For no one is abandoned by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion because of the greatness of his unfailing love. (NLT) -Lamentations 3:31-32 As parents, do we take enjoy punishing our children? No! But we do it because we love our children. In the same way, it is also painful when we receive punishment from the Lord. Take joy though that you have a heavenly Father who is unfailing in His love for you. Because He takes the time to punish you, He will also take the time to bless you with love. Download this app to get your daily devotions: http://bit.ly/16uZrQ5

Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. (NLT) -Mark 10:43-45 We are all leaders whether we know it or not. But the real questions is if you recognize your leadership among others and lead according to Jesus's standard. Not even Jesus abused His power to advance His efforts. So why do we? What areas of your life do you place yourself above others? Download this app to get your daily devotions: http://bit.ly/16uZrQ5

He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. -Proverbs 17:27

Faith's Checkbook: Defended and Covered Isa 31:5 - As birds flying, so will the lord of hosts defend Jerusalem. Source: Daily Faith - http://www.youdevotion.com/faith/december/18

Thus says the LORD: Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD. -Jeremiah 9:23-24

http://bible.com/1/pro.21.3.kjv To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.