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Saturday, August 30, 2008

All Things Good

Romans 8:28

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose".

Many people like to claim this verse. It is often misquoted as "all things work together for good". By looking at the entire verse, you can see that this is a partial truth. Yes, all things do work together for good, but to them that love God and are called according to His purpose.

What group of people love God and are called by Him? Born-again, blood-bought children of God love Him and are called. This promise is specifically for Christians. It does not mean that everything in a Christian's life will be good, but that everything will work towards good or the perfecting of our spirituality.

Have you ever heard the song, "He's Still Working on Me?" Well, that's what God is doing and has been doing from the time you trusted in Him for salvation until the day He calls you home.

When circumstances become difficult and confusing, know that God is working in your life for your good and praise Him that you are not who you used to be.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

On Eagles Wings?

Devotional by Mary Daniel

Isaiah 40:31 - But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV)

I have long known that eagles are held in reverence by many who consider that it is a blessing or a sign of "good luck" if they see an eagle at important moments in their life. Indeed, a very beautiful hymn is written about God lifting us up on the wings of eagles and holding us in the palm of His hand.

For me to see an eagle usually requires a drive up-island or out into the country. To see one within city limits is a very rare and special occasion. So it was, the other day. In the car, between visiting the chiropractor and keeping another appointment, I was experiencing the stress signals of tense muscles. Deciding not to let stress take over, I pushed one of my favorite music tapes into the player. As I approached the stoplight at a busy intersection, I noticed an eagle ahead, and was soothed by watching it soaring, seemingly in synchrony with my songs. To the right, two more eagles followed the pattern, soaring, dipping, and soaring. I moved ahead, marveling at the beauty that had been given to me, and my tension was gently eased. As if to reinforce the message, one more eagle softly and majestically soared in the distance.

This reinforces the fact that God is ever-present in our lives, if only we open our ears, our hearts, and our eyes. He sends that message over and over, in so many ways and forms, in whatever way He perceives we will best receive it.

Prayer: Our Heavenly Father, help us to appreciate and give thanks for all that we are so freely given. Enable us to see the magnitude of Your presence in the seemingly simple soaring of an eagle, and in so seeing, may we allow You to hold us in the palm of Your hand. In Your name we pray. Amen.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

The Lord is My Shepherd

Psalm 23

The 23rd Psalm is a well-known passage. The Lord is my Shepherd. Jesus Christ takes care of us no matter what trials and tribulations may come. He protects us from our enemies, i.e. Satan and his demonic forces. He also directs our path through life and provides not only physical but spiritual nourishment in our times of need.

God has does so much for us. Take time to thank Him.

Monday, August 4, 2008

My Provider

Genesis 22:1-18

In these verses, God tested Abraham's faith by telling him to go and sacrifice his only son. Abraham trusted that God would provide a sacrifice in place of his son.

Just as God provided a replacement for Abraham's son Isaac, he made provision for us through His only Son. Because of this, God is the Great Provider!

You can trust God not only for the provision of His Son, but for your every need.