Month: October 2012

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Superstition Systematic

Pam Ford Davis

Superstition is systematic, based in fallacy and gullibility. One day, I may set aside time to research perceived sources of ludicrous superstitions. Today, I focus on one I have pondered lately, the jinxed number thirteen. To my surprise, in my curiosity I found both examples of believed good and bad fortune through the number thirteen.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/13_%28number%29

As the year 2012 rushes to a close, I anticipate a great new year ahead. 2013 holds adventure and surprises. I want to prove naysayers wrong and foolish. Time and calculation is in the hand of the creator. He who numbers the hairs on my head sustains me, and is able to bless me as richly in the thirteen year as he did the twelfth. “So you should say, ‘If the Lord wants, we will live and do this or that (James 4:15 ERV).” I defy superstition; I trust sovereign God.

 

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Christian Growth, Devotionals

Con Man

Pam Ford Davis

In our futile attempts to be accepted, and ward off rejection, we conform to the ways of the world. Satan, the greatest con man of all time, persuades us to avoid separation and sanctification.  In moments of weakness, we conform to godless society as the Lord urges us to submit to Him and His transformation!

“I urge you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And be not conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2 NAS).” Submit!

 

Christian Growth, Devotionals

Mighty to Save

Pam Ford Davis

I am small in frame and no one would ever consider me a physical threat to his or her safety. Why would I be foolish and fancy myself mighty in managing my life? The issue is not my “might” but my “faith.” The LORD will guide my steps.

“I know, LORD, that a man’s way of life is not his own; no one who walks determines his own steps (Jeremiah 10:23 HCS).” He who guides is mighty to save! (Isaiah 63:1) “Not by might, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts (Zechariah 4:6b HCS).”  

Christian Growth, Devotionals

A Quick Glance

Pam Ford Davis

Do you frequently skim articles in newspapers and magazines? I’m a skimmer from way back; I’m not sure how much I do it out of disinterest or impatience. I take a quick glance, often gaining only bits and pieces of information. It has gotten me into trouble. Once when speedily reading an email, the writer did not say what I thought she did. Oops! Believers in Christ should refrain from skimming the scriptures. Those who examine God’s word, prayerfully, receive bountiful blessings and have wisdom to discern false teachings.

“Now these Jews were more noble than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with all eagerness, examining the scriptures daily to see if these things were so. Many of them therefore believed (Acts 17:11-12a RSV).” They did not have the New Testament writings; yet, they could substantiate the messages by searching Old Testament scriptures. It was an “open book” test. (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21) True servants of God are delighted when we measure their messages aside scriptures, or ask honest questions following their sermons.  No skimming, please!