From the Fathers Heart

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Your first Ignite edition with the very best of Premier

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Mon, 06 May 2013 22:25:00 +0000

Your first Ignite edition with the very best of Premier

Can Rob Bell defend his views on God?
Rob Bell has some views on God that more traditional believers may find controversial. Listen to this debate as Bell defends and explains his position, including why he believes a physical hell may not exist. Theologian Andrew Wilson challenges Rob about his view of God, salvation and his recently stated support for gay marriage.

Is it harder for Christians to find love?
"I seem to have got myself into a lot of conversations about love lately. The celebration of. Lack of. Confusion about. And the idea that being a Christian seems to make it more confusing still..."

Alright Guvna?
Award-winning Gospel golden boy Guvna B has joined the Premier Gospel family. In this video he chats to fellow rapper Melvillous about survival in the world of Christian hip-hop, and first encounters with God.

I gave up chasing girls for God
Former England striker Cyrille Regis shares how, at the height of his fame in the 80s, he turned away from a lifestyle of women and partying and dedicated his life to Christ. And he's been spreading The Gospel ever since!

I don't fancy my husband
"What can I do to make sex more appealing if I don't feel attracted to my husband any more?"
Christianity magazine's Dear Maggie offers her expert advice on keeping the flame alight when natural desire has begun to wane.

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - May 01, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Wed, 01 May 2013 09:06:00 +0000

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Day 10 - Nothing Is Impossible With Faith in God

[Jesus] replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." Matthew 17:20

In this verse Jesus wasn't pointing to a measurement of faith, as though we could check our faith by stepping on a scale and claiming that the extra weight comes from extra faith. (Wouldn't that would be nice?) Immediately after saying the disciples didn't have enough faith, Jesus told them that even faith as small as a tiny mustard seed would be enough to move a mountain. Obviously it was not the amount of faith but the focus of the faith.

Earlier in Matthew 17 the disciples had tried to cast out a demon without success. Perhaps they had tried to cast it out depending on what they considered their own power. Whatever occurred, their faith must have been in the wrong place. When they put their faith in the right place—in the all-powerful God—then even a tiny grain of faith would be enough. Nothing is impossible when our faith is in God.

This kind of faith moves mountains and makes all things possible. At times we may feel that we have great faith; at other times we may feel that our faith is suffering. In the end, however, if even that suffering faith is in God, then it is enough to do the impossible!

God's Promise to Me

If you have faith in me as small as a mustard seed, then it is enough to move mountains and do the impossible.

My Prayer to God

You promise, Lord, that with faith in you nothing is impossible. Thank you for being the God of the possible. Help me to remember that my faith, even small and weak, can do great things for you.

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Once-A-Day Bible Promises Devotional
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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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Johnny Lingo's Eight-cow Wife

by Patricia McGerr

When I visited the South Pacific islands, I took a notebook along. I had a three‐week leave between assignments in Japan, so I borrowed a boat and sailed to Kiniwata. The notebook was supposed to help me become a junior‐grade Maugham or Michener. But when I got back, among all my notes the only sentence that still interested me was the one that said, "Johnny Lingo gave eight cows to Sarita's father."

Johnny Lingo wasn't exactly his name. But I wrote it down that way because I learned about the eight cows from Shenkin, the fat manager of the guest house at Kiniwata. He was from Chicago and had a habit of Americanizing the names of the islanders. He wasn't the only one who talked about Johnny, though. His name came up with many people in many connections. If I wanted to spend a few days on the island of Nurabandi, a day's sail away, Johnny Lingo could put me up, they told me, since he had built a five‐room house—unheard‐of luxury! If I wanted to fish, he could show me where the biting was best. If I wanted fresh vegetables, his garden was the greenest. If I sought pearls, his business savvy would bring me the best buys. Oh, the people of Kiniwata all spoke highly of Johnny Lingo. Yet when they spoke, they smiled, and the smiles were slightly mocking.

"Get Johnny Lingo to help you find what you want, and then let him do the bargaining," advised Shenkin, as I sat on the veranda of his guest house wondering whether to visit Nurabandi. "He'll earn his commission four times over. Johnny knows values and how to make a deal."

"Johnny Lingo!" The chubby boy on the veranda steps hooted the name, then hugged his knees and rocked with shrill laughter.

"What goes on?" I asked. "Everybody around here tells me to get in touch with Johnny Lingo and then breaks up. Let me in on the joke."

"They like to laugh," Shenkin said. He shrugged his heavy shoulders.

"And Johnny's the brightest, the quickest, the strongest young man in all this group of islands. So they like best to laugh at him."

"But if he's all you say, what is there to laugh about?"

"Only one thing. Five months ago, at fall festival time, Johnny came to Kiniwata and found himself a wife. He paid her father eight cows!"

