so we can be channels of the Gift the world needs most,...God's redeeming love.
Be more ready and willing to love others,
...rather than judge them.
Father God, bestow on us more compassion, for all Your people. Help us to better reflect Your love, every day. Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you. Go your way, and from now on do not sin again."—John 8:11 (NRSV)
How frequently do we judge our others without knowing the facts,...or more importantly, without compassion? Like those religious leaders in the text, we sometimes have 20/20 vision regarding the errors of others,...while we remain blind to our own transgressions. During this Christmas season, let us open our hearts to God's grace, so we can be channels of the Gift the world needs most,...God's redeeming love.
Be more ready and willing to love others,
...rather than judge them.
Father God, bestow on us more compassion, for all Your people. Help us to better reflect Your love, every day. Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Practice Makes Perfect
Good Morning!! Don't become discouraged when love, peace, and patience don't seem to come naturally,...we all make mistakes, and stumble. But as we continue to turn our attention to all that is "true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable",...we are assured that God is with us, and will give us His peace. If you've never failed, it's only because you've never tried.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.—Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Paul tells us to practice what is noble, right, pure, honorable, and so on. Because when we repeatedly choose to turn our hearts and minds to these things,...we mature. Christian character becomes a natural part of our lives. There is no aspect of our living, that can not benifit from more practice.
Grace is God working with us, as we work to grow in our faith.
Thank You, Father, for our lessons in faith, and life. Now we just need Your help to put them into practice. Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.—Philippians 4:8-9 (NIV)
Paul tells us to practice what is noble, right, pure, honorable, and so on. Because when we repeatedly choose to turn our hearts and minds to these things,...we mature. Christian character becomes a natural part of our lives. There is no aspect of our living, that can not benifit from more practice.
Grace is God working with us, as we work to grow in our faith.
Thank You, Father, for our lessons in faith, and life. Now we just need Your help to put them into practice. Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Seeing Value
Good Morning!! One of the ways that I found to save, is by setting my change aside. I have one container with nothing but pennies. Many were picked from the ground, thrown away, because people fail to see their value. Often, by the time I'm ready to turn my change in, I have several hundred dollars. Sure it takes awhile, but even pennies add up.
Keeping God's commands is what counts.—1 Corinthians 7:19 (NIV)
Like those who toss pennies aside, we sometimes throw important things away, thinking they are trivial. We forget to offer a kind word, or a smile to those who walk by,...a simple word of encouragement can mean a lot. People with little or no family around can appreciate a phone call, now and then, just to say hello. Do a chore for someone, or take someone someplace they need to go,...just because you can. Maybe we could just let someone know we're thinking of them, and they haven't been forgotten. That might not seem like a lot either, but to someone in need, it means the world.
Sometimes doing great things for God,
...means doing little things for others.
Sweet Spirit of God, may we learn to be keepers,...keepers of Your Words, and keepers of Christ's example in good works and deeds. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Keeping God's commands is what counts.—1 Corinthians 7:19 (NIV)
Like those who toss pennies aside, we sometimes throw important things away, thinking they are trivial. We forget to offer a kind word, or a smile to those who walk by,...a simple word of encouragement can mean a lot. People with little or no family around can appreciate a phone call, now and then, just to say hello. Do a chore for someone, or take someone someplace they need to go,...just because you can. Maybe we could just let someone know we're thinking of them, and they haven't been forgotten. That might not seem like a lot either, but to someone in need, it means the world.
Sometimes doing great things for God,
...means doing little things for others.
Sweet Spirit of God, may we learn to be keepers,...keepers of Your Words, and keepers of Christ's example in good works and deeds. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives), ch. 17, quoting Charles Swindoll
Monday, December 27, 2010
Only One Way
Good Morning!! What's The Truth,...Is There More Than One Way To Get To Heaven? We've all been bombarded with philosophies and ideas that are often diametrically opposed to one another. I have friends that look for spiritual growth or awakening,...they read self-help books, watch tapes and listen to charismatic speakers. All to discover a purpose for this life or how to enter a better after-life. They just want to know the truth.
