Night Prayer 

For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried.

Inspiration 

Sometimes growing in faith hurts. When we face difficulties and have to lean heavily on God, it feels like walking through fire. Yet God uses these fiery trials the way a refiner uses fire, to burn away the impurities. Through trials, God rids us of pride, greed, lust, and more. And when we emerge, we are purer and able to shine brighter for Him.

Prayer 

Father God, the trials of life weigh heavily on me. It hurts to endure the suffering, the persecution, and the waiting. Yet I know that You are with me, and I ask that You use this time to purify my heart. Burn away everything that is not of You, so that all that remains is what You would have me be. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotion 

Consider the Lilies

Frances Taylor 

The first time I saw Sidney Poitier in a movie was in "The Lilies of the Field" for which he won an Oscar for best actor. The movie had a couple of important lessons and every time I read today's gospel passage I am reminded of both the movie and the lessons. A group of sisters want to build a chapel and they don't have the means to do it but believe that if they pray hard enough, the Lord will provide the means and men to do the work. Sidney needs a place to stay and the Superior sees her man. He stays on and works to build the chapel. Okay, you know there must be a twist! He tries to do it alone and fails. Eventually he must ask for help and the chapel is built.

Today we are being told not to worry about the needs of tomorrow but to concentrate on the "now." But what kind of "now" are we supposed to concentrate on? Not, we are told, on what we are to eat and drink, but to seek first the kingdom of God and then God will provide everything else ...

Morning Prayer 

The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want of wisdom.

Inspiration 

It is better to be wise and walk in the counsel of the Lord. The words you speak and the advice you give will give life and restoration to those who are in need of it. When your words are based on the Word of God, you will be able to refresh the souls of many. But if you let foolishness lead your life, you will find yourself in many terrible situations. Folly leads to destruction; it never builds.

Prayer 

Dear God, I pray that the words I speak will always reflect your wisdom and your goodness. May I never give into any form of foolishness, Lord, because I know it will only lead to pain and sorrow. Thank you for your guidance, Lord. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.