He spoke the last words with great solemnity. I knew enough about island customs to be thoroughly impressed. Two or three cows would buy a fair‐to‐middling wife; four or five a highly satisfactory one.

"Eight cows!" I said. "She must be a beauty who takes your breath away."

"The kindest could only call Sarita plain," was Shenkin's answer. "She was skinny. She walked with her shoulders hunched and her head ducked. She was scared of her own shadow."

"Then how do you explain the eight cows?"

"We don't," he said. "And that's why the villagers grin when they talk about Johnny. They get special satisfaction from the fact that Johnny, the sharpest trader in the islands, was bested by Sarita's father, dull old Sam Karoo."

"Eight cows," I said unbelievingly. "I'd like to meet this Johnny Lingo."

So the next afternoon I sailed a boat to Nurabandi and met Johnny at his home, where I asked about his eight‐cow purchase of Sarita. I assumed he had done it for his own vanity and reputation—at least until Sarita walked into the room. She was the most beautiful woman I have ever seen. The lift of her shoulders, the tilt of her chin, the sparkle of her eyes all spelled a pride to which no one could deny her the right.

I turned back to Johnny Lingo after she had left. "You admire her?" he asked. "She… she's glorious," I said. "But she's not Sarita from Kiniwata." "There's only one Sarita.

Perhaps she does not look the way they say she looked in Kiniwata." "She doesn't." The impact of the girl's appearance made me forget tact. "I heard she was homely. They all make fun of you because you let yourself be cheated by Sam Karoo."

"You think eight cows were too many?" A smile slid over his lips. "No. But how can she be so different?" "Do you ever think," he asked, "what it must mean to a woman to know that her husband settled on the lowest price for which she can be bought? And then later, when the women talk, they boast of what their husbands paid for them. One says four cows; another maybe six. How does she feel, the woman who was sold for one or two? This could not happen to my Sarita."

"Then you did this just to make her happy?" I asked.

"I wanted Sarita to be happy, yes. But I wanted more than that. You say she is different. This is true. Many things can change a woman. Things that happen inside; things that happen outside. But the thing that matters most is what she thinks about herself. In Kiniwata, Sarita believed she was worth nothing. Now she knows she is worth more than any other woman in the islands."

"Then you wanted… " "I wanted to marry Sarita. I loved her and no other woman." "But… " "But," he finished softly, "I wanted an eight‐cow wife."

Looking ahead…

Someone said, "We are not what we think we are. We are not even what others think we are. We are what we think others think we are." In other words, our estimation of our value as human beings is greatly influenced by the way people respond to us and the respect or disdain they reveal day by day. Those interactions shape our self‐concepts and are translated into the nuances of our personalities.

Johnny Lingo was, indeed, a brilliant man. He was astute enough to know that his negotiations with Sarita's father would seal forever the self‐concept of the woman he loved. That's why Sarita revealed such confidence and beauty. Let me say to the husbands and wives reading this book: You have the power to elevate or debase each other's self‐esteem. Rather than tear down, don't miss a single opportunity to build up.

For the next few evenings, we'll talk about how to do that.

- James C Dobson

From Night Light For Couples, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.
"Johnny Lingo's Eight‐Cow Wife" by Patricia McGerr. © 1965 by Patricia McGerr. First published in Woman's Day. Reprinted by permission of Curtis Brown, Ltd.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 30, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:07:00 +0000

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Day 9 - You Have Power

For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7

Paul wrote the words in today's verse to Timothy, a young man with a big responsibility as pastor of the church in Ephesus. God has not called Christians to be fearful, cowering doormats waiting to let the world step on our faith and wipe its feet on our principles. With the God of the universe in our hearts, we have a spirit of power, love and self-discipline.

People in leadership need God's help. Wherever we lead, God promises power—boldness to speak the truth. We don't have this power in order to lord it over others but to empower them, to give them boldness in their faith. God promises love, a fruit of the Spirit. We have power to speak the truth, but love for our listeners tempers that power so it does not become prideful. God also promises self-discipline, or self-control, which gives us a cool head and a sound perspective in the hazards of leadership.

God has given us a great gift—power—instead of fear or timidity. How will you exercise this gift?

God's Promise to Me

When I place you in a position of leadership, I will be with you.
I can give you a spirit of power, love and self-discipline in order to lead effectively.

My Prayer to God

Leadership is a big responsibility, Lord. No leader can please everyone, and every leader eventually needs to take a stand on important issues. I pray that I will be strong in faith and able to stand on my principles. Give me power and boldness without pride.

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Night Light for Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:03:00 +0000

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The Power of Words

Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil. 1 Peter 3:10

Our words are an incredibly important tool for understanding and communicating with our kids. What we say, and how we convey what we say, can make the difference between drawing closer to the hearts of our sons and daughters and hurting them with an insensitive or inappropriate remark.

