A few Sundays ago we sang some hymns in church that took me back to my spiritual roots and made me appreciate the people who had written those meaningful hymns. Hardly a sermon is preached during an Amish church service without some mention of the Plain People’s forefathers who offered their lives as martyrs many years ago. I believe remembering what their ancestors went through helps to strengthen their faith.

It’s important for us to remember our religious roots and look to the past when we need a reminder of how Christianity was born. It will make us pause and be thankful for the religious freedom we enjoy in a world so torn. It’s also good to look to the future with faith and anticipation of what God is going to do. Psalm 90:1-2 (NIV) reminds us: “Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”

Is there a special hymn or verse of scripture calling you to remember your spiritual roots? It’s good to reflect on memories with deep meaning that will last. It’s even better to open your heart and let God renew your spirit as you follow Him for the rest of your days.

It seems like there are always so many things to pray about, and my list gets longer and longer. Prayer is really nothing more than making our requests known to God. It’s our duty as Christians to pray – not only for ourselves, but for others as well. I am thankful that I can pray any time of the day or night. I’m also thankful that He always hears my prayers.

I remember once when I was a child and a Sunday school teacher told the class that even though some of our prayers may not be answered in the way we would like, God answers all prayers, according to His will. Sometimes He says yes. Sometimes He says no. Sometimes we just have to wait.

In I Thessalonians 5:17 we are told to pray without ceasing. We should never quit praying, because there is power in prayer. Every time we pray, God hears. When we see Him answering prayers and meeting our needs, our faith is strengthened. Is there someone you should be praying for today? Have you thanked God in advance for answering your prayers?

I recently heard a saying that really touched my heart: “The very best we can give each other is love.” In my devotional book, “A Celebration of the Simple Life,” I mention that people who seek the good of others have an attitude that pleases God. God’s Word commands us to love one another and to love Him with our heart, soul, and mind. Can you imagine how different our world would be if everyone loved God and their fellow humans?

Some time ago I wrote a poem about love that I call, “Loving Attitude.” The first verse goes like this:
Let no bad thoughts toward anyone stay in your mind.
Observe the Golden Rule and to others be kind.
Vow to treat those you meet as you want them to treat you.
Emphasize a caring attitude in all that you do.

Is there something special you can do for someone you love today? What are some ways you can show love to others?