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Post by Dazzal on Oct 14, 2022 14:08:00 GMT -7
Trust In His Name By: Karen Huang
Click here for the Audio Message Those who know your name trust in you. Psalm 9:10
Today's Scripture & Insight: Psalm 9:7–12 As a child, there was a time I dreaded going to school. Some girls were bullying me by subjecting me to cruel pranks. So during breaktime, I’d take refuge in the library, where I read a series of Christian storybooks. I remember the first time I read the name “Jesus.” Somehow, I knew that this was the name of someone who loved me. In the months that followed, whenever I’d enter school fearful of the torment that lay ahead, I’d pray, “Jesus, protect me.” I’d feel stronger and calmer, knowing He was watching over me. In time, the girls simply grew tired of bullying me and stopped.
Many years have passed, and trusting His name continues to sustain me through difficult times. Trusting His name is believing that what He says about His character is true, allowing me to rest in Him.
David, too, knew the security of trusting in God’s name. When he wrote Psalm 9, he'd already experienced God as the all-powerful ruler who is just and faithful (vv. 7–8, 10, 16). David thus showed his trust in God’s name by going into battle against his enemies, trusting not his weapons or military skill, but in God ultimately coming through for him as “a refuge for the oppressed” (v. 9).
As a little girl, I called on His name and experienced how He lived up to it. May we always trust His name—Jesus—the name of the One that loves us.
Reflect & Pray What challenges have been troubling you? How does meditating on Jesus’ name build your trust in Him?
Heavenly Father, teach me who You are, so that I never have reason to doubt You in any circumstance I face.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT The word shem is translated “name” in English translations of the Old Testament more than eight hundred times. While attaching an appellation to a person (or other entities) is certainly in view, often there’s more. The Wycliffe Bible Encyclopedia comments: “In Scripture a name is often an expression of the nature of its bearer, describing his character, position, function, some circumstance affecting him, or some hope or sorrow concerning him.” This is especially true of God. The “name” of God is a reference to His person. The parallelism in Psalm 9:2 supports this: “I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.” The greatness of God as seen in Psalm 9 is affirmed in Proverbs 18:10: “The name of the Lord is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Arthur Jackson Psalm 9:7-12 King James Version 7 But the Lord shall endure for ever: he hath prepared his throne for judgment.
8 And he shall judge the world in righteousness, he shall minister judgment to the people in uprightness.
9 The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.
10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.
11 Sing praises to the Lord, which dwelleth in Zion: declare among the people his doings.
12 When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the humble. ____________________________________________________________________________________
LINK TO THE DEVOTIONALS: www.odb.org/
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Post by Les on Mar 20, 2023 13:50:59 GMT -7
Catching Contentment By: Sheridan Voysey
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I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. Psalm 131:2
Today's Scripture & Insight: Psalm 131
In a doctor’s advice column, he responded to a reader named Brenda, who lamented that her ambitious pursuits had left her discontented. His words were blunt. Humans aren’t designed to be happy, he said, “only to survive and reproduce.” We’re cursed to chase the “teasing and elusive butterfly” of contentment, he added, “not always to capture it.”
I wonder how Brenda felt reading those nihilistic words and how different she may have felt had she read Psalm 131 instead. In its words, David gives us a guided reflection on how to find contentment. He begins in a posture of humility, putting his kingly ambitions aside, and while wrestling life’s big questions is important, he puts those aside too (v. 1). Then he quiets his heart before God (v. 2), entrusting the future into His hands (v. 3). The result is beautiful: “like a weaned child with its mother,” he says, “I am content” (v. 2).
In a broken world like ours, contentment will at times feel elusive. In Philippians 4:11–13, the apostle Paul said contentment is something to be learned. But if we believe we’re only designed to “survive and reproduce,” contentment will surely be an uncatchable butterfly. David shows us another way: catching contentment through quietly resting in God’s presence.
Reflect & Pray When do you most feel content? How could you set aside unhurried time to be quietly present with God today?
Dear God, I rest in You, the deepest well of my truest contentment.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT Psalms 120–134 are known as the Songs of Ascents, so called because the fifteen psalms in the collection were sung by the ancient people of God as they journeyed up to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. Psalm 131 is among the shorter of these songs. Nineteenth-century preacher Charles Spurgeon noted that this psalm “is one of the shortest psalms to read but one of the longest to learn.” What makes it the longest to learn is that it challenges one of the most difficult aspects of our human behaviour, our pride. In this psalm we hear the heartfelt prayers of one who’s renounced pride. The psalmist also expresses and encourages humble satisfaction with God by using the universally familiar image of a mother and child. Though weaned, the child’s contentment is found in the mother’s loving presence and not just in her nourishing provision.