I thought about the impact of our words when I read a story by former First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton, whose father never affirmed her as a child. When she was in high school, she brought home a report card with an A grade in every subject. She proudly showed it to her dad, hoping for approval or praise. Instead he said, "Well, you must be attending an easy school." Thirty-five years later, that thoughtless remark is still etched in Mrs. Clinton's mind. That father may have considered it a casual quip, but it created a point of pain for his daughter that has endured to this day.

If you doubt the power of words, remember what John the disciple wrote under divine inspiration. He said, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). John was describing Jesus, the Son of God, who was identified personally with words. Can a better case be made than that? Matthew, Mark, and Luke each describe a related prophetic statement made by Jesus that confirms the eternal nature of His teachings. He said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away" (Matthew 24:35). We remember what Christ said to this hour, more than two thousand years later.

Words are a mighty instrument with lasting power to enlighten, encourage, and heal—or, when used carelessly, to wound and destroy. How we use them has eternal impact: "Your words now reflect your fate then: either you will be justified by them or you will be condemned" (Matthew 12:37, tlb). As parents, let's choose words that always benefit our kids and bring glory to God.

-Shirley M Dobson

From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Illustration adapted from Martha Sherrill, "Mrs. Clinton's Two Weeks out of Time: The Vigil for Her Father, Taking a Toll Both Public and Private," Washington Post, 3 April 1993, C1, as quoted in Bringing Up Boys copyright © 2001 by James Dobson, Inc. Published by Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

Whether married or single, with kids in diapers or almost grown, you'll find practical parenting advice and biblical truth. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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Black Sunday

"If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." Luke 17:4

Every family has moments they'd rather forget—moments that later call for understanding and forgiveness. When our children lived at home, we found that Sunday was often the most frustrating day of the week, especially during the "get 'em ready for church" routine. But Black Sunday was uniquely chaotic!

Jim and I began the day by getting up late, which meant that everyone had to rush to prepare for church. Then there was the matter of spilled milk at breakfast and the black shoe polish on the floor. Finally, Ryan, who was dressed first, managed to slip out the back door and get himself dirty from head to toe. As these irritations mounted, the criticism and accusations flew back and forth. At least one spanking was delivered and another three or four were promised.

After the Sunday evening service we called the family together. We described the day we'd had and asked each person to forgive us for our part in it. We also gave each member of the family a chance to express his or her feelings. Ryan was given his first shot, and he fired it at me. "You've been a real grouch today, Mom!" he said with feeling. "You've blamed me for everything all day long." Danae then poured out her hostilities and frustrations. Finally, Jim and I had an opportunity to explain the tensions that had caused our overreaction. It was a valuable time of ventilation and honesty that drew us together once more. We then had prayer as a family and asked the Lord to help us live and work together in love and harmony.

No matter how hard we try, we will experience times when we fail to live up to our Christian principles. When those times arrive, discussion and forgiveness are the best methods for soothing wounded relationships. I urge you at those moments to actively seek forgiveness from each other and from God and freely offer forgiveness in return.

While you're at it, forgive yourself. If God can post a "No Fishing" sign by the sea where your sins are thrown, then so can you and I.

- Shirley M Dobson

From Night Light For Couples, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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A Small Piece of the Puzzle

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:01:00 +0000

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A Small Piece of the Puzzle

Revenge belongs to God. If vengeance is God's, then it is not ours. God has not asked us to settle the score or get even. Ever.

Why? The answer is found in Joseph's statement: "You meant to hurt me, but God turned your evil into good to save the lives of many people, which is being done."

Forgiveness comes easier with a wide-angle lens. Joseph uses one to get the whole picture. He refuses to focus on the betrayal of his brothers without also seeing the loyalty of his God.

It always helps to see the big picture.

Some time ago I was in an airport lobby when I saw an acquaintance enter. He was a man I hadn't seen in a while but had thought about often. He'd been through a divorce, and I was close enough to it to know that he deserved some of the blame.

I noticed he was not alone. Beside him was a woman. Why, that scoundrel! Just a few months out and here he has another lady?

Any thought of greeting him disappeared as I passed judgment on his character. But then he saw me. He waved at me. He motioned me over. I was caught. I was trapped. I'd have to go visit with the reprobate. So I did.

"Max, meet my aunt and her husband."

I gulped. I hadn't noticed the man.

"We're on our way to a family reunion. I know they would really like to meet you."

"We use your books in our home Bible study," my friend's uncle spoke up. "You've got some great insights."

"If only you knew," I said to myself. I had committed a common sin of the unforgiving. I had cast a vote without knowing the story.

To forgive someone is to admit our limitations. We've been given only one piece of life's jigsaw puzzle. Only God has the cover of the box. To forgive someone is to display reverence. Forgiveness is not saying the one who hurt you was right. Forgiveness is stating that God is fair and he will do what is right.

After all, don't we have enough things to do without trying to do God's work too?

