FAITHFULNESS

The 6th Sunday of Easter

DANIEL 3:17-18 (MSG)
“Your threat means nothing to us. If you throw us in the fire, the God we serve can rescue us from your roaring furnace and anything else you might cook up, O king. But even if he doesn’t, it wouldn’t make a bit of difference, O king. We still wouldn’t serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up.”

REVELATION 3:7-8 (CEB)
These are the words of the one who is holy and true, who has the key of David. Whatever he opens, no one will shut; and whatever he shuts, no one opens. I know your works. Look! I have set in front of you an open door that no one can shