Probably one of most people’s favorite accounts in the Old Testament is that of David and Goliath (1 Sam. 17). Here is one of those events when the underdog overcomes great and insurmountable odds. We like to hear stories like that probably because they give us a sense of strength whereby we too can triumph over our own difficult obstacles. This text is known quite well, so instead of looking at the various details that took place here in the valley of Elah, think for a moment about some of the difficult obstacles David overcame.
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Filed under: Devotional, Michael Carter on January 29th, 2009 | No Comments »
We all have those that we count as friends, and some of our friends may be closer to us than others. When we consider our friends, we could probably point out certain qualities about them that stand out and make them special to us.
In consideration of these particular qualities, let us contemplate this question: If we could design the perfect friend, what would he or she be like? What characteristics would he or she have? Who would our perfect model of a friend resemble? Let us consider three scriptures that deal with certain qualities of a friend, …
Filed under: Devotional, Michael Carter on January 26th, 2009 | No Comments »
My family and I have started ordering different seasons of such shows as “The Waltons.” While this show is not perfect, it does teach good, moral lessons, and Ruth and I do not have to worry about any uncomfortable situations taking place, profanity being spoken, or any embarrassing scenes running across the screen as we watch television with our children. Whether we are willing to admit it or not, what we put before our eyes can influence us.
Some would ask, “What does the Bible have to say about television and the movies that we watch?” In Romans 1:26-31, Paul …
Filed under: Devotional, Michael Carter on January 25th, 2009 | No Comments »
In our lives, we can be sure that eventually, dark times will come our way. It may be the loss of a loved one, a life-threatening medical condition, the loss of employment or finances, the effects of a violent crime, or some other situation of that nature. We may feel that we are all alone to face the circumstances of these tragic events; however, the Bible gives us a different picture for those that would serve God.
In II Kings 6, we read of how the king of Syria, being angered upon finding out that the …
Filed under: Devotional, Michael Carter on January 24th, 2009 | No Comments »
You often see the bumper sticker “Perform random acts of kindness.” While I am not really a fan of bumper sticker sayings, this one is a concept that is worthy of consideration.
As Christians, we are to be kind and tenderhearted to one another (Ephesians 4:32). We are to live peaceably with all men (Romans 12:18). We are even to do good to our enemies (Romans 12:20-21). Therefore, we are to show kindness to all other human beings when possible.
We might wish to consider some ways in which we can express kindness …
Filed under: Devotional, Michael Carter on January 18th, 2009 | No Comments »