This excerpt is taken from Cast of Characters.

Some of the most powerful stories from the Bible will come alive through these inspiring selections from the writings of Max Lucado.

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 29, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 09:07:00 +0000

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Day 8 - God Rewards Your Quiet Time With Him

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Matthew 6:6

There is a thriving breed of people in America known as the Coffee Shop Writers. They cannot work anywhere else except in the bustling coffee shop of their neighborhood. They settle in, get their coffee and work tirelessly on their novel, article or screenplay. They seem to believe that their work needs an audience—both before and after publication.

Even though this is a specialized group, in reality you can find people with a similar perspective in all walks of life: lifting weights, taking pictures, cooking, running, working or even eating. People are beginning to find it difficult to do anything without an audience.

The last thing God wants our spiritual life to become is a show we put on for others. Prayer should be a time of personal reflection and divine conversation. It needs to be between us and God. That's it. Even when you're not on your cell phone, your webcam is off and you're not engaging in social media, you still have an audience of One—and he knows your heart.

God's Promise to Me

I will always be personal, and I will always be with you.
Others look on the outside, I will always look at the heart.

My Prayer to God

Lord, thank you for always listening to me. Help me to remember that even though I follow you in deed and in word, our relationship is a personal one.

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Once-A-Day Bible Promises Devotional
by Zondervan

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Latest Scoops on From the Fathers Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:33:00 +0000

From the Fathers Heart

by Las Ratnayake

Heaven, Angels and Miracle Healing 22 - Judith MacNutt with Sid Roth (Heaven Testimony)

From www.youtube.com - Today, 12:24 AM

Heaven, Angels and Miracle Healing 22 - Judith MacNutt with Sid Roth (Heaven Testimony) www.jalanallah.com

God's promise - A prophetic word for you today

From www.youtube.com - Today, 12:18 AM

There's no way it can happen in the natural, but... Voice of Christine Caine Want to see more? Watch the full programme here: http://www.god.tv/code-orange-r...

A testimony of healing and miracles

From www.youtube.com - Today, 12:21 AM

"I didn't think life was for me... I thought it was for everybody else", says Shawna Torres. "... I just kept taking more drugs so that I could sleep all the...

GOD TV Living Rooms Promotional Video

From www.youtube.com - Today, 12:17 AM

Do you long to see God move in your Village, Town or City? GOD TV Living Rooms is way where you can partner with GOD TV and be equipped and resourced to reac...

Night Light for Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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Surprise!

The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. 1 Corinthians 8:2

We've been encouraging you this week to seek a better understanding of your children. We readily admit, however, that no matter how hard you try, your kids will still surprise you. I (JCD) remember calling home years ago from an out-of-state speaking engagement. Danae, who was then thirteen, informed me that she was going to be running in the 880-yard race at a track meet that Saturday. I gasped. "Danae," I said, "that is a very grueling race. Have you ever run that far before?" She admitted that she hadn't, even in practice. Though I advised against it, she decided to run in the race anyway.

Well, you can guess what happened—she won the race. The following year, she triumphed in the 880 again, setting a school record in the process. Now I began to get excited. The kid has talent, I thought. She'll be a great runner someday. Wrong again. Danae ran three more races, winning two of them, and then lost interest in track. So much for fatherly wisdom.

Even if you dedicate yourself to knowing and understanding your children, you won't always succeed. God has designed our ever-changing sons and daughters as complex, unique human beings. Parents must take to heart the Scripture that says "A patient man has great understanding" (Proverbs 14:29). Your ability to recognize who your children are—and who they will become—will only occur with generous measures of patience and reliance on the Lord.

Before you say good night…

How often do your kids surprise you?

Are you patient in seeking to understand your kids?

Heavenly Father, we know we must rely on You as we seek to know our children. Grant us patience when our understanding seems inadequate. Enable us to enjoy even the surprising moments with our precious children. Amen.

From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

Whether married or single, with kids in diapers or almost grown, you'll find practical parenting advice and biblical truth. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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These devotionals are drawn from Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson. For more information or to buy a print copy, see Night Light for Parents at the Bible Gateway store.

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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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The Pride Roadblock

"I hate pride and arrogance." Proverbs 8:13

In the middle of your highway to forgiveness there may be a giant roadblock called pride. You know in your heart that you offended your wife with that comment about her body, or her intelligence, or her family. You realize you hurt your husband with that remark about his selfishness or his waste of money. But something is keeping you from admitting wrong and seeking forgiveness. Even though you know you're guilty, you can't get the words out of your mouth. At best you can mumble, "I'm sorry," but you don't really want to know if your partner heard you.

