Faithfully Yours Forever

Verses” Matthew 4:16, 17 [in part] (NIV)

the people living in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those living in the land of the shadow of death
a light has dawned.”

…, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

Father God, may the light of Christ shine through us today.  May those without Christ as Lord and Savior choose Him and be guided out of the darkness by His light.  In His holy name I pray, amen.

Verses: Matthew 4:4, 7, 10 [in part] (NIV)

Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

…, Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”

… For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’”

Father God, may we look to Scriptures for guidance.  May we submit to Your will and authority.  May You be the focus of our worship and the desire of our heart.  In the name of Jesus I pray, amen.

1 Timothy 3:4 (NIV)
He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect.

The Bible contains so much practical advice for us.  Heeding the advice found in the Scriptures can help us live our lives well – in relationship to others.  An important covenant between people, within the family, in the church, and as a member of society, in general, is respect – mutual respect for one another.  May we show those around us the respect that is due them as one of God’s children.  (inspired by Reflecting God – Devotions for Holy Living, WordAction Publishing Company)

Colossians 3:21 (NIV)
Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

You may have heard the expression, “it goes both ways.”  Well, yesterday we considered how important it is to honor our earthly parents.  Today, we are considering how important it is to encourage our children.  I expect many of us have experienced how an unkind word or action, especially from a parent, can discourage us.  May we find ways to encourage and lift up each other.  May the Lord help us not to become bitter or angry when we are faced with discouraging circumstances.  (inspired by Reflecting God – Devotions for Holy Living, WordAction Publishing Company)