LHM Daily Devotion - July 5, 2017 "Humility"

In our July Fourth devotion we touched upon about how it is right for...

Daily Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries

By Pastor Ken Klaus, Speaker Emeritus of The Lutheran Hour

"Humility"

July 5, 2017

But He (Jesus) said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

~ 2 Corinthians 12:9 (ESV)

In our July Fourth devotion we touched upon about how it is right for our nation to give credit to the Lord for its many blessings. That truth happens to be applicable for individuals as well as nations.

Let me explain with a story: this time from the other side of the Atlantic, off the coast of Plymouth, England. Over 200 years ago, a lighthouse was built to warn ships of the dangerous reefs that are just offshore. The architect of the lighthouse was a fellow by the name of Winstanley. Yes, that's his name: Winstanley.

To tell the truth, Mr. Winstanley had many wonderful attributes, but modesty was not on that list.

Indeed, Mr. Winstanley was so sure of his ability as an architect and so confident of his lighthouse design, he had these words of challenge carved on the cornerstone of his landmark: "Blow, O Ye Winds! Rise, O Ocean! Break Forth, Ye Elements, and Try My Work!"

Less than three years later, Winstanley's challenge was accepted.

By that I mean the winds did blow, the ocean did rise, and the elements did break forth to try the architect's work. The result: Winstanley, his lighthouse, and the crew he was using to repair the already damaged facility were swept away.

Winstanley was gone, but the need for a lighthouse continued on.

Years later, John Smeaton, an elderly engineer, rebuilt the lighthouse. Smeaton found a new site and dug deep so he might build on solid rock. A sincere Christian, the new cornerstone of the lighthouse read: "Except the Lord Build the House, They Labor in Vain that Build It." For more than 90 years that lighthouse, founded on rock, was able to withstand every test that came up against it.

That is the truth which the Lord revealed to St. Paul.

Although the apostle was of the opinion he might do better work for the Lord if his unspecified thorn in the flesh was taken away, the Lord thought differently. The Lord allowed that thorn to stay in place so the apostle's leanings toward pride might be minimized and his trust and reliance upon the Lord would be maximized.

It was the Lord's way of saying, "Paul, put your faith on Jesus Christ, who must always remain the solid cornerstone, the foundation, the rock upon which your forgiveness is given and your salvation has been awarded."

Indeed, when believers do as the Lord has said, they can be sure that when the storms of life come upon us, when the winds of uncertainty howl around us, and the tides of trouble are crashing about us, the person whose house is built upon the Redeemer can be at peace.

After all, He knows these earthly difficulties are no match for the risen Savior.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, keep me humble. With a repentant heart, let me realize that I have no real strength unless it comes from You. Let me look to the Savior's cross and give thanks that when I was helplessly adrift Your Son did everything necessary to win my forgiveness and salvation. Keep me always in Your care. This I ask in Jesus' Name. Amen

Use these devotions in your newsletter and bulletin!  Used by permission; all rights reserved by the Int'l LLL (LHM).

CPTLN Devocional de 05 de Julio de 2017

Alimento Diario

Las quejas

05 de Julio 2017

Presenta la buena batalla de la fe, aférrate a la vida eterna, a la cual también fuiste llamado cuando hiciste la buena profesión delante de muchos testigos.

~ 1 Timoteo 6:12 (RVC)

Los historiadores cuentan que, mucho antes que Jesús viniera al mundo, Alejandro el Grande y el Rey de Persia estuvieron en guerra. Un soldado del ejército de Persia pensó que podría ascender rápidamente si lo criticaba a Alejandro, cosa que hizo con mucha constancia.

Un día, el monarca persa llamó al soldado, y le dijo: "Yo te pago para luchar contra Alejandro, no para criticarlo, así que termina ya con tanta crítica".

¿Se ha dado cuenta que cada vez hay más personas que se pasan el tiempo criticando el pecado, pero no hacen nada para cambiarlo?

Todo el mundo sabe lo que está mal en sus vidas y en el mundo. Pero la mayoría parece contentarse con sólo hablar de ello. Me imagino que Dios, así como hizo el rey de Persia, quisiera llamarnos delante de él y decirnos: "Amigos, yo quisiera que lucharan contra el pecado, no solamente que hablaran de él".

Eso es lo que San Pablo instaba a hacer al joven Timoteo cuando le dijo: "Presenta la buena batalla de la fe". Pablo quería que Timoteo supiera que la vida cristiana incluye también una batalla contra el pecado y contra las fuerzas del mal. Y es una batalla que todavía se sigue peleando.

Es una batalla en la que el Señor me ha llamado a mí y a usted a levantarnos y pelear.