Pride is terribly destructive to human relationships. It may be the sin that God hates most, because there are more than one hundred references to it in Scripture. Proverbs 6:17–19 describes seven things that God finds detestable, and the first one on the list is "a proud look." If you or your mate have a haughty attitude that prevents you from seeking forgiveness and reconciling, it will damage your marriage. We encourage you to swallow your pride and talk to your spouse. Once you've done that, why not clear one more roadblock and seek the Lord's forgiveness for your prideful heart?

Just between us…

Has my pride kept us apart in the past? How?
In what ways has swallowing our pride blessed us in the past?
How can we break down the roadblock of pride on our way to a stronger relationship?

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for Your example of humility and mercy. Forgive us for our stubborn, prideful treatment of each other. We want to change. Help us to lay aside pride, admit wrongs, and humbly ask for forgiveness. Amen.

From Night Light For Couples, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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These devotionals are drawn from Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson. For more information or to buy a print copy, see Night Light for Couples at the Bible Gateway store.

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 28, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 09:07:00 +0000

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Day 7 - You Are God's Temple

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? . . . What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people." 2 Corinthians 6:14,16

If you've ever seen two yoked animals, you know that a matched pair of animals is necessary. Otherwise, they won't move as a team. That's why you would never yoke a horse with an ox.

These verses from Corinthians offer excellent advice for all kinds of relationships. To be yoked with someone means you are working with them as a team.

Sometimes believers read these verses and they are tempted to think they need to build a high wall around themselves, close the drawbridge and never come out lest they be infected by the evil world. That's not what the rest of the Bible tells us, however, nor was that Jesus' example to us.

We need to pray that we can be around unbelievers—at school, at work, in the neighborhood—and yet not be influenced by them. We need to discern how to have friendships with unbelievers and yet know where to draw the line. We need to interact with them, but not be yoked to them. We need to pray that we will shine for Christ and influence unbelievers—not the other way around.

God's Promise to Me

You are my temple.
I am your God and I walk beside you.

My Prayer to God

Heavenly Father, because we are your temples, you command that we not make lasting commitments with unbelievers. Thank you for the promise that you will walk among us and be our God.

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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 20:03:00 +0000

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Admit You're Wrong

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins." 1 John 1:9

It is very difficult for parents to ask their children for forgiveness. They feel that it somehow damages their authority to admit they have done wrong and promise to do better next time. But I (jcd) believe it is healthy for a mom and dad to model for a child how to apologize when they have done something wrong.

One evening years ago, I was especially grouchy with my ten‐year‐old daughter, Danae. I blamed her for things that weren't her fault and upset her needlessly. After I went to bed, I realized that I needed to apologize. The next morning I said, "Danae, I'm sure you know that daddies are not perfect human beings. I know I wasn't fair with you last night. I was terribly grouchy, and I'm asking you to forgive me." Danae put her arms around me, then shocked me to my toes when she said, "I knew you were going to have to apologize, Daddy, and it's okay. I forgive you!"

If parents never admit their wrongs, their children often remember the offenses well into adulthood. Instead of clearing the air and reestablishing the relationship, the hurt feelings are stored in the memory bank to fester. Furthermore, by admitting a wrong, the parent says on the record that things will change—that he or she will try not to make the same mistake in the future. Healthy families follow these principles of forgiveness… from the top down!

Just between us…

Why is it easy to overlook the need to ask our children for pardon?
When we ask for forgiveness from our kids, what do we demonstrate?

Heavenly Father, it's never easy to admit we're wrong—especially to children. Give us the courage to seek forgiveness from our kids whenever it's warranted. May our family grow up without lingering bitterness and hurt. Amen.

From Night Light For Couples, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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Night Light for Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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Changing with the Times

Blessed is the man…who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13

The summer after I graduated from high school, I (JCD) traveled fifteen hundred miles from home and entered a college in California. I will never forget the exhilarating feeling of freedom that swept over me. I felt accountable for my life and did not have to explain my actions to anyone. The following December, my parents and I met for Christmas vacation at the home of relatives. Suddenly, I found myself in conflict with my mother. She was responding as she had when I was still in high school, asking when I would be coming in at night, urging me to drive safely, and watching what I ate. My mother had failed to notice that I had changed, and I was eager for her to get with the program.

In a similar way, when Mary and Joseph discovered that their twelve-year-old, Jesus, was not with their party on its way out of Jerusalem, they did not know where to look for Him. They eventually found Him in the temple courts, listening and asking questions. They didn't realize how far Jesus had grown in comprehending His unique relationship with His heavenly Father: "Didn't you know I had to be in my Father's house?" (Luke 2:41–50).

Scripture instructs us to "walk in the way of understanding" (Proverbs 9:6). When we seek to understand and adapt to the changes in our children, we'll find we appreciate them all the more—and vice versa.

Before you say good night…

How have your children changed in the last few months?

Are you treating them with new "understanding" as a result?

Heavenly Father, we ask You to guide our relationships with our children. Help us to recognize their growth and maturity and to encourage them even as they change to draw nearer to You. Thank You for showing us how to "walk in the way of understanding." Amen.