Jesus said to [Thomas], "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."—John 14:6 (NRSV)
The center of faith and life is not found in a philosophy but a person. Jesus Christ is the Son of God, Lord of Creation, and Savior of the world. By God's grace, he is our Lord and Savior. Allow that truth to move from the top of your head to the bottom of your heart, and you'll never be the same. That is the real Truth.
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell." (Col. 1:19)
Jesus and only Jesus, is the way, the truth, and the life.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives)
Jesus said to [Thomas], "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."—John 14:6 (NRSV)
The center of faith and life is not found in a philosophy but a person. Jesus Christ is the Son of God, Lord of Creation, and Savior of the world. By God's grace, he is our Lord and Savior. Allow that truth to move from the top of your head to the bottom of your heart, and you'll never be the same. That is the real Truth.
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell." (Col. 1:19)
Jesus and only Jesus, is the way, the truth, and the life.
"Disscouraged people don't need critics.
They don't need more guilt or piled-on distress.
They need encouragement."
(from Praying for our Marriage: 100 Devotions and Prayers for Husbands and Wives)
Friday, December 24, 2010
God Comes To Us
Good Morning!! Where do we find God? I used to think that the best time and place to find God was in church. But the shepherds were watching over their sheep. Like so many others, we meet God, while we're working.
There were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them.—Luke 2:8-9 (KJV)
The angel of the Lord came to the shepherds during the course of an evening's work, and they saw the glory of the Lord shining around them and lighting up the sky. The angel told them that the Savior had been born and was lying in a manger in the City of David. As the shepherds looked after their sheep, "a multitude of the heavenly host" appeared and sang the heavenly anthem: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace" (Luke 2:13-14). What they saw moved them to look for Jesus.
We too can encounter God in the humdrum tasks of every day,
...if we look, we will see God coming to us.
God, make us diligent in our daily tasks, and reveal to us your glory. Through Jesus Christ. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
There were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them.—Luke 2:8-9 (KJV)
The angel of the Lord came to the shepherds during the course of an evening's work, and they saw the glory of the Lord shining around them and lighting up the sky. The angel told them that the Savior had been born and was lying in a manger in the City of David. As the shepherds looked after their sheep, "a multitude of the heavenly host" appeared and sang the heavenly anthem: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace" (Luke 2:13-14). What they saw moved them to look for Jesus.
We too can encounter God in the humdrum tasks of every day,
...if we look, we will see God coming to us.
God, make us diligent in our daily tasks, and reveal to us your glory. Through Jesus Christ. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Thursday, December 23, 2010
It's Never Too Heavey For God
Good Morning!! Carrying the weight of too many concerns makes our heart ache,...inwardly, we double over with the pain. Just as we tend to carry too much of a physical load,...we have a tendency of toting too many problems, for too long.
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."—Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)
The loads of life weigh too much for us to carry alone. We all know people can carry much heavier loads by sharing the burden with another. In a similar way, God offers to take the other handle of our baggage,...and If we allow Him, we'll find that He will willingly carry whatever weighs us down.
God's advice was, "You're carrying too many cares,
...stop and give them to me."
Father in Heaven, thank You for helping us with our problems. Remind us to bring our burdens to You instead of trying to carry them alone. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."—Matthew 11:28 (NRSV)
The loads of life weigh too much for us to carry alone. We all know people can carry much heavier loads by sharing the burden with another. In a similar way, God offers to take the other handle of our baggage,...and If we allow Him, we'll find that He will willingly carry whatever weighs us down.
God's advice was, "You're carrying too many cares,
...stop and give them to me."
