Author Archives: jsjdevotions

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April 11, 2013

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Faith & Hope, God's Plan, God's Promises, Obedience, Salvation: A New You

PICK UP YOUR CROSS

4-11-13 Pick up your cross Glenwood Spgs COWEBThen Jesus said to his followers, “If any of you want to be my follower, you must stop thinking about yourself and what you want. You must be willing to carry the cross that is given to you for following me. Any of you who try to save the life you have will lose it. But you who give up your life for me will find it.” [Matthew 16:24-25 (ERV)]

O Lord, picking up my cross means making changes in my life and that means leaving my comfort zone. I may not like who or where I am right now, but at least I know what to expect and what is expected of me. I’m afraid to change. Please give me the courage to step out of my old ways and face the unknown so that I may discover the life you have waiting for me.

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April 10, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Prayer

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. [Psalm 19:14 (NLT)]

Thank you, God, for this day. Direct my thoughts, monitor my speech, and prompt my actions. Inspire my petitions and hear my prayers.

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April 9, 2013

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Bible Stories, Challenges & Difficulty, Faith & Hope, Trusting God

WE CAN KILL GIANTS!

And everyone assembled here will know that the Lord rescues his people, but not with sword and spear. This is the Lord’s battle, and he will give you to us! [1 Samuel 17:47 (NLT)]

These were the words of a young shepherd boy, armed only with a stick, a sling and five stones. They were said to a nine-foot tall giant, wearing 125 pounds of armor and armed with a huge spear. The boy, however, knew he had a secret weapon: the power of God!

Oh Lord, show us how to be like David. Give us both faith in you and confidence in our ability to meet whatever challenge you present. May we never cower in the face of what seem to be overpowering obstacles. What giants do you want me to slay today?

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April 8, 2013

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Faith & Hope, Trusting God

OUR SHEPHERD WILL LEAD US

The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. … Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and staff protect and comfort me. [Psalm 23:1,4 (NLT)]

Help us remember that both mountain tops and deep canyons are inevitable in life. Thank you, Lord, for never abandoning us, no matter where we happen to be. When we are in the depths of life, when we are disappointed, hurt or discouraged, remind us that you have provided all that is required to pass through those dark places. We just need to stop depending on our own strength and power and follow you, our Lord and Shepherd. You will lead us safely through all the valleys of life.

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April 7, 2013

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Attitudes & Behavior, Obedience, Temptation & Sin

WE ARE GOD’S SERVANTS

Live as free people, but don’t hide behind your freedom when you do evil. Instead, use your freedom to serve God. [1 Peter 2:16 (GW)]

Thank you, Lord, for reminding me that you are not there to serve me; rather, I am here to serve you! I may be free, but I’ m not the one in charge. Accept me as your enthusiastic servant so that I can serve you willingly and joyfully now and forever.

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April 6, 2013

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Church & Worship, Family, Friends & Fellowship, Forgiveness, Temptation & Sin

SOMETHING WE ALL HAVE IN COMMON

Healthy people don’t need a doctor – sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners [Mark 2:17 (NLT)]

Thank you, Jesus, for providing us with a church family. We can gather together, hear your word, offer prayers and praise, and even come together at your table. We are such a diverse group: young and old, wealthy and poor, coming from all walks of life. Some people are secure in their faith while others are filled with doubt. Yet we all share one thing in common: we all are sinners! Thank you for welcoming sinners into your family, and thank you for your healing hand of forgiveness so that we can begin each day anew.