ORACIÓN: Padre Celestial, Jesús ha cargado con nuestros pecados; nos ha redimido y nos ha restaurado. Hoy te pedimos que tu Espíritu Santo nos ayude a ser tus combatientes contra los males y pecados que nos rodean. En el nombre de nuestro Redentor que fue crucificado pero que ahora vive para siempre. Amén

De una devoción escrita originalmente para "By the Way"

© Copyright 2017 Cristo Para Todas Las Naciones. ¡Utilice estas devociones en sus boletines! Usado con permiso. Todos los derechos reservados por la Int'l LLL.

Our Daily Bread - Could I Say That?

Read: Genesis 45:1–11

Bible in a Year: Job 30–31; Acts 13:26–52

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It was not you who sent me here, but God. Genesis 45:8

“The perception of favoritism is one of the biggest factors in sibling rivalry,” said Dr. Barbara Howard, a developmental behavioral pediatrician (“When Parents Have a Favorite Child” nytimes.com). An example would be the Old Testament character Joseph, who was his father’s favorite son, which made his older brothers furious (Gen. 37:3–4). So they sold Joseph to merchants traveling to Egypt and made it appear that a wild animal had killed him (37:12–36). His dreams had been shattered and his future appeared hopeless.

Yet, along Joseph’s journey of life, he chose to be true to his God and rely on Him even when it seemed to make his situation worse. After being falsely accused by his employer’s wife and imprisoned for something he didn’t do, Joseph struggled with the injustice of his situation but kept trusting the Lord.

Years later his brothers came to Egypt to buy grain during a famine and were terrified to discover that their despised younger brother was now the Prime Minister. But Joseph told them, “Do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you . . . . It was not you who sent me here, but God” (45:5, 8).

Joseph’s kind words cause me to wonder if I would be ready for revenge. Or would I be gracious because my heart had confidence in the Lord?

Dear Father, give us the faith to trust You today and the ability to see Your hand of good along our road of life.

In the darkest hours of life, only through the eyes of faith can we see the loving hand of God.

By David C. McCasland

© 2017 Our Daily Bread Ministries

Ministérios Pão Diário - Grama sem corte

Leia: Lucas 10:38-42

A Bíblia em um ano: Jó 30–31, Atos 13:26-52

Certo prefeito de uma cidade durante um ano não cortou a grama de sua casa. Todavia colocou uma placa em sua propriedade que dizia: “Há coisas mais importantes na vida do que uma grama alta.”

Ele disse que tinha diversas razões para não cortar a grama, e uma delas seria a morte de sua esposa, que falecera de câncer. Essa perda o fez refletir sobre as prioridades da vida. Ele gosta de ficar simplesmente sentado ao entardecer, observando as flores silvestres, os esquilos e pássaros que vão e vêm em seu jardim. Um membro do conselho da cidade observou: “Se ele gosta disso tanto assim, está bem. Eu quase acho que ele está certo. Quem sabe há coisas mais importantes do que cortar grama.”

Isto nos faz pensar sobre prioridades. O que fazemos com o nosso tempo mostra o que é importante para nós. Na leitura bíblica de hoje, Marta estava “ocupada em muitos serviços” (Lucas 10:40). Maria, entretanto, investiu seu tempo para sentar “aos pés do Senhor” e ouvir os Seus ensinamentos (v.39). Talvez ela tenha compreendido que não teria muitas outras oportunidades para aprender com Jesus.

Às vezes, as responsabilidades do dia a dia, como o corte da grama ou as horas extras investidas num projeto precisam esperar para podermos investir o nosso tempo com o Senhor, com a família e amigos. Talvez isso seja o mais importante.

Ajudar alguém em nome de Jesus é o seu trabalho mais importante do dia.

por Anne Cetas

© 2017 Ministérios Pão Diário

Lời Sống Hằng Ngày - Điều Tôi Nên Nói

Đọc: Sáng thế ký 45:1-11

Đọc Kinh Thánh suốt năm: Gióp 30-31; Công vụ 13:26-52

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Không phải các anh mà chính Đức Chúa Trời đã sai tôi đến đây. Sáng thế ký 45:8

Tiến sĩ Barbara Howard, bác sĩ nhi khoa về phát triển hành vi cho rằng: “Nhận thức về sự thiên vị là một trong những yếu tố lớn nhất của việc anh chị em ruột tranh cạnh nhau” (“When Parents Have a Favorite Child,” nytimes.com). Ví dụ như nhân vật Giô-sép trong Cựu Ước, đứa con trai được cha thương nhất. Chính điều đó làm các anh của ông tức giận (Sáng. 37:3-4). Vì vậy, họ đã bán Giô-sép cho các lái buôn đang trên đường đến Ai Cập. Sau đó, họ nguỵ tạo chuyện ông bị thú hoang giết hại (37:12-36). Những giấc mơ tan vỡ và tương lai dường như mờ mịt.

