Afternoon Devotion
December 12, 2021
Afternoon Bible Verse
Hebrews 13:5
Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
Afternoon Bible Study
Every day, we say more than 7,000 words. If we were to write them all down, what would we see? What percentage of words would be about love? How much would be malice? Gossip?
We might even feel embarrassed to see our words written down on a page. Out of our mouths can come a hodgepodge of compliments, hurtful words, praise, criticism, good intentions, and promises we have no plans of keeping. Words are important.
Our thoughts and feelings affect every area of our life. Our emotions are expressed in our conversations with others, sometimes intentionally and other times accidentally. What we say reflects our thoughts and what is in our hearts. And our words are often in conflict with what God says about who we are or how we should feel.
We might even feel embarrassed to see our words written down on a page. Out of our mouths can come a hodgepodge of compliments, hurtful words, praise, criticism, good intentions, and promises we have no plans of keeping. Words are important.
Our thoughts and feelings affect every area of our life. Our emotions are expressed in our conversations with others, sometimes intentionally and other times accidentally. What we say reflects our thoughts and what is in our hearts. And our words are often in conflict with what God says about who we are or how we should feel.
If we listen carefully to those who are speaking, we can hear their insecurities and fears. All of us have them, and what we say confirms their effect on our lives. Our words matter, and they matter to God. He doesn't want to hear His children speaking ill of each other, lying, being jealous, or doubting His power, whether it is in the form of spoken words or messages typed on social media.
Our words should reflect gratitude for what we have been given. Sometimes the best thing we can say is nothing at all. When we don't know what to say, we should ask God for His wisdom.
Our words can add value to other people's lives. We can build others up and encourage them, or we can tear them down. We can choose to glorify God with our words today.
Our words should reflect gratitude for what we have been given. Sometimes the best thing we can say is nothing at all. When we don't know what to say, we should ask God for His wisdom.
Our words can add value to other people's lives. We can build others up and encourage them, or we can tear them down. We can choose to glorify God with our words today.
Afternoon Prayer
Heavenly Father, there are times when I don't know what to say. Sometimes it can be challenging to refrain from expressing frustration or telling others what I really think. Help me filter my speech through your love. I don't want to tear others down or cause pain in my life and the lives of others. Before I speak, please help me to check my words so they glorify you and bring life to others. I need your help to have speech that honors you and brings glory to your holy name. In Jesus' name, amen.
If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.
-C.S. Lewis
God will not look you over for medals, degrees or diplomas but for scars.
-Elbert Hubbard
The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.
-C.S. Lewis
If you want to know what God thinks of money, just look at the people he gave it to.
-Dorothy Parker
Yesterday's Devotional
December 11, 2021
Yesterday's Afternoon Bible Verse
John 16:33
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Yesterday's Afternoon Bible Study
In life, we will have pain. Although that isn't a comforting thought, it is reality. When trials and tribulations test our faith, we can turn to our Heavenly Father for everything we need.
God is always there to comfort us in our pain and encourage us. Difficult situations give us the choice of depending on God or relying on our strength. Even if we haven't yet made it to the other side of a tough time, God can give us peace in the middle of the storms of life.
God knows that on the other side of our pain is victory. Jesus already defeated life and death—His victory is offered to us as a gift.
So, how does God encourage us in troubling times? He sends people to lift us up. He fills us with His power to strengthen us. He gives us wisdom to see beyond what is currently happening and to see the future He has waiting for us.
God is always there to comfort us in our pain and encourage us. Difficult situations give us the choice of depending on God or relying on our strength. Even if we haven't yet made it to the other side of a tough time, God can give us peace in the middle of the storms of life.
God knows that on the other side of our pain is victory. Jesus already defeated life and death—His victory is offered to us as a gift.
So, how does God encourage us in troubling times? He sends people to lift us up. He fills us with His power to strengthen us. He gives us wisdom to see beyond what is currently happening and to see the future He has waiting for us.
God isn't affected by the depth of our situations. He is never overwhelmed or left without knowing what to do. He holds all the answers. God knows our past, He is with us now, and He sees the future He has in store for us.
Our mind can be one of our biggest hindrances in times of trouble. If we don't allow God to affect our hearts and minds, then we will continue to struggle. Anxiety can rob us of our peace. But we can take comfort in knowing that God's peace is bigger than any pain and worry.
Our mind can be one of our biggest hindrances in times of trouble. If we don't allow God to affect our hearts and minds, then we will continue to struggle. Anxiety can rob us of our peace. But we can take comfort in knowing that God's peace is bigger than any pain and worry.
Yesterday's Afternoon Prayer
Dear Lord, I come to you with a heart that has experienced the pain of life. Thank you for peace that surpasses my understanding. I can't even comprehend your great love for me. When I am struggling and hurting, please send your Holy Spirit to comfort me. You have promised never to leave me, and I believe you. When worry floods my mind, remind me of your faithfulness in my life. I know you can help me stand through every trial. I trust in you today. I can hold my head high knowing that I have victory through you. In Jesus' name, amen.