Devotion

Numbers 10-11
This classic piece of the Torah details God's reaction to the people and their grumbling. They grumble about not having enough food. They grumble against God for not providing the right food. They grumble against God because people they don't think should are prophesying. Seems like they are never happy and God eventually hits them with plague and kills the people that are grumbling. I don't believe this is a message for us not to grumble because we might get hit with a plague, but it is certainly something for us to think about. How do we remain content and happy with what God gives us. It isn't always easy for us to echo Job's words, "The LORD gives, the LORD takes away. Blessed be the name of the LORD." And yet, that is what we are called to do. God provides for what we need and will always do so. We must be willing to allow God to be God and be content in him.

Psalm 86-87
Psalm 87:16 "O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid."

Romans 1
Romans has always had a special place in my heart, especially chapter one. My confirmation verse is Romans 1:16, "I am not ashamed of the gospel for it is the power of salvation for all who believe, first for the Jew and also for the gentile." I have tried to take this to heart over the years as I have proclaimed God's truth and word. I know that there are times when being firm and strong in the Gospel of God and His word will get in you into trouble, just as it did for Paul. However, on the last day when I am called to account for all I have done or not done, I know I will have enough to answer for, I do not want to have to answer for not standing up and being ashamed of God and His Word. I am not ashamed of the gospel!