Since the early Christian Church, there have been differences of opinion on proper behavior for a Christian. Because most of the early Christians had been Jews then accepted Jesus as the Messiah, some still believed they were required to follow Jewish traditions for eating, days of the week to worship, and other behaviors.

Paul writes about this in Romans 14, and writes that it is up to each believer, based upon his dedicated study of scripture, Jesus’ and the apostles’ teaching, to determine what they believe is proper. The importance of the rules was not for judging others, but for managing themselves.

In Romans 14:23 Paul says, “But if you have doubts about whether or not you should eat something, you are sinning if you go ahead and do it. For you are not following your convictions. If you do anything you believe is not right, you are sinning.”

We have similar differences in the various denominations of Christian Churches today; Different days of worship, understandings on acceptable foods to eat, customs, acceptability of drinking alcohol, and other behaviors. We should remember Paul’s message, to use these rules to guide ourselves, and not to judge others.

Dear Lord, You made us and gave us a conscience and the ability to reason. Help us read and understand your word, and listen to our consciences so that we may live as you would have us, remembering that other Christians may have variations in their understanding, but we all still believe in You and Your saving grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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Thank God for the United States of America.

Democracy by definition is “government by the people.” Democratic countries have different variations of how this rule by the people is conducted, but the key is that the people of the country ultimately control its direction.

Psalm 33:12 says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”

Almost all the founders of America were practicing Christians, and for over two hundred years, the people of this American democracy have ruled to maintain the Christian foundation of America. The USA has been incredibly blessed over these years, and our Christian morals and people have led the USA to be an incredible blessing to the rest of the world.

It is our responsibility, in country ruled by the people, to make sure our God, and as a result our country’s God, is the Lord. If we do, we can have confidence that God will Bless America.

Dear Lord, on this day we celebrate the independence of the United States of America, we thank you for the blessing of living here and the tremendous positive influence this country has been in the world. Help us, the people of America, to govern our country as Christians, so that your blessings may continue on this great, and grateful country. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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We know that God is all powerful. He created all things, from the magnitude of the universe, to the complexity of our bodies; he performed incredible powerful miracles like the great flood, the plagues in Egypt, and the parting of the Red Sea to the many miracles Jesus performed, like raising Lazarus from death, and casting out demons. We know from the story of Job that the devil is subject to God’s permission and authority. Who would question whether God could strike anyone on earth down at any time, or wipe out anything man could build with a single act of Nature. God’s Power is Awesome!

At the same time, 1 John 4:8 says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is Love.” God is love…the magnitude of this is also difficult for us to understand. The most compassion, care, empathy, sympathy, sacrifice, we can feel or express is just a drop compared to God’s love, because God is Love.

Together, how can we not submit ourselves to God’s will, knowing that by doing so, we are supported and protected by the ultimate power and cared for by the one who defines love.

Dear Lord, Let us take both comfort, and strength in knowing that You are Power and Love, and you love us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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Sometimes I catch myself spending time trying to solve issues and question as many Christians do. Personal issues, Job issues, morality issues…. I find myself tossing the issue around in my head, and discussing it with close friends and family, trying to understand. This is not a bad practice, but then I’ll stop and realize that I have not read my bible looking for the answer.

Your Bible is the place God’s word, instructions and directions are found. Proverbs 2:6 says “For the Lord gives wisdom. From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” It is not just the words on the paper. God speaks to us when we open up our hearts and minds to his word.

Remember to go to your Bible for knowledge, understanding and wisdom.

Dear Lord, you are the creator of all things. Help us remember to go to you for the answers to life’s issues, and look and listen for Your wisdom in our bibles. In Jesus Name. Amen

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I remember watching documentaries about the battle of Britain in World War 2, when the city of Britain was being bombed. I recall seeing the pictures of people in the underground bomb shelters huddled together, safe from the destruction that was occurring above them in the city, and even seeing people sleeping while they waited for the attack to end. The shelter provided them safety and as a result allowed them to rest.

Psalm 91:1,2 say, “Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord; He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God and I trust him.”

Similar to those going to the bomb shelters, we can go to God for safety. When we trust him, he will give us peace, and allow us rest even while difficult and distressing events may be occurring in our lives.

Dear Lord, It is comforting for us to know that we can come to you for shelter from the fears and sadness in life. Help us trust you to protect us, and share the peace that in brings us with others who may not know. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

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