Night Prayer
Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.
Inspiration
As Christians, we are sometimes called to speak words of caution and wisdom to those in our care. But who, exactly is in our care? It could be your congregation, your Sunday school class, or even your family. No matter how big or small your charge, all of us who are appointed as leaders have a duty to exercise watchful care over others and speak up when needed.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the people that You have entrusted to my leadership and care. Please instill in me a heart of vigilance so that I may faithfully carry out my leadership duties. Give me the wisdom to discern where warnings are needed, and the words to speak them in grace. And give me ears to hear the wisdom of the leaders that watch over me, too. 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.
