Daily Devotional reflections

As we journey through these uncertain times, each day Sean will seek to post a thought or reflection, a Bible verse or a prayer

Friday 29th May 2020

The impact of the Bible – Part 2

 

It is hard to overstate the significance of the Bible on the UK, especially Scotland. There are numerous articles that speak of how the King James Bible, published in 1611, shaped our life and culture, even if we are now ignorant of these connections. These include, legal equality, political responsibility, due process, democracy, toleration, equality and meaningful national identity. There is more. The Bible is the main source of inspiration for some of Britain's greatest works of literature. Frequently biblical teachings are the sub text of Shakespeare's plays, and an influence in the writings of Robbie Burns, not to mention great works of music.

'There is also a solid argument to be made how the Scottish Reformation of 1560 gave rise to the Scottish Enlightenment. There is more, including social reform, the abolition of the slave trade and the formation of the Trades Union movement. One writer concludes: ‘In short the social institutions and safeguards, as well as many of the benefits people take for granted, were supported by the understanding of human life which was found within the Bible. In this sense, the foundations of Britain's culture and society can truly be said to be biblical.’

A few more Biblical phrases that have become weaved into everyday language:

Forbidden Fruit from Genesis 3:3 when Adam and Eve were commanded not to eat from the tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil.  “But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.”
Go the extra mile from Matthew 5:41 that says, “And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain” (KJV).
Good Samaritan from Luke 10:30-37, the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
He who lives by the sword, dies by the sword from Matthew 26:52, “Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword.”
How the Mighty have Fallen from 2 Samuel 1:19, “The beauty of Israel is slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!”
Let there Be Light from Genesis 1’s creation account.
The Love of Money is the Root of All Evil from 1 Timothy 6:10 and is actually usually misquoted.  Here is the ESV translation, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.”

BIBLE READING

2 Timothy 3:16-17

16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Matthew 24: 35

35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

REFLECT

We can speak about the Bible as a historical object, but it is so much more. The apostle Paul describes scripture as God-breathed (or inspired). It has been gifted to us for informing, shaping and renewing of our faith, so that we encounter the fullness of God’s love and know His salvation.
Almost every home has a Bible. Is your Bible gathering dust on the shelf or is it within close reach? Is your Bible in pristine condition or does it show signs of wear and tear?
(Note from Sean: If you don’t have a Bible and need one don’t hesitate to contact me!)

PRAYERS

Keep us, good Lord,
under the shadow of your mercy
in this time of uncertainty and distress.
Sustain and support the anxious and fearful,
and lift up all who are brought low;
that we may rejoice in your comfort
knowing that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Amen.

Let us pray to God,
who alone makes us dwell in safety:
For all who are affected by coronavirus,
through illness or isolation or anxiety,
that they may find relief and recovery:
Lord, hear us,

For those who are guiding our nation at this time,
and shaping national policies,
that they may make wise decisions:
Lord, hear us,

For doctors, nurses and medical researchers,
that through their skill and insights
many will be restored to health:
Lord, hear us,.
For the vulnerable and the fearful,
for the gravely ill and the dying,
that they may know your comfort and peace:
Lord, hear us,

We commend ourselves, and all for whom we pray,
to the mercy and protection of God.
Merciful Father,
accept these prayers
for the sake of your Son,
our Saviour Jesus Christ.
Amen.

A prayer at bedtime

Before the ending of the day,
Creator of the world, we pray
That you, with steadfast love, would keep
Your watch around us while we sleep.
Tonight we pray especially for (names family or friends who are affected by Coronavirus) and the people of (country or place which is affected by Coronavirus).
Please give skill and wisdom to all who are caring for them.
Amen.

A prayer remembering God is with us

Lord God, you are always with me.
You are with me in the day and in the night.
You are with me when I’m happy and when I’m sad.
You are with me when I’m healthy and when I am ill.
You are with me when I am peaceful and when I am worried.
Today I am feeling (name how you are feeling) because (reasons you are feeling this way).
Help me to remember that you love me and are with me in everything today.
Amen.

Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come.
You will be done on earth
as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins,
as we forgive those who sin against us.
Save us from the time of trial
and deliver us from evil.
The kingdom, the power and the glory are yours,
now and forever
Amen

BLESSING

Go now, and love one another,
because love is from God.
Proclaim God’s salvation to every generation.
Remain in Jesus Christ,
and like branches of a vine, draw your life from him.

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