SATURDAY, APRIL 3
Scripture
Psalm 88
Devotion
There are times in life when a person must cry out to God. Things just have to change – and right now would be good.
I don’t remember when I was a baby and cried every time I needed Mom (that’s who always seemed to respond) for something. A baby gets hungry. Diapers must be changed. Rattles become lost. Blankets get in the way. I don’t remember any of that but I do remember our own children at that age, and I imagine I was no different.
Truth be known, things can be pretty much the same even after we become adults. We need someone beyond ourselves to make things right. Especially in “the night,” when things are darkest, we “cry out” as if our life is over (holding our breath) for God to do something to change things - to make things right.
There are times when it is not ‘the end of the world’ for our little one in the crib, times when a child learns darkness is something not to fear, and times a parent doesn’t need to ‘change things’ right now.
Prayer
Lord of Light, I turn to you in my darkness. Lift me when I am down, strengthen me when I am weak. Help me to know your loving presence always. Amen.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Day 39
FRIDAY, APRIL 2
Scripture
Psalm 22
Devotion
Jesus is suffering on the cross. He is crying to God for help to rescue him as he hangs there. Everyone who sees him mocks him and is saying, “Is this the one who claims the Lord delights in him? We’ll believe it when we see God rescue him.” Jesus continues to suffer saying, “This gang of evil men circles me like a pack of dogs, they have pierced my hands and feet. I can count every bone in my body, they divide my clothes among themselves.”
Jesus begs the Lord to save him from his suffering. He promises to the Lord he will testify of the wonderful things you have done. “I will stand and praise you before all people. Generations yet unborn shall hear of all the miracles you have done for us.”
Jesus died a cruel death on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. His blood washes away our sins.
Prayer
Steadfast Lord, we are grateful for the love that you pour out to all throughout time, even when we don’t deserve it. Because of your love and actions, we can be reconciled to the Father. Help us to see your sacrifice and tell others about your abundant love. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 22
Devotion
Jesus is suffering on the cross. He is crying to God for help to rescue him as he hangs there. Everyone who sees him mocks him and is saying, “Is this the one who claims the Lord delights in him? We’ll believe it when we see God rescue him.” Jesus continues to suffer saying, “This gang of evil men circles me like a pack of dogs, they have pierced my hands and feet. I can count every bone in my body, they divide my clothes among themselves.”
Jesus begs the Lord to save him from his suffering. He promises to the Lord he will testify of the wonderful things you have done. “I will stand and praise you before all people. Generations yet unborn shall hear of all the miracles you have done for us.”
Jesus died a cruel death on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. His blood washes away our sins.
Prayer
Steadfast Lord, we are grateful for the love that you pour out to all throughout time, even when we don’t deserve it. Because of your love and actions, we can be reconciled to the Father. Help us to see your sacrifice and tell others about your abundant love. Amen.
Day 38
THURSDAY, APRIL 1
Scripture
Psalm 142
Devotion
In this verse, David cries out to god for help. He says "I cry aloud to the Lord, …before him I tell my trouble." We usually blame our Lord for all of the problems in our life. We often ask him "Why Lord have you let this happen to me?" or "What have I done to deserve this?" When really what we should be doing is asking for his mercy and asking him to help us through any times of trouble.
He also cries out saying, "O Lord, you are my refuge..." In this he points out that God is not our excuse for problems but our shield from evil and our stone on which we build our faith. David turns to the lord to clear his path from the snares that men have set before him. This is what we need to do when we are in times of trouble. Ask the Lord to clear our paths or to free us from any snares that we have already been entangled in.
He finishes with saying "Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me." This greatly sums up how if we praise him with all of our heart, we will have great reward, being his eternal love.
Prayer
Lord, help me when I need help. I turn to you because of your great love for us all. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 142
Devotion
In this verse, David cries out to god for help. He says "I cry aloud to the Lord, …before him I tell my trouble." We usually blame our Lord for all of the problems in our life. We often ask him "Why Lord have you let this happen to me?" or "What have I done to deserve this?" When really what we should be doing is asking for his mercy and asking him to help us through any times of trouble.