From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

Whether married or single, with kids in diapers or almost grown, you'll find practical parenting advice and biblical truth. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 27, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 09:08:00 +0000

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Day 6 - God Provides a Solution for Harried Saints

The Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the Lord is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! Isaiah 30:18

George Santayana once observed, "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it." This is precisely the reason the church (i.e. the modern day people of God) is wise to ponder carefully the experience of the Jews in the Old Testament.

By the time Isaiah arrived on the scene in 739 BC, Judah was in big-time trouble. Like the ten tribes of Israel to the north, the two southern tribes had forgotten God and were beginning to experience life apart from his blessing. Isaiah urged them to turn around . . . or else.

The details vary, but the principles and promise are still valid today. To experience all that God wants for us, we must turn to him—and wait for him in faith. If we ignore him, we do so at our own peril.

God's Promise to Me

Return to me, wait for me and I will deliver you.
You will find strength when you trust me.

My Prayer to God

Lord, you are sovereign and holy. Forgive me for acting as though I am in charge of my own life and for doing unholy things. I will turn to you and wait for you.

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Night Light for Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:03:00 +0000

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God's Lamp

The Lord will guide you always. Isaiah 58:11

Trying to talk with an unresponsive older teenager is like inserting dollar bills into a broken change machine—your words go in, but nothing comes back out! Yet it's vital that you stay in touch with your sons and daughters preparing to leave the nest. At a moment when you least expect it, they may ask for your advice on life's "big questions": "I want to follow Jesus, but will He tell me what to do?" Or, "I think God is calling me to the ministry, but how can I support a family on a pastor's salary?"

These are the times to gently put your arms around your kids and remind them of God's infinite love: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him" (Psalm 103:13). God, the ultimate parent, will never abandon any of us or ignore a request for guidance. His Word is "a lamp to my feet and a light for my path" (Psalm 119:105). That doesn't mean He gives us a three-hundred-watt beam that reveals the entire landscape. But the Lord will illuminate our next step, and we must trust Him to lead us through the darkness beyond.

Your teen won't be ready to discuss these deep scriptural insights every day. But if you stay close to your son or daughter, you'll know just the right moment to drop in a few wise words from the Lord.

Before you say good night…

What "big questions" are on your kids' minds right now?

What advice do you want to give them? Is it based on Scripture?

Are your kids trusting God to light their paths, one step at a time?

Father, we pray right now that You would grant us divine discernment. Help us to know our children as You know us, to see beyond their resistance and facades. Give us words of love and wisdom as we respond to their greatest struggles. Amen.

From Night Light For Parents, by Dr. James & Shirley Dobson
Copyright © 2000 by James Dobson, Inc. All rights reserved.

Read more in Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

Whether married or single, with kids in diapers or almost grown, you'll find practical parenting advice and biblical truth. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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"I Choose to Forgive"

"Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Colossians 3:13

C S. Lewis pointed out that "forgiving does not mean excusing… if that were so, there would be nothing to forgive." The people of Paducah, Kentucky, understood this. A few years ago, fourteen‐year‐old Michael Carneal opened fire on a group of students who had gathered in prayer. In seconds, ten were wounded, three fatally. Yet the students and people from the community showed a remarkable willingness to forgive. Placards appeared at the high school reading, "We Forgive You, Mike." Kelly Carneal, Michael's sister, was not only embraced by her peers, but was also asked to sing in the choir at the slain girls' funeral.

During the town's annual Christmas parade, the people lifted up a moment of silent prayer on behalf of Michael and his family. One young girl said it best: "I can hate Michael and bear the scars of what he did for the rest of my life. But I choose to forgive him and get beyond it."

Dr. Arch Hart, a Christian psychologist says, "Forgiveness is giving up my right to hurt you for hurting me." Forgiving is a decision, not an emotion. In our marriages we'll often need to choose to have a right attitude before our wounded heart has healed. Even when we can't control how we feel, we can determine how we act and what we do with our pain.

Just between us…

How did Jesus model forgiveness for us?
Is there someone in our family, our community, or our circle of acquaintances who has committed a widely known injustice?
How can we show this person forgiveness?
Is it necessary to forget in order to forgive?

Lord, thank You for showing us how to forgive. May we choose to forgive in our marriage—even when we don't feel like it. We trust You to bring healing in our feelings and memories in Your time. Amen.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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The One Song No Woman Can Afford To Miss

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:29:00 +0000

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The One Song No Woman Can Afford To Miss

I heard of a woman once, who when she was with child, she turned and this song swelled in her, her child's own song, and she would hum it as she washed pots. Hum it as she did her hair up, hum that song like a beckoning... her daughter's very own anthem.
Sometimes the mother's voice grew hoarse. Sometimes she wondered if anyone heard that song but her.

