Today's Devotional

When in doubt of direction, hikers almost always consult a compass. If followed correctly it can lead them safely to their destination. If ignored, hikers can be lost forever. As Christians, the Bible is our compass. Just as it would be foolish to ignore a standard compass, it is foolish to ignore the heavenly one. The Bible is always true and will never lead us astray. When in doubt, follow the heavenly compass, whose needle always points true.

Think on These Things...

Thank God not only for what He has done, but for what He will do.

Today's Devotional

Sometimes prospective Christians are driven away by the idea of self-sacrifice. They are frightened by the idea of denying themselves, and are so lost. This is a false idea. Jesus asks us to give up worldly possessions for a robe of righteousness and eternal life. He also promises that what we give up down here, we will receive manifold more in the present time and in the world to come. This is not self-sacrifice; this is a wonderful gift and opportunity shown to us by Christ. We should take advantage of this, and exchange our worthless riches for life everlasting.
Luke 18:29,30 -  And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.

Today's Devotional

We live to glorify God. Never should praise or honor be directed toward us. His mercy, glory, and truth are forever worthy of our honor and praise. God is worthy, and He alone, of our praise.

Psalm 115:1 - Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake.

Today's Devotional

John 8:7 - So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

Those that accused the woman were sinful. They could not place themselves in the position of the righteous judge because they were not righteous. Only He that is without sin can cast stones. Since we are not sinless, that leaves us, yet again, under qualified to judge. The next time you recognize judgmental thoughts, remember: He that is without sin, cast the first stone. 

Today's Devotional

Psalm 86:11 - Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.

Little children want to do things by themselves. Even if they need help they are determined they can do it “by themselves”. Too often we are like these small children. We want to blaze our own trail “without help”.  In doing this, we stray from the Lord and His plans for us. In our haste to be independent, we leave the Lord’s plans behind.  If you've blazed a trail without the Lord, go back to where you last saw Him, and ask Him to teach you His ways. 

Today's Deovtional

We are quick to judge. We judge based on looks, intelligence, and means. We have no right to do so because we do not understand the standard. The only true way to judge is by understanding the heart and Christ is the only one who can see and understand the heart. Quite simply, because we don’t know we can’t judge. Christ is the righteous judge and all judgment should be left to Him. We are under qualified to judge anyone. Leave the judging to Christ and instead, love your brethren.

Today's Devotional

Many times we do something for others expecting payment in return. The motivation for countless kind deeds can be deemed selfish. Christ does and did not engage in such behavior. When He died to save us, He did so unselfishly. Christ loved us too much to watch us futilely suffer and die here on earth. He deemed our lives more valuable than His. This everlasting love is why we have a chance at heaven. Though we can never repay this love, we can take advantage of it. His salvation and His love are available, free for the asking. It is up to us to ask. 

Today's Deovtional

John 15:8 - Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.    

Our God cannot be compared to any other. Unlike false gods, He requires nothing of us; rather He would that we would take from Him. He is like a Father, in that, He wishes only for us to prosper and therein will He be glorified. His only requirement of us is that we allow Him to help us prosper. He wants us to take from Him until our cup is full and overflowing; until we beg the gates of heaven to close for we have no more room to receive it. If we serve a God, zealous to give, why then are we not as zealous to receive?

Malachi 4:8 - …prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

Today's Devotional

Exodus 12:7 - And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses…

Just as the blood on their doorposts saved Israel from the Angel of Death, that same blood will save you and me. Though this blood cannot be placed on our literal doorposts, it can be placed on the doorposts of our hearts. Death and evil cannot harm us if we are covered with the blood of Jesus.  Jesus died to make this powerful blood free for the asking. Let us take advantage of His offer, and ask the Lord for His blood to cover, save, and protect us today.

Exodus 12:13 - And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.

Think on These Things...

“The best argument for Christianity is Christians: their joy, their certainty, their completeness. But the strongest argument against Christianity is also Christians—when they are somber and joyless, when they are self-righteous and smug in complacent consecration, when they are narrow and repressive, then Christianity dies a thousand deaths.”
- Sheldon Vanauken

Think on These Things...

