DEVOTION ~The Good Tutor ~ by Pam Ford Davis

I relied on the aid of a tutor when cramming for my GED examinations. It was workable, yet, a humbling arrangement. I was currently teaching the young man’s college & career Sunday school class, when we had our temporary role reversals. He became algebra teacher and I, his inadequate student. With gratitude, I listened, learned and passed necessary exams.

Earlier, I learned under the tutorage of my dad. Before beginning kindergarten, he taught me his bunny ears method of tying my shoes. I vividly recall his teaching me the art of balancing my weight on a 24-inch bike. He held the back of my bicycle seat, running behind until he sensed I could solo. The Lord’s law serves as tutor.

“But before faith came, we were kept under guard by the law, kept for the faith which would afterward be revealed. Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor. For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:23-26 NKJ).
A good tutor hopes to work him or herself out of their job. My algebra instructor did not sign a lifetime contract; his goal was clear. He intended to teach the basics of algebra, expecting me to study until gaining confidence needed, to pass upcoming tests. In regards to my Dad’s shoe tying and bike lessons, he patiently taught until I could do the tying or riding unassisted.

The Lord Jesus is patient and kind, knowing I can never make it through life alone. Without direct contact to him, I fail miserably. “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; form without Me you can do nothing" (John 15:5 NKJ). 

Did you catch that? I can do nothing (of eternal value) without Christ.

 

Pam Ford Davis was born and raised in Central NY State. She is a wife, mother and grandmother, currently living on a gourd farm in rural community of Epps, Home of historical Poverty Point Indian Mounds. With a twenty-year career in both radio and television, she has interest in music and media. She also collects teapots and old hymnals.

Pam is a freelance writer of both fiction and non-fiction, with devotional writing her first love. She has had articles published in Mature Living Magazine, Devotions for the Deaf, The Secret Place, Light from the Word, Coosa Journal and more. 

http://teapottestimony.vpweb.com
http://pamforddavis.wordpress.com/

DEVOTION: As Sounding Brass by Pam Ford Davis

I straighten my tie; readjust my over-ear connection to the microphone and step up to the podium. Facing my affluent congregation, I smile.

“Good morning. Thank you for choosing Trinity as your place of worship. Visitors, please fill out a guest card located in the hymnal rack in front of you.” (Pause)

“Note all pertinent information in your bulletins and scrolling upon the overhead screens.” I move back to my plush altar seat and pick up my leather bound hymnal. The 30-ish music director is the picture of success in his $300 suit. He saunters up to the platform to lead the downtown congregation in song.

“Please stand and join me in the singing of verses one, two and four of “Amazing Grace,” page 177 in your pew hymnals and currently showing on the screens.” I begin singing the familiar lyrics of John Newton. Yes, grace is amazing.

At the close of verse four, the congregation returns to padded pews. Standing, I invite ushers to come forward to receive the morning offering. The head usher leads in a solemn prayer before our organist encourages us with her rendition of “Count Your Blessings.” Stately men with hankies neatly tucked in suit coat pockets pass offering plates down pews.

In step, they then carry them forward. As sounding brass, offering plates come to rest upon the Lord’s Supper table. I raise my hands.

“Let us pray. Father, I sense the presence of your Holy Spirit in the countenance of your people, and through their voices united in praise. I ask for a special anointing upon me-your messenger. Lord, forgive us where we have failed you and guide in the remainder of this service. In the name of your Son Jesus, we pray. Amen.”

I flash a smile as my flock re-directs their attention from prayer to worship.

“We are in for a real treat this morning! The mother and daughters, Griffin Trio, are going to bless us with a medley of Gaither songs. Let’s give them a warm Trinity welcome!” 

The sound of applause resonates from the cathedral ceiling as the trio opens with “He Touched Me.” As the vocalists leave the stage to find their seats, I walk forward to the pulpit, open my King James Bible and shoot up a silent prayer.

“This morning’s text is in the Gospel of Luke Chapter 10, verses 25-37. Please rise for the reading of God’s word.” The flipping of Bible pages is music to my ears. At the conclusion of the scripture passage the crowd of three hundred sits down and I begin my exhortation.

“For those of you who take notes, an outline for today’s sermon is on the back of your bulletin. Power Points are on the screens as well. I have titled today’s message “Neighbor in Need.”

1. Neighbor Identified

2. Neighbor Hurting

3. Neighbor Tended

I proceed to share Jesus’ story of the Good Samaritan. I perceive reactions from alert-involved to half asleep-tuned out. Those who are involved follow the text in their Bibles, nod in agreement and Amen in affirmation.

Have I put across my three points?

I glance down at my Rolex, noting it is time for my summation. The instrumentalists make their way to the baby grand and organ.

Will people respond?

“Unless we apply what we have learned, we are hearers only. Will you help a stranger?” People reverently nod in the affirmative.