Arthur Jackson
Psalm 131 King James Version 131 Lord, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.
2 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.
3 Let Israel hope in the Lord from henceforth and forever.
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Post by Les on Mar 21, 2023 13:52:08 GMT -7
Spiritual Renewal By: Kimya Loder
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Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16
Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 Chinese medicine has practised pearl powder exfoliation for thousands of years, using ground pearls to scrub away dead cells resting at the top of the skin. In Romania, rejuvenating therapeutic mud has become a widely sought-after exfoliant that’s purported to make skin youthful and glowing. All over the world, people use body care practices they believe will renew even the dullest of skin.
The tools we’ve developed to maintain our physical bodies, however, can only bring us temporary satisfaction. What matters more is that we remain spiritually healthy and strong. As believers in Jesus, we’re given the gift of spiritual renewal through Him. The apostle Paul wrote, “Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Corinthians 4:16). The challenges we face daily can weigh us down when we hold on to things like fear, hurt and anxiety. Spiritual renewal comes when we “fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen” (v. 18). We do this by turning our daily worries over to God and praying for the fruit of the Holy Spirit—including love, joy and peace—to emerge anew in our lives (Galatians 5:22–23). When we release our troubles to God and allow His Spirit to radiate through us each day, He restores our souls.
Reflect & Pray How can you ask God to renew your spirit? How does the work of the Holy Spirit encourage you today?
Jesus, each day I face obstacles that try to break my spirit. Sometimes I feel defeated, but I know that through You my spirit can be renewed.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT In 2 Corinthians 4:16–18, Paul describes finding hope—despite earthly suffering—because of an inward renewal (v. 16) and the assurance that through our struggles God draws us towards an “eternal glory that far outweighs” (v. 17) all suffering. The ideas in this passage are closely echoed and developed in Romans 8 . There Paul writes that believers, as coheirs with Christ, “share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” (v. 17) and concludes that “our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” (v. 18)—a future when all of creation will be “liberated from its bondage to decay” (v. 21). And like the reminder of 2 Corinthians 4:18 which affirms that the believer’s hope is grounded in unseen, eternal realities, Romans 8 reminds us that “hope that is seen is no hope at all” (v. 24).
Monica La Rose
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 King James Version 16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
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Post by Les on Mar 23, 2023 12:00:38 GMT -7
Why Do This? By: Dave Branon
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The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. Psalm 19:7
Today's Scripture & Insight: Psalm 19:7–11 As I was helping my twelve-year-old grandson, Logan, with some tough algebra-type homework, he told me of his dream of becoming an engineer. After we returned to figuring out what to do with the x’s and y’s in his assignment, he said, “When am I ever going to use this stuff?”
I couldn’t help but smile, saying, “Well, Logan, this is exactly the stuff you’ll use if you become an engineer!” He hadn’t realised the connection between algebra and his hoped-for future.
Sometimes we view Scripture that way. When we listen to sermons and read certain parts of the Bible, we may think, “When am I ever going to use this?” The psalmist David had some answers. He said God’s truths found in Scripture are effective for “refreshing the soul”, “making wise the simple” and “giving joy to the heart” (Psalm 19:7–8). The wisdom of Scripture, found in the first five books of the Bible as referred to in Psalm 19 (as well as all of Scripture), helps us as we daily rely on the Spirit’s leading (Proverbs 2:6).
And without the Scriptures, we’d lack the vital way God has provided for us to experience Him and better know His love and ways. Why study the Bible? Because “the commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes” (Psalm 19:8).
Reflect & Pray Why is the wisdom found in Scripture relevant for you today? How can you grow in your understanding of it?
Loving God, please make Your Word a light to my path. Help me to use the wisdom of Scripture to direct my steps and grow to love You more.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT While the specific occasion for writing Psalm 19 isn’t stated, it’s been suggested that as a shepherd boy tending sheep, David was awed by the immensity and beauty of the open skies. So inspired, the psalmist celebrates the splendour of creation: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (v. 1). He points us to the creator God who’s worthy of honour and worship. David reflects on how He has revealed Himself to humanity so that we can know Him. First, He reveals Himself through His created works (vv. 1–6 ). He also reveals Himself through the Scriptures (vv. 7–14). Speaking of God’s self-revelation, Bible expositor Warren Wiersbe writes: “The heavens declare God’s glory, and the Scriptures declare His grace.” In this passage, Scripture refreshes the soul, gives wisdom and joy, and enlightens those who would obey it, guiding them into godliness.