He also cries out saying, "O Lord, you are my refuge..." In this he points out that God is not our excuse for problems but our shield from evil and our stone on which we build our faith. David turns to the lord to clear his path from the snares that men have set before him. This is what we need to do when we are in times of trouble. Ask the Lord to clear our paths or to free us from any snares that we have already been entangled in.
He finishes with saying "Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me." This greatly sums up how if we praise him with all of our heart, we will have great reward, being his eternal love.
Prayer
Lord, help me when I need help. I turn to you because of your great love for us all. Amen.
Day 37
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 31
Scripture
Psalm 70
Devotion
This psalm is a cry for help. The psalmist sees the wrong that people are doing and what they have become. The psalmist claims there are no godly people! Check out the list … everyone lies, the weak are oppressed, the needy are groaning and people are being maligned. If that’s not enough, the wicked freely strut about because the vile is honored. Yet there is one verse that shows us a glimpse of hope. Verse 7 ‘O Lord, you will keep us safe and protect us from such people forever’. There’s hope and comfort in that one verse.
Prayer
Protect us God. Shield us from the destructive people and keep us safe. Amen
Scripture
Psalm 70
Devotion
This psalm is a cry for help. The psalmist sees the wrong that people are doing and what they have become. The psalmist claims there are no godly people! Check out the list … everyone lies, the weak are oppressed, the needy are groaning and people are being maligned. If that’s not enough, the wicked freely strut about because the vile is honored. Yet there is one verse that shows us a glimpse of hope. Verse 7 ‘O Lord, you will keep us safe and protect us from such people forever’. There’s hope and comfort in that one verse.
Prayer
Protect us God. Shield us from the destructive people and keep us safe. Amen
Day 36
TUESDAY, MARCH 30
Scripture
Psalm 12
Devotion
Do you hear the urgency in this cry for help? The psalmist is truly pleading for his life. Then there’s a shift and the focus is on praising God. It’s a genuine acknowledgment of God and God’s ability to offer salvation. And then, the focus shifts to self again and more pleading. The urgency is back as well. Oh, too often we follow this pattern. We need help, then we get a grip on the situation and maybe acknowledge God’s part. And in no time at all, we’re back to whining and being needy. If we just focus on God, it will all be good!
Prayer
Mighty God, our focus should be on you. Put blinders on our eyes so that we might not look to the left or right, but see only your glory! We will exalt your name above all others. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 12
Devotion
Do you hear the urgency in this cry for help? The psalmist is truly pleading for his life. Then there’s a shift and the focus is on praising God. It’s a genuine acknowledgment of God and God’s ability to offer salvation. And then, the focus shifts to self again and more pleading. The urgency is back as well. Oh, too often we follow this pattern. We need help, then we get a grip on the situation and maybe acknowledge God’s part. And in no time at all, we’re back to whining and being needy. If we just focus on God, it will all be good!
Prayer
Mighty God, our focus should be on you. Put blinders on our eyes so that we might not look to the left or right, but see only your glory! We will exalt your name above all others. Amen.
Day 35
MONDAY, MARCH 29
Scripture
Psalm 53
Devotion
It’s foolish to think there is no God. You do dumb things when you think that. Nothing good comes from it. There is definitely no future in thinking there is no God.
The wise seek God. They want to know God better. They will be rescued and renewed. God’s people will be happy when they realize what God will do because they believe.
Prayer
God of the wise, help me to believe in you. Help me to be wise. I rejoice in what is possible in you. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 53
Devotion
It’s foolish to think there is no God. You do dumb things when you think that. Nothing good comes from it. There is definitely no future in thinking there is no God.
The wise seek God. They want to know God better. They will be rescued and renewed. God’s people will be happy when they realize what God will do because they believe.
