I think there are more people searching for peace in their lives than at any other time in my time span. Though I think that there are many that are not aware that it is peace that they really need the absence of it stirs many different reactions. During last week I had opportunity to share with a new neighbor, a portion of my testimony. It was obvious he is displeased with his life at present. I shared with him how Jesus transformed my heart and life and that he is giving me hope for today and tomorrow. His response to me was that he was envious that I have such faith. He commented that he tried to have faith but he needs proof of God's existence. Our conversation continued but I shall not.

One of the incredible things that takes place when we make Jesus our Lord, is not only forgiveness of our past, but peace for our days. The old song says: "Peace peace wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above, sweep over my spirit forever I pray, in fathomless billows of love."

Peace is a result of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Pray for peace for our nation and world. Pray for salvation of souls. Pray for 10-10-10 across the District Church. Pray for peace in our homes. Living examples of peace are the best examples.

Please read devotional #43 taken from Psalm 122:6-8. Isn't it amazing how songs reach your heart in a way that the spoken word does not? Many of the songs we sing are taken directly from scripture or the thought is taken from scripture. During the Old and New Testament era, the people did not have the scriptures in their home to read but the scriptural songs were in their heart. As they sang them, the truth could be embraced and allowed to have its wondrous effect.

The peace of God is available to us because God has provided His peace. Though it is available we are not always enjoying His peace. It isn't that that peace is hiding, it is right where God put it, that we might receive its benefit. James 4:2 "....You do not have because you do not ask." seems appropriate. We tend at times, not to go where it may be found. If it takes a "string on a Finger" or (perhaps in this day a bracelet for cancer awareness) let's wear a peace string. Peace is vital if we are going to be an effective witness for Jesus. Children and family members need parents dwelling in peace. Peace in our home, neighborhood, community and world will make a difference.

Jesus made peace personal as He said "My peace I give to you.....". Peace is available through our personal relationship with Jesus.

Pray for peace, your peace,
Share the reason for your peace with others.
Pray for souls, 10-10-10.

Please read devotional #42 taken from Matthew 11:28-29. Within this scripture is an invitation to the weary and burdened. Consider for a moment the invitation as given by the King of Kings with the scepter extended to people with heavy hearts invited to a one on one meeting in the palace of the King. Are you aware of any King or President today who has an open invitation to his subjects of the kingdom, to enter his presence and discuss their heartaches? Most kings and presidents distance themselves from their ordinary subjects and meet with high ranking dignitaries or leaders of large labor unions.

We find the Son of God expressing concern and compassion for thee needs of the common subjects. Our Lord clearly has a desire to help all people with their life-issues.

What help is offered? Rest from our wearisome burdens. This rest is found in the presence of our Lord. This rest is in contrast to what we are offered today by science in the way of medications that block feelings of pain. This rest, "soul rest" reaches the deepest part of our lives. God has made provision for the troubled soul. Rest is found in the nearness of God. Accept His invitation, draw near to Him and receive His provision.

Please read devotional #41 taken from Hebrews 10:22. It is such a privilege to have this gift that enables the believer to to enter the "most holy place", that was known to be the the place of God's nearness. A song comes to mind, "come into his presence singing alleluia, alleluia, alleluia". It is a place where guilt is taken away; a place of cleansing and purity. It is the Lord who enables us to approach Him. It is no wonder the face of Moses shone with H. D. (high definition). The near presence of God would surely change our countenance, our outlook of others and our view of the world.

I remember being exasperated with our children at certain times when they were young and not knowing what to do; I sent them to their rooms. After searching for help, I would then go to their room to meet with them there. There are times when it is altogether appropriate for us to "go to our room" to meet with the Holy Lord for a sprinkling of purity to face life in a dirty world. The is such hope that comes from knowing you have just been in the presence of the Almighty God.

Please join us in prayer regarding 10-10-10, praying for the unsaved across our District of Churches to know the saving grace of Jesus. If you have not turned in your slip agreeing to pray for souls, please do so by dropping them in the offering plate or leaving them at the welcome center. Thank you so much, for your prayers are making a difference.

Welcome to prayer devotional #40 with reference to Philemon 22, please read. The runaway slave Onesimus fled from pastor Philemon into the loving arms of Paul in a Roman prison, who led him to salvation. Isn't it a miraculous thing how when we flee something we would rather not face, the Lord knows right where we are and will use the circumstances to help us face our dilemma? Onesimus was a great help and encouragement to Paul. But Paul was sending Onesimus back to Philemon with a letter of newness, a man who was no longer a runaway slave but a brother yet a slave to the Lord Jesus Christ.
There are times when we see the world we live in as so vast and uncharted and perhaps we feel at times engulfed by those feelings. Yet our Lord knows the way through the sea and where He would like to take us. The Lord is so very aware of our soul and the souls of others. He is seeking to redeem the lost and He is aware of where his people are who will tell of His redeeming grace.
Pray for 10-10-10 and the souls of others here and across our District Churches.