Sunday, October 23, 2011
Daily Devotional
Daily Devotional
Deal Wisely with Temptation
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Read | 1 Corinthians 10:12-13
Common sense dictates that a pilot trainee flying for the first time in a squall needs to be quite cautious. But a wise seasoned pilot knows that he must be just as watchful in his hundredth storm as in the first. Despite thousands of flight hours and years of experience, he can still be brought down by bad weather unless he is proactive.
Temptation is a lot like an unexpected storm that sweeps in and damages those who are caught unaware. Like a good pilot, a believer must be alert to the approach of temptation and prepared to ride it out. In this life, none of us reach a level of maturity at which sinful enticements lose all their power.
Understanding our own weaknesses is an important part of being watchful and prepared. In which areas are you most vulnerable? What we commonly think of as “huge sins”—like adultery and murder—are not what land most people in hot water. It’s usually a multitude of “little sins” that lead to big trouble. Temptation is an invitation to carry any God-given desire beyond its God-given limits. Take one step over the line, and soon there is inducement to take another. And then another. Unless you correct the course quickly, you could find yourself estranged from the Father and overwhelmed by guilt and shame.
The issue of temptation cannot be ignored. Know where you are vulnerable, so you can prepare a defense. Learn when and how you’re most likely to be lured, and take extra precautions in those situations. And always look for the escape route that God promised to those who are tempted (1 Cor. 10:13).
Copyright 2011 In Touch Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved
Grace to You
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Saturday, October 22, 2011
Our Daily Bread The Joy of Jesus
So Long
Isaiah 65-66; 1 Timothy 2
My grandfather refused to say “goodbye”; he felt the word was too final. So, when we would drive away after family visits, his farewell ritual was always the same. Standing in front of the green ferns that lined his house, he would wave and call out, “So long”!
As believers, we never have to say “goodbye” to the ones we love, as long as they have placed their trust in Jesus as Savior. The Bible promises that we will see them again.
The apostle Paul said that we should not “sorrow as others who have no hope” (1 Thess. 4:13), because when Jesus returns, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves and—together with the believers who are still alive—will meet the Lord in the air (vv.15-17). We have confidence that one day in heaven there will be “no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying” (Rev. 21:4). It’s in that wonderful place that “we shall always be with the Lord” (1 Thess. 4:17).
Christians have the hope of an eternal reunion with Christ and with believing loved ones who have passed away. That’s why Paul exhorted us to “comfort one another with these words” (v.18). Today, encourage someone with the hope that allows us to say “so long,” instead of “goodbye.”
Beyond the sunset, O glad reunion
With our dear loved ones who’ve gone before;
In that fair homeland we’ll know no parting—
Beyond the sunset forevermore. —Brock
At death, God’s people don’t say “Goodbye,”
but “We’ll see you later.”
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 "Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the..." KJV - Online Bible Study
Home | Daily Word
I am a presence for good in my community by being friendly, kind and caring. From across the backyard fence or down the block, I greet neighbors with a wave and a cheerful smile, recognizing their divine nature.
When a neighbor is experiencing a challenge, I pray for their highest good and hold them in God's loving care. I trust their inner Spirit to guide them to right and perfect outcomes. And I seek guidance in knowing when and how to help--perhaps by sharing food, resources, encouragement or a helping hand.
I give thanks for my neighbors and for the corner of the world we call home; for the blessing of being of service; and for God's love that unites us all.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Home | Daily Word Dr. James A. Lee
The song in my heart celebrates life.
Harmony is found in the beat of our hearts. My heart beats with others, and the world's heart beats as one. The harmony of our hearts is the song of our lives. This global symphony is Spirit's gift.
I ask myself--what is my heart's song? Is it one of joy and peace, love and beauty? Does it reflect who I am and who I want to be?
The song of my heart sets the tone for each day and for my life. I choose songs of gratitude and thanksgiving. I choose songs that honor my connection with God and bring our world closer together. I choose songs that celebrate life, and with every note, my heart beats with joy.
You shall have a song as in the night when a holy festival is kept; and gladness of heart, as when one sets out to the sound of the flute to go to the mountain of the Lord.--Isaiah 30:29"
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John 1:19-51 "And this is the record of John,..." KJV - Online Bible Study And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent prie...
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Scripture: Psalm 100 (New International Version) Psalm 100 A psalm. For giving thanks. 1 Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. 2 Worsh...