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March 1 Devotion
BREAD AND STONES
Luke 11:1-13
It is not likely that anyone reading these lines would, if her son asked for bread, give him a stone. Yet many of us are not giving our children spiritual bread, whether or not they ask for it.
Most parents are keenly aware of their duties and responsibilities to their children. When parents teach their children the commandments and judgments of the Lord, it will be likened unto them "as the days of heaven upon the earth" (Deut. 11:21).
The first Bible training a child receives should be in the home. These times should be joyful and happy, and parents will be rewarded by watching the spiritual development of their children.
Children should be taught in the home the importance of confessing sins to God so prayer will be answered. A Christian home with daily a family altar is good insurance against juvenile delinquency. We must double our efforts to counteract the effect of the mad pace of today's world on our children and ourselves. The world will give them many "stones." Lets feed them on the bread of God's Word.
"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalms 119;105).
How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
Is laid for your faith in His excellent word!
What more can He say, than to you He hath said,
To you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?
George Keith
Taken from the book- Bread From My Oven-by-Marjorie Parker
March 2
FAITH AND FASHION
Colossians 2:6-8
Ones appearance is said to be an expression of his personality. If that is so, the fact that one is a child of God should be evident in his appearance. It is hardly possible to dress in some of the far out fashions of the day and at the same time glorify the Lord Jesus. This is not to say that a believer should be slovenly in his appearance, as though he were saying to the world, "It does not matter what I wear or how I look." Too often this attitude is a cover-up for laziness and a lack of self-respect or respect for others.
In line with the moral climate of our times, todays fashions are leaning more and more to the "unisex" styles. The Christian will find guidelines in Gods Word concerning this, such as, "The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a womans garment: for all that do so are an abomination unto the Lord thy God" "Deut. 22: 5).
Satan delights to break down moral standards by using clothing styles or any other effective tool. To use good taste and dress attractively and modestly is a part of our Christian testimony. If we are to represent Him on earth our appearance should be worthy of Him.
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 3
ASHES LIKE BREAD
Psalm 102:1-12We all have days when we just never should have gotten out of bed. There seem to be a thousand and one small annoyances crowding in on us. This brings to mind the sculptor, who with a chisel in one hand and a mallet in the other, works at shaping a statue. He knows he must use gentle strokes one after another, or he will shatter the whole thing. He works until the features take shape, and those who enter his studio are charmed and fascinated.
In the process of molding and shaping your Christian life, God sometimes uses strokes of little annoyances and pretty vexations. Perhaps the little troubles of life are having more effect upon you than the great ons.
Little annoyances are hewing, digging, shaping, and inter-joining your moral qualities. Use these small irritations to contribute to your spiritual wealth!
Someone has said a bee can suck honey even out of a nettle, and if you have the grace of God in your heart, you can get sweetness out of that which would otherwise irritate and annoy.
Never be sad or desponding,
Lean on the arm of thy Lord;
Dwell in the depths of His mercy,
Thou shalt receive thy reward.
FANNY J. CROSBY
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 4
WHAT IS HAPPINESS
Psalms 16
Whether we know it or not, happiness is something we all are seeking. Happiness is a thing you cannot beg or buy or borrow. It cannot be obtained by seeking. Lord Byron lived a life of pleasure and ease, yet he wrote, "The worm, the canker, and grief are mine alone." Jay Gould, the American millionaire, found that happiness is not in money. When dying he said, "I suppose I am the most miserable man on earth."
John Bunyan penned these thoughts on the subject: "the truly happy man was born in the city of regeneration in the parish of repentance. He owns the largest state in the country of Christian contentment; yet wears the plain garments of humility. He has meat to eat that the world knows not of. He has gospel submission in his conduct, due order in his affection, sound peace in his conscience, and sanctifying love and joy in his soul."
Happiness is one not by getting, but by giving. It goes out from the heart before it comes in. "A man must contribute to the stock of human joys before he can participate in its profits."
The answer is simple. Happiness is found in Christ alone! "Whosoever trusteth in the LORD, happy is he" (Prov.16:20).
O happy day that fixed my joys
On thee, my Savior and my God!
Well may this glowing heart rejoice,
And tell its raptures all abroad.