But when the girl was long and willowy, when her heart seemed more wall than warm and her arms seemed crossed more into a shield than open like a shelter, the mother had heard it one afternoon under the direct noon day sun - other voices singing the girl's song too.
The girl, she had grown deaf and numb and hard to all she was and had been and could be - but her sisters knew her song. Her sisters sang her song - when she had long forgotten the words to herself.
Her sisters sang her beauty when she saw herself ugly.
Her sisters sang her wanted when she saw herself broken.
Her sisters sang her hope when she only felt hurt.
Her sisters sang her beloved - when she couldn't believe.

If you listen close, you can tell you are cared for by someone by how they carry your name on their lips. How your name is safe on their tongue. And Christ, He names you friend, and God, He calls you redeemed and forgiven, and in Christ, the Three in One, He christens you free of condemnation and accepted and God's workmanship - and your identity is not in a making a name for yourself but in the name He makes for you out of the shaved off lovebits of His very heart.

-Devotional excerpt by Ann Voskamp from (in)courage.
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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 26, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 09:09:00 +0000

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Day 5 - God's Word Points the Way to Success

Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Joshua 1:8

It's the same every weekend. Tens of thousands of people pack convention centers and hotel ballrooms across the country to hear self-help gurus and financial experts speak on how to be successful. Most of these events are slick and entertaining, with attendees caught up in the possibility of "realizing their potential" or "seeing their dreams become a reality." And many of the people come away feeling motivated and helped. But how much of the advice they hear really squares with what God has said about how to succeed?

According to today's verse, true success isn't about making money, positive thinking or getting people to do what you want. God defines success as knowing and doing his Word. We achieve lasting glory when our sole goal is to honor the Lord.

God's Promise to Me

If you study, meditate on and obey my Word, you will have success.

My Prayer to God

You have given me your Word, Lord. Thank you for revealing yourself and for showing me the right and best way to live. True success requires me to be immersed in and submitted to your truth. Give me the discipline to study, the desire to meditate on and the courage to obey the Scriptures.

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Once-A-Day Bible Promises Devotional
by Zondervan

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Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:04:00 +0000

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The Cost of Bitterness

"I tell you, [forgive] not seven times, but seventy-seven times." Matthew 18:22

Just as we must act on Scripture's instruction to forgive, we should also consider the great cost of failing to do so. Withholding forgiveness brings on bitterness, which Neal T. Anderson says is like "battery acid in the soul." It leads to anger, resentment, depression, health problems, isolation, struggles with addictions, and more. It continues to haunt the person until he or she comes to terms with it. People who hang on to bitterness cause more pain to themselves than to the targets of their wrath.

A second cost is equally distressing. Jesus told a parable of an unmerciful servant who, after his master forgave him a large debt, demanded payment of a small debt from another servant. The master had the first servant thrown into jail and tortured. "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you," Jesus said, "unless you forgive your brother from your heart" (Matthew 18:35).

For couples who want to follow God's way for marriage and who hope for His best in their relationship, forgiveness is not just a suggestion. It is a spiritual commandment!

Just between us…

Why is failing to forgive more damaging to us than to the one who wronged us?
Are either of us bitter about something today? Why?
What steps of forgiveness can we take together?
How can we avoid bitterness in the future?

Dear Lord, You have spoken plainly about the consequences of withholding forgiveness. Help us to hear You and obey. May we please You and bless each other with our quickness to forgive at all times. Amen.

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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These devotionals are drawn from Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson. For more information or to buy a print copy, see Night Light for Couples at the Bible Gateway store.

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Night Light for Parents

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 20:03:00 +0000

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Awards Assembly

He who seeks good finds goodwill. Proverbs 11:27

For years, Roger had poked and prodded Gordon, his oldest son, to be a better student. Roger was always a little disappointed in Gordon and his B-average grades. He never quite measured up to Roger's expectations.

When Gordon was a senior in high school, Roger was puzzled by an invitation to a student awards assembly. He couldn't imagine any awards that Gordon would win. Roger went to the event anyway, but grew increasingly annoyed at watching other students march up the aisle for applause. Why was he here? Why was his son so mediocre? Finally, the principal came to the last presentation—a new award for an exceptional student. Roger was astonished to hear Gordon's name announced, followed by a long description of his son's fine character, kindness, trustworthiness, and quiet leadership. The principal finished by thanking Gordon, saying, "No one who has really gotten to know you will ever be quite the same again."

Roger had never gotten to know his son, much less appreciate him for who he was. In his efforts to teach and "improve" Gordon, Roger became blind to his son's best qualities. It reminds us of this Proverb: "He who seeks good finds goodwill, but evil comes to him who searches for it" (11:27). Teach your children, but remember also to seek out and acknowledge their positive traits. You'll discover a son or daughter to be proud of.

Before you say good night…

Are you overlooking any of your children's positive traits?

How might you change the way you "value" your kids?

