Morning Prayer
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Inspiration
I honestly believe that the world is in a state of crisis right now. There are more and more people turning away from God, and because of this, the hero that has sustained peace and love for thousands of years does not have the same reach that he once did. There is a hero vacuum, and people are looking for other places to live vicariously, wishing that they could be more like a superhero or a celebrity. We should all already have our superhero. He lived and died for our sins; he bore a cross in shame; he sits at the right hand of his Father, God in heaven. Do not look for other heroes when the mightiest of all already exists!
Prayer
Jesus, my hero and savior, why have I ever looked at other sources for motivation? Forgive me for this transgression. I am weak and did not fully think through my actions, unlike the actions of Christ. Precious Jesus, you knew the suffering and shame that you would endure on the cross, and you were still willing to bear it so that I could live. With this prayer I shall honor your suffering. I shall honor your life and death. I promise that I will do all in my power to spread the love that I have for you with others so that they may feel the same. I pray this in your holy name, Jesus Christ, my love, finisher of faith, and hero. Amen.
Night Prayer
For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.
Inspiration
We have countless opportunities to help those in need! Our world is imperfect, and poverty will always be a huge concern. We can actively help those in need by donating to local charities, participating in fundraising for missionary projects, and praying over the hearts of those who are hurting. Prayer is powerful, and we can change the world by calling on the name of the Lord.
Prayer
Dear Lord, we will watch over those in need. You have blessed each of us with skills and finances so we may provide care for who are physically and spiritually unable to provide for themselves. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Devotion
The Pearl of Great Price
Frances Taylor
We all have heard this parable, and probably have a good idea of what we would do if we found such a treasure. As Christians, we have found a treasure that is beyond price, eternal life, and the price was paid by Jesus. The question is, to we treasure our treasure! There is still a price that we must pay for this gift, and sometimes that can seem too high. We need to sacrifice some of our wants. We can't hold on to anger; we're called to forgive; we need to love those we don't like. Money is necessary to provide for our families, but we need to spend time with our families as well. Jealousy and envy don't have a place in our hearts. Using our gifts for the good of others is required. In other words, keeping the commandments and practicing Jesus' law of love is expected of us and that can be difficult. The merchants in the parables were willing to give everything for what they have found. We are not asked to sell things, but we asked to give...
Morning Prayer
For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.
Inspiration
Because we live in a fallen world and the power of darkness is real, we will be tempted. Do not be fooled into thinking that because you were saved that you will not be tempted. This is false! Even Jesus suffered temptation while he was here on earth. Yet, he overcame Satan's temptations. Since Jesus was tempted himself, he is able to help us when we are tempted. Call on the name of Jesus when you are tempted!
Prayer
Dear God, this world is full of sin and temptation. Please, Lord, help me to overcome my temptations. Give me wisdom to know what situations and which people to avoid that will tempt me. When I am tempted, help me to remember that even Jesus was tempted but he called on you, O Lord, and used the your Word in his defense. When I am tempted, I will call on the name of Jesus and remember your Holy Word. In Jesus' name, amen.