Prayer
God of the wise, help me to believe in you. Help me to be wise. I rejoice in what is possible in you. Amen.
6th Sunday
SUNDAY, MARCH 28
Scripture
Psalm 24
Devotion
God owns everything because He created everything.
Who may ascend the hill to the Lord? The person who has a pure, sincere heart, who does not lie, nor idolize/worship vain things on earth, such as riches, pleasures, honors. Those who earnestly seek to know and obey Him, seeking His grace and favor. Such a person will receive God's friendship and blessings.
Open your heart that the Holy Spirit may come in.
Who is God? He is our Lord Almighty, our Creator, The King of Glory!
Prayer
Creator God, all is yours. We seek your favor. Help us to find you ever present in our lives. Make our hearts yours, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 24
Devotion
God owns everything because He created everything.
Who may ascend the hill to the Lord? The person who has a pure, sincere heart, who does not lie, nor idolize/worship vain things on earth, such as riches, pleasures, honors. Those who earnestly seek to know and obey Him, seeking His grace and favor. Such a person will receive God's friendship and blessings.
Open your heart that the Holy Spirit may come in.
Who is God? He is our Lord Almighty, our Creator, The King of Glory!
Prayer
Creator God, all is yours. We seek your favor. Help us to find you ever present in our lives. Make our hearts yours, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Day 34
SATURDAY, MARCH 27
Scripture
Psalm 43
Devotion
David could have written this last week instead of thousands of years ago. We have heard the cries we are becoming an ungodly nation. We have seen the global results of deceitful men. In this time of despair and depression we must not become discouraged but look to God for guidance.
Let us never think that the God of our life, and the rock of our salvation, has forgotten us. Trust in the Lord and sing his praises!
Prayer
Great and Glorious God, you are steadfast in our wavering, a light in our ever darkening world. We look to you for direction. Lead us to safety. Help us to trust in you and to know you are with us always. Amen
Scripture
Psalm 43
Devotion
David could have written this last week instead of thousands of years ago. We have heard the cries we are becoming an ungodly nation. We have seen the global results of deceitful men. In this time of despair and depression we must not become discouraged but look to God for guidance.
Let us never think that the God of our life, and the rock of our salvation, has forgotten us. Trust in the Lord and sing his praises!
Prayer
Great and Glorious God, you are steadfast in our wavering, a light in our ever darkening world. We look to you for direction. Lead us to safety. Help us to trust in you and to know you are with us always. Amen
Day 33
FRIDAY, MARCH 26
Scripture
Psalm 141
Devotion
A Psalm of David:
Prayer is a spiritual sacrifice, it is offering up the soul and its best affections. Good men know the evil of tongue sins, and that is why we are asking God to keep our lips sealed. When we are provoked by those who do not believe as we do, we must be careful not to speak evil things about them.
We are living in an evil world and at times we have evil hearts. We need to pray that we are not drawn or driven to anything sinful. Sometimes we seem to find great things in sin but then must consider how soon it can turn into something that is quite bitter. We must pray to God to take these sins out of our sight, and ask Him to turn our hearts against them.
Remember that we must pray against any sins.
Prayer
Sovereign Lord, we come to you with hearts that ache with the sins that we have done. We ask for your forgiveness. Cleanse our hearts and make us new again. Hold our tongue and guide our thoughts so that we can be acceptable in your sight. Remind us to focus on you and you alone. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 141
Devotion
A Psalm of David:
Prayer is a spiritual sacrifice, it is offering up the soul and its best affections. Good men know the evil of tongue sins, and that is why we are asking God to keep our lips sealed. When we are provoked by those who do not believe as we do, we must be careful not to speak evil things about them.
We are living in an evil world and at times we have evil hearts. We need to pray that we are not drawn or driven to anything sinful. Sometimes we seem to find great things in sin but then must consider how soon it can turn into something that is quite bitter. We must pray to God to take these sins out of our sight, and ask Him to turn our hearts against them.
