Devotional for February 21

Exalt Him in the Assembly of the People

23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24 These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.
25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
31 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
32 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. Psalm 107:23-32 (KJV)

The Prayer Appointed for This Week

O Lord, you have taught us that without love whatever we do is worth nothing; Send your Holy Spirit and pour into my heart your greatest gift, which is love, the true bond of peace and of all virtue, without which whoever lives is accounted dead before you. Grant this for the sake of your only Son Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Book of Common Prayer

The Morning Exhortation

Faith always agrees with God. There is no need to become more muscular, beautiful, rich, or anything else to be loved. Advertisers will use slick, sexy, and cool adverts to implant the subliminal belief that if only you buy this or that you will get more love and happiness. Behind this deception are principalities propagating the present darkness of this world by seeking to keep the masses from seeing the glorious light of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Believe the truth of the gospel and be free. Great is the love of God. Jesus’ death on the Cross is proof of the extent of God’s love for us. Turn from all darkness and embrace the light. The young are often reckless, because the foolishness of sin is easily overlooked when its consequences are delayed and death seems so far away. Wake up from childish sugar plum dreams. Realize life is but a breath, and our next exhale could be the last. Where there are parents who love their child, all must go right for the child up to the parents’ ability. Since our heavenly Father is omnipotent and benevolent, we can be sure that all things will work out for good for the child of God. Have faith in the everlasting love of God. 

Question

Why do we worry?

Answer

Because it is so easy to lose focus and get distracted by the boisterous wind and wild waves all around us.