Today’s verse is a hard cookie to swallow. Philippians 2:4 says: “Abandon every display of selfishness. Possess a greater concern for what matters to others instead of your own interests” (Philippians 2:4 TPT). When we are born, we are all about the “me” of the world. I want fed. I need a diaper change. I … Continue reading A Greater Concern
Tag: relationship
Reconstructing Law
When I was a little girl, I would soak up things like a sponge. I was a stickler for facts, rules, truths. When I burned my arm on a kerosene heater in a failed attempt to reach my Snoopy balloon, while receiving treatment from a nurse, I advised her that it was her poor eating … Continue reading Reconstructing Law
Full Understanding
Yesterday we looked at how our faith is established by the power of the Holy Spirit — by listening to Him as He reveals deep and hidden truths, convicts our hearts, and opens our eyes to see anew. We noted that people without the Spirit may read some truths in the Bible; however, without the … Continue reading Full Understanding
Celebrate and Weep
The Bible tells us to celebrate and weep with other people. During good times, rejoice. During change and loss, grieve. It’s simple but yet not simple at all. Romans 12:15 says, “Celebrate with those who celebrate, and weep with those who grieve” (TPT). This requires some kind of connection and attention. That’s where there is … Continue reading Celebrate and Weep
Wearing a Mask
Yesterday’s devotion was all about love for one another. Romans 12:9 says, “Let the inner movement of your heart always be to love one another, and never play the role of an actor wearing a mask. Despise evil and embrace everything that is good and virtuous” (TPT). Today, we will continue to look at the … Continue reading Wearing a Mask
Moved
How do you make decisions in life? What are your top priorities? If someone hears your words or observes your actions, what would the person say motivates you? What drives you? What keeps you focused? What moves you? What can make you change your mind? What can cause you to rethink something or to do … Continue reading Moved
The Merit of Observing
Many of us learn from our parents, our teachers, and society in general that if you do good things, you earn good things. This is somewhat true. I know that I have earned good grades for doing homework. I know I have a decent driving record for following the rules. I have had many opportunities … Continue reading The Merit of Observing
The Privilege of Worshiping
Psalm 100:3 reads: “And realize what this really means—we have the privilege of worshiping the Lord our God. For He is our Creator and we belong to Him. We are the people of His pleasure (TPT). The ESV translates it this way: “Know that the LORD, He is God! It is He who made us, … Continue reading The Privilege of Worshiping
Satisfaction
How much of life is spent searching for satisfaction…for pleasure…contentment…happiness? The Bible tells us to “seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need” (Matthew 6:33 NLT). Everything you need! We want the results; the struggle is seeking God first.“ That is easier said than … Continue reading Satisfaction
Before I Even Whisper
Our concept of prayer can get a little skewed as we age. When we are younger, if we know Jesus, we are more apt to simply pour out our heart. Whatever we have on our hearts we share. As we get older, we are “taught” how to pray. We see people praying in a certain … Continue reading Before I Even Whisper
Tania Gutekunst 