Remember that we must pray against any sins.
Prayer
Sovereign Lord, we come to you with hearts that ache with the sins that we have done. We ask for your forgiveness. Cleanse our hearts and make us new again. Hold our tongue and guide our thoughts so that we can be acceptable in your sight. Remind us to focus on you and you alone. Amen.
Day 32
THURSDAY, MARCH 25
Scripture
Psalm 140
Devotion
What strong requests are made in this Psalm! It is meant to show us that we can ask God for help in every situation.
We may never ask that people who cause us pain be destroyed, but it is good to know that protection from every evil is there for the asking.
God is faithful and just and will provide for us, whatever our need. In return we should praise Him for His goodness and mercy. Thanks be to God!!
Prayer
Lord, we are grateful for your mercies. Help us to remember that it is you who takes us through every day and you that helps us to deal with every person we encounter. We thank you now in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 140
Devotion
What strong requests are made in this Psalm! It is meant to show us that we can ask God for help in every situation.
We may never ask that people who cause us pain be destroyed, but it is good to know that protection from every evil is there for the asking.
God is faithful and just and will provide for us, whatever our need. In return we should praise Him for His goodness and mercy. Thanks be to God!!
Prayer
Lord, we are grateful for your mercies. Help us to remember that it is you who takes us through every day and you that helps us to deal with every person we encounter. We thank you now in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Day 31
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24
Scripture
Psalm 128
Devotion
The Psalmist has reminded us of the blessings that await each of those who trust God and obey His will. Our jobs will result in profit; our families will grow and be a great comfort to us. We will be fortunate to live within the company of our children and grandchildren. We will see God’s people in their rightful places.
What a comfort is found in the words of this Psalm. If we will be faithful, God will bless us, and our families.
Thank you God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to be strong in our faith, to serve you only, and to be grateful for the blessings you send. We pray in Jesus’ precious name. Amen
Scripture
Psalm 128
Devotion
The Psalmist has reminded us of the blessings that await each of those who trust God and obey His will. Our jobs will result in profit; our families will grow and be a great comfort to us. We will be fortunate to live within the company of our children and grandchildren. We will see God’s people in their rightful places.
What a comfort is found in the words of this Psalm. If we will be faithful, God will bless us, and our families.
Thank you God!
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to be strong in our faith, to serve you only, and to be grateful for the blessings you send. We pray in Jesus’ precious name. Amen
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 30
TUESDAY, MARCH 23
Scripture
Psalm 125
Devotion
“Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts.”
The Lord wants us to do good and trust in him. He will reward those who are good and protect us from those who have not seen his goodness.
He wants all to be trusting and good to others, but if we choose not to, he still has a plan for us… but it won’t include spending eternity with him.
“But to those who turn aside to their own crooked ways, the Lord will lead away with evildoers.”
Prayer
Merciful God, help us to be the people you have created us to be. When we do wrong, forgive us. Help us to resist those who would lead us astray. Make our faith strong so we might always trust you. We pray this in Jesus name. Amen
Scripture
Psalm 125
Devotion
“Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts.”
The Lord wants us to do good and trust in him. He will reward those who are good and protect us from those who have not seen his goodness.
He wants all to be trusting and good to others, but if we choose not to, he still has a plan for us… but it won’t include spending eternity with him.
“But to those who turn aside to their own crooked ways, the Lord will lead away with evildoers.”
Prayer
Merciful God, help us to be the people you have created us to be. When we do wrong, forgive us. Help us to resist those who would lead us astray. Make our faith strong so we might always trust you. We pray this in Jesus name. Amen
Day 29
MONDAY, MARCH 22
Scripture
Psalm 35
Devotion
This Psalm shows David as a vulnerable human just like us.
People are doing and saying things about and to him that he doesn’t deserve and it hurts. How many times have we felt the same way? But instead of retaliating against these people himself he is asking God to take care of the situation for him.