Father in Heaven, thank You for helping us with our problems. Remind us to bring our burdens to You instead of trying to carry them alone. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Be Sure It's God
Good Morning!! Sometimes even though we believe we are "tuned in" to God, we may not hear God clearly. God's voice can be masked, or filtered out by the noise of the world,...if we are too close to the signals the world is sending. These opposing signals can come from many sources,...and they are anything that disagrees with what God's Word teaches.
Paul said, "Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me."—2 Timothy 4:10 (NRSV)
The passage of scripture above references us to the fact, that we must love the Lord our God with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind. But as we spend more time listening to God's voice, we can better filter out all those other, conflicting voices that interrupt our communication with God.
Don't simply adjust to mixed or crossed signals,
...filter them out, with God's Word.
Sweet Spirit of God, help us to better hear You. Show us the areas where we've become too comfortable with the messages of the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Paul said, "Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me."—2 Timothy 4:10 (NRSV)
The passage of scripture above references us to the fact, that we must love the Lord our God with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind. But as we spend more time listening to God's voice, we can better filter out all those other, conflicting voices that interrupt our communication with God.
Don't simply adjust to mixed or crossed signals,
...filter them out, with God's Word.
Sweet Spirit of God, help us to better hear You. Show us the areas where we've become too comfortable with the messages of the world. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
God Hears Us
Good Morning!! A call came late one night, from a friend who was struggling with his life, and his job. He needed someone to just listen to him. I was tired, grumpy, and I didn't want to hear about someone else's problems,...but I listened. Before I knew it, an hour had passed.
Blessed be the LORD, for he has heard the sound of my pleadings.—Psalm 28:6 (NRSV)
I didn't say all that much,...I asked a few questions and affirmed the direction he was already leaning in. Before we said goodnight, he confidently, and gratefully said; "Thanks for listening. You've helped me so much. I can't believe that I hesitated to call you!" I felt as though, I was God's ram in the bush,...just what my friend needed,...when he needed it. I can't believe how close I came, to missing a chance, to reflect Christ.
Though we may often hesitate to call out,...God is our first source of comfort, the one who always hears, understands, and responds.
Loving God, hear our prayers and hear our cries. Let us know again and again that you are God and that you hold all things in your hands. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Blessed be the LORD, for he has heard the sound of my pleadings.—Psalm 28:6 (NRSV)
I didn't say all that much,...I asked a few questions and affirmed the direction he was already leaning in. Before we said goodnight, he confidently, and gratefully said; "Thanks for listening. You've helped me so much. I can't believe that I hesitated to call you!" I felt as though, I was God's ram in the bush,...just what my friend needed,...when he needed it. I can't believe how close I came, to missing a chance, to reflect Christ.
Though we may often hesitate to call out,...God is our first source of comfort, the one who always hears, understands, and responds.
Loving God, hear our prayers and hear our cries. Let us know again and again that you are God and that you hold all things in your hands. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Monday, December 20, 2010
UNCONDITIONAL
Good Morning!! God loves us, just as we are. When I was younger, I had a list of rules that other people had to follow to earn, or keep my love. I was so self-righteous, and expected a lot from others,...often more than I was able to give. Each day, I am learning more about how to love,...no matter what. Learning to love this way, is key, to making our lives fuller and brighter.
Now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.—1 Corinthians 13:13 (NRSV)
God's love is unconditional,...it's love with no barriers, no boundaries, and no conditions. Put simply, God just loves us. I now want to love others, that freely and fully. When we realized that God sees all our faults and sins,...and still loves us dearly.
We can not continue to put conditions on the love we give.
Dear God, help us to love as you love us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.—1 Corinthians 13:13 (NRSV)
God's love is unconditional,...it's love with no barriers, no boundaries, and no conditions. Put simply, God just loves us. I now want to love others, that freely and fully. When we realized that God sees all our faults and sins,...and still loves us dearly.
We can not continue to put conditions on the love we give.
Dear God, help us to love as you love us. In Jesus' name. Amen.
"GOD is LOVE."