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On the eve of God's Sabbath, forget not His faithfulness and the beauty of His nature.

Notice

From now on, I will only be posting devotionals 3-4 times a week. I would like to refine my research and writing process and make my devotionals more comprehensive.

Today's Devotional

Why pray for those you do not know?  This question came to me one day, ironically, while I was praying. Immediately my question was answered by Scripture and the whisperings of the Holy Spirit.

            We are engaged in an epic battle; a battle of good against evil, right against wrong. Each and every person is engaged in this battle, this fight. The devil is throwing temptations and trials at every available opportunity. Each prayer is a defense to help in this fight. Each whisper toward heaven can buoy a spirit in a way we will never understand. So pray; pray for those you do know and those you don’t. Every prayer counts.

Ephesians 6:12 - For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Today's Devotional

As humans we are quick to judge. We judge people based on looks, intelligence, and means. We have no right to judge because we do not understand the standard. The only true way to judge is by understanding the heart and Christ is the only one who can see and understand the heart. Because we don’t know we can’t judge. Christ is the righteous judge and all judgment should be left to Him. We are under qualified to judge anyone. Leave the judging to Christ and love your brethren.

1 Samuel 16:7 - But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

Today's Devotional

Psalm 94:14 - For the Lord will not cast off his people, neither will he forsake his inheritance.

            In America, we have developed a culture that puts more value on possessions than on people.  Individuals are used and discarded like trash, and friends are seen as a means to an end. This is not how things were intended. Christ left us an example that contradicts our very actions. We are his people. He treats us not as we do others, casting us away and using us, but loves us and sacrifices for us. He will not forsake us, as we do Him, for we are the Lord’s inheritance. He has promised that He will never leave or forsake us.  We are His and He is ours.

Romans 11:1- “…Hath God cast away his people? God forbid…”

1 Samuel 12:22 - For the Lord will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the Lord to make you his people.

Think on These Things...

On the eve of the Sabbath enjoy God's nature.

Think on These Things...

The peace of Christ--money cannot buy it, brilliant talent cannot command it, intellect cannot secure it; it is the gift of God. 
-EGW

John 14:27- Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Today's Devotional

In professional lives, much time is spent working towards a higher position. Entire lives are spent developing relationships, romantic or otherwise. Why then are we not so eager to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? 

Today's Devotional

            At this time, it being right after Thanksgiving, many are focusing on an attitude of gratitude. While this is all well and good, there is one attitude that has not been focused on much: an attitude of servitude. As Christians, we are supposed to serve our fellow brothers and sisters as Jesus once did. That sort of attitude is not very prevalent in today’s society. Many are only serving themselves and their best interests. We have become a people that see ourselves and none else. This was not the example Christ left in His word. He always served others before himself. He has taught us to do the same. While you adopt an attitude of gratitude this holiday season, don’t forget to add an attitude of servitude. 

Today's Devotional

Exodus 20:2 - I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

            This passage is addressed to the Israelites directly. God is giving them an introduction into His law. He speaks of how He brought them out of Egypt and bondage and how He is their God. 

Though we may not be in literal bondage, the passage applies to us. Before the Lord saved us, He had to remove us from Egypt (the world). He then had to deliver us from bondage. Though we may have never been in actual chains, there were sins which enslaved us. Like he did to men of old, He will break the chains asunder. The Lord will remove us from this bondage and out of the land of Egypt if only we will ask. Cry out to the Lord and he will hear and save. 

Think on These Things...

As we embark on God's holy Sabbath, thank Him for the beauty of nature.

Note

Sorry about the lateness. Minor health issue. God willing I will be back by Monday.

Notice

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Spend time with family and friends and don't forget Christ. Devotionals will continue tomorrow. Be blessed. 

1 Chronicles 16:34 - O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

Today's Devotional

When Jesus came to His disciples on the water, He came to help and to save them. But, when they saw Him, they cried out for fear. Not recognizing Him, they rejected His help.  How many times have we rebelled in fear against what the Lord sends to save us? The inconveniences sent to keep us from harm usually leave us angry. Trials and tribulations make us afraid. The Holy Spirit, sent to guide us in the fight against good and evil, is rejected by some and quieted by others. Unlike the disciples, let us not be afraid. The Lord has come to save, not to destroy.