Heavenly Father, teach us to value our children for who they are, rather than who we wish them to be. Help us to know their thoughts and dreams, their strengths and weaknesses, their fears and failures. Enable us to love them unequivocally, just as You love us. Amen.

Illustration adapted from "Awards Ceremony" by P. R. from Sons: A Father's Love by Bob Carlisle (Nashville, Tenn.: Word Publishing, 1999).

Read more in Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

Whether married or single, with kids in diapers or almost grown, you'll find practical parenting advice and biblical truth. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

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These devotionals are drawn from Night Light for Parents by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson. For more information or to buy a print copy, see Night Light for Parents at the Bible Gateway store.

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Once-a-Day Bible Promises - April 25, 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:08:00 +0000

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Day 4 - God Helps His People

Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress . . . Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind. Psalm 107:19,21

A few questions for those with a tendency to worry (pause briefly and ponder each one):

What situations in life are you most worried about right now? Why?
Of the various situations currently prompting anxiety in your life, which can you personally change? Over what issues do you have absolutely no control?
What are the inward and outward signs that something has got you really concerned and nervous?
List all the benefits of worrying. What are some of the drawbacks?
Is worrying a "sin"? Why or why not?
How do you think God feels when his children are panicky and anxious?
Why do some people seem almost immune to worry?
When is the last time you truly felt at peace?

Instead of worrying, you can cry out to God for help. In times of trouble, trust in God's unfailing love.

God's Promise to Me

When you cry out to me, I will help you.

My Prayer to God

God, I'm crying out to you for help. Help me trust that you will come to my rescue.

Buy the book this devotional is from:
Once-A-Day Bible Promises Devotional
by Zondervan

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Latest Scoops on From the Fathers Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 21:29:00 +0000

From the Fathers Heart

by Las Ratnayake

Iraqi refugees finally beat the odds - The Catholic Register

From www.catholicregister.org - Today, 1:24 AM

TORONTO - The Meera family have endured two wars, ethnic cleansing, religious persecution and a lot of bureaucracy, but with the help of a Catholic parish in Brampton, Ont., the six Iraqi Christian refugees have fought their way into Canada.

Twitter / CSLewisDaily: God allows us to experience ...

From twitter.com - Today, 1:21 AM

God allows us to experience the low points of life in order to teach us lessons that we could learn in no other way. http://t.co/Px17jTqWPC

Bus Tour | PRAY FOR AMERICA

From commit2pray.com - Today, 1:22 AM

The bus wrap for the PRAY FOR AMERICA TOUR is under way. Here's a sneak peak... http://t.co/FY3XBcaS0M http://t.co/FqpL3p494J

Quotes on Encouragement | John Maxwell on Leadership

From johnmaxwellonleadership.com - April 21, 2:17 AM

What kind of impact do you want to make in this world? Most of us desire to do something that matters, something important.

Night Light for Couples

noreply@blogger.com (Prayer4UKToday) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:02:00 +0000

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Finding the Strength to Forgive

"If you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins." Mark 11:25

Forgiveness is never easy, but it's the vital first step toward healing. A woman once wrote to tell "Dear Abby" that her husband of two years had had an affair with a young widow, who then carried his child. The wife wanted to die; she also wanted to kill her husband and the widow. But she knew those weren't the answers she needed. Instead she prayed to God, and the Lord gave her the strength to forgive both the husband and the widow.

The baby was born in the home of the husband and wife and raised as their own. He turned out to be their only child. In fifty years, wife and husband never discussed the incident again. "But," the wife wrote, "I've read the love and gratitude in his eyes a thousand times."

By praying for God's help, this woman received peace, a loving marriage, and a child she otherwise wouldn't have had. The next time anger and resentment rise up in your throat, get on your knees and ask the Lord for the healing work He wants to do in your heart. We believe He will hear and answer that prayer.

Just between us…

Who in your life has been most difficult to forgive? Why?
Is there someone you have never forgiven?
How has God honored the times you've forgiven someone?
Do we have anything that calls for forgiveness between us? What?
How will forgiving now make our marriage stronger in the future?

Dear Lord Jesus, forgiveness sometimes costs so much and hurts even more! But You forgave us—and now You ask us to forgive others. Teach us the heal- ing power of forgiveness. Help us to bring this gift of love to our marriage again and again. Amen.

"Dear Abby" illustration from The Christ-Centered Marriage by Neil T. Anderson and Charles Mylander (Ventura, Calif.: Gospel Light/Regal Books, 1996).

Read more in Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson.

With engaging stories, Scripture readings, and commentary, this devotional will strengthen your marriage relationship. Buy a copy at the Bible Gateway store!

Subscription Info

These devotionals are drawn from Night Light for Couples by Dr. James and Shirley Dobson. For more information or to buy a print copy, see Night Light for Couples at the Bible Gateway store.

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