Phil Doddridge
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 5
MAGIC MUSIC
Psalms 149
The Psalms may be called the Hymn Book of the Bible. How often these verses have brought peace, help, and strength to weary and discouraged Christians! In speaking of the wondrous power of music, Henry Van Dyke said, "It penetrates the boosom and unlocks the doors of secret, dumb, self-consuming anguish, so that the sorrow flowing out may leave the soul unburdened and released. It touches the chord of memory, and the cadence of old songs brings back the happy scenes of the past."
Someone else has observed in another vein, "manny homes are like the frame of a harp that stands without strings. In form and outline they suggest music; but no melody rises from the empty spaces. And thus it happens that home is unattractive, dreary and dull."
Music was an act of worship Johann, Sebastian, Bach. The beautiful "Jesu, Joy of Mans Desiring" radiates his love and tenderness, for in it he poured out his souls devotion Jesus.
Blessed are those gifted ones who use the ministry of music in the Lord!
Theres within my heart a melody
Jesus whispers sweet and low,
Fear not, I am with thee, peace, be still,
In all of lifes ebb and flow.
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus-
Sweetest name I know,
Fills my evry longing,
Keeps me singing as I go.
L.B.Bridgers
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 6
A TREATISE ON THE TONGUE
James 3: 3-13
Did you ever realize, as soon as you said something, that you had said the wrong thing? James epistle has given us quite a discourse on the tongue, that "little member". We seem to have no difficulty in controlling a "big member," an arm, a hand, or a foot, but when it comes to that "little member" it is a different story! This "unruly evil, full of deadly poison" is allowed to run wild, to tale its own course and wreak havoc.
There are few who have the ability to consistently say the right thing, in the right way, and at the right time. When you open your moth you "put your foot into it," and all efforts to correct the mistake turn out to be greater disasters than the original error. This is an old, old problem.
T V performers rely on "idiot cards" to prompt them. Shakespeares Hamlet says, "we must speak by the card, or equivocation will undo us."
The Christian has a wonderful prompter for his guide and speech in the Word of God. When the loving Lord reigns in the heart. He will control the "unruly member," and gracious words will proceed out of the mouth.
"If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but decieveth his own heart, this mans religion is vain" (James 1:26).
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 7
TENSION AND HYPERTENSION
Romans 8:26-27
You know how your sewing machine acts when there is too much tension. The thread tangles or breaks, and you find yourself in trouble trying to untangle the threads. Just so we need to learn to live with less tension. We cannot violate constantly the laws of nature by not getting enough rest, by overreacting, and in other ways, without sooner or later paying the price.
God made natural laws as He did spiritual laws, and one can cut off his service to the Lord by disobedience to either of these types of laws.
On the other hand, we need some tension. A musician will give a much better performance if he is "keyed up." Without tension, what would make your watch run? Not to mention the many push-buttons we enjoy to help us carry on our household tasks!
So we need an upward tug to pull us toward self-improvement and toward spiritual growth, if we are to arrive at healthy spiritual living.
Just when I need Him, Jesus is strong,
Bearing my burdens all the day long;
For all my sorrow giving a song,
Just when I need Him most.
William Poole
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 8
THE LIVING BREAD
JOHN 6: 51-58
Bread is an important word. It means life to the hungry, and is ultimatly that for which they put in forty hours of work a weak. It is equally necessary to the day laborer and to the financier. Bread is so great a thing and yet so simple, that God chose it as a symbol of His blessed Son, the Living Bread.
But if bread is not eaten, it cannot give nourishment to the body and sustain life. So it is, that even though the Living Bread was offered up for our sins on the cross; if we do not assimilate and partake of this Bread He cannot give us eternal life.
"He that eateth of this bread shall live forever" (v 58). Have you partaken of the Bread of Life?
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me,
See on the portals Hes waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.
Oh! For the wonderful love He has promised,
Promised for you and for me;
Tho we have sinnd, He has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.
Will L. Thompson
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 9/ 02
THE LIVING BREAD
JOHN 6: 51-58
Bread is an important word. It means life to the hungry, and is ultimatly that for which they put in forty hours of work a weak. It is equally necessary to the day laborer and to the financier. Bread is so great a thing and yet so simple, that God chose it as a symbol of His blessed Son, the Living Bread.
But if bread is not eaten, it cannot give nourishment to the body and sustain life. So it is, that even though the Living Bread was offered up for our sins on the cross; if we do not assimilate and partake of this Bread He cannot give us eternal life.
