Recent Devotions
“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God:” I John 3:1 When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, he started out with the words, “Our Father, who art in Heaven.” As I was praying earlier this week, I began to think of what it means to have Jesus as our Father, not just someone far off in heaven, but dwelling with us, listening to our prayers, and guiding us each day. I found this definition of a true father: “protector, teacher, and encourager; a person who picks you…
“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” I Peter 5:7 I drive a van that is twenty years old. It has a few scratches, dents, and rust spots, but it still runs very well, getting me where I need to go. I am not sure how…
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13 I have read this scripture many times and often quoted it when I was needing strength for some task or situation in my life. But as I looked at the verses that go before it, I realized just…
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1 Samuel 18:28-29 NLT “When Saul realized that the Lord was with David and how much his daughter Michal loved him, Saul became even more afraid of him, and he remained David’s enemy for the rest of his life.” As I read through the life of David, I can’t help but grow increasingly interested in Saul. Saul was the first chosen earthly king for the Israelite people, hand-picked by God, yet something went seriously wrong during the course of his reign. Saul always appeared to have the best intentions, but many of his decisions went awry, which eventually led to David being appointed…
“In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD will be your treasure.” (Isaiah 33:6, NLT) I live within a short drive of the majestic Gateway Arch. Standing by the banks of the Mississippi River in downtown St. Louis, Missouri, it rises 630 feet (192 meters) or approximately sixty-three stories high. How does this imposing 43,000-ton structure stand so firm? Because of what it is built upon. The reinforced concrete foundations go sixty feet into the ground, thirty feet of which is drilled into bedrock. To prepare…
“And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captive, and pray to the LORD for it; for in its peace you will have peace.” (Jeremiah 29:7, NKJV) What is your community like? Is it a pleasant place to live? Do you feel safe and secure? Why did you choose to live there? Most of us have a choice about where we will live. Sometimes a new job or other change of circumstance will bring about a move, and then we have decisions to make. Where can I find an affordable, well-kept, and friendly…
“But we are citizens of heaven where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for Him to return as our Savior.” Philippians 3:20 Have you ever had one of those days where you think to yourself “I cannot wait for heaven!” Everything seems to fall to pieces in your hands and you dream of a home far beyond the sky. A place where mansions glisten, and there is perfect peace. There will be no sorrow there, and no tragedy. No more devastation and loss of loved ones. No more fear of sending our children out the door…