Aug 21 2024

Afternoon Bible Verse

Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.

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Think about the last scoop in the carton of your favorite ice cream. You knew it was in the freezer just waiting for you to spoon into your bowl and dig into its creamy deliciousness. Then your child comes up to ask for that last scoop.

As much as we craved that ice cream, of course we willingly give it up for our child. Why? Because we love our children more than life itself and would sacrifice anything for them. With that in mind, how much are we willing to sacrifice for the Lord?

People give to the Lord in various ways. They give money to their church in the form of a tithe. They donate to Christian charitable organizations or sponsor needy children. They give of their time and energy volunteering for worthy causes in their communities.

God wants and expects us to give—and to do so cheerfully and gladly. In 1 Chronicles 29 we read about how King David rejoiced when his people gave to God willingly from their hearts. They weren't forced or coerced but instead, considered it a privilege to bless the Lord with their gifts.

No matter how we go about giving to our Lord, or how much we give, what matters isn't the gift itself but the heart and attitude behind the giving.

We would gladly do and give anything for our children because we love them. In the same way, we should do and give everything willingly for God. By doing so, we are showing that our hearts are perfectly in tune with God's heart and that His love is so much greater than our sacrifice.

Afternoon Prayer

Dear Lord God, work in my heart so that I can be a willing giver to you. Change my heart to give as freely as you gave your son for me. And as you change me and make me more like you, may I rejoice in the fact that giving to you is an honor and a privilege. In Jesus' name, amen.

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Aug 20 2024

Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Verse

Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is: that I may know how frail I am. :

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Yesterday Afternoon's Bible study

Many people today have schedules that are so packed there is little or no time left over for rest. Some may think of their busyness as a badge of honor or a sign of how successful they are. But the truth is, running ourselves ragged day after day leads to exhaustion and has the potential to steal our joy.

When we're aware that our days are short, meaning our life on Earth isn't long, it helps us focus on the things that bring true happiness. In the end, all that matters is our relationship with God, and our family and dear friends.

We need God's help to focus on what truly matters. When we feel the seemingly never-ending demands of life, we can ask God to guide us in deciding where our attention should be focused. Only those things that are done for the Lord will last into eternity. Nothing else matters.

Our days are short, so it's vital that we spend our time, talent, and resources on the most important things in life. When we lose our focus, we go to God in prayer. He will provide all the clarity we need to know what's important.

Yesterday Afternoon's Prayer

Dear Lord, please help me fight my way through busyness. When I am overwhelmed by a full schedule, I know that you can help me discern what's important and deserves my attention. Help me view my schedule in light of eternity. Focus my heart and mind on what you want me to do, rather than on everything I think I should do. In Jesus' name, amen.
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