Matthew 14:27-But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

Luke 11:13 - If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father …?

Today's Devotional

I present to you a game of tug-of-war. It is a game of children against children or so it seems. Most of the larger children are on the same team and are not fair competition for the littler ones. Just when it seems as though the larger ones would prevail, an adult or teacher, hearing the children’s cries for help, comes over and helps the smaller children to win.

            This game is like life. We try to resist the devil and though it may look like flesh against flesh, we deal with something much greater than our own strength. It feels as though the more we resist, the more he prevails. That is, until Christ comes. He comes and pulls on our side and helps us to win. We, like the small children, are powerless to win on our own, but in Christ nothing is impossible.

Eph 6:12 ^- For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

Luke 18:27 - And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.

Today's Devotional

Matthew 14:31 - And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Jesus had reproof and reprimand for Peter. His lack of faith is what had caused him to sink. But before Jesus scolded him, He headed Peter’s cry for help and saved him. Many a time, we see an unbeliever living in sin and want to reprove him of his sins before he is saved. All the reprimand in the world will not make a difference if the sinner is not saved and his heart changed. Let us not be so hasty to rebuke and follow Christ’s example: save the sinner and then reprove the sin.

Note

Sorry. There will be no devotional today or tomorrow. Hope to continue on Monday. Blessings on your day.

Today's Devotional

Matthew 14:30-31 -  ³⁰ But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.³¹ And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

            Peter asked Jesus if he could join Him on the water. He was walking successfully until he saw the winds and the waves. He was frightened and began to sink. As he cried out to Jesus, immediately Christ stretched out His hand and saved him. In the same moment Peter spoke the words, Jesus saved him.  Why then do we question Christ’s saving and protecting power? The one who saved Peter can immediately save you and me. 

Today's Devotional

Matthew 14:30-31

            This story is a lot like our Christian walk. We start as Peter did, eager to come to Christ. As we begin our walk, everything seems to be fine. Then we see the boisterous winds and waves and begin to panic and lose faith. We may question God or our decision to follow Him. Because of our lack of faith, we start to sink, as Peter did, into the depths. Realizing our predicament, we cry to Him as the disciples did “Lord, save us for we perish”. And immediately the Lord saves us.

            No matter the trials and tribulations that come upon any of us in our Christian walks, know this: the Lord will always save.

Proverbs 18:10 - The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Today's Devotional

John 6:11 - And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.

            When Jesus had received the bread He gave thanks by way of the Father. He then broke it and gave it to the disciples, who then distributed it unto the people. This can be looked upon metaphorically. The bread is the Bread of Life. It is received from the Father and given to the Son, our mediator. He then gives it to His disciples, also called pastors, who feed the people. It is the pastor’s responsibility to receive the Bread from Heaven and feed the people. It is also our responsibility, when we receive this Bread, to feed and share with those around us. If we forsake this duty, the Lord will hold us accountable.

Ezekiel 34:2 - Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks?

Today's Devotional

When Jesus had received the bread from Andrew, before anything, He did something very special. He did not lay out a twelve step plan. He did not meet with the disciples to form a plan of attack. He gave thanks and blessed it. Before He began this miracle he wanted the blessing of His father.

Before we embark on something major, we plan, collect resources, and consult references. We plan endlessly and wonder how our good plans could have failed. But was God in it?   Did we pray? We must follow the example of Jesus. Anything we do we want God there with us. We want Christ to be in our plans. First prayer, than planning. 

Today's Devotional

John 6:9 - There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?

When Jesus asked the disciples to see if the people had any food, they came back with a less than favorable report. They had found only a boy’s small lunch of five loaves and two small fish. In the words of the disciple Andrew, “…what are they among so many?” They should have had more faith in the Master. Instead they doubted that their small discovery would have made a difference if any at all.

            Because we know the end of the story, we can see the folly of the disciples’ ways. We can see the harm in refusing to trust Jesus. But we do the same things. We think that our involvement or actions is nothing “among so many”. When it comes to voting, church activities, or simply doing the right thing, we say that our actions are but a drop in a large pond. We seem to forget that Jesus took a small lunch and multiplied it to feed a huge crowd with leftovers. He will multiply our actions in that same way. We need not think our actions too small, Jesus will multiply. 