Through faith, David knew that God would take care of everything for him, in His own time.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when things are rough, give us the patience to wait on You. Help us to remember that all things work for good for those who trust in the Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 35
Devotion
This Psalm shows David as a vulnerable human just like us.
People are doing and saying things about and to him that he doesn’t deserve and it hurts. How many times have we felt the same way? But instead of retaliating against these people himself he is asking God to take care of the situation for him.
Through faith, David knew that God would take care of everything for him, in His own time.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, when things are rough, give us the patience to wait on You. Help us to remember that all things work for good for those who trust in the Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
5th Sunday
SUNDAY, MARCH 21
Scripture
Psalm 145
Devotion
Verse 3 begins, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised.” We come to church every week to praise God, yet the psalmist writes the Lord is to be “greatly” praised – even beyond our weekly worship service.
Our praise, the psalmist says, includes telling others – children, young adults, empty nesters, and older persons – about God’s love and mercy and grace for all. Our lifting God up, by our words and most importantly by our deeds extends far beyond the sanctuary on Sunday morning. It is to be part of our living.
Our living is to bless God, who is always here for us, in all we do – “forever and ever.”
Prayer
Lord of Us All. We sing your praises. Watch over us. Bring us ever closer to you that we might always glorify your name. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 145
Devotion
Verse 3 begins, “Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised.” We come to church every week to praise God, yet the psalmist writes the Lord is to be “greatly” praised – even beyond our weekly worship service.
Our praise, the psalmist says, includes telling others – children, young adults, empty nesters, and older persons – about God’s love and mercy and grace for all. Our lifting God up, by our words and most importantly by our deeds extends far beyond the sanctuary on Sunday morning. It is to be part of our living.
Our living is to bless God, who is always here for us, in all we do – “forever and ever.”
Prayer
Lord of Us All. We sing your praises. Watch over us. Bring us ever closer to you that we might always glorify your name. Amen.
Day 28
SATURDAY, MARCH 20
Scripture
Psalm 33
Devotion
When reading this Psalm, I am led to sing a joyful song unto the Lord that is filled with love and praise for his wonderful works.
In the beginning it was God. We were (are) unwilling to obey because of our own free will so God sent his son to show us how to live a life of love and grace. The Lord loves, gives, teaches, inspires, gathers, speaks, heals, commands, foils, thwarts, admonishes; he sees and knows everything about us.
These words tell us he will lead us through all kinds of situations, good and not-so-good. In turn we must listen, wait and hope, and understand we are not saved by our own actions and works but by allowing Jesus the Christ to be our Lord and Savior.
Prayer
We wait in hope for you Lord. You are our help and our shield. In you our hearts rejoice, we trust in your holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us! Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 33
Devotion
When reading this Psalm, I am led to sing a joyful song unto the Lord that is filled with love and praise for his wonderful works.
In the beginning it was God. We were (are) unwilling to obey because of our own free will so God sent his son to show us how to live a life of love and grace. The Lord loves, gives, teaches, inspires, gathers, speaks, heals, commands, foils, thwarts, admonishes; he sees and knows everything about us.
These words tell us he will lead us through all kinds of situations, good and not-so-good. In turn we must listen, wait and hope, and understand we are not saved by our own actions and works but by allowing Jesus the Christ to be our Lord and Savior.
Prayer
We wait in hope for you Lord. You are our help and our shield. In you our hearts rejoice, we trust in your holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us! Amen.
Day 27
FRIDAY, MARCH 19
Scripture
Psalm 107: 33-43
Devotion
I remember a few years ago when it seemed that just about everybody was wearing a bracelet or necklace that had beads W.W.J.D. on it. Was it hip and the latest fad? Did the color of the beads match our clothes to make a fashion statement? When something or someone confronted us did it make us feel secure? Did we wear the jewelry to make us feel we were better than others? When temptations arose did we look at the bracelet and ask, “What WOULD Jesus Do.” Have we ever experienced something, good or bad, and wondered why me?