"He that eateth of this bread shall live forever" (v 58). Have you partaken of the Bread of Life?
Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me,
See on the portals Hes waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.
Oh! For the wonderful love He has promised,
Promised for you and for me;
Tho we have sinnd, He has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.
Will L. Thompson
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 10
MOSES AND THE BULRUSHES
Exodus 2:1-10
Riding down the Nile River today, one has a feeling of floating in bibical history. Long ago the ships of Crete and Phoenicia, when those lands were in the heyday of their power, sought its commerce and wealth. Some recall Cleopatra, the proud queen of Egypt , who fascinated Julius Caesar and Mark Anthony. For believers the Nile River brings to mind Moses, who first looked upon those waters for the first forty years of his life.
The heart of every mother is warmed when she reads to her child the story of the baby Moses and the bulrushes. She can understand the feelings of the mother, who desperate to save the life of her son, wove him a cradle of bulrushes and hid him among the reeds at the rivers brink. Every Sunday school child is trilled by the story of the baby Moses. It was an adventure each of them would like to have had!
But Moses gave up the luxuries of Pharaohs household and spent forty years on the backside of the desert. They were profitable years, for there in the loneliness, he came to know God. With this knowledge of God treasured in his heart, he became the leader of his people, and "The man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt." Because of his decision, Moses is remembered better than any other figure of Egyptian history.
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 11
ANXIOUS CARE
Phillipians 4: 6-7
"Be careful for nothing!" Do you believe it? "Nothing" means nothing and everything means everything. Its as simple as that. No anxiety ought to be found in the believer. To doubt God is to believe that He is not all-powerful.
Our afflictions, trials, and difficulties may be great and varied, but if God is taken at His word, all worry and anxious care will disappear from the life of one of His own. Whether we realize it or not, there must be something in our subconscious which tells us that we can work our way out of our difficulties and that if we mull over our anxieties and harbor them in our thoughts, we will somehow be able to alleviate them.
How foolish! God has given us the formula for peace in our hearts, and so often we refuse to accept it. We are afraid to trust Him completely with our problems.
Why not put your faith to the test and "with thanksgiving let your requests be known unto God?" The peace of God that will flood your heart will be that "which passeth all understanding."
Be not dismayed, whatere betide,
God will take care of you;
Beneath His wings of love abide,
God will take care of you.
C.D. Martin
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 12
THE COMMITMENT OF RUTH
(Ruth 1:1-8, 16-18)
COMMITMENT TO WHOM?
Today's printed text contains some beautiful words frequently
used in Christian weddings. They fit so well in a Godly marriage
ceremony. Interestingly, though, these words were originally
uttered more than ten years *after* the wedding . . . and they
were not directed toward the marriage partner at all. The words
and the commitment they express were spoken by the "bride" to her
mother-in-law. (Imagine the stir if this were done in a
contemporary wedding!)
That aside, to whom do you think Ruth was committed? I believe
she had three basic commitments, each at a different level on her
scale of priorities.
Herself.
This seems strange, doesn't it? However, if she had
experienced no commitment to herself and her own well-being, it
is doubtful she would have made the other two commitments. Every
emotionally stable individual has a proper interest in personal
well-being. However, it is only the spiritually mature ones who
put their commitment to themselves in its proper place. And that
place is last. That goes against the philosophy that we need to
love ourselves first before we will be able to love others and
God. That life view is utter rubbish. We don't love God because
we love ourselves. No! "We love him, because he first loved us"
(1 John 4:19). And two verses later we learn that our love for
God generates our love for others: "He who loveth God love his
brother also." So you see, self-love isn't first in our
relationships and in our commitments.
Naomi.
I know of no law or cultural expectation that demanded Ruth
stick with her mother-in-law. I doubt there was any social or
economic advantage involved either. On the face of it, it would
seem that Ruth was making a loser's choice by opting to leave her
own people and those social opportunities in favor of traveling
to a strange land with her seemingly-depressed mother-in-law. So
why would she do it? Love. She looked beyond her own needs to
those of Naomi. And she looked beyond Naomi to Naomi's God . . .
and her own God.
God.