K. T. Sim
Psalm 19:7-11 King James Version 7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
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Post by Les on Mar 24, 2023 13:18:07 GMT -7
Recognising God’s Voice By: Xochitl Dixon
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I commit you to God and to the word of his grace, which can build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified. Acts 20:32
Today's Scripture & Insight: Acts 20:22–32
After years of research, scientists have learned that wolves have distinct voices that help them communicate with each other. Using a specific sound analysis code, one scientist realised that various volumes and pitches in a wolf’s howl enabled her to identify specific wolves with 100 percent accuracy.
The Bible provides many examples of God recognising the distinct voices of His beloved creations. He called Moses by name and spoke to him directly (Exodus 3:4–6). The psalmist David proclaimed, “I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain” (Psalm 3:4). The apostle Paul also emphasised the value of God’s people recognising His voice.
When bidding farewell to the Ephesian elders, Paul said the Spirit had “compelled” him to head to Jerusalem. He confirmed his commitment to follow God’s voice, though he didn’t know what to expect upon his arrival (Acts 20:22). The apostle warned that “savage wolves” would “arise and distort the truth,” even from within the church (vv. 29–30). Then, he encouraged the elders to remain diligent in discerning God’s truth (v. 31).
All believers in Jesus have the privilege of knowing that God hears and answers us. We also have the power of the Holy Spirit who helps us recognise God’s voice, which is always in alignment with the words of Scripture.
Reflect & Pray What false teaching has God helped you combat as you studied Scripture? When has He used the Bible to encourage you?
God, when the noise of the world around me threatens to make me wander from You, please help me recognise and obey Your voice.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT Luke, the author of Acts, describes Paul’s determination to follow the Spirit’s leading and go to Jerusalem in ways that seem to parallel Jesus’ own determination to go to the city. Jesus “resolutely set out for Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51) despite knowing what awaited Him there. Paul said, “compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there” (Acts 20:22), despite being warned that this journey would result in suffering (v. 23 ). Paul’s single-minded purpose was to share the gospel by following Christ’s example of humility and love (vv. 19, 23–24; see also Philippians 2:3–5).
Monica La Rose
Acts 20:22-32 King James Version 22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
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Post by Les on Mar 25, 2023 13:43:03 GMT -7
The Reboot of Grace By: Adam Holz
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Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22–23
Today's Scripture & Insight: Lamentations 3:16–33
Over the last several decades, a new word has entered our movie vocabulary: the reboot. In cinematic parlance, a reboot takes an old story and jumpstarts it. Some reboots retell a familiar tale, like a superhero story or a fairy tale. Other reboots take a lesser-known story and retell it in a new way. But in each case, a reboot is a bit like a fresh start; it’s a chance to breathe new life into the old.
There’s another story that involves reboots—the gospel story. In it, Jesus invites us to His offer of forgiveness, as well as abundant and eternal life (John 10:10). And in the book of Lamentations, Jeremiah reminds us that God’s love for us makes every day a ‘reboot’ of sorts: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness” (3:22–23).
God’s grace invites us to embrace each day as a fresh opportunity to experience His faithfulness. Whether we’re struggling with the effects of our own mistakes or going through other hardships, God’s Spirit can breathe forgiveness, new life and hope into each new day. Every day is a reboot of sorts, an opportunity to follow the lead of the great Director, who is weaving our story into His bigger one.
Reflect & Pray How do you think reflecting upon and remembering God’s faithfulness amid trials changes our perspective on them? How has God’s forgiveness and grace brought a reboot to your life?
Father, thank You that Your grace and forgiveness invite me to start over, fresh, every morning.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT The writer of Lamentations is not named, but Jewish tradition identifies the prophet Jeremiah as its author. Consisting of five dirges or funeral laments, Jeremiah gives an emotionally charged eyewitness account of the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by the Babylonians in 586 BC (see 2 Kings 25; Jeremiah 52). Yet amid the devastation and despair, Jeremiah also expressed great hope (Lamentations 3:19–21). God, who judged rightly their covenantal unfaithfulness, remained the God of unfailing love and compassion (vv. 22, 32–33 ), the God of faithfulness (v. 23), the God of hope (vv. 24–25), and the God of their salvation (v. 26).
K. T. Sim
Lamentations 3:16-33 King James Version 16 He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.
17 And thou hast removed my soul far off from peace: I forgat prosperity.
18 And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the Lord:
19 Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.
20 My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me.
21 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope.
22 It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.
25 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.
27 It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.
28 He sitteth alone and keepeth silence, because he hath borne it upon him.
29 He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope.
30 He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him: he is filled full with reproach.
31 For the Lord will not cast off for ever:
32 But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies.
33 For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.
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Post by Les on Mar 26, 2023 9:45:05 GMT -7
The Telling Room By: Marvin Williams
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Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. 1 Samuel 18:3
Today's Scripture & Insight: 1 Samuel 18:1–4 Northern Spain produced a beautiful way of expressing communion and friendship. With the countryside full of handmade caves, after each harvest some farmers would sit in a room built above a cave and take an inventory of their various foods. As time passed, the room became known as the “telling room”—a place of communion where friends and families would gather to share their stories, secrets and dreams. If you needed the intimate company of safe friends, you would head for the telling room.
