Sunday Writing by Jan Andersen... 1/22/17

The devotion for today is written by Jan Andersen, entitled "SHINE LIKE STARS."  She addresses our divided nation and how we deal with each other.  She writes, "Most importantly, shine the light of God in all that you say and do, remembering the most important thing of all is Jesus."

Be blessed on this Sunday and throughout the week.  Pray for one another and our country.

Blessings,

Corinne and Jan

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Today's Devotional

"SHINE LIKE STARS"

by

Jan Andersen

Our nation is again at a crossroads, where important directional decisions are going to be made.  A transfer of power has occurred that has swung the pendulum the other way in terms of philosophies and politics.  What one group now fears and is angry about, the opposite side supports and cheers.  Yet four years ago when the opposite party was in power, the sides were switched.  That first group was rejoicing in victory, while the opposite side was in fear of losing what they believed in.  Now a short time later they have switched emotional responses.  Both sides believe strongly in their stances and can argue passionately about them. 

Anger, fear and hate drive out all chances of respectful discourse or empathy.  Compassion, understanding, and love light the way for a supportive atmosphere even in disagreements.  Park the sarcastic remarks and haughtier than thou attitudes and antagonistic social media posts at the door.  Put yourself in the other side's shoes - and don't complain if they pinch your toes!  Really, try hard to see it from their perspective.  Then lovingly converse if you must.  Most importantly, shine the light of God in all that you say and do, remembering the most important thing of all is Jesus.  He is the light of the world and sacrificed himself in our place so that we can have eternal life with him in heaven.  All else pales in comparison to that!  May we reflect his loving forgiveness to all.

Philippians 2:13-16 (NIV)  It is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.  Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, "children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation." [from Deut. 32:5]  Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life.

Dear Father in heaven, help us to reflect your light to the world, shining like the stars in the heavens, being compassionate and loving toward others even when we disagree.  Just as you have forgiven us for all of our wrongs, known or unknown, help us to forgive others we feel have wronged us.  Bring us together in what matters most, our salvation in Jesus Christ, your son, our Lord, in whose name we pray.  Amen.

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Song: In The Light, by DC Talk

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Prayers are lifted up daily for 

you by the Devotional Writers 

and the Monthly Writing Staff

of Women's Focus Ministries.

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