Ruth knew that staying in Moab with her people and her old
gods would surely take her to spiritual ruin. She had come to
know and love the God of her new people. His love had drawn her
and won her. His love had become her love. He had become hers;
she had become His. Though she might always be an outsider in a
strange land, she knew that following through on her love-induced
commitment to the God of Israel meant leaving behind her land and
moving to Israel. No matter what it might mean to her own social
status and economic well-being, she put God first. She wanted Him
and to be His more than anything else.
Now we look inward. To whom are *you* committed and to what
extent? If you want to spell *joy* in your life and with your
life, Jesus must be first, then others, and yourself last. Let's
not forget to keep all our commitments in their proper place and
perspective.
THE PRICE OF MISPLACED COMMITMENT
We noted already the potentially high social and economic costs
Ruth faced in choosing the lot of a foreigner in a strange land
among strange people. I wonder, though, if she even saw that as a
cost or liability. I am convinced that she *did* consider the
exorbitant eternal cost of placing her commitment among the
people and gods of Moab. My friend, following Jesus may cost you
quite a bit, but not following Him will cost you far more!
March 13
GOD BLESSES RUTH
(Ruth 2:1, 8-12; 4:13-17)
CHANNELS OF GENEROSITY
In her relationship with Naomi, Ruth demonstrated loyalty and
generosity that exceeded by far her own self-interest. Ruth
wanted the best for Naomi, so she pursued it. I am sure Ruth
considered the personal cost involved in her commitment to her
mother-in-law, but I suspect her love for Naomi kept her from
dwelling much on that cost. Her love made her generous in many
practical ways.
Boaz knew of Ruth's love and devotion. He had heard of it, and he
saw it personally. So he showered her with his own generosity.
She got his special invitation to glean exclusively in his
fields. He protected her from those who might abuse her. He made
sure she wouldn't have to go thirsty. And he ordered his reapers
to deliberately drop grain that she could glean.
Ruth noticed this generosity, and wondered why. She didn't assume
that she had it coming. So she asked Boaz. Take note of two
lessons in his response.
"I know about your own generosity." Like begets like. We reap
what we sow. This divine law never has failed and never will.
Galatians 6:7 assures us, "God is not mocked: for whatsoever a
man soweth, that shall he also reap." In this negative context we
find a powerful promise: God will never reward us evil for the
good we do. For Him to do so would not only violate His character
and law, it would also result in mockery of Him for doing so. As
for Boaz, having known and seen Ruth's generosity, to not return
generosity of his own would have been contrary to his Godly
character. Thus Ruth found herself gleaning, not just grain that
another had planted, but also generosity that she herself had
sown.
"God reward and recompense you." Boaz knew that God is a
recompensing God Who "is not unrighteous to forget your work and
labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye
have ministered to the saints, and do minister" (Hebrews 6:10).
But Boaz didn't let it go at that. Rather, he realized that God
intended to use *him* to be a channel of God's blessing to Ruth.
Never forget this important principle: God uses people to
accomplish His purposes! Every time I wish the Lord's blessing on
someone, I should ask myself, "How does God want to use me to
accomplish blessing in this individual's life?" Remember Boaz who
in essence said, "I am doing this for you as an outworking of
God's reward and recompense to you."
IT ISN'T FAIR!
Do you have any idea how awful it is to do something good and
have someone else get the recognition for it? I imagine you do.
It stinks, doesn't it. I mean, it just isn't fair. We can manage
without commendations and compliments, as far as that goes, but
to have someone *else* actually get the credit . . . now *that*
is too much. Sometimes it's enough to make you wonder if this
sewing and reaping business works *all* the time.
The next time we think someone has deprived us of our glory, the
next time another person gets our glory, we would do well to
remember Ruth.
Who had the baby? Ruth. Who's child was Obed? Ruth's. And what
did the neighbor ladies say? "There is a son born to Naomi" (Ruth
4:17). Fair? I ask you, do you call that fair?!
You explain it.
Just remember this: Fair isn't necessarily best . . . or right
MARCH 14
GIVEN TO HOSPITALITY
ROMANS 12:9-13
Is being hospitable worth the price? Is anything worth the effort it takes, when it has to be squeezed in between chauffeuring Jane to music lessons and Johnny to Scouts, studying for a Sunday school lesson, cooking the roast, bathing the baby, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera?
Many will remember with nostalgia those happy times when as children we were told, The preacher is coming to dinner; or some missionary, or servant of Christ was to be a guest in the home for a few days. The stories and exciting adventures in foreign lands that were related around the dinner table will never be forgotten. Accounts of miracles performed by the Lord in far away places, have had wonderful influence on the lives of many in homes where such hospitality abounded.