Today's Devotional

Miracles can be looked at disjointedly. We can see them as phenomena that happened a long time ago and have nothing to do with us. But miracles are relevant. They happen every day. The fact that you are alive is a miracle. The fact that you have food to eat and clothes to wear is a miracle. Though these miracles may seem small, they are significant. Thank God for your small miracles and count your blessings today. 

Today's Devotional

John 6:7 - Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.

Jesus had just finished teaching great multitudes. Hoards had followed Him to hear Him preach. The listening crowd had not eaten all day. As their spiritual hunger was being quenched they had forgotten all about their physical hunger. When the disciples brought Jesus news of this, they began to be worried. Thinking on the practical side of things, they thought that they did not have near enough money. They were thinking instead of believing. As they worried the King of Kings sat next to them ready to work a miracle.

We may laugh and realize the foolishness of the disciple’s ways. It may seem obvious to us that the disciples need not worry, but we do the same ourselves. Christ is with us all the time but we proceed to worry about money and other things. While we try to think practically and solve problems on our own, the King of Kings is right there beside us ready to work a miracle. Don’t worry. Have faith in Christ.

Today's Devotional

A Mile in His Shoes

            There is an old saying that says you must walk a mile in a person’s shoes before you can really know or understand that person. You must experience their daily trials and triumphs.  I think this same principle can apply to our walk with Christ.

 Many wish to know and understand the nature of Christ. The best and only way this can be accomplished is to do the things that Christ did while He was here on earth. When speaking to the disciples He repeatedly told them to do as He did. 1 Peter 2:21 says that Christ left us an example that we should follow in his steps.  If we follow the character of Christ, walk a mile in His proverbial shoes, we will know Christ. Not only will we know Christ, but we will become like Him. Christ beckons us to follow Him down the pathways of life. 

Think on These Things...

He that is down need fear no fall,

He that is low no pride.

He that is humble ever shall, 

Have God to be His guide.

- Louisa May Alcott

Think on These Things...

On the eve of the Sabbath, think on the lyrics of this song. 

Shine, Jesus, Shine
Lord the Light or Your Love is shining,
In the midst of the darkness shining,
Jesus light of the world shine upon us,
Set us free by the truth You now bring us,
Shine on me. Shine on me.

Shine Jesus shine
Fill this land with the Father's glory
Blaze, Spirit blaze,
Set our hearts on fire
Flow, river flow
Flood the nations with grace and mercy
Send forth Your word
Lord and let there be light.

Lord I come to Your awesome presence,
From the shadows into Your radiance,
By the blood I may enter Your brightness,
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness,
Shine on me. Shine on me.

As we gaze on Your kindly brightness.
So our faces display Your likeness.
Ever changing from glory to glory,
Mirrored here may our lives tell Your story.
Shine on me. Shine on me.

Today's Devotional

Luke 5:16 - And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.  

Jesus had been working tirelessly, teaching and healing great crowds. He and his disciples had not even had a chance to eat. Jesus was so tired that He decided to go apart to refresh himself. What He did was while he was separate is out of the ordinary. Instead of resting or lounging with His disciples, He prayed to renew His strength.

            When we are feeling weary, we usually prescribe rest, medication, leisure, or a vacation. Is it possible that what we need is simple prayer? The next time you feel weary, follow Christ’s example and cast all your cares upon the Lord. You will feel rejuvenated. 

Today's Devotional

Matthew 5:10-12

            In these verses Jesus is speaking the Sermon on the Mount. What He says in the first part, the Beatitudes, shock those who are listening. What they hear goes against everything they have been taught, it seems to defy common sense. Jesus tells the listening crowd that persecution and revilement are blessings. He even says that in the event of false witnesses borne against us we should “rejoice and be exceedingly glad…”!

This doesn't even seem to make logical sense, but we must remember God’s ways are not our ways. When we are treated unfairly, it is feelings of anger and hatred that normally come to the surface. But Jesus soon tells the crowd why they should be happy in such a dismal situation. Though we may suffer persecution here on earth, Christ is preparing for us mansions for eternity. When you feel as though you are being treated unfairly, bear it as Jesus did for “Great is your reward in heaven”.