“On that note, a transient was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident. It occurred in front of our church early this morning.” Hearing of the tragedy, worshipers come to attention. I proceed.

“The comatose young man entered our country illegally.” People begin to squirm in their seats.

“How many of you can meet with me at St. Luke’s ICU at 12:30?”

Pam Ford Davis was born and raised in Central NY State. She is a wife, mother and grandmother, currently living on a gourd farm in rural community of Epps, Home of historical Poverty Point Indian Mounds. With a twenty-year career in both radio and television, she has interest in music and media. She also collects teapots and old hymnals.

Pam is a freelance writer of both fiction and non-fiction, with devotional writing her first love. She has had articles published in Mature Living Magazine, Devotions for the Deaf, The Secret Place, Light from the Word, Coosa Journal and more. 

http://teapottestimony.vpweb.com
http://pamforddavis.wordpress.com/

DEVOTION: A Captive Audience by Shirley Corder and Pam Ford Davis

From Shirley: Following the launch of my book, Strength Renewed, Meditations for Your Journey through Breast Cancer, I suddenly had 11 speaking engagements within a few weeks. 

I am used to speaking in church situations, where everyone sits in straight rows facing front, and there are few distractions. This was a whole new concept for me. 

I spoke at ladies' weight loss centres and a men's breakfast. I spoke on the radio, where the DJ changed the thrust of the talk as I walked into the studio. A few days later I spoke at a ladies' group where the president got up to introduce me and told the audience what I'd be talking about. Hmm. Interesting. It was the topic I'd expected to speak about on the radio, but not what I'd been asked to address this group about. 

I spoke to biggish groups, and I spoke to small groups. I spoke where there was a lectern and a power point projector, and I spoke where there was no official place to stand, and if I'd taken two steps in any direction I'd have fallen off the platform. 

All in all, I became more and more flexible as the days went by. I leaned to ignore ringing cellphones, but I admit I did get thrown when two people had a loud conversation in the doorway, completely distracting the audience. When I said to my husband later that I'd lost track of my point, he look astonished. "I didn't notice," he said. I have a feeling no one did. They were all distracted by the same conversation. 

When I read this message by Pam Ford Davis, I could truly identify with what she has to say. So now, over to Pam!

From Pam:  When speaking, we appreciate the undivided attention of others. To be realistic, that seldom happens. Background sounds and innumerable distractions divert the listener’s attention. Any pastor or public speaker is well aware of the problem. His or her goal is to keep listeners focused, holding them captive by their compelling message.

The expression "having a captive audience" is descriptive of having the undivided attention of an individual or a group. At least for a while, you speak and they must listen. 

The Bible has a story with a prison as the location for the drama. "But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them (Acts 16:25 NKJ)."

During this season, many churches host community sings and hold watch night services. None could compare with this jail scene. Paul and Silas, in captivity, could have moaned and groaned; instead, they chose to sing, praise, and worship God. Praying and singing got the attention of others in similar straits. If we do the unexpected, in times of trouble, we may discover we too have "a captive audience!"

Pam Ford Davis is a freelance writer with a focus on devotionals. She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place, Daily Devotionals for the Deaf, and Light from the Word Daily Devotional.

Available now in book store: FORGET-ME-NOT DAILY DEVOTIONAL 

DEVOTION: My White Christmas by Pam Ford Davis

My White Christmas 

By Pam Ford Davis

I snuggled under my electric blanket last night and viewed a Christmas classic. "Bing Crosby's White Christmas" was the perfect choice; my husband joined me and the sights and sounds of Christmas were as fresh as new fallen snow on a Central New York Christmas Eve.

 As a young girl living in the rural area outside of Syracuse, I had the joy and excitement of many white Christmas.' I will be the first to admit snow is not always joy to residents in that area. Early morning risers must shovel or plow snow covered roads, sidewalks and driveways.

 Highways and Interstates become danger zones; travelers are involved in vehicle accidents and easily become stranded in sub-zero temperatures in the midst of towering snowdrifts. Dazzling white snow becomes brown slush and New Yorkers fantasize a Florida winter home.

 A pure heart is no fantasy "Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me and I will be whiter than snow (Psalm 51:7 NIV)." I remember very clearly babie's first Christmas; I was born again in the autumn of 1967. The Lord gave the gift of a clean heart and my white Christmas!

With God all things are possible!

Pam Ford Davis is a freelance writer with a focus on devotionals. She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place, Daily Devotionals for the Deaf, Light from the Word Daily Devotional. Available now in book store:FORGET-ME-NOT DAILY DEVOTIONAL http:/ebooks.faithwriters.com/ebook-details.php?id=520
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITER-MAKE A WEBSITE

DEVOTION: Distinctive Brand by Pam Ford Davis

Distinctive Brand

By Pam Ford Davis

Cattle ranchers have their own distinctive brands burned into the hides of their herds. Ownership is indisputable; branded cattle bearing their mark become personal property. This implies the owners not only have an investment in their herd but also the responsibility to meet the needs of nourishment and protection of the steer. There is a sense of integrity behind each burned in brand. 

