Recent Devotions
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8, NKJV) It was a mixed crowd that gathered that day. In fact, the crowd may have been larger than any previous such event had drawn. This was no family picnic or social gathering. The scene unfolding before them was ugly, gruesome. It was a crucifixion. Simon, a Cyrenian, had been compelled by Roman soldiers to carry the crosspiece of a cross for one of those about to be crucified. Had he heard of this Man now heading to His…
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them.” (Proverbs 11:3, ESV) I recently came across a small notebook in a drawer with Bible study and sermon notes from several years ago. Some are dated and include the speaker’s name while others do not…
“Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24:42, ESV) Recently, my sleep was interrupted by a single beep. Then long seconds of silence. Did I really hear something? Beep. More silence. Finally, I forced myself out of bed to find the…
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Does the Proverbs 31 woman make you feel inadequate? Do you feel like you will never be as talented, productive, strong, caring, and fearless as this woman? If you see this chapter as a laundry list of to-dos for women, you might end up feeling guilt or resentment. However, recently I learned that Jews see this chapter differently. Proverbs was a Jewish book for about one thousand years before Christians appeared on the scene. So today, let’s look at how they view Proverbs 31:10-31. Verse 10, in the King James Version, reads “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her…
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established. The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.” Proverbs 16:3-4 ESV I am so thankful for the strength and assurance that I find in God’s word. Life can often be confusing, but I have learned through the years that only God remains constant and steadfast. His majesty never has been and never will be diminished in any way, and He is always near to us. According to Dictionary.com, one definition of “commit” is “to give in trust or charge, especially…
“When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” “Here I am!” Moses replied. “Do not come any closer,” the Lord warned. “Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground.” (Exodus 3:4-6, NLT). When Moses saw the burning bush, he was intrigued. How could this be happening? As he came closer, God called to him. Moses’ first instinct was to reply, “Here I am!” It makes me wonder how I would respond to the audible voice of God. I hope I would…
“But we belong to the day. So we must stay sober and let our faith and love be like a suit of armor. Our firm hope that we will be saved is our helmet.” 1 Thessalonians 5:8 CEV Is there anyone else who senses that darkness is running rampant through our world right now? In the face of great adversity and godlessness, I need to often remind myself that I belong to the light and that I do not need to fear what is happening around me. We are instructed in the Word of God how to handle this season…