Had they lived in northern Spain, the deep friendship shared by Jonathan and David might have led them to create a telling room. When King Saul became so jealous that he wanted to kill David, Jonathan, Saul’s oldest son, protected and befriended him. The two became “one in spirit” (1 Samuel 18:1). And Jonathan “loved him as himself” (vv. 1, 3) and—though he was heir apparent to the throne—recognised David’s divine selection to be king. He gave David his robe, sword, bow and his belt (v. 4). Later, David declared that Jonathan’s deep love for him as a friend was wonderful (2 Samuel 1:26).
As believers in Jesus, may He help us build our own relational “telling rooms”—friendships that reflect Christ-like love and care. Let’s take the time to linger with friends, open our hearts, and live in true communion with one another in Him.
Reflect & Pray What kinds of commitments have you made to your friends? How can you express your love to them this week?
Dear God, please help me to pursue vulnerable, loving and authentic friendships.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT We first read of Jonathan, King Saul’s oldest son, in 1 Samuel 13–14, 18–20. Jonathan was a valiant soldier. In a heroic move, Jonathan and his armorbearer went against the Philistines at Mikmash and singlehandedly killed twenty men. Saul and his men joined the battle, and God led the Israelites to victory (13:23–14:23). Earlier, Saul had made the rash oath, “Cursed be anyone who eats food before evening comes, before I have avenged myself on my enemies!” (14:24 ). So, his men went into battle hungry. But Jonathan hadn’t been around to hear the oath and had refreshed himself with honey while pursuing the enemy. Fortunately, the soldiers prevented Saul from carrying out his foolish oath (vv. 41–45). In today’s text, we learn of Jonathan and David’s friendship. Jonathan put David ahead of his own interests and saved him from Saul’s attempt to kill him (ch. 20).
Alyson Kieda
1 Samuel 18:1-4 King James Version 18 And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.
2 And Saul took him that day, and would let him go no more home to his father's house.
3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.
4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was upon him, and gave it to David, and his garments, even to his sword, and to his bow, and to his girdle.
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Post by Les on Mar 27, 2023 12:44:48 GMT -7
God Is Listening By: Alyson Kieda
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The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16
Today's Scripture & Insight: James 5:13–16 Charles, an actor and martial artist, honoured his mother on her hundredth birthday by sharing how instrumental she’d been in his spiritual transformation. “Mum has been an example of perseverance and faith,” he wrote. She raised three boys on her own during the Great Depression; suffered the death of two spouses, a son, a stepson and grandchildren; and endured many surgeries. “[She] has prayed for me all my life, through thick and thin.” He continued, “When nearly losing my soul to Hollywood, she was back home praying for my success and salvation.” He concluded, “I thank [my mum] for helping God to make me all I can and should be.”
The prayers of Charles’ mother helped him to find salvation—and a godly wife. She prayed fervently for her son, and God heard her prayers. We don’t always get our prayers answered the way we’d like, so we cannot use prayer as a magic wand. However, James assures us that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (5:16). Like this mum, we’re to continue to pray for the sick and those in trouble (vv. 13–15). When, like her, we commune with God through prayer, we find encouragement and peace and the assurance that the Spirit is at work.
Does someone in your life need salvation or healing or help? Lift your prayers to God in faith. He’s listening.
Reflect & Pray When have you seen God answer your fervent prayers? Who continues to be in your prayers?
Dear Father, help me to continually be in prayer and not to give up. Thank You for Your love that helps me persevere.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT The words pray[ed] or prayer occur seven times in James 5:13–18 (NIV), but they’re derived from three different Greek words. The word rendered “pray” in verse 13 (also vv. 14, 17, 18) is proseuchomai, to pray to God, to supplicate, worship. This is the word most often used in the New Testament in reference to prayer. The word translated “prayer” in verse 15 is euchē , which denotes a wish, expressed as a petition to God. The verb form of this word, euchomai, appears in verse 16: “pray for each other so that you may be healed.” The other word translated “prayer” in James 5 also appears in verse 16: “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” The word here is deēsis, a petition, prayer, request, supplication. Prayers of various kinds find their way to the listening ear and caring heart of God.
Arthur Jackson
James 5:13-16 King James Version 13 Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:
15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.