Boys and girls in such homes have often given their lives in full-time service for the Lord as a result of such contacts with these saints. Personal contact with soldiers of the cross enriches the lives of the young folks in the home (as well as the adults) in a way they are never able to forget.
Yes, it is worth the effort, even if we have to leave something else undone!
Use hospitality one to another without grudging (1 Peter4:9).
Taken from the book- Bread From My OvenbyMarjorie Parker
March 15
Isaiah 41:14
Fear not, thou worm
Jacob, and ye men of
Israel; I will help thee,
saith the LORD, and thy
redeemer, the Holy One
of Israel.
"I will help thee, saith the Lord."
This morning let us hear the Lord Jesus
speak to each one of us: "I will help thee."
"It is but a small thing for Me, thy God, to
help thee. Consider what I have done
already. What! not help thee? Why, I bought
thee with My blood. What! not help thee? I
have died for thee; and if I have done the
greater, will I not do the less? Help thee! It
is the least thing I will ever do for thee; I
have done more, and will do more. Before the
world began I chose thee. I made the
covenant for thee. I laid aside My glory and
became a man for thee; I gave up My life for
thee; and if I did all this, I will surely help
thee now. In helping thee, I am giving thee
what I have bought for thee already. If thou
hadst need of a thousand times as much
help, I would give it thee; thou requirest
little compared with what I am ready to give.
'Tis much for thee to need, but it is nothing
for me to bestow. 'Help thee?' Fear not! If
there were an ant at the door of thy
granary asking for help, it would not ruin
thee to give him a handful of thy wheat; and
thou art nothing but a tiny insect at the
door of My all-sufficiency. 'I will help
thee.'"
O my soul, is not this enough? Dost thou
need more strength than the omnipotence of
the Blessed Trinity? Dost thou want more
wisdom than exists in the Father, more love
than displays itself in the Son, or more
power than is manifest in the influences of
the Spirit? Bring hither thine empty pitcher!
Surely this well will fill it. Haste, gather up
thy wants, and bring them here--thine
emptiness, thy woes, thy needs. Behold, this
river of God is full for thy supply; what
canst thou desire beside? Go forth, my soul,
in this thy might. The Eternal God is thine
helper!
"Fear not, I am with thee, oh, be not
dismay'd!
I, I am thy God, and will still give thee aid."
March 16
Part 1
PRAISE
Joyful, joyful we adore Thee.
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee,
Opening to the sun above.
*** ***
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness,
Drive the dark of doubt away,
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day.
*** ***
Give unto the Lord. O ye mighty,
Give unto the Lord glory and strength.
Give unto the Lord the glory
Due unto his name; worship the Lord
In the beauty of holiness.
Psalm 29:1-2
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees- by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 17
Part 2
PRAISE FOR YOUR PATIENCE
Father, thank You for being so patient with me. For the many times I mess things up and you are still there for me, I am grateful. You are truly my heavenly Father. How thankful I am for Your tender mercies, Your sympathy toward me when I need You most. I reverence You, Lord. How marvelous are Your wondrous ways, how kind Your forgiving grace.
When Im not wise in my spending, You still provide my needs; when I stumble You hold me up. You watch over me through day and night.
You protect me from harms way, wrapping Your wings about me as an eagle protects her young. She carries them on her wings and doesnt let them fall. Thank You for carrying me, too.
Praise You for Your endless love and compassion. You have kept me from disaster so many times. You heal my illnesses. You strengthen my mind, soul, and body. Thank You for the love you show me every day.
Forgive me for my thoughtlessness and the times I mistreat You. I cant understand why You love me!
I marvel that You know me so well. You know the hairs on my head. You care about the pain in my head, my hands, my back, my feet. When a sparrow falls You care. How much then You must care for me.
Help me, Father, to think before I act, to be more cautious, and to take better care of myself. Thank You for Your patience and forgiving love.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees- by- Anita Corrine Donihue
MARCH18
Part 3
Psalm 103:1-12
1) Praise the LORD, O my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2) Praise the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits-
3) who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
4) who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5) who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your mouth is renewed like the eagles.
6) The LORD works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed.