Tuy nhiên, trên đường đời của Giô-sép, ông đã chọn trung tín với Chúa và nhờ cậy Ngài ngay cả khi điều đó dường như khiến cho hoàn cảnh tồi tệ hơn. Sau khi bị vợ của chủ vu cáo và bị bỏ tù vì tội mà mình không phạm, Giô-sép phải chịu sự bất công về tình cảnh của mình nhưng vẫn tin cậy Chúa.

 

Nhiều năm sau, một nạn đói xảy ra và các anh của ông đến Ai Cập để mua lúa. Họ run sợ khi phát hiện đứa em trai bị căm ghét giờ đã là Tể Tướng. Nhưng Giô-sép bảo họ: “Các anh đừng đau buồn và cũng đừng tự trách mình vì đã bán tôi sang đây. Vì để bảo tồn sự sống mà Đức Chúa Trời đã sai tôi đến đây trước các anh. Vậy không phải các anh mà chính Đức Chúa Trời đã sai tôi đến đây” (45:5, 8).

Những lời tử tế của Giô-sép khiến tôi tự hỏi liệu tôi có đang chuẩn bị trả thù ai đó không? Hay tôi sẽ khoan dung vì lòng tôi tin cậy Chúa?

Lạy Cha, xin ban cho chúng con đức tin để tin cậy Ngài và giúp chúng con nhìn thấy bàn tay nhân lành của Ngài đang tể trị trên cuộc đời chúng con.

Chỉ với đôi mắt đức tin, chúng ta mới có thể nhìn thấy bàn tay nhân lành của Chúa trong những giờ phút đen tối nhất của cuộc đời.

bởi David McCasland

© 2017 Lời Sống Hằng Ngày

Nuestro Pan Diario - ¿Qué haría yo?

Leer: Génesis 45:1-11

La Biblia en un año: Job 30–31; Hechos 13:26-52

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… no me enviasteis acá vosotros, sino Dios… (v. 8).

«Percibir favoritismo es uno de los factores que más influyen en la rivalidad entre hermanos», dijo la doctora Bárbara Howard, especializada en desarrollo conductual. Un ejemplo sería José, el personaje del Antiguo Testamento, que era el hijo predilecto de su padre, lo cual enfureció a sus hermanos (Génesis 37:3-4). Por eso, vendieron a José a unos mercaderes que viajaban a Egipto, y fingieron que un animal salvaje lo había matado (37:12-36). El futuro de José parecía sombrío.

Sin embargo, José decidió ser fiel a Dios incluso cuando parecía empeorar su situación. Después de que la esposa de su amo lo acusara falsamente y lo metieran preso por algo que no había hecho, José siguió confiando en el Señor.

Años después, sus hermanos fueron a Egipto a comprar granos durante una hambruna, y los aterró descubrir que su despreciado hermano menor era el primer ministro. Sin embargo, José les dijo: «no os entristezcáis, ni os pese de haberme vendido acá; porque para preservación de vida me envió Dios delante de vosotros. […] no me enviasteis acá vosotros, sino Dios» (45:5, 8).

Las palabras amables de José hacen que me pregunte: En su lugar, ¿querría vengarme o sería misericordioso como resultado de mi confianza en Dios?

Padre, danos fe para confiar en ti y ver tu mano en nuestra vida.

En la hora más oscura, solo con los ojos de la fe podemos ver la mano de Dios.

Por David C. McCasland

© 2017 Ministerios Nuestro Pan Diario

Unser Täglich Brot - Könnte ich das sagen?

Lesen: 1.Mose 45,1-11

Die Bibel In Einem Jahr: Hiob 30–31; Apostelgeschichte 13,26-52

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Ihr habt mich nicht hergesandt, sondern Gott. 1.Mose 45,8

„Das Gefühl, benachteiligt zu werden, ist einer der wichtigsten Aspekte der Geschwisterrivalität“, sagt Dr. Barbara Howard, Fachärztin für Entwicklungspsychologie. Ein Beispiel aus dem Alten Testament ist Josef. Er war der Lieblingssohn seines Vaters, was seine älteren Brüder wütend machte (1.Mose 37,3-4). Sie verkauften ihn an Händler auf dem Weg nach Ägypten und gaben vor, ein wildes Tier hätte ihn umgebracht (37,12-36). Seine Träume waren zunichte gemacht und die Zukunft schien hoffnungslos.

Doch Josef versuchte sein ganzes Leben lang, Gott treu zu bleiben, auch wenn es oft aussah, als würde damit alles nur schlimmer. So verleumdete ihn die Frau seines Chefs und er wurde für etwas ins Gefängnis gesteckt, was er gar nicht getan hatte. Die Ungerechtigkeit setzte ihm zu, aber er vertraute weiter dem Herrn.

