Morning Prayer
Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.
Inspiration
Often it is too easy to want what others have. Particularly when we see others who have built up wealth, comfort, and prestige through dishonest actions that have hurt others. God warns us to set aside such envy. When we covet the things that are attained by evil means, we open ourselves up to the temptation to follow their ways.
Prayer
Father God, protect my heart from all envy and jealousy. Teach me to not dwell on the riches and comforts of evil men. Turn my attention to the riches of Your kingdom so that I may dwell on heavenly things. Help me to remember how richly blessed I am because of knowing You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Night Prayer
Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Inspiration
We despise the thought of a pile of dirty dishes in the sink. The outside is easy to clean; it's the caked-up residue on the inside that's so difficult to remove. Jesus compares the scribes and Pharisees with dishes that have been wiped clean on the outside while dirty inside. The Pharisees took exceptional care of their outward appearance and neglected their inward spirits. We are guilty of allowing our hearts to be left filthy as well. We look and act as we should while our souls are full of darkness. We must continue to converse with the Holy Spirit daily and trust His guidance to cleanse our sinful nature.
Prayer
Dear God, Please forgive our sinful nature. We yearn for cleansing from within, so we are genuine witnesses to Your name. In Jesus' Name, Amen.