While many are seeking a cure for the rampaging violence in our cultures that is destroying lives, threatening schools, destroying nations, and making our streets unsafe, why has no one bothered to remind us what God's wise servant taught us centuries ago? Let's not let any person, real or fictional, be our hero if their fame is built on violence. "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways..." I can hear some of you saying, "Wow, Phil, that's not a popular position based on what we see on TV and in the movies!" Please realize this is not me saying it, but one of God's inspired writers. "Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways..." The son of Israel's most famous warrior understood the dangers of violence in any form. Indeed, the Son of the Most Powerful on High said it best: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."
My Prayer...
Almighty God, save us from the violence of our culture. Save us from the violence of the wicked. Save us from the worship of violent power that permeates our world. Please, dear Father, give us heroes who are strong, noble, and are true peacemakers. In addition, dear Father, please give us eyes to see them and the courage to honor them. In Jesus' name, I pray for your peace in our world. Amen.
"Yonder in the better world, the inhabitants are independent of all creature comforts. They have no need of raiment; their white robes never wear out,...."
""Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in...."
"Everyone [at the Jerusalem meeting about whether Gentile Christians had to follow Jewish customs] listened quietly as Barnabas and Paul told about..."
"Dear Father, Let the men of your church pray constantly to you, lifting holy hands without quarreling. May your women adorn themselves modestly and....."
About This Devotional
Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.
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