Jahre später kamen seine Brüder während einer Hungersnot nach Ägypten, um Korn zu kaufen. Sie stellten mit Entsetzen fest, dass der verachtete „kleine“ Bruder Premierminister war. Aber Josef sagte: „Bekümmert euch nicht und denkt nicht, dass ich darum zürne, dass ihr mich hierher verkauft habt; denn um eures Lebens willen hat mich Gott vor euch hergesandt . . . Ihr habt mich nicht hergesandt, sondern Gott“ (45,5.8).

Wäre auch ich ebenso großzügig, weil ich ja dem Herrn vertraue? Oder hätte ich mich rächen wollen?

Lieber Vater, schenk uns den Glauben, dir heute zu vertrauen, und die Fähigkeit, in unserem ganzen Leben deine Hand zu erkennen.

Nur die Augen des Glaubens können selbst in den dunkelsten Stunden die liebende Hand Gottes sehen.

Von David C. McCasland

© 2017 Unser Täglich Brot

Notre Pain Quotidien - Puis-je le dire ?

Lisez : Genèse 45.1‑11

La Bible en un an : JOB 30 – 31 et ACTES 13.26‑52

Ce n'est donc pas vous qui m'avez envoyé ici, mais c'est Dieu. V.8

L’impression de favoritisme est souvent l’un des plus grands facteurs de rivalité entre frères et soeurs », selon Barbara Howard, pédiatre spécialisée en développement comportemental (« When Parents Have a Favorite Child » ; nytimes.com). En voici un bon exemple : le Joseph de l’Ancien Testament, qui était le fils préféré de son père. Ce fait rendait furieux ses frères aînés (GE 37.3,4), qui en sont venus à le vendre à des marchands en route vers l’Égypte pour prétendre ensuite qu’un animal sauvage l’avait tué (37.12‑36). Les rêves de Joseph ont alors volé en éclats et son avenir semblait désespéré.

Joseph a néanmoins choisi de rester fidèle à son Dieu jusqu’à la fin même si sa confiance en lui ne semblait qu’aggraver sa situation. Après s’être fait faussement accuser par la femme de son employeur et emprisonner à tort, Joseph a gardé foi en Dieu malgré le caractère injuste de sa situation.

Venus en Égypte des années plus tard pour y acheter du blé, ses frères ont découvert avec stupéfaction que le cadet qu’ils avaient méprisé en était devenu le gouverneur. Joseph leur a cependant déclaré : « Maintenant, ne vous affligez pas, et ne soyez pas fâchés de m’avoir vendu pour être conduit ici, car c’est pour vous sauver la vie que Dieu m’a envoyé devant vous. […] Ce n’est donc pas vous qui m’avez envoyé ici, mais c’est Dieu » (45.5,8). Or, ces paroles empreintes de bonté m’amènent à me demander si à sa place je chercherais à me venger ou si j’userais de grâce par confiance en Dieu.

Dans nos heures sombres, seule la foi nous fait voir l’amour divin.

par David C. McCasland

© 2017 Ministères NPQ

Хліб Наш Насущній - Чи зміг би я?

Читати: Буття 45:1-11

Біблія за рік: Йова 30−31 ; Дії 13:26-52

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Не ви послали мене сюди, але Бог. — Буття 45:8

“Фаворитизм – один із найбільших факторів суперництва між братами й сестрами”, – сказала д-р Барбара Ховард, педіатр і фахівець з поведінки дітей, у статті “Улюбленець у батьків”. Прикладом цього може бути Йосип, улюблений син Якова. Старших братів це дуже розлючувало, тому вони продали його купцям, що подорожували до Єгипту, а Якову принесли сфальсифіковані докази, що його сина начебто розтерзав дикий звір (Бут. 37:3-4, 12-26). Всі мрії Йосипа були зруйновані. Майбутність здавалась безнадійною.

Проте Йосип вирішив бути завжди вірним Богу, навіть якщо це, здавалося, лише погіршувало ситуацію. Молодого єврея обмовила дружина його пана, і юнака було кинуто за грати. Йосип потерпав від кривди й несправедливості, але не переставав довіряти Господу.

Проминуло багато років, і його брати прийшли до Єгипту купити зерна. Вони дуже перелякались, коли виявилось, що їхній брат, якого вони так зневажали, тепер став прем’єр-міністром цієї країни. Але Йосип сказав їм: “Не сумуйте, і нехай не буде жалю в ваших очах, що ви продали мене сюди, бо то Бог послав мене перед вами… Не ви послали мене сюди, але Бог” (Бут. 45:5, 8).

Ласкава відповідь Йосипа змушує мене перевіряти своє серце. Що б я вибрав – помсту чи прощення? Відповідь залежить від того, чи цілковито ми довіряємо Господу?

Дорогий Отче, допоможи нам довіряти Тобі й бачити Твою благу руку в усіх подіях нашого життя.

В темні часи життя лише очі віри здатні бачити люблячу руку Бога.

Автор Давид Маккасланд

© 2017 Хліб Наш Насущній

Хлеб наш насущный - А я бы смог?

