Morning Prayer
But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.
Inspiration
As Christians, we are saved by faith, and not by observing the ceremonial law of the Old Testament. Just as a parent must oversee a child’s life until the child matures and is ready to live on his own, the law was given to prepare us and train us for salvation that comes through faith. So the customs of the law are useful for a time, but full maturity in faith is our long-term objective.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for calling me to a new life in You. Please help me to live by faith. As I read Your word, give me wisdom to see how all of scripture points to You so that I may know You more fully. Grow me in my knowledge of You so that my faith may be mature and I may serve You better. 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.