We know God has power, love and forgiveness and we know we have the free will to accept his precious gifts.
With thanksgiving and praise I’m adding some letters in my heart, W.J.D.T.
Yes God you are sufficient. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 107: 33-43
Devotion
I remember a few years ago when it seemed that just about everybody was wearing a bracelet or necklace that had beads W.W.J.D. on it. Was it hip and the latest fad? Did the color of the beads match our clothes to make a fashion statement? When something or someone confronted us did it make us feel secure? Did we wear the jewelry to make us feel we were better than others? When temptations arose did we look at the bracelet and ask, “What WOULD Jesus Do.” Have we ever experienced something, good or bad, and wondered why me?
We know God has power, love and forgiveness and we know we have the free will to accept his precious gifts.
With thanksgiving and praise I’m adding some letters in my heart, W.J.D.T.
Yes God you are sufficient. Amen.
Day 26
THURSDAY, MARCH 18
Scripture
Psalm 69
Devotion
This Psalm is filled with every emotion imaginable; Accusations, Acknowledgement, Admissions, Begging, Blaming, Demanding, Denial, Love, Praise, Prayer, Despair, Trouble.
An incident from long ago came to mind as I read this Psalm. Quite often at the supper table my little sister would spill her milk. Tears would well up in her eyes and her sobbing answer was always “I didn’t do that. Dad did it.” Since Dad never raised his voice or hand I’m sure she was never punished and with time her little fingers were able to hold the glass.
Are those of us who are no longer children using those same words; “I didn’t do it!” and expecting God to look the other way? Do WE look away fro God expecting everything will be fine or just go away? Remember that no matter what you are feeling, God wants to hear about it in our prayers to him.
Prayer
Lord, we thank you for giving us to the opportunity to express our hearts to you, for the patience that you have with us and for helping us to grow into admitting our wrongs. We are especially grateful for Jesus, who took the pain and punishment that belongs to us. Through Jesus, we now have hope. Thank you. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 69
Devotion
This Psalm is filled with every emotion imaginable; Accusations, Acknowledgement, Admissions, Begging, Blaming, Demanding, Denial, Love, Praise, Prayer, Despair, Trouble.
An incident from long ago came to mind as I read this Psalm. Quite often at the supper table my little sister would spill her milk. Tears would well up in her eyes and her sobbing answer was always “I didn’t do that. Dad did it.” Since Dad never raised his voice or hand I’m sure she was never punished and with time her little fingers were able to hold the glass.
Are those of us who are no longer children using those same words; “I didn’t do it!” and expecting God to look the other way? Do WE look away fro God expecting everything will be fine or just go away? Remember that no matter what you are feeling, God wants to hear about it in our prayers to him.
Prayer
Lord, we thank you for giving us to the opportunity to express our hearts to you, for the patience that you have with us and for helping us to grow into admitting our wrongs. We are especially grateful for Jesus, who took the pain and punishment that belongs to us. Through Jesus, we now have hope. Thank you. Amen.
Day 25
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 17
Scripture
Psalm 109
Devotion
This chapter is so full of emotions, the anger David feels towards those who had accused him. David was angry at being attacked by the evil people who lied against him. And through all of this David still remained friends with them. While we must hate evil and work to overcome it, we must love everyone, including those who do evil, because God loves them as well as us. We as Christians are called to hate the sin, but love the sinner. Only through God’s strength will we as Christians be able to follow David’s example.
David was not trying to take vengeance into his own hands, but was asking God to be quick in his promise of judgment of evil people. David’s words describe the eventual doom that would fall on all of God’s enemies.
A person’s name is more than just a label; it is a representation of your character, reputation, and who you are. David is pleading for God to live up to his name – to his character of love and mercy.
