“He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible). We live in a world of self absorbed people! Many are of the opinion that the world revolves around them. Look on social media at the selfies posted every day. Selfies are fine and…
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1, Holy Bible, King James Version).
Without the noticeable tick, tick, tick of a second hand, a digital clock moves from one minute after the hour to two. Three. Four. Five. Minutes march in silence until 59 transitions to double zero, marking a new hour. Hours glide toward a full day. Seven sunrises announce a new week. A month slips by, then two and three to a new season. Spring foliage dispels winter’s grip. Summer bursts into bloom. A blaze of red, brown, and gold hues blend into fall before icicles proclaim another winter. Seasons transition into a year. Purpose emerges in this cycle to bring hope to those who trust in God.
Prayer: Lord, let the seasons of my life proclaim my hope and confidence in You. Amen.
Devotion by Violet Carr Moore
“Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” (John 4:34 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible).
It’s not often that we accept the statement, “You have a one-track mind”, as a compliment. But, when it comes to serving God and fulfilling His will in my life, I want to have singleness of purpose. Just as Jesus did not allow friends or family to sidetrack Him from the mission, it is my prayer that God would keep me from distractions that would blur my vision and keep me from reaching my Heavenly goal.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You for a single-minded focus!
Devotion by Julie Long
“Then Jesus explained: “My nourishment comes from doing the will of God, who sent me, and from finishing his work.” (John 4:34 in the New Living Translation of the Holy Bible).
It’s not often that we accept the statement, “You have a one-track mind”, as a compliment. But, when it comes to serving God and fulfilling His will in my life, I want to have singleness of purpose. Just as Jesus did not allow friends or family to sidetrack Him from the mission, it is my prayer that God would keep me from distractions that would blur my vision and keep me from reaching my Heavenly goal.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You for a single-minded focus!
Devotion by Julie Long
“What’s new?” We’ve heard the question thousands of times. Actually the question was asked centuries ago. “Is there anything new under the sun?” The answer was given in the Bible. “All is vanity and vexation of spirit” (Eccl. 1:14).
So much of life doesn’t matter. Much of what happens today will not be remembered one week, one month, or one year from now. How do we know what is really important? Longing to live a life of value resides in all of us.
“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12). There is a solution to the confusion. “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths” (Proverbs 3:6).
Prayer: Dear Lord, You search our hearts and understand our thoughts. When we seek You, You are always there (1 Chronicles 28:9).
Devotion by Bonnie Peacock
“My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed” (Luke 1:46-48 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible).
Incredibly, God chose a young lady who was insignificant by the worlds standards to bear the Savior of the world. Mary recognized the great honor that was granted to her and responded with a heart of full of worship. Mary’s role in God’s plan to redeem mankind would be remembered forever. She gladly accepted the responsibility and expressed her joy at being chosen.
Prayer: Lord, I too have been chosen to fulfill a special purpose in Your Kingdom. I pray today that my reaction to this wonderful privilege of bearing Your Name will be one of thanksgiving. Amen.
Devotion by Julie Long
“I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory” (Psalm 73:23-24 in the King James Version of the Holy Bible).
Sometimes I feel like the child who wants a toy that another child has. I look around at others who appear to be blessed and prospering while I am suffering and destitute. Weighed down and even a little bitter, I come into God’s presence and there my eyes are opened to His faithfulness.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You are my constant companion, seizing my hand and leading me in a life filled with purpose. With great wisdom and infinite tenderness, You guide me. Thank You, Lord!
Devotion by Julie Long