Friday, December 17, 2010
Live Thankful
Good Morning!! Paul wrote to the Ephesians, reminding them that living under God's love means giving God thanks in all that life brings,...even in times of distress. Learning to do so will changed the way you both see and live. Old problems, and long-held grievances, yield to the power of thankful living.
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father.—Ephesians 5:20 (TEV)
Instead of being filled with regret or anger about what has not gone our way, we must learn to give thanks for the many blessing we receive daily. Instead of approaching adverse work situations and difficult people as a cross to be endured, look at them as opportunities to practice patience, and show compassion.
When we look for reasons to give thanks, we find them.
Thanks be to God!
My Lord, My God, You make all things new in Jesus Christ. Give us thankful hearts so that all things are transformed in Your love. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid"
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, always give thanks for everything to God the Father.—Ephesians 5:20 (TEV)
Instead of being filled with regret or anger about what has not gone our way, we must learn to give thanks for the many blessing we receive daily. Instead of approaching adverse work situations and difficult people as a cross to be endured, look at them as opportunities to practice patience, and show compassion.
When we look for reasons to give thanks, we find them.
Thanks be to God!
My Lord, My God, You make all things new in Jesus Christ. Give us thankful hearts so that all things are transformed in Your love. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid"
Thursday, December 16, 2010
God Won't Forget You
Good Morning!! I'm not sure if there is a hidden meaning, for precise number 153, in today's scripture. I do know that it was a great catch. The fishermen were disciples of Jesus and had returned to their trade after a three-year absence. After an unsuccessful night of fishing,...a suggestion from someone standing on the shore, resulted in a net full of fish.
Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn.—John 21:11 (NIV)
Peter and the others later discovered; that not only was the Master Fisherman alive, but he had a fire built,...and breakfast waiting for them. I see the specifics of 153 large fish, as reassuring. Not one was overlooked,...each was important and was counted. This passage should reassure us all, that not one of us, is ever overlooked by God.
Just as promised,...
God is always waiting to welcome, and feed us.
Father God, we thank You for Your word, which speaks to us the blessed assurance of Your love forever, in Jesus Christ. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn.—John 21:11 (NIV)
Peter and the others later discovered; that not only was the Master Fisherman alive, but he had a fire built,...and breakfast waiting for them. I see the specifics of 153 large fish, as reassuring. Not one was overlooked,...each was important and was counted. This passage should reassure us all, that not one of us, is ever overlooked by God.
Just as promised,...
God is always waiting to welcome, and feed us.
Father God, we thank You for Your word, which speaks to us the blessed assurance of Your love forever, in Jesus Christ. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Be Strong Enough To Give It To GOD
Good Morning!! Even today, I still find myself attempting to rely on my own strength, to make it through this world. I like to think of myself as a competent, self-reliant, independent person. Whether handling problems and crises as a husband and grand-father or as a maintenance electrician,...I tend to rely on my own resources to manage my life. Sometimes, I'm almost convinced, that there isn't any circumstance that my reasoning and willpower can't overcome.
Paul said, "I am convinced that neither death nor life . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
However, I do realized that we have to trust God to take care of our situations, circumstances and yes even take care of us. There will be times when we're lost,...unable fix the situation,...unable to undo it,...just helpless, and filled with fear and panic. Times when our own resources are useless to help us,....when we can't do anything more than pray, and release things into God's care.
We can entrust all things that we're concerned about, into the loving care of God.
Father in Heaven, we thank You for the promise that nothing can separate us from Your love,...not even our foolishness. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Paul said, "I am convinced that neither death nor life . . . nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."—Romans 8:38-39 (NIV)
However, I do realized that we have to trust God to take care of our situations, circumstances and yes even take care of us. There will be times when we're lost,...unable fix the situation,...unable to undo it,...just helpless, and filled with fear and panic. Times when our own resources are useless to help us,....when we can't do anything more than pray, and release things into God's care.