Scripture
Psalm 109
Devotion
This chapter is so full of emotions, the anger David feels towards those who had accused him. David was angry at being attacked by the evil people who lied against him. And through all of this David still remained friends with them. While we must hate evil and work to overcome it, we must love everyone, including those who do evil, because God loves them as well as us. We as Christians are called to hate the sin, but love the sinner. Only through God’s strength will we as Christians be able to follow David’s example.
David was not trying to take vengeance into his own hands, but was asking God to be quick in his promise of judgment of evil people. David’s words describe the eventual doom that would fall on all of God’s enemies.
A person’s name is more than just a label; it is a representation of your character, reputation, and who you are. David is pleading for God to live up to his name – to his character of love and mercy.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Day 14
TUESDAY, MARCH 2
Scripture
Psalm 68
Devotion
The writer of Psalm 68, David, has extreme confidence in God. He says that God's enemies will flee and do it quickly as they fear His power and might. This gives me an image of God as "large and in charge". Then God is a loving Father, a confidante, a provider, a burden bearer, a savior of sorts who heals all in need.
Now the image changes to a kind, loving father holding his weeping and clinging child. We, in response praise, sing, rejoice, dance, shout to the heavens to thank our awesome God.
How often do I pray for answers to a concern and then forget to thank and praise Him? I'm afraid almost every time. I get so relieved at the outcome that I lose sight of giving the credit to the one who deserves it. Praise be to God for all He has done!
Prayer
Almighty and Powerful God, you are everything to us. We can trust you to provide all we need and be there for us whenever we are in need. We thank you for all the times you have been there for us and we were too busy to realize it. Help us to better know your presence and your love. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 68
Devotion
The writer of Psalm 68, David, has extreme confidence in God. He says that God's enemies will flee and do it quickly as they fear His power and might. This gives me an image of God as "large and in charge". Then God is a loving Father, a confidante, a provider, a burden bearer, a savior of sorts who heals all in need.
Now the image changes to a kind, loving father holding his weeping and clinging child. We, in response praise, sing, rejoice, dance, shout to the heavens to thank our awesome God.
How often do I pray for answers to a concern and then forget to thank and praise Him? I'm afraid almost every time. I get so relieved at the outcome that I lose sight of giving the credit to the one who deserves it. Praise be to God for all He has done!
Prayer
Almighty and Powerful God, you are everything to us. We can trust you to provide all we need and be there for us whenever we are in need. We thank you for all the times you have been there for us and we were too busy to realize it. Help us to better know your presence and your love. Amen.
Day 13
MONDAY, MARCH 1
Scripture
Psalm 64
Devotion
When the sign up sheet came around to me, Psalm 64 was hanging alone in the middle of the sheet. So, I looked it up and discovered that it is a hard selection. That made it a challenge.
No one wants to think that other people are talking about them and might be spreading rumors that may not be true. A paraphrase of the Psalms that I like suggests that we may be the source of some of the problems ourselves.
But we are reminded that in any case as in all of our problems, God is with us. We need to remember to go to Him and He will help us.
Prayer
All-Knowing God, when we have the problems, you have the answers – and for that we are thankful, even though we don’t always go to you for our solutions. Help us to count more on you rather than on ourselves. It would be a whole lot better that way. Forgive us our pride. Amen.
Scripture
Psalm 64
Devotion
When the sign up sheet came around to me, Psalm 64 was hanging alone in the middle of the sheet. So, I looked it up and discovered that it is a hard selection. That made it a challenge.
No one wants to think that other people are talking about them and might be spreading rumors that may not be true. A paraphrase of the Psalms that I like suggests that we may be the source of some of the problems ourselves.
But we are reminded that in any case as in all of our problems, God is with us. We need to remember to go to Him and He will help us.
Prayer
All-Knowing God, when we have the problems, you have the answers – and for that we are thankful, even though we don’t always go to you for our solutions. Help us to count more on you rather than on ourselves. It would be a whole lot better that way. Forgive us our pride. Amen.
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