Читать сейчас: Бытие 45:1-11

Библия за год: Иов 30–31; Деяния 13:26-52

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Не вы послали меня сюда, но Бог. — Бытие 45:8

«Фаворитизм – один из главных факторов, вызывающих соперничество между детьми в семье», – говорит доктор Барбара Ховард, детский педиатр и специалист по вопросам поведения детей, в своем труде «Любимчик у родителей». Хороший пример этому – ветхозаветный герой Иосиф, любимец отца, за что братья возненавидели его (Быт. 37:3-4). Они продали Иосифа торговцам, идущим в Египет, и представили все так, как будто его растерзал дикий зверь (Быт. 37:12-36). Все мечты пошли прахом, будущее казалось безнадежным.

Но Иосиф, несмотря ни на что, решил остаться верным своему Богу и полагаться на Него, даже если это ухудшало положение. После ложного обвинения со стороны жены своего господина Иосиф был брошен в тюрьму, но все равно продолжал надеяться на Господа.

Годами позже, когда случился голод, братья пришли в Египет купить зерна и с ужасом обнаружили, что их проданный в рабство брат – второе лицо в могущественном государстве. Но Иосиф сказал им: «Не печальтесь и не жалейте о том, что вы продали меня сюда, потому что Бог послал меня перед вами… Не вы послали меня сюда, но Бог» (Быт. 45:5, 8).

Добрые слова Иосифа заставляют меня задуматься, к чему я больше склонен: к мести или к милости? Все дело – в надежде на Господа.

Небесный Отец, дай нам веру, чтобы полагаться на Тебя, и способность видеть Твою добрую руку, ведущую нас по дорогам жизни.

Божьи действия можно увидеть только глазами веры.

автор: Дэвид Маккасланд

© 2017 Хлеб Наш Насущный

The Daily Readings for TUESDAY, July 4, 2017 - Independence Day (USA)

Opening Sentence

O give thanks to the Lord, and call upon his Name; make known his deeds among the peoples. Psalm 105:1

Morning Prayer for Independence Day

Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Confession and Forgiveness

Almighty God, who does freely pardon all who repent and turn to Him, now fulfill in every contrite heart the promise of redeeming grace; forgiving all our sins, and cleansing us from an evil conscience; through the perfect sacrifice of Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen

Today's Readings

The First Reading is taken from Deuteronomy 10:17-21

For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who is not partial and takes no bribe, who executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and who loves the strangers, providing them food and clothing. You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. You shall fear the LORD your God; him alone you shall worship; to him you shall hold fast, and by his name you shall swear. He is your praise; he is your God, who has done for you these great and awesome things that your own eyes have seen.

Psalm 145 Exaltabo te, Deus
1   I will exalt you, O God my King, and bless your Name for ever and ever.
2   Every day will I bless you and praise your Name for ever and ever.
3   Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised; there is no end to his greatness.
4   One generation shall praise your works to another and shall declare your power.
5   I will ponder the glorious splendor of your majesty and all your marvelous works.
6   They shall speak of the might of your wondrous acts, and I will tell of your greatness.
7   They shall publish the remembrance of your great goodness; they shall sing of your righteous deeds.
8   The LORD is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and of great kindness.
9   The LORD is loving to everyone and his compassion is over all his works.
10   All your works praise you, O LORD, and your faithful servants bless you.
11   They make known the glory of your kingdom and speak of your power;
12   That the peoples may know of your power and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.
13   Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom; your dominion endures throughout all ages.
14   The LORD is faithful in all his words and merciful in all his deeds.
15   The LORD upholds all those who fall; he lifts up those who are bowed down.
16   The eyes of all wait upon you, O LORD, and you give them their food in due season.
17   You open wide your hand and satisfy the needs of every living creature.
18   The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving in all his works.
19   The LORD is near to those who call upon him, to all who call upon him faithfully.
20   He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he hears their cry and helps them.
21   The LORD preserves all those who love him, but he destroys all the wicked.
22   My mouth shall speak the praise of the LORD; let all flesh bless his holy Name for ever and ever.

The Second Reading is taken from Hebrews 11:8-16

By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going. By faith he stayed for a time in the land he had been promised, as in a foreign land, living in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city that has foundations, whose architect and builder is God. By faith he received power of procreation, even though he was too old-- and Sarah herself was barren-- because he considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one person, and this one as good as dead, descendants were born, "as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore." All of these died in faith without having received the promises, but from a distance they saw and greeted them. They confessed that they were strangers and foreigners on the earth, for people who speak in this way make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of the land that they had left behind, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; indeed, he has prepared a city for them.