We can entrust all things that we're concerned about, into the loving care of God.
Father in Heaven, we thank You for the promise that nothing can separate us from Your love,...not even our foolishness. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
God Is With Us
Good Morning, My Friend!! Even though there are times when we have to move ahead with uneasiness or dread, we thank God because we do not travel the road alone. Just as God has been with us, all along the way we've already come,...God also goes with us on our journey, guiding us through what ever may come.
You will show me the path that leads to life; your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.—Psalm 16:11 (TEV)
On those occasions or at times when we feel as though we can't go on,...it is good to stop, rest, and reflect on how far we have come already. But our comfortable places aren't meant as stopping points. Remember that in all we do, and wherever we go,...God is with us. JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH meaning "The Lord who is present".......Ezekiel 48:35
On each day's journey, God is our constant companion.
Loving God, You have traveled with us on our journey through life. Continue to lead us into the future and help us to be aware of Your presence every step of the way. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
You will show me the path that leads to life; your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.—Psalm 16:11 (TEV)
On those occasions or at times when we feel as though we can't go on,...it is good to stop, rest, and reflect on how far we have come already. But our comfortable places aren't meant as stopping points. Remember that in all we do, and wherever we go,...God is with us. JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH meaning "The Lord who is present".......Ezekiel 48:35
On each day's journey, God is our constant companion.
Loving God, You have traveled with us on our journey through life. Continue to lead us into the future and help us to be aware of Your presence every step of the way. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Monday, December 13, 2010
Know God
Good Morning!! A true relationship with God, through Jesus, brings better self-esteem, and an inner peace that few can begin to imagine. We will trade a materialistic attitude and obsession with money, for the satisfaction of helping others.
Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.—Colossians 3:12 (NRSV)
So why do so many settle for empty religion, when they can have personal spirituality. We have only to repent, and draw closer to God, through prayer and meditation. In return, we receive all that we need to endure this life,...as well as a greater experience of peace, love, and joy in the next.
Christ came to set us free, from all, that would separate us from the Love of God.
Thank you, Lord, for listening to all our prayers and requests. Help us to trust your promises to us and to rely on your word. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved.—Colossians 3:12 (NRSV)
So why do so many settle for empty religion, when they can have personal spirituality. We have only to repent, and draw closer to God, through prayer and meditation. In return, we receive all that we need to endure this life,...as well as a greater experience of peace, love, and joy in the next.
Christ came to set us free, from all, that would separate us from the Love of God.
Thank you, Lord, for listening to all our prayers and requests. Help us to trust your promises to us and to rely on your word. Amen.
"Because God is with us,...we do not have to be afraid".
Friday, December 10, 2010
Perspective
Good Morning!! Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, we can't tell why a particular thing happens in our life. It is only when we gain a different perspective, that we see God's hand at work. It's our time with God that gives us that new perspective.
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
Sometimes all it takes is a walk in the woods,...a phone call to, or from a friend,...or reading scripture and the daily devotions to help us see the world around us, from a different viewpoint,...and to realize that God is acting on our behalf.
God's gracious action is woven into all the events and relationships in our lives.
O God, to You belongs all the praise for the majesty and glory of creation. We thank You for Your everlasting presence in our lives. May we remember we walk with Your protection, and in Your Light daily. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
Sometimes all it takes is a walk in the woods,...a phone call to, or from a friend,...or reading scripture and the daily devotions to help us see the world around us, from a different viewpoint,...and to realize that God is acting on our behalf.
God's gracious action is woven into all the events and relationships in our lives.
O God, to You belongs all the praise for the majesty and glory of creation. We thank You for Your everlasting presence in our lives. May we remember we walk with Your protection, and in Your Light daily. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Christ-Like
Good Morning!! The hassles of everyday living can take their toll on love, peace, and joy. Like a pop quiz, we get opportunities to show the love of God, thrust upon us. But too often, we are simply unprepared. Leaving us, and others to wonder how or why, we call ourselves Christians,...when we don't act like Christ.