16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
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Post by Les on Mar 28, 2023 8:34:53 GMT -7
Stress to Peace By: Katara Patton
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Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6
Today's Scripture & Insight: Philippians 4:4–8 Moving house often ranks as one of the biggest stressors in life. We moved to our current home after I’d lived in my previous one for nearly twenty years. I’d lived alone in that first home for eight years before I got married. Then my husband moved in, along with all his things. Later, we added a child, and that meant even more stuff.
Our moving day to the new house wasn’t without incident. Five minutes before the movers arrived, I was still finishing up a book manuscript. And the new home had several sets of stairs, so it took double the time and twice as many movers as planned.
But I wasn’t feeling stressed out by the events of that day. Then it hit me: I’d spent many hours finishing writing a book—one filled with Scripture and biblical concepts. By God’s grace, I‘d been poring over the Bible, praying and writing to meet my deadline. So, I believe the key was my immersion in Scripture and in prayer.
Paul wrote, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God” (Philippians 4:6). When we pray—and “rejoice in” God (v. 4)—we refocus our mind from the problem to our Provider. We may be asking God to help us deal with a stressor, but we’re also connecting with Him, which can provide a peace “which transcends all understanding” (v. 7).
Reflect & Pray What stressful situations do you need God to give you peace in today? How can praying with thanksgiving transform your mind?
Provider and Protector, I give my concerns to You. May Your peace guard my mind and heart.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT Paul was “in chains for Christ” (Philippians 1:13) when he wrote to the Philippians. Because he mentioned the “palace guard” (v. 13) and “Caesar’s household” (4:22), he was probably imprisoned in Rome. Despite being in prison, Paul wrote this “joyful” letter (1:4, 25; 2:2, 29; 4:1), relentlessly encouraging the Philippian believers to “rejoice in the Lord always” ( 4:4). Some ten years earlier, during his second missionary journey, Paul had brought the gospel to this Roman colony, for which he was persecuted (Acts 16:11–40). Even though he was severely flogged and illegally imprisoned, Paul radiated joy and peace. For during adversity, “Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God” (v. 25). The apostle wrote, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace” ( Philippians 4:6–7 NLT).
K. T. Sim
Philippians 4:4-8 King James Version 4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
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Post by Les on Mar 29, 2023 12:18:39 GMT -7
One Sock? By: Chris Wale
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Your life is now hidden with Christ in God. Colossians 3:3
Today's Scripture & Insight: Colossians 3:1–4 Toby, our five-year-old, loves his fluffy green socks with dragon faces on the toes. But one morning he cried, “I’ve only got one sock!” Cue the whole family embarking on a house-wide search-and-rescue mission, pulling out drawers, tipping out toy boxes and turning rooms upside down. But without success. Finally, Toby pulled off his dragon sock—to reveal the other one! He had cheekily put both socks onto the same foot, creating the perfect hiding place. We were exasperated and amused in equal measure!
Sometimes we wish we could find such a clever way to hide ourselves—tucked away and completely covered up. But Paul assures us that we do have such a refuge: “your life is now hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:2–3). This profound, mind-boggling truth means that we are covered by Christ, even when we feel ashamed or unworthy. His story is now our story: we have already been “raised with Christ”, since “[we] died” with Him by faith (vv. 2–3). His destiny is our destiny: “You also will appear with him in glory” (v. 4).
Be reassured! Whatever we face today, we’re not left exposed or alone. Jesus has hidden us safely in Himself. Without wanting to trivialise such a profound truth, we’re not unlike that one sock tucked into another—from heaven’s viewpoint, all that’s seen of our lives is Christ covering us with His story and His righteousness.
Reflect & Pray When you’re struggling, what refuge do you tend to run to? What does being perfectly hidden in Christ mean to you?
Covering Jesus, thank You for being my perfect hiding place. I choose to take refuge in You today, knowing that You will meet all my needs.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT When a person believes in Christ, he is joined to Him in His death and resurrection (Rom. 6:3–8; Col. 2:12–13; 3:1). Paul reminds the Colossian believers that their priority—their whole outlook on life—is to consistently focus on the resurrected, ascended, and exalted Christ (3:1); to diligently strive and pursue things that are eternal (v. 2); and to continuously put to death whatever belongs to their earthly nature ( vv. 3–5). Paul not only lists the practices that should no longer characterise the life of the believer, but he asks followers of Christ to embrace the virtues that should clothe God’s chosen people (vv. 12-17).
K. T. Sim
Colossians 3:1-4 King James Version 3 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
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Post by Les on Mar 30, 2023 11:50:43 GMT -7
To Do or Not to Do By: Cindy Hess Kasper
Click here for the Audio Message
I do not do the good I want to do, . . . I keep on doing [evil]. Romans 7:19
Today's Scripture & Insight: Romans 7:15–20 When I was a kid, a decommissioned World War II tank was put on display in a park near my home. Multiple signs warned of the danger of climbing on the vehicle, but a couple of my friends immediately scrambled up. Some of us were a bit reluctant, but eventually we did the same. One boy refused, pointing to the posted signs. Another jumped down quickly as an adult approached. The temptation to have fun outweighed our desire to follow rules.