7) He made known his ways to Moses, his deeds to the people of Israel:
8) The LORD is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, abounding in love.
9) He will not always accuse,
nor will he harbor his anger forever;
10) he does not treat us as our sins deserve
or repay us according to our iniquities.
11) For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his love for those who fear him
12) as far as the east is from the west,
so far has he removed our transgressions from us.
N.I.V.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees- by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 19
Part 4
PATIENCE
Is there ambition in my heart?
Search gracious God and see;
Or do I act a haughty part?
Lord, I appeal to thee.
I charge my thoughts, be humble still,
All my carriage mild,
Content, my Father, with Thy will,
And quiet as a child.
The patient soul, the lowly mind
Shall have a large reward:
Let saints in sorrow lie resignd
And trust a faithful Lord.
Isaac Watts
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees- by- Anita Corrine Donihue
MARCH 20
Part 5THANK YOU FOR PROVISION
Father, I praise You, for you know perfectly well each of my needs, even before I ask. Sometimes You know me better than i. you love me so much that You gave Your only Son so I could be free from sin and You could adopt me as Your child. Because of this, I give You first place in my life, and I commit myself to living as You want me to.
Not only do You give me all I need, but You also provided this earth for us to live on; You control the beginning and the end of all that lives; You have given me the present; and You lay out the future before me. Nothing really belongs to me, yet how You shower Your blessings upon me to enjoy.
Thank You, Lord, for being my Shepherd. Thank You for watching over me as a shepherd does his sheep.
I feel confident and unafraid as You direct me each day. When You provide for me, I find enough overflowing goodness to share with others. How blest I am to have You as my Savior!
You are unchanging. I can always depend on You. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Praise You for caring for me and my loved ones from one generation to the next, as we love You and obey Your Word.
I will not fear tomorrow for You take care of that, too. I try to prepare for the future, yet I live one day at a time, trusting You.
I lift my voice in praise to You. May my thoughts and deeds give You great joy. Let my heart be pure and blameless in Your sight. I shall lift Your name in joyful song forever and ever.
Psalm 96: 1-4, 7-9
1Sing to the LORD a new song;
sing to the LORD, all the earth.
2Sing to the LORD, praise his name;
proclaim his salvation day after day.
3Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous deeds among all peoples.
4For great is the LORD and most worthy of praise;
he is to be feared above all gods.
7Ascribe to the LORD, O families of nations,
ascribe to the LORD glory and strength.
8Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name;
bring an offering and come into his courts.
9Worship the LORD in the splendor of hisA holiness;
tremble before him, all the earth. Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
MARCH 21
Part 6
FREEDOM FROM SIN
I shudder at how I was once in sins bondage, Lord Jesus. Then You saved me. All I had to do was ask You into my heart and You forgave every single sin. How wonderful to beset free of all that horrible baggage I was carrying around in my life. How marvelous to enjoy fellowship with You. Thank You, Lord, for Your saving grace.
Although my life was a mess when I gave it to You, You loved me anyway. Step by step You performed miracles within me, like You did years ago for Paul when he was in prison. You broke my chains of sin and entrapment. You led me through every door of my life and helped to mature in You.
How can You forgive me for my wrong doings? Over and over I slip. Over and over You catch me and stamp out the destructive rotten sins. I have difficulty even forgiving myself, but with Your mighty hand You cast my sins into the deepest sea. Help me, Lord, for only then am I free from sin.
How amazing, the way You freed me. Im so much happier, my health even improves. You give me energy and life each day, life more abundant than ever.
Once I had no hope. I lived in utter confusion without direction or goals. My paths were like quicksand, ready to swallow me up into total darkness.
For so long I held back from giving my heart to You. I didnt want to lose control. Yet, when I was willing to let my will be crucified on the cross with You, Lord, You began to live within me. You are my deliverer and my loving Friend. You have set my feet on a firm path, and I fear no more.
Thank You for how You love me and give of Yourself. How I praise You, Lord, for freedom from crippling sin. Im so thankful Your death wasnt a lost cause. You saved so many sinners such as I and given joy beyond measure.
Here in calm communion I seek Your guidance. Thank You for how You lead me along the right paths. Thank You for hearing me and helping each time I call upon Your name. I walk within Your strength. I praise You for how You wrap me in the garments of Your salvation and place the robe of righteousness about my shoulders.