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
As we submit to Christ, His character is formed in us. As we reflect this character in our daily lives, we give the world and ourselves, fewer reasons to wonder what happened to love, peace, and joy. It's our own words and actions, in ordinary situations, that can either block, or promote what God wants for us.
Be ready to reflect Christ in daily choices,...there will always be a test.
Dear God, in every situation, help us to reflect the character of Jesus Christ. Let You light forever shine in us. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.—Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
As we submit to Christ, His character is formed in us. As we reflect this character in our daily lives, we give the world and ourselves, fewer reasons to wonder what happened to love, peace, and joy. It's our own words and actions, in ordinary situations, that can either block, or promote what God wants for us.
Be ready to reflect Christ in daily choices,...there will always be a test.
Dear God, in every situation, help us to reflect the character of Jesus Christ. Let You light forever shine in us. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
For God
Good Morning!! In a mobile world, random acts of kindness extended even to strangers, can be the beginning of ministry. How open are you to those in need? Will they be able to see the love of God in your enteractions?
The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these . . . you did for me."—Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
The gift of hospitality is often neglected in our hurried and sometimes impersonal world. The words of Jesus remind us to care for strangers.
Reach out with love,...when we welcome strangers, we welcome Jesus.
Dear God, make us receptive to the needs of others, especially those whom we do not know,...and may even fear. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these . . . you did for me."—Matthew 25:40 (NIV)
The gift of hospitality is often neglected in our hurried and sometimes impersonal world. The words of Jesus remind us to care for strangers.
Reach out with love,...when we welcome strangers, we welcome Jesus.
Dear God, make us receptive to the needs of others, especially those whom we do not know,...and may even fear. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
First Things First
Good Morning!! When I seem to have too many things on my plate, and I begin to feel distressed and disconnected,...I'm called back to the habits and teachings my grandmother put to work in her own life. First things, came first; eat vegetables before dessert,...do homework before play,...complete chores before going anywhere,...and tithe your money to God's work through the church before you start spending.
Seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.—Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Ordering our priorities, sets our affairs in place. Jesus taught that the kingdom of God, and God's righteousness, are to be given top priority. Our lives will be less stressful and more whole when we establish the priority of God's kingdom in the habits of our lives.
As Christians, all else should be secondary to living our faith.
Our Father in Heaven, help us to understand how You desire us to order our lives. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Seek first [God's] kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.—Matthew 6:33 (NIV)
Ordering our priorities, sets our affairs in place. Jesus taught that the kingdom of God, and God's righteousness, are to be given top priority. Our lives will be less stressful and more whole when we establish the priority of God's kingdom in the habits of our lives.
As Christians, all else should be secondary to living our faith.
Our Father in Heaven, help us to understand how You desire us to order our lives. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Monday, December 6, 2010
Look Ahead
Good Morning!! The angel said to Lot's wife: "Don't look back." But Lot's wife looked at the burning city of Sodom,...and became a pillar of salt. If she had chosen to look ahead, she would have begun the process of leaving the past behind her, and moving to the future that God promised.
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.—Isaiah 43:18 (NIV)
Most of the time, the only thing holding us to our past is us. God has forgiven us. Those that would hold us in the past, do so,...only because we allow them to. Learn to; Let It Go. Stop living in the past, stop looking back. Look ahead,...and see the past only through the lens of God's forgiveness. Because of God, we have a future that's so much better than our past.
Let you past be your past,...forgive yourself, and forgive others.
Father, thank You for forgiving and forgetting our past. And thank You for enabling us, by the power of your Holy Spirit,...to do the same thing for ourselves and others. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past.—Isaiah 43:18 (NIV)
Most of the time, the only thing holding us to our past is us. God has forgiven us. Those that would hold us in the past, do so,...only because we allow them to. Learn to; Let It Go. Stop living in the past, stop looking back. Look ahead,...and see the past only through the lens of God's forgiveness. Because of God, we have a future that's so much better than our past.
