Post by Richard on Feb 16, 2007 9:02:46 GMT -5
A ROYAL CHILD
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1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NRSV)
As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.
_________________________
To all who received [Christ], to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
- John 1:12 (NIV)
_________________________
AN old Chinese story tells about a boy who was brought to the palace to be reared as a royal child. A few weeks later, the king held a banquet where he introduced his adopted child. Not long after the dinner started, the king noticed that the boy's place was empty. The king called out, "Where is my son?" He had not finished his sentence when a small hand cautiously appeared from under the table, reached out to the boy's plate, snatched a drumstick from it, and immediately disappeared under the table. The king exclaimed, "There he is. Lift him up!" Understanding the situation, he said to the boy, "Son, you no longer live in the slums; you are a royal child. Enjoy your new position!"
This story reminds me of the status we have as God's children. Through faith in Christ, we have access to all the resources of God. God is a loving father, rich in mercy and eager to bestow on us all we need for life in its fullness.
Prayer: Lord, teach us to enjoy the blessings of being your children, as we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Each of us is a dearly loved child of God for whom Christ died.
-- Rudy Budiman (Noord-Holland, The Netherlands)
*Luke 11:2-4 (NIV)
PRAYER FOCUS: God's children in need today
_________________________
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NRSV)
As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.
_________________________
To all who received [Christ], to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.
- John 1:12 (NIV)
_________________________
AN old Chinese story tells about a boy who was brought to the palace to be reared as a royal child. A few weeks later, the king held a banquet where he introduced his adopted child. Not long after the dinner started, the king noticed that the boy's place was empty. The king called out, "Where is my son?" He had not finished his sentence when a small hand cautiously appeared from under the table, reached out to the boy's plate, snatched a drumstick from it, and immediately disappeared under the table. The king exclaimed, "There he is. Lift him up!" Understanding the situation, he said to the boy, "Son, you no longer live in the slums; you are a royal child. Enjoy your new position!"
This story reminds me of the status we have as God's children. Through faith in Christ, we have access to all the resources of God. God is a loving father, rich in mercy and eager to bestow on us all we need for life in its fullness.
Prayer: Lord, teach us to enjoy the blessings of being your children, as we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
Each of us is a dearly loved child of God for whom Christ died.
-- Rudy Budiman (Noord-Holland, The Netherlands)
*Luke 11:2-4 (NIV)
PRAYER FOCUS: God's children in need today