There’s a heart of childish rebellion lurking within all of us. We don’t like being told what to do or not to do. Yet we read in James that when we know what is right and don’t do it—it is sin (4:17). In Romans, the apostle Paul wrote: “I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it” (7:19–20).
As believers in Jesus, we may puzzle over our struggle with sin. But too often we depend solely on our own strength to do what’s right. One day, when this life is over, we’ll be truly dead to sinful impulses. Until then, however, we can rely on the power of the One who’s death and resurrection won the victory over sin.
Reflect & Pray What sins are the biggest struggle for you? How can you rely more on God’s power to overcome their stronghold?
Loving God, please help me to choose to do what’s right. My heart’s desire is to reflect Your perfect character and holy ways.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT Romans 7:14–25 has been a source of much debate in scholarship. Many have believed it describes Paul’s ongoing struggle with sin because it speaks in the present tense and uses the first person (“I”). However, it’s difficult to reconcile Romans 7’s description of being a “slave to sin” (v. 14) with the state of freedom from sin’s bondage described as a gift of the Spirit to all believers in chapters 6 and 8 ( 6:17–18; 8:1–2). Today, many scholars believe that Romans 7’s vivid description of doing “what I do not want to do” (v. 16) wasn’t describing Paul’s then-current personal struggle. Instead, he may have been using a literary technique of speaking in the present tense to dramatise the futility of seeking salvation through the law (8:3 ). It’s through the power of Christ’s Spirit that believers can experience freedom, life, and peace (vv. 1–3, 6, 10).
Monica La Rose
Romans 7:15-20 King James Version 15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
16 If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
17 Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
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Post by Les on Mar 31, 2023 11:15:12 GMT -7
Rest Assured in God By: Karen Pimpo
Click here for the Audio Message
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in You. Isaiah 26:3
Today's Scripture & Insight: Isaiah 26:1–6 Researchers in Fujian, China, wanted to help intensive care unit (ICU) patients sleep more soundly. They measured the effects of sleep aids on test subjects in a simulated ICU environment, complete with bright, hospital-grade lighting and audio recordings of machines beeping and nurses talking. Their research showed that tools like sleep masks and ear plugs improved their subjects’ rest. But they acknowledged that for truly sick patients in a real ICU, peaceful sleep would still be hard to come by.
When our world is troubled, how can we find rest? The Bible’s clear: there’s peace for those who trust in God, regardless of their circumstances. The prophet Isaiah wrote about a future time when the ancient Israelites would be restored after hardship. They would live securely in their city, because they knew that God made it safe (Isaiah 26:1). They would trust that He was actively working in the world around them to bring good—“He humbles those who dwell on high,” raising up the oppressed, and bringing justice (vv. 5–6). They would know that “the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal,” and they could trust Him forever (v. 4).
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast,” wrote Isaiah, “because they trust in you” (v. 3). God can provide peace and rest for us today as well. We can rest in the assurance of His love and power, no matter what’s going on around us.
Reflect & Pray What threatens to overwhelm you today? How can you remind yourself of God’s power and love?
Dear God, I trust You and choose to rest assured in Your love today.
Rest in God’s presence at the end of each day by listening to the Our Daily Bread Evening Meditations podcast, available on all podcast playing platforms.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT Isaiah ministered to the Southern Kingdom of Judah during the reigns of King Ahaz (Isaiah 7–35) and his son Hezekiah (chs. 36–39), during which time Judah’s perennial enemies—Israel, Syria (Aram), Egypt, and Assyria, persistently attacked her (see 2 Chronicles 26–39). Ahaz was one of Judah’s worst kings, whereas Hezekiah was a godly king committed to reforming his kingdom. Isaiah challenged Ahaz and Hezekiah to look to God for deliverance. Ahaz refused to trust God ( Isaiah 7:10–17; see 2 Chronicles 28). But Hezekiah did (Isaiah 37:14–21; see 2 Chronicles 32:1–23). Isaiah 26 is a song of trust, promising and celebrating God’s victory, salvation, restoration, safety, and “perfect peace” ( v. 3; shalom, meaning peace, safety, prosperity, well-being, wholeness) for those who humble themselves and honour Him. God’s people can “trust in the Lord forever” because our God “the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal” (v. 4).
K. T. Sim
Isaiah 26:1-6 King James Version 26 In that day shall this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; salvation will God appoint for walls and bulwarks.