The Holy Gospel is written in Matthew 5:43-48

"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

The Apostle's Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen

Prayer of the Day

Lord, we stand today as our forefathers have stood before You in times gone by, Celebrating our history and reveling in all the great things that our country has achieved. On this day we rejoice in the favor You have graciously given us. We thank You for the blessings of liberty, for this generation and for the generations to come. We thank You for our independence, peace and for all those who have bravely given their lives in the defense of freedom and justice. We thank You that Your gracious and provident hand has given us so much.

Yet as a nation and people we have not always chosen the right way. We ask You to forgive us for these times. On this day we commit ourselves to wholeheartedly honoring and serving You. With everything that we are, we lay our lives before You. Make us a generous people, A holy nation, A people set aside to love You forever, For the sake of the land of the brave and free, And the peoples and nations of this world.

Today, we do not presume Your grace for our country. Our land is in need of You, Our people are in need of You, Our industry and business is in need of You. May we look only to You This Independence Day, dependent on You.

Please come now by Your glorious Holy Spirit, Breathe new life into the sinews of this nation. May justice flow like rivers, And righteousness like a never failing stream, Until the whole of our country is covered with Your glory, As the waters cover the sea.

We ask all this in the wonderful name of Jesus, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. One God, now and for all eternity. Amen

A Prayer to Value Others

God our Father, you call each of us by name, and you treasure each of us individually as though no-one else exists. Inspire me to respect and value each person who comes into my life this day. Teach me to recognize your face in the people you put into my life. Let me recognize the duties and responsibilities that come with the gifts you have given me so freely, and inspire me to live in such a way that I always give of my best and be welcoming and generous towards others. In Christ’s name I pray, Amen

A Prayer for Mission

Lord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within the reach of your saving embrace: So clothe us in your Spirit that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for the honor of your Name. Amen

Andrea Bocelli - The Lord's Prayer

Let us bless the Lord. Alleluia!
Thanks be to God! Alleluia!

Finally, may I go forth filled with the joy and confidence of your Spirit; and may everything I do this day, in word or deed, be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Amen

New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. The New Revised Standard Version Bible may be quoted and/or reprinted up to and inclusive of five hundred (500) verses without express written permission of the publisher, provided the verses quoted do not amount to a complete book of the Bible or account for fifty percent (50%) of the total work in which they are quoted.

Prayer of the Day for TUESDAY, July 4, 2017 - Independence Day (USA)

Lord, we stand today as our forefathers have stood before You in times gone by, Celebrating our history and reveling in all the great things that our country has achieved. On this day we rejoice in the favor You have graciously given us. We thank You for the blessings of liberty, for this generation and for the generations to come. We thank You for our independence, peace and for all those who have bravely given their lives in the defense of freedom and justice. We thank You that Your gracious and provident hand has given us so much.

Yet as a nation and people we have not always chosen the right way. We ask You to forgive us for these times. On this day we commit ourselves to wholeheartedly honoring and serving You. With everything that we are, we lay our lives before You. Make us a generous people, A holy nation, A people set aside to love You forever, For the sake of the land of the brave and free, And the peoples and nations of this world.

Today, we do not presume Your grace for our country. Our land is in need of You, Our people are in need of You, Our industry and business is in need of You. May we look only to You This Independence Day, dependent on You.

Please come now by Your glorious Holy Spirit, Breathe new life into the sinews of this nation. May justice flow like rivers, And righteousness like a never failing stream, Until the whole of our country is covered with Your glory, As the waters cover the sea.

We ask all this in the wonderful name of Jesus, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit. One God, now and for all eternity.

Amen

Verse of the Day for TUESDAY, July 4, 2017

Psalm 33:12 (NIV) Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.

Read all of Psalm 33

Listen to Psalm 33

Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Morning Devotions with Cap'n Kenny - God's Independence Day

Most Americans have celebrated Independence Day in their lifetime. Burgers and hotdogs sizzle on grills and fireworks burst in the sky. We eat, maybe hear The Star Spangled Banner, watch fireworks and go home. July fourth has become commonplace, another day for big sales events and flying an American flag.

However, an Independence Day celebration approaches to impress the whole world! We don’t know the date and shouldn’t believe anyone who tells us they do. But, no one on earth or in heaven will miss its importance; and it will mark a day of freedom from the greatest oppressor ever – Satan.

It is the day of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ's return. It is the beginning of real freedom, like no one has ever had before (except Adam and Eve before they sinned). Those who have believed in Christ’s atoning blood for their sins and have trusted and believed in Him, might have what an old preacher of mine used to call "a Hallelujah breakdown!"

This Independence Day will release Christians from the many sins keeping them entangled. Imagine, no more sickness, no more addictions, no more gossip, no more unkindness, no more anything that does not reflect the positive attributes of the love of our Father God and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Currently, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us, to strengthen us, to comfort us, and to give us power through Christ’s death and resurrection. However, we are still tripped up by sin as long as we live in this fallen world. When Jesus comes, all our ungodliness along with our negative baggage goes away. I can’t think of a better freedom than that.

