Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

The salvation story of Jesus Christ reaches around the world. So that the readers of our Daily Devotion may see the power of the Savior on a global scale, we have asked the volunteers of our International Ministry Centers to write our Friday devotions. We pray that the Spirit may touch your day through their words.

In Christ, I remain, His servant and yours,
Kenneth R. Klaus
Speaker of The Lutheran Hour



Have you ever seen cows chewing their cud? What is cud, and why do cows spend so much time chewing it? These animals fill their stomachs with grass and then lie down to regurgitate and enjoy a good, long chew. That doesn't sound very appetizing to us, but it is during this phase that they glean important nutrients to sustain their bodies.

When composing Psalm 119 the writer understood this principle: the Word of God should be consumed slowly, intentionally, and with great respect. For him, it was not "fast food" to be eaten in a hurry and then forgotten. It was something to read closely, re-read if necessary, and apply one's mind to. This is how we get the "nutrients" the Bible has to offer.

Other Scriptural gems the 119th Psalm delivers are these:
11 - God's word strengthens us against sin.
40 - God's righteousness revives us.
98 - God's commandments make us wiser.
24 - God's mercies to us are great.

The best part of reading the Bible is learning how much God loves us. No matter how deep we have sunk into sin, He still loves us and through Christ forgives us. Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).

Meditating on Scripture is more than just reading the Bible; it is inwardly digesting it and applying its life-giving truths to our daily lives. The Word of God has been prepared for us to meet all of our needs. As such, it is a hearty banquet prepared for us to take pleasure in and receive spiritual strength.

Remember: Take your time with this meal and get the most out of it. God's Word is not "fast food."

THE PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your sustaining and all-powerful Word. Remind us to spend time each day exploring the riches there for us, and help us to share this nourishment with others. Amen.

Biography of Author:
Mr. Carlos Raúl Sosa is a council member who volunteers at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Guatemala City, Guatemala.







To learn more about our International Ministries, click here or visit www.lhmint.org.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 11-13    Luke 4:31-44

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