Posts from July 2023

  :                                 Our constantly changing world is controlled by a constant and un changing God.  His love and purpose for us never changes.  No matter how chaotic the world around us may become, we can move through it with an inner calm or peace, with the assurance “that all things work together for the good of those that love the Lord.”   (Romans 8:28)  We need to develop an inner calm like that promised in Philippians 4:6-7. …

         James 4:6 says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble” (ESV). God recognized the humble, and according to James, will extend grace to them, probably because the humble tend to extend forgiveness to others. Humility is often misunderstood and even viewed as a weakness. But it is the exact opposite. By practicing humility, we position ourselves to receive God’s grace and become everything He’s called us to be. Humble people are the happiest people.…

  Perhaps the most helpful and effective characteristic of a good leader is Humility.  We have all seen Tyrants in the work place, and we have most likely seen humble leaders as well.   In fact, it is so important that the Bible lists this as a qualification to be an Elder of the Lord’s church.  Titus 1:7 states that an elder must be “not self-willed, not quick tempered”.  As a leader on the job, in our businesses, or at home,…

       Eckart Tolle is credited with saying “If you had not suffered as you have, there would be no depth to you as human beings. No Humility, No compassion”.   We all know that when we suffer from something in our lives, we develop a special compassion for those who have suffered the same thing.  It is awesome to see when someone uses a negative event in their life, to help others.   I know of a family who lost their…

  “Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate.”   (Proverbs 8:13b)   “Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord.  Be assured, he will not go unpunished.”   (Proverbs 16:5)  These verses really gripped me.  God hates it when we are proud.  Why does God hate  pride ?  God hates it because it comes from inside of the heart.  A proud man thinks of himself as higher than someone else.  Are…

  We often hear songs which have a great message. Tim McGraw released a song that really struck a chord with me.  I am sure you have heard the song “Humble and Kind”.  The song includes lines like “Hold the door, say please, say thank you, Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie. I know you got mountains to climb, but always stay Humble and Kind……”. …When the work you put in is realized, let yourself feel the pride, but…

      Who is John Newton? Well, a recent John Newton played Clark Kent on the show Superboy! However, I am speaking about the English sailor and clergyman who wrote the song “Amazing Grace”.  Recently, I heard a sermon by Ray Reynolds about the poem written by John Newton in 1770 titled “The Kite”. In the poem, the Kite says “Were I but free, I’d take a flight, And pierce the clouds beyond their sight, But, ah! like a poor prisoner bound, My…

  DISCUSSION: Our hearts are reflected by the lives we live. This week we have spent time talking about getting out of spiritual bankruptcy. Reflect back on your week and think about the steps you have taken to work on growing spiritually. The week is not over yet! If you have missed any devos, go back and study them now. Remember, we can’t do it by ourselves and focusing on God is key!   Prayer Requests: ____________________________________________________________