Thanksgiving

PM#0473

The United States has set aside a day to be thankful for our blessings which come to us two ways:

• Ones that we have
• Ones that we give. 

We may sometimes recognize something as a blessing, but more often than not we need to be reminded of the many blessings around us.  We often forget the little things that really are a blessing—like a cup of cold water.  The old hymn is very true—“Count your Blessings”.  When we recognize our blessings, we will be surprised what God has done.

Then as we recognize our blessings, are we learning to reach out and bless someone else?  Blessings shared, bring much joy and encouragement to others.

I encourage you to take time today and count your blessings, and then look for ways to bless others. 

The Lord will help us do this if we ask Him in prayer.  “Father, help us to recognize our blessings and to be able to bless others.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Politics and Religion

PM#0472

Politics and Religion

Based on Proverbs 2:4-6a  "If thou seek her as silver, And search for her as for hid treasures: Then shalt thou understand the fear of Jehovah, And find the knowledge of God. For Jehovah giveth wisdom;"

Whenever there is a political race, some in the race want the support of Christians.  Now there is nothing fundamentally wrong with that desire.

We need to ask a real question and it needs to be truthfully answered.  Is that support sought for control purposes?  Or is it the result of one involved in politics to genuinely see God’s wisdom? 

I have been approached by many emotional appeals that sound good.  If I join them I need to ask will they focus on the Kingdom of God principles, or will the elevate one particular party or a candidate who will use that bandwagon to manipulate us?

Probably the best way to resolve this issue is to seek Godly wisdom, in earnestness, using God’s word. 

Consider this prayer ‘Father, I need your wisdom concerning the issues in the upcoming political race.  Please guide me according to your word”  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Veterans

PM#0471

Veterans

John 15:13, Rom 12:14

Vietnam veterans were deeply hurt when protesters did not respect. 

The protestors had forgotten that our freedoms come with a cost, one which we fought to preserve, and some gave their lives to protect those freedoms. The Bible says in John 15:13 that ‘Greater love hath no man than this that he lay down his life for his friends.”  

Yes, veterans have experienced a rejection of that love as a country. Turning to God’s way, we should forgive and find ways to bless.  Rom 12:14 says “Bless them that persecute you; bless, and curse not.”

Fortunately, our country is now honoring its veterans.  Still, all of us who are veterans should consider this prayer:

Father, help me to continually find ways to bless my country, I forgive those who hurt us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.