2 Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
4 Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength:
5 For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.
6 The foot shall tread it down, even the feet of the poor, and the steps of the needy.
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Post by Foxy on Mar 31, 2023 12:33:09 GMT -7
Dear God, please bless our dear friend Les for his faithfulness. He is a blessing to every forum he ministers to.
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Post by Dazzal on Mar 31, 2023 13:55:57 GMT -7
Dear God, please bless our dear friend Les for his faithfulness. He is a blessing to every forum he ministers to.
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Post by Les on Apr 1, 2023 10:52:05 GMT -7
Dear God, please bless our dear friend Les for his faithfulness. He is a blessing to every forum he ministers to. Thanks my friend, Lord bless you too.
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Post by Les on Apr 2, 2023 8:13:24 GMT -7
Bluestone Church Bells By: Bill Crowder
Click here for the Audio Message
I tell you, . . . if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out. Luke 19:40
Today's Scripture & Insight: Luke 19:37–42 Bluestone is a fascinating variety of rock. When struck, certain bluestones will ring with a musical tone. Maenclochog, a Welsh village whose name means “bell” or “ringing stones”, used bluestones as church bells until the eighteenth century. Interestingly, the ruins of Stonehenge, in England, are built of bluestone, causing some to wonder if that landmark’s original purpose was musical. Some researchers claim that the bluestone at Stonehenge was brought from near Maenclochog, nearly two hundred miles away, because of their unique acoustic properties.
Musical ringing stones are yet another of the wonders of God’s great creation, and they remind us of something Jesus said during His Palm Sunday entry into Jerusalem. As the people praised Jesus, the religious leaders demanded Him to rebuke them. “ ‘I tell you,’ he replied, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out’ ” (Luke 19:40).
If bluestone can make music, and if Jesus made mention of even the stones bearing witness to their Creator, how might we express our own praise to the One who made us, loves us and rescued us? He is worthy of all worship. May the Holy Spirit stir us to give Him the honour He deserves. All of creation praises Him.
Reflect & Pray How many ways can you think of in which creation praises God? How can you join in daily worship of our Creator?
Creator God, You are deserving of all worship, praise and gratitude. When my heart grows hard and I lose sight of Your worthiness, remind me that all creation sings Your praise.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT When we think of Palm Sunday, we think of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem to the joyful, loud shouts of the crowd who rejoiced for “all the miracles they had seen” (Luke 19:37). In their celebration, they sang Psalm 118:26, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” However, in Luke 19:41–42, we see different emotions expressed, ones we don’t normally associate with this day of celebration and welcome of Jesus. In verse 41 , we have the image of Jesus lamenting: “As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it” (see also 13:31–35). Celebration and lamentation, praising and weeping meet in Luke 19:37–42. While the crowds had seen the miracles and celebrated, what they hadn’t seen was the judgment that was to come because of the rejection of Jesus. Because of that, Jesus wept.
Arthur Jackson
Luke 19:37-42 King James Version 37 And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;
38 Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.
39 And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples.
40 And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.
41 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,
42 Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.
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Post by Les on Apr 3, 2023 11:54:23 GMT -7
Finding Strength in God By: Kimya Loder
Click here for the Audio Message
I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Today's Scripture & Insight: 2 Corinthians 12:9–10 Football player Christian Pulisic faced several injuries that influenced his career. After learning he wouldn’t be in the starting line-up of the Champions League semi-finals game, he was disappointed, but he described how God had revealed Himself to him. “As always, I reach out to God, and He gives me strength,” he said. “I feel like I always have Someone who’s with me. I don’t know how I would do any of this without that feeling.” Pulisic ultimately made a momentous impact when he was substituted later in the game. He initiated a clever play that led to the match-winning goal and secured their spot in the final. These experiences taught him a valuable lesson: we can always view our weaknesses as opportunities for God to reveal His immeasurable power.
The world teaches us to rely on our own strength when encountering problems. However, biblical wisdom teaches us that God’s grace and power give us strength in the most trying circumstances (2 Corinthians 12:9). Therefore, we can move in confidence, recognising that we never face trials alone. Our “weaknesses” become opportunities for God to reveal His power, strengthening and supporting us (vv. 9–10). We can then use our struggles to offer praise to God, giving thanks for His goodness and sharing these encounters with others so that they can come to experience His love.
Reflect & Pray When have you tried to overcome a struggle on your own? How can you look to God for strength?
Dear heavenly Father, thank You for being the source of my strength and guiding me each day.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT God’s promise to Paul that “my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9) shouldn’t be surprising. Power in places least expected has been God’s way of doing things since Adam and Eve’s sin brought both judgment on all creation and the promise of redemption.
