Morning Prayer
A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
Inspiration
Friendships are important, but it does not matter how many friends you have. It matters more what type of friends you have. Some people seem to stockpile friends, but if they do not have any friends who are loyal or dependable, then what good are they? Instead, you should try to develop friendships of the heart like David and Jonathan. These men cared deeply for one another and offered protection and love. They did stick closer than a brother. Fortunately, as Christians, we have our Savior as our closest friend.
Prayer
Dear God, help me to develop relationships that matter. Give me discernment to choose friends that are loyal and draw me closer to you. Remind me that popularity fades, but true friendships last. When I feel alone, remind me that you are always near and always faithful. Thank you for loving me unconditionally and laying your life down for me. Draw me closer to you, O Lord. May I honor my relationship with you by serving you with all my heart, soul, and mind. 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.
