NOVEMBER 28, 2014
Amani
Read: 1
Samuel 16:14-23
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of
a sound mind. —2
Timothy 1:7
Amani, which means
“peace” in Swahili, is the name of a Labrador retriever pup that has some
special friends. Amani lives with two young cheetahs at the Dallas Zoo.
Zoologists placed the animals together so the cheetahs could learn Amani’s
relaxed ways. Since dogs are generally at ease in public settings, the experts
predict that Amani will be a “calming influence” in the cheetahs’ lives as they
grow up together.
David was a soothing
influence in King Saul’s life when a “distressing spirit” troubled him (1 Sam.
16:14). When Saul’s servants learned of his problem, they thought music might
ease his affliction. One servant summoned David, who was a skilled harpist.
Whenever the king became troubled, David would play the harp. “Then Saul would
become refreshed and well” (v.23).
We crave refreshment
and well-being when we are plagued by anger, fear, or sadness. The God of the
Bible is a “God of peace” (Heb. 13:20-21), One who gives His Holy Spirit to
everyone who believes in Him. When we’re agitated or anxious, we can remember
that God’s Spirit produces power, love, and self-control (2 Tim. 1:7). God’s
influence in our lives can create a calming effect—one that leads to comfort
and wholeness.
We’re grateful,
Father, for the peace that You
offer for our hearts.
Nothing has the power
to take that away.
Thank You that Your
peace has come to
stay.
“Peace
I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to
you.” —Jesus
Source:
Our Daily Bread 2012