Today's Devotional

In Matthew 10, Jesus was preparing to send out his disciples to preach. As his disciples here on earth, any advice to them also applies to us. As Jesus was laying out instructions, He told them that they would be as “sheep among wolves”.

            There is a distinct difference between the wolf and the sheep. Wolves are violent animals. Not only are they viscous hunters for their food, but they also fight and kill amongst themselves. Sheep are mild mannered and trusting almost to a fault. They are calm and peaceful creatures. Jesus is said to be “…The Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world.”

            Jesus wanted His disciples to realize that though He was sending them into a volatile situation, they were to be as calm and peaceful as sheep. Through all of our difficult situations throughout the day, whether it is a problem at home, work, or personally, we should be as calm and peaceful as sheep. 

Today's Devotional

Colossians 3:13 - Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.        

Paul wrote to his churches with advice and we have been blessed to be able to read about it in the Bible. In Colossians 3:13, Paul is giving this church advice on forgiveness. He gives them one guideline for this subject: forgive all as freely as Christ forgave. Forgive as He forgave the Pharisees and those that killed Him. Forgive as He forgives our sins each and every day.

Anyone who has wronged you, or hurt you should be forgiven as Christ forgives. Don’t hold onto a grudge or hurt feeling. Instead, we should follow the example of Christ and liberally forgive.

“Father forgive them, for they know not what they do”

Today's Devotional

Col 3:17 - And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. 

Most failure can, in some way or another, be accredited to not giving a full effort in the given task.  It is very easy to lose interest in something and not give your best effort. It is altogether too simple to give a half-hearted effort because of troubles and trials. But this is not what Christ intended. He desires that everything we do, spiritual or otherwise, be done to the glory and the honor of the Lord. If we study to the glory of God, work to the glory of God and love to the glory of God there is no way His people can fail at anything. 

Think on These Things

I keep this in my Bible. It is great encouragement. 

It is in the Valleys I Grow

Sometime life seem hard to bear,

Full of sorrow trouble and woe, 

It is then i have to remember, 

That it is in the valleys I grow

If I always stayed on the mountain top, 

And never experienced pain, 

I would never appreciate God's love,

And would be living in vain

I have so much to learn,

And my growth is very slow,

Sometimes I need the mountain tops, 

But it is in the valleys I grow

I do not always understand, 

Why things happen as they do, 

But I am very sure of one thing, 

My  Lord will see me through

My little valleys are nothing, 

When I picture Christ on the cross, 

He went through the valley of death, 

His victory was Satan's loss

Forgive me Lord for complaining,

When I'm feeling very low, 

Just give me a gentle reminder,

That it is in the valleys I grow

Continue to strengthen me Lord, 

And use my life each day, 

To share your love with others, 

And help them find their way

Thank you for the valleys Lord, 

For this one thing I know, 

The mountain top are glorious,

But it is in the valleys I grow!

-Tracy Mayfield

Just a Thought...

Jesus gave all for us. He gave His place at the father's throne for us. He even gave His life. Why then are we so reluctant to give up our worldly pleasures for Him?

Today's Devotional

2Cor. 10:12-15 - ¹² For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. ¹³ But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you. ¹⁴ For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: ¹⁵ Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

We have all heard stories of those who believe they are in perfect health only to discover, upon a visit to the doctor, that they are near death’s door. We wonder how they could have gone from day to day not realizing that they were sick. They came to that conclusion by comparing “themselves to themselves.” When measuring themselves by the measure they come up short. 

 The same applies to those who are spiritually ill. Compared to others our spiritual lives seem to be in great shape. A visit to the Great Physician proves how near we are to eternal damnation. We need Christ to diagnose our spiritual condition so that we do not hear the words: “… thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” (Rev. 3:17)

Introduction

I thought that this would be a good format for my devotionals  You can see past ones and no longer will I be hindered by the e-mail format. This also makes it easier to share with friends and family. Going forward in the name of the Lord,
-Rebekah Weekes