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.
Night Prayer
The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
Inspiration
When a king rules with fairness and justice, his kingdom will flourish. If the same king accepts gifts or bribes, his kingdom will fall. We've all observed a person in a leadership position who acted wrongfully. Perhaps a boss did not discipline employees fairly, or a political leader accepted kickbacks for legislation decisions. These corrupt actions lead to their demise. Scripture advises leaders to maintain justice with fair decision-making. As leaders, we must reflect on the mercy and grace God shows to us and lead others in the same fashion.
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for coaching us in our leadership endeavors. We have faith in Your Words and will lead Your people accordingly. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Devotion
The Widow of Naim
Frances Taylor
This story of Jesus' raising the son of the widow of Naim gives us some information that lets us know just how important it was for this widow. At that time, women had no way to earn a living. They were property of their parents until they became property of their husbands, and actually moved into the home of the husband. Now that this widow's son had died, she had no one to take care of her. The compassion that Jesus showed meant life to that widow. I'm sure the leaders weren't too happy that the power of God to raise someone from the dead rested in Jesus. There must also have been those who were saying, "Why her and not me?" We all will die and we will all lose someone we love including those of us who have and will lose children. We can easily read this passage and question. It can be difficult to understand God's plan for us, even though we keep trying. It is better to concentrate on the positive than the negative. A priest I once knew lost ...