Actually, the whole scene of Jesus’ return sounds so incredible, I doubt there are words to describe the immense emotional, spiritual, and physical response people will have.

The Bible tells us Jesus will return to earth just like He left, through the clouds (Acts 1:11b), with his angels (Matt 16:27), with the trumpet call of God and a loud command (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Scripture says believers in Christ will be changed in a twinkling of an eye and Jesus will destroy all dominion, authority and power standing in opposition to Almighty God (1 Corinthians 15:52, 1 Corinthians 15:24).

Our earthly minds are limited in their comprehension of this miraculous time. It’s a God thing, and try as we may, we can’t peg down the details on how God will accomplish the return of Jesus Christ and the destruction of evil.

Picture the sky filled with God’s mighty angels, the sound of God’s trumpet, which has to be the most beautiful and loudest sounding instrument, and our Lord Jesus shining radiantly as He leads His mighty angelic troop in the sky.

Envision watching victory as Christ and his angels capture Satan and his demons, and justice is completed. It will be more graphic and stirring than any riveting movie Hollywood could ever think of producing.

Many theologians have studied the return of Christ and have disagreed about the order of when things happen or exactly how they happen. These varied opinions on the return of Christ and the disappearance of believers from the earth have created divisions among believers who desperately want to cling to one decided order of the end times.

My response to such division is that it won’t matter how we interpret end times scriptures when God’s day of Independence comes. Everything will be revealed in God’s perfect timing. The Independence Day of our God will come when we least expect it and we are instructed to be ready as if it were the next moment. So, in case it happens to be today, Happy Independence Day!

In Jesus,
Cap'n Kenny


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Devotion Copyright © 2009 Beth Patch. Used by permission.Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation®, NLT® copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Un Dia a la Vez - Testimonio

El ojo misericordioso será bendito, porque dio de su pan al indigente.

~ Proverbios 22:9 (RV-60)

En los años que Dios me ha permitido estar en este ministerio radial, he podido ser testigo de los muchos milagros que se han hecho realidad en personas que han sido obedientes a un llamado, dejando a veces sus propios sueños para realizar los de otros.

Hoy, en este libro, quiero aprovechar para honrar a todos los ministerios, organizaciones y personas que han hecho algo por el más necesitado. Por mencionar algunos, quiero hablarte del pastor Mario Marrero que, siendo de la isla del encanto, Puerto Rico, Dios depositó un corazón amoroso por los niños abandonados en Medellín, Colombia, con el «Ministerio más que Vencedores». También está el caso de Mariví Brito, toda una profesional como productora por años del programa «Al Rojo Vivo», de la cadena Telemundo. En la actualidad, ya no está en la televisión, sino que hace parte del precioso ministerio Mision Child, donde con la colaboración de muchas personas le dan estudio y alimentos a cientos de niños en Colombia. Y así podría mencionar muchos otros que hacen una labor hermosa por los necesitados.

Mi clamor es que Dios siga levantando personas con esta misma visión y que logremos apoyarlos. Y tú… ¿qué estás haciendo con tu vida?

Un Día a la Vez Copyright © by Claudia Pinzón

Standing Strong Through the Storm - PRAY THAT GOD WILL BE GLORIFIED

Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your word with great boldness.

~ Acts 4:29 (NIV)

In Acts chapter four, Peter and John have been released from prison after many threats from the authorities. They return to the church and report. The church goes to prayer. But the remarkable thing is that they do not pray for protection but for boldness. We know God was pleased with their request because after their prayer the place in which they were meeting was shaken. Filled with God’s Spirit they spoke the word of God boldly.

Four hundred Christian young people attended a three-day prayer conference in the mountains of northern Iraq in the summer of 2011. Six busses full of Christians came from violence-ravaged Baghdad. For the Christians from the south of Iraq, where persecution, kidnapping and bombs are a daily reality, the conference was like refreshing water. For three days they didn’t have to worry and enjoyed being together with hundreds of other young believers in freedom. Christians from Baghdad, Mosul, Kirkuk, Basra and other cities came to the Open Doors sponsored meetings.

Behind the podium hung a huge banner with the theme of the conference. As waters cover the sea, the glory of God will cover the earth.

“That is the dream of God for Iraq and this world,” said one the worship leaders, “and that should be our dream.” Referring to the difficulties in the country he continued, “Tell in the middle of trouble about your hope, about God’s dream. Know that in the middle of the heat, fruit ripens. God is preparing us for the harvest.”

Many times during the conference, speakers referred to the persecution in the country and in other parts of the Middle East. Some of the churches lost many members during the last few years in Iraq. Due to the violence, Christians fled from the south of Iraq to the north, the Kurdish region or even to other countries. “Know that the church in Jerusalem was small too, but it changed the world,” the speaker encourages the young believers.

