A Daily Devotion for Friday, November 6
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
John 7:24
“Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”
This verse from John is part of Jesus’ explanation of why healing on the Sabbath is a good thing, and not breaking a law. But more importantly, I think Jesus is pointing out that we often may judge or make accusations of wrongdoing before we know all of the facts. (Never mind that we should try not to judge in the first place.) How many of us in the past have known someone very well, and know them to be kind and humble and generous,
only to have another person say, “She (he) is so conceited (or entitled or “stuck-up”)” ? This happens because people judge others by their outward appearances. For me, it is probably best not to judge at all, lest I judge incorrectly.
Holy Lord, help me to be aware of any tendency I have to judge. May my first thoughts be generous and kind, and my actions loving. It is not my job to judge anyone. Help me to be the light that shines on the right path, Amen
Becky, transforming
Philippians 4:6-7. John 7:24
What a wonderful gift that student gave her professor. Most teachers will tell you they seldom get that kind of feedback. To know you’ve made a difference is beyond description. You’ve heard me say many times that in retirement I hoped to make a difference. No rocking chair for me. I hope and pray I’ve made the right choices.
Prayer: Gracious God. Thank you for the many skills and talents you’ve given me so I may do your work here. AMEN
Philippians 4:6-7. John 7:24
While I know it is unreasonable to think I will never worry, I do know I am not alone with my worry. I must always remember that when I worry, pray. I need to focus on the goodness of God when things are difficult and when there seems like there are no answers, I need to trust. Actually, worry is an invitation to pray and peace is a gift we can experience before any of our circumstances change.
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.”
What a beautiful promise this is!
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that I don’t have to carry…
Philippians 4:6-7/John 7:24
The Philippians passage will forever be known to me as the Kay Layne passage as it reminds me to bring requests to God with thanksgiving for what God will do before God does it. This is a powerful lesson that I have shared in numerous other settings. It seems to be implied in the pairing of readings this morning that the peace given us by this kind of faith will guard our hearts and minds against being judgmental. I often fail that test and can offer no excuse for doing so. I must do my best to recognize that failure, repent, confess to God and seek forgiveness. If only this sequence of events occurred less frequently .…