Let you past be your past,...forgive yourself, and forgive others.
Father, thank You for forgiving and forgetting our past. And thank You for enabling us, by the power of your Holy Spirit,...to do the same thing for ourselves and others. Amen.
"If we can hope,...we can cope".
Friday, December 3, 2010
Line Of Sight
Good Morning, Great Friday!! God watches over us as we move through life. God puts out a steadying hand, we have only to grasp it in prayer,...and we shall be helped. Our road may be steep and winding, our terrain rough, and our path slippery. But whether easy to follow, or hard,...God is there, all along the way, guiding and protecting us.
I cling to you, and your hand keeps me safe.—Psalm 63:8 (TEV)
Know that God has a full view of the paths we travel through life, even though we sometimes cannot see the way very well, from our vantage point. He is leading us to great things,...trust Him, praise Him!
The more we trust God,...the more we'll want to.
O God, help us to trust you and keep close to you. Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
I cling to you, and your hand keeps me safe.—Psalm 63:8 (TEV)
Know that God has a full view of the paths we travel through life, even though we sometimes cannot see the way very well, from our vantage point. He is leading us to great things,...trust Him, praise Him!
The more we trust God,...the more we'll want to.
O God, help us to trust you and keep close to you. Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Pray
Good Morning!! In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul illustrated the bond of community by comparing us to the human body. He said we are different parts but still belong to the same body; we are interrelated and need one another. No one person has all the gifts of the Spirit,...we have different but related gifts. And that makes community necessary for wholeness.
Jesus prayed, "The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one."—Psalm 73:24 (NRSV)
God has called us together through Jesus into one family. It is a bond created in heaven and strengthened on earth as we work together in serving God. This is the pattern of personal relationships that's to be our model.
Each time the Holy Spirit prompts, pray for others,...even if you don't know why.
Blessed Holy Spirit, help us to love, respect, and care for one another. Teach us to live in community. In Jesus' name. Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
Jesus prayed, "The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one."—Psalm 73:24 (NRSV)
God has called us together through Jesus into one family. It is a bond created in heaven and strengthened on earth as we work together in serving God. This is the pattern of personal relationships that's to be our model.
Each time the Holy Spirit prompts, pray for others,...even if you don't know why.
Blessed Holy Spirit, help us to love, respect, and care for one another. Teach us to live in community. In Jesus' name. Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Gain from Lost
Good Morning!! We are told in the Bible that Job lost almost all that mattered,...his possessions, his children, and his health. He cried out to God,...not only because he was suffering,...but because he couldn't understand why he had to suffer, so much.
Job said, "Don't condemn me, God. Tell me! What is the charge against me?"—Job 10:2 (TEV)
In the end, Job received many blessings from God. His losses were offset by later blessings. During times of hardship, we can look beyond the tragedy and be grateful for the gifts God has bestowed upon us, knowing that God's goodness will continue in the future. Our families, our health, our neighbors and friends - these may not count when we are asking for a loan at the bank, but they are life's greatest riches.
Suffering helps us to not take our blessings for granted,...and better appreciate God's good gifts.
God of goodness, uphold us in hard times, and help us to trust You for our future. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
Job said, "Don't condemn me, God. Tell me! What is the charge against me?"—Job 10:2 (TEV)
In the end, Job received many blessings from God. His losses were offset by later blessings. During times of hardship, we can look beyond the tragedy and be grateful for the gifts God has bestowed upon us, knowing that God's goodness will continue in the future. Our families, our health, our neighbors and friends - these may not count when we are asking for a loan at the bank, but they are life's greatest riches.
Suffering helps us to not take our blessings for granted,...and better appreciate God's good gifts.
God of goodness, uphold us in hard times, and help us to trust You for our future. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"You make a living by what we get,...but you make a life by what we give."
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