The redeemer God has branded me with Calvary's cross. I belong to Him and He is a good provider. Do casual observers recognize His brand upon my life? Am I wearing it with a sense of humility? He chose me. May I say with Paul, "From now on let no one cause trouble for me, for I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus."

With God all things are possible! 

Pam Ford Davis is a freelance writer with a focus on devotions. She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place, Daily Devotionals for the Deaf, Light from the Word Daily Devotional. Available now in book store: FORGET-ME-NOT DAILY DEVOTIONAL http:/ebooks.faithwriters.com/ebook-details.php?id=520
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITER-MAKE A WEBSITE

DEVOTION: Crick in My Neck by Pam Ford Davis

Crick in My Neck

By Pam Ford Davis

I crane my neck peering up at the skyscraper. The sun makes me squint yet I cannot take my eyes off twisted steel and glass shimmering in the Windy City skyline. The genius of big city architects more than impresses this country girl. I'm amazed!

 I try to ignore the crick in my neck as I gaze at Colorado's Pikes Peak. This moment will never come again. Snow capped areas blend with evergreen trees further down the mountain creating a greeting card ambiance tucked inside my box of treasured memories.

 A far greater treasure is out of sight but not out of mind. I keep looking up... "You are great and powerful, glorious, splendid, and majestic. Everything in heaven and earth is yours, and you are king, supreme ruler over all (1 Chronicles 29:11 TEV)." God is over all!

With God all things are possible!

Pam Ford Davis is a freelance writer with a focus on devotions. She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place, Daily Devotionals for the Deaf, Light from the Word Daily Devotional. Available now in book store: FORGET-ME-NOT DAILY DEVOTIONAL 
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITER-MAKE A WEBSITE

DEVOTION: Published! - Pam Ford Davis

It is thrilling to see my work published. I am motivated to continue sharpening my skills. The rewards are not only financial; it is nice to earn some extra money, but the fulfilment of my dream means so much more. Achievements may be small; I am not a well-known author, just a happy one.

 Christian writers have both a great opportunity and responsibility. "Sing a new song to the Lord! Sing it everywhere around the world! Sing out his praises! Bless his name. Each day tell someone that he saves. Publish his glorious acts throughout the earth. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does" (Psalms 96:1-3 The Book/ Living Bible). That is a big goal; each writer plays a small part to spread the good news.

With God all things are possible! Devotionals are Pam Ford Davis's first love in writing! She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place and Daily Devotionals for the Deaf. Her e-book, FORGET-ME-NOT DAILY DEVOTIONAL is available at the Faith Writers book store.

Read more of her work at her websites and blogs:

http://pamforddavis.wordpress.com/about/

http://innerfulfillment.wordpress.com/ and

http://www.teapottestimony.vpweb.com

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com

DEVOTION: Climax and Closure - Pam Ford Davis

 

Drama unfolds before us. Our attention is on the written page; line by line, actors draw us into the story. If we attend a play, our attention turns to center stage where writer's dialog builds a solid presentation act by act. Moviegoers view scene by scene upon the silver screen. Each new vivid sentence or dynamic portrayal by actors moves us, readers or audience, one-step closer to the finale. The story flows, ever building to climax and closure.

Writers prick our inquisitive minds, challenging us with twists and turns in the drama, keeping us eager to learn how the story ends. We expect murder mysteries and action thrillers to surprise and satisfy the Sherlock Holmes or James Bond lurking within; yet many comedies and musicals also catch us off guard, leaving us to shake our heads and mumble, "I never guessed it would end like that!"

The gospel story continues to unfold before gazing eyes. Scriptures give avid readers many clues as to the outcome. The beginning dialog hooked us with "Let there be light!" (Genesis 1:3a TEV) Half way through Bible pages, we met the Great Shepherd in Psalm 23. Intermission temporarily closed the curtains with "May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with everyone." (Revelation 22:21 TEV) We can only imagine God's full power displayed in the final scene. "And this Good News about the kingdom will be preached through the world for a witness to all mankind; and then the end will come" (Matthew 24:14 TEV). Encore, Encore!

With God all things are possible!

Pam Ford Davis's first love in writing is devotional writing. She has published articles in Mature Living Magazine, Secret Place and Daily Devotionals for the Deaf. Available now in Faith Writers Book Store: Forget-Me-Not Daily Devotional

Read more of her work at her websites and blogs:
http://pamforddavis.wordpress.com/about/
http://innerfulfillment.wordpress.com/ and
http://www.teapottestimony.vpweb.com/

Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com/