Morning Prayer
Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.
Inspiration
Here we see Paul encouraging Timothy to not neglect the gift that is in him. Paul is reminding him to use his gifts for God. Likewise, we should all remember to use our gifts for God. He has given each of us gifts, talents, and skills, all of which can be used to glorify Him. Each of us have many different talents. God made each of us unique and we can glorify Him in unique ways. There is not only one way to glorify God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gifts you have given me. Remind me to use my gifts, skills, and assets for Your glory. Don't let me glorify myself with them. My life and gifts belong to You. You instilled them in me, and for You they will be used. You make good gifts. You are a mighty God and worthy of praise. 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.