One of the pastors said, “With this Arab Spring we’re living in a very special time. We believe this is an historic conference. In the coming months big things are going to happen in this region. Focus on God; focus on His kingdom and God will do the rest.”

Another speaker shared an experience from Egypt. “December 2010 and the beginning of January 2011 we had 40 days of fasting and prayer for Egypt in our church in Cairo. God said to us that what He was going to do would be awesome.” Everyone knows what happened after that in Egypt.

“That was God’s interference in history!” He expressed the way many Egyptian Christians saw the events of January 2011. “Ask for the impossible and it will happen,” he said. “Pray for His desire. Look what happened in Acts when the church had a hard time. They did not ask for their own protection, they asked to glorify God’s name.”

RESPONSE: Today I will pray that my circumstances and challenges will ultimately glorify God’s name.

PRAYER: Thank You Lord for boldness You give Your church in the midst of threats and violence.

Girlfriends in God - July 04, 2017

Something Beautiful

Gwen Smith

Today's Truth

“...Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me.”

~ Matthew 26:10 (NIV)

Friend to Friend

I am completely crazy about cool jewelry, so when the Lord prompted me to take off my favorite necklace and give it to the woman who had just admired it, I tried to pretend that I didn’t hear Him.

“It’s mine, God!” I reasoned. “It isn’t replaceable! Why would ask me to do that?”

My self-plan didn’t like the God-plan that was laid out before me. God was asking me to give up something that meant a lot to me so that another woman could be blessed. It seemed crazy.

Unnecessary. But, in this instance, through the strength of Christ, I chose to obey even though I didn’t want too. It hurt. It cost me big. I felt the loss.

God softened my childish heart, however, as the woman wept at the Lord’s blessing. As I silently confessed my selfish thoughts, God poured a deep joy into my soul. He showed me that my sacrifice was an act of worship to Him. Blessings boomeranged right back to my heart as I humbly thanked Him for allowing me to participate in His moment with her. It was a beautiful thing.

There are just some times I’d rather give gifts that don’t cost me too much. But that’s probably something that only I wrestle with, right? (Kidding.) It’s hard to be open handed with things that we hold dear, isn’t it? Some of us struggle with an unwillingness to give away material things or money. Others of us hold tight to our schedules, affections, positions, jobs or our availability. Still more of us hold tightly to our children, grandchildren, spouses, friends, parents or other people in our lives that we want to keep a tight reign on.

The Bible addresses this issue and shows us a beautiful picture of surrendered devotion in Mary of Bethany. The offering she poured out onto the feet of Jesus was worth a year’s wages. She lavished her costly perfume, her attention, her affection, her time and her worship on Jesus because she loved Him. He was her Savior. Her Friend. Her Hope. The Healer who had miraculously brought life back to the stench of death that had fallen on her brother Lazarus.

“While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.

When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. "This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor."

Aware of this, Jesus said to them, "Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her." (Matthew 26:6-13, NIV)

The Message paraphrase says it this way: She has just done something wonderfully significant for me. (Matthew 26:10)

When I read this story, I’m compelled to wonder: when God looks at my life, does He see a beautiful thing? Does He see me do anything that is wonderfully significant for Him?

What do you think He sees when He looks at your life?

Does He see a beautiful thing?

When we open the hands of our lives to God’s presence, to His service and for His glory, rest assured God will see a beautiful thing. When we obey God’s promptings and listen to His voice that whispers to our soul, He fills us with peace, satisfaction and His beauty.

Let’s Pray

Dear God, You are worth far more praise than I could ever give. Please help me to rest in Your presence and trust in Your plan. Fill me with Your perspective until I joyfully lay down my will for Yours. Lord, when You look at my life, I want You to see beautiful.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen

Now It’s Your Turn

I co-wrote a song that was inspired by this Scripture passage and I’d love to share it with you as we conclude our devotion time. CLICK HERE and allow the words of this song, Something Beautiful, to be the prayer on your heart as you listen.

Consider what you are holding back from God. Spend time in prayer giving it back to God.

Read through Psalm 96. Read through it a second time, but pause after each verse with a personal, prayerful response to God. Journal any verses that you want to remember.

More from the Girlfriends

Every beautiful act of worship begins with the heart. If you would like to learn more about how your brokenness can be transformed into a picture of God’s beauty, order Gwen’s book Broken Into Beautiful. This resource will help you experience the power of hope, healing and restoration!

Something Beautiful is featured on Gwen’s Uncluttered CD. You can download the song from iTunes or Amazon – or order her CDs on www.GwenSmith.net.

Seeking God?

Click HERE to find out more about how to have a personal

relationship with Jesus Christ.

Girlfriends in God

P.O. Box 725, Matthews, NC 28106

info@girlfriendsingod.com

www.girlfriendsingod.com

QUOTE: When we obey God’s promptings and listen to His voice that whispers to our soul, He fills us with peace, satisfaction and His beauty.