"Today's Devotion" For July 15, 2005
Read: James 5:13-18; Psalm 86
JESUS - A FRIEND FOR ALL TIMES
"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." (Mt. 21:22)
We are living in perilous times. At least they are the current, perilous times. In fact, it seems that every generation and era can legitimately make the claim to being in perilous times. Yet it's very interesting how we arrive at such conclusions. World War I was the war to end all wars and then, in 1939, World War II began, and over a period of about 6 years killed more people than any previous war. We're now facing a global war again, as we battle terrorism and terrorists around the world. Perhaps life has never been so insecure in modern history as it is now. We can honestly say that times are perilous, but perhaps no more so than throughout history. There's no doubt that life on earth is a perilous proposition. All we have to do is see what happens when sickness, disease, man's inhumanity to man, and other painful reminders of the sinful condition of this world keep on raising their ugly heads.
For God's people, no matter how perilous things might seem, there is hope and assurance for the future. We believe that nothing can take us away from God's love for us in Jesus Christ. Through faith in Jesus, we know that our sins are forgiven and we're held in the very palm of God's hand. No matter the perils we might face, the uncertainties that might touch our lives, and the very real presence of those who would harm us, we believe that God hears us and responds to us as we come to Him in prayer. Our Lord Jesus Christ affirms the power of prayer from a believing heart that trusts Him implicitly and continually seeks His blessings according to His Will and purpose for our lives. Perilous times need not be fearful times, for we know that our God and Savior hears and answers our prayers.
The hymn, "What A Friend We Have In Jesus," is filled with reminders that Jesus loves us and hears us and walks with us everyday, no matter how terrible things might get. He is our Rock in time of danger, and, at all times, our Friend. Hear again those wonderful words of the hymn:
"What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! Oh, what peace we often forfeit; Oh, what needless pain we bear-All, because we do not carry everything to God in prayer."
"Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged-Take it to the Lord in prayer! Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our ev'ry weakness-Take it to the Lord in prayer."
"Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge -Take it to the Lord in prayer. Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer. In His arms He'll take and shield you, You will find a solace there." AMEN!!!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for promising to hear my prayer and assuring me that I can bring everything to You, believing that You will answer me. Keep me from fear and help me to live boldly for You, despite the perilous times in which I live. Lead me to be a powerful prayer warrior and witness to Your love and forgiveness. Hear me precious Savior, for Your name's sake. Amen.
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--Pastor Boeck
Copyright � 2005 Rev. Richard J. Boeck, Jr. All rights reserved.
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