Jesus is the epitome of the unexpected. Not only did the Messiah come as a baby from Bethlehem (both of which were not unexpected), but the way He secured our salvation through His death and resurrection was completely unexpected. This picture finds its most dramatic expression in the book of Revelation. When John is told to turn and look at the victorious “Lion of the tribe of Judah” (Revelation 5:5), he sees not just a lamb but one that’s been sacrificed (see v. 6). Strength in the unexpected places is how God works.
J.R. Hudberg
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 King James Version 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
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Post by Deleted on Apr 3, 2023 13:23:56 GMT -7
Thank you Les!
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Post by Foxy on Apr 3, 2023 14:27:43 GMT -7
^ Ditto. We really appreciate you Les,
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Post by Les on Apr 3, 2023 16:51:09 GMT -7
Thanks everyone. It's really good to see people still enjoying reading these devotionals.
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Post by Dazzal on Apr 3, 2023 16:55:19 GMT -7
Dear God, please bless our dear friend Les for his faithfulness. He is a blessing to every forum he ministers to. And I said something above but Les, didn't see me? I've always appreciated God's word and the applications.
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Post by Les on Apr 3, 2023 17:07:34 GMT -7
And I said something above but Les , didn't see me? I've always appreciated God's word and the applications. Forgive me my dear friend Dazzal. Must get a better pair of glasses 🤓. Lord willing tomorrow, I will be adding a link at the bottom of the devotionals that will provide a podcast of an Our Daily Bread Evening Devotional. I have only just discovered them and looking forward to bringing it here.
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Post by Dazzal on Apr 3, 2023 17:11:19 GMT -7
And I said something above but Les , didn't see me? I've always appreciated God's word and the applications. Forgive me my dear friend Dazzal. Must get a better pair of glasses 🤓. Lord willing tomorrow, I will be adding a link at the bottom of the devotionals that will provide a podcast of an Our Daily Bread Evening Devotional. I have only just discovered them and looking forward to bringing it here. Les, no forgiving necessary. I'm looking forward to the Podcast.
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Post by Les on Apr 4, 2023 6:02:21 GMT -7
At Home in Jesus By: Winn Collier
Before we start our daily devotional today, I just want to share about a new podcast titled 'Our Daily Bread Evening Meditations'. They are free to listen to and great to settle down to before sleep. Just scroll down to the end of today's usual devotional.
God bless. Les.
Click here for the Audio Message
Remain in me, as I also remain in you. John 15:4
Today's Scripture & Insight: John 15:1–11 Several years ago, we brought home an adult black cat named Juno from the local animal shelter. Truthfully, I only wanted help thinning our mice population, but the rest of the family wanted a pet. The shelter gave us rigorous instructions on how to establish a feeding routine that first week so Juno would learn our house was his home, the place he belonged and where he’d always have food and safety. This way, even if Juno might roam, he would always eventually come home.
If we don’t know our true home, we’re forever tempted to roam in vain search for goodness, love and meaning. If we want to find our true life, however, Jesus said, “Abide in me” (John 15:4 ESV). Biblical scholar Frederick Dale Bruner highlights how abide (like a similar word, abode) evokes a sense of family and home. So Bruner translates Jesus’ words this way: “Stay at home in me.”
To drive this idea home, Jesus used the illustration of branches attached to a vine. Branches, if they want to live, must always stay at home, tenaciously fixed (abiding) where they belong.
There are many voices beckoning us with hollow promises to fix our problems or provide us some new ‘wisdom’ or exhilarating future. But if we’re to truly live, we must remain in Jesus. We must stay at home.
Reflect & Pray What pulls you away from your home in Jesus? How has Jesus shown Himself to be your true source of life?
Jesus, I like to roam. I’m pulled in all kinds of directions. But I want to stay at home with You. You're my life. Help me to abide in You.
SCRIPTURE INSIGHT One of the central emphases of the gospel of John is on the incarnation—God becoming human to be with us (John 1:14)—as a gift of God’s love (3:16–17).
While church tradition and other evidence suggests John the disciple was likely the author of this gospel, the author is intentional about being identified only as someone “whom Jesus loved” (21:20), whose testimony is trustworthy (v. 24). What’s most important is that the gospel points us to Jesus as the One through whom we can rest in God’s love (15:9).
Monica La Rose
John 15:1-11 King James Version 15 I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
9 As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
11 These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
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Our Daily Bread Evening Meditations - Taking up Our Cross for Christ.
Click on this link Our Daily Bread Evening Meditations Podcast for this evenings podcast.
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Post by Dazzal on Apr 4, 2023 8:07:18 GMT -7
Podcast is relaxing and helpful, Les, Thank you!
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Post by Les on Apr 4, 2023 8:34:03 GMT -7
Podcast is relaxing and helpful, Les , Thank you!You are very welcome. They really work on my wife.
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