A couple of short thoughts:

Several weeks ago, six of us met for a few days as a reunion in Las Vegas. We enjoyed seeing some of the sights, sounds and 'bling' of the city; we saw a couple of shows and took a couple of tours. Probably the best part was just being together.

I didn't buy very many souvenirs. I already have enough stuff, but I decided the last morning to buy several small items for myself and to give to a friends. One of my purchases was a Las Vegas ball point pen. The clerk grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled a bit to make sure that it worked. Yes, it worked.

I brought it home. I don't think it worked for five minutes. Then it didn't work at all!

I thought, "This pen is a lot like Las Vegas, in general. Many things that are said and done in that popular town won't last much longer. But all of the things we think and believe about God will last forever." Praise God!

***

As we were wrapping up our worship service last Sunday,

Pastor Warren said, "If the 'evil one' is trying to remind you of your past, remember to remind 'him' of his future!"

The evil one loves to run things through our mind over and over again. Somethings we have said, done, didn't do, or thought. If we have come as a little child to Christ, we are told 'in Christ, I am free forever from condemnation' (Romans 8:1-2). Think on that!

And the devil's future, 'he will be throne into the Lake of Fire' (Revelation 20:14). Don't hesitate to remind him.

**

Praying for our election from Focus on the Family's '31 Days of Prayer'.

Prayer for Thursday:

Day 2: Pray for healthy marriages.

"Heavenly Father,

I'm grateful for Your plan for marriage as the foundation for a thriving family. Will You restore love and commitment to couples who struggle today? Give them hope, peace, and real help. Protect and bless the institution of marriage. In Jesus' name. Amen."

*****