We Don't Have to Earn God's Love

What a wonderful blessing it is to remember that God’s love does not depend on anything that we do to earn it. God’s love is a free gift through His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. When we are vexed with ourselves for falling short of Godly behavior, we can remember God’s great mercy and say, “Lord forgive me.” When we are vexed with others for making us feel worse rather than better, we can once again remember God’s mercy and know that divine love far outweighs the merits of human love. God’s unconditional love enables us both to forgive ourselves and to forgive others.

How do you know that God loves you?

Suggested Hymn: "Blessed Assurance" (Words: Fanny Crosby, 1873. Music: Phoebe P. Knapp).

Scripture: “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith” (Hebrews 10:21-22).

Called, Loved, Kept

The first verse of the book of Jude says that as children of God we are called to be His. We are Loved. And we are kept in Him through Jesus Christ. Think of it!

Called! When did you first hear God's call for your life?

Loved by God the Father! In what ways do you see evidence of His love for you today?

What peace we have in knowing that we are kept in Him through Jesus Christ our Lord!

Suggested Hymn: “Sweet Peace, the Gift of God’s Love” (Words & Music: Peter P. Bilhorn, 1887).

Scripture: "To those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance" (Jude 1:1).

When People Are Unkind

Sometimes people are short-tempered and hurtful. Remember that people who are unkind are badly in need of our love and prayers.

What are some strategies you can use in order to cope in a Christlike way with unloving behavior in those around you?

Suggested Hymn: “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” (Words: John Whittier, 1872. Music: Frederick Maker, 1887).

Scripture: “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13).

My Life's Purpose

In your walk with the Lord you have found that He has used you often as a vessel to bless and teach other people. Your ministry has not come to an end simply because you are no longer as active as you once were. God is using your needs to teach those who help you to become more Christlike.

Write or say a prayer now for those who are learning to help you.

Suggested Hymn: “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior” (Words: Fanny Crosby, 1868. Music: Howard Doane, 1870).

Scripture: “…whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31).

Do Not Be Afraid

You have reached a point in your life where must accept help from others, and it isn’t easy. To make matters worse you sometimes overhear people saying things that are not comforting. Try to overhear the Lord’s voice instead! What is He saying to you today?

Suggested Hymn: “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” (Words and Music: Martin Luther, 1529).

Scripture: “Do not be afraid of what you have heard” (2 Kings 19:6b).