I take joy in putting other things aside, for You are first in my life. No longer will I depend on my own good works, but instead on Your wonderful grace. Thanks be to You, God!
John 8: 31-3231To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples.
32Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 22
Part 7
THE SAVIOR
Behold the Savior of mankind
Nailed to the shameful tree;
How vast the love that Him inclined
To bleed and die for me.
Hark! how He groans, while nature shakes,
And earths strong pillars bend!
The Temples veil asunder breaks,
The solid marbles rend.
Tis finished now the ransoms paid,
"Receive My Soul!" He cries;
See-How He bows His sacred head!
He bows His head and dies!
But soon Hell break deaths iron chain,
And in full glory shine,
O Lamb of God! Was ever pain-
Was ever love like thine?
Samuel Wesley, Sr.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 23
Part 8
YEARS I SPENT IN VANITY AND PRIDE
Years I spent in vanity and pride,
Caring not my Lord was crucified,
Knowing not it was for me He died
On Calvary.
Now Ive given to Jesus everything;
Now I gladly own Him as my King,
Now my raptured Soul can only sing
Of Calvary.
O the love that drew salvations plan!
O the grace that brought it down to man!
O the mighty gulf that God did span
At Calvary!
Mercy there was great, and grace was free;
Pardon there was multiplied to me;
There my burdened soul found liberty,
At Calvary.
William Reed Newell
Taken from the book-When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
MARCH 24
Part 9
Psalm 130:1-5
1Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD;
2O Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.
3If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins,
O Lord, who could stand?
4But with you there is forgiveness;
therefore you are feared.
5I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I put my hope.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HOLY SPIRIT
Thank You, Father, for Your wonderful Holy Spirit. Great and wondrous is Your presence. I feel Your warm love about me. I open my heart with praise to You. You are so dear. I open my heart to your Holy Spirit to nurture and lead me, for Your ways are just and true.
Because of Your love, Holy Spirit, I am learning to love others more. I strive to love them as much as You do me. Through all our imperfections, Your love helps make up for the many faults of others, as well as my own.
Holy Spirit, fill me daily. Groom me so I may produce the fruits of Your Spirit. Make my cup overflow so I may be a blessing to those around me.
Great and wondrous is Your presence. Your ways are just and true. Your comfort is with me day and night, everlasting to everlasting. How great You are!
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 25
Part 10
Galatians 5: 22-23
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
PRAISE FOR YOUR SPIRITUAL FRUIT
Love beyond measure
Selfless and free.
Joy in each moment
Comes only from Thee.
Peace, lasting peace
Through Your infinite love,
Patience and kindness from Heaven above.
Goodness thats wrought by
Repentance and tears,
Faithfulness lasting
All through the years.
Gentleness laced with
Strong self-control,
To You, Holy Spirit,
I give heart and soul.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 27
Part 11
26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
John 14: 26
SING UNTO THE LORD
I will sing unto the You, Lord, a new song. You make me strong as I lift my praise to You. Praise be to God! Because of all You have done, I sing praises to You. I love to tell others how You saved me and how You help me each day. When they hear of Your marvelous ways and see You are alive and working in my life, they listen in wonder. May they, too, accept Your Lordship of their lives.
In You I am courageous and strong. You are my joy and my strength. I will not fear. Instead, I will unceasingly sing Your praises. You are my protector. You are with me wherever I go. Thank You for Your power and might. When challenges come, I thank You for giving me a song.
The hours tick by. Before long You will return. Then I will sing to You for eternity. Praise be to You!
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 27
Part 12
10 Sing to the LORD a new song,
his praise from the ends of the earth,
you who go down to the sea, and all that is in it,
you islands, and all who live in them.
11 Let the desert and its towns raise their voices;
let the settlements where Kedar lives rejoice.
Let the people of Sela sing for joy;
let them shout from the mountaintops.
Isaiah 42: 10-11
PRAISE YOU FOR HEAVEN
My thoughts often turn toward heaven, Lord. When earthly trials and worries surround me, I long to be with You. I feel homesick, as though I have some subconscious memory of having been in heaven before. Could I have been with You there before I was placed in my mothers womb? Someday Ill have the answers.
I dont feel a part of the evil in this world and I am certainly not attracted to what it has to offer. All the money I could earn, the treasure I can obtain, the land I may plan to buy are nothing in light of my eternal home with You. Earthly things lose their value. They wear out, rust, fade, and are sometimes stolen. The eternal treasures I store in heaven with You can never be taken from me. So Ill invest my meager riches in You and Your work. I cant help but love You more than anything the world can give me.
Although my body will die, my soul grows closer to You with each passing day. All the trials and suffering are minor and wont last. Thank You for the heavenly home Ill go to some day. There will be no sickness there, no pain, no tears. Only eternal life filled with joy and gladness awaits me. There I can be with You and praise You forever.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."
Revelation 21:4
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 28
Part 13
THANK YOU FOR MY COUNTRY
Lord, thank You for my country and the freedoms we have. Thank You for the huge strides weve made in science, medicine, and technology. Thank You for those who have gallantly contributed their life work in order to help mankind.
Thank You for our Christian forefathers, for the sacrifices they made to provide us with what we have today.
When I look around, I see we have so much. Help me to be responsible in preserving the values and strengths our country began with.
In the midst of our nations struggles, crippling hurts, and confusion, I lift our leaders (good and bad) to You in prayer for guidance and help. Grant us a godly pulsebeat, aligned with Your will and direction. Give us Christian leadership. Revive us spiritually. May we regain the standards we have so carelessly thrown away and once again become one nation under God.
Cleanse our sins and heal our land, I pray. Deliver us from drugs and violence. Help our people who love You step forth and speak out for what is right. Help our schools, our teachers, our children to keep setting new goals, dreaming new dreams, and aiming high. Wrap Your arms around our dear countrys young people and dry their tears. Lead them toward a future that is good and true. Help us to go forth as a nation, to be an example to the world, by Your love and grace.
Most of all, Lord, may I do my best to help. May the love, kindness, and dedication begin within me.
In Jesus name I pray, AMEN.
Psalm 22: 4-5, 31
4 In you our fathers put their trust;
they trusted and you delivered them.
5 They cried to you and were saved;
in you they trusted and were not disappointed.
31 They will proclaim his righteousness
to a people yet unborn--
for he has done it.
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
Psalm 31: 1-3
1 In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame;
deliver me in your righteousness.
2 Turn your ear to me,
come quickly to my rescue;
be my rock of refuge,
a strong fortress to save me.
3 Since you are my rock and my fortress,
for the sake of your name lead and guide me.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 29
Part 14
Faith of our fathers, living still,
In spite of dungeon, fire and sword;
O how our hearts beat high with joy
Whenever we hear that glorious Word!
Faith of our fathers, we will strive
To win all nations unto Thee;
And through the truth that comes from God,
We all shall then be truly free.
Faith of our fathers, we will love
Both friend and foe in all our strife;
And preach Thee, too, as love knows how
By kindly words and virtuous life.
Refrain
Faith of our fathers, holy faith!
We will be true to thee till death
Frederick William Faber
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 30
BEAUTIFUL ISLE
Somewhere the sun is shining,
Somewhere the song-birds dwell;
Hush, then, thy sad repining,
God lives, and all is well.
*** *** *** ***
Somewhere the day is long,
Somewhere the task is done;
Somewhere the heart is stronger,
Somewhere the guerdon won.
*** *** *** ***
Somewhere the load is lifted,
Close by the open gate;
Somewhere the clouds are rifted,
Somewhere the angels wait.
*** *** *** ***
Somewhere, Somewhere,
Beautiful Isle of Somewhere!
Land of the true, where we live anew,
Beautiful Isle of Somewhere!
Jessie B. Pounds
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
March 31/02
THANK YOU FOR OUR FOREFATHERS
For our forefathers, thank You, Lord.
For those who gave their lives,
So we could be free, thank You.
For those who dreamed new dreams,
Listened to Your Word,
Brought revival,
Won souls,
Learned from Your wisdom
And passed on the lessons, thank You.
For those who sought peace,
And truth,
And justice
Within our nation, thank You.
*** *** *** ***
Praise be to You, Father, for everlasting wisdom. A day shall come when we will be the forefathers. Grant us and our leaders an equal amount of love for You, O God, an urgency to seek Your will and ways, a dedication to build new bridges for the young. Give us each keen insight so the bridges and lessons we lay out shall withstand the tests of time.
In Jesus name I pray AMEN.
Taken from the book- When Im On My Knees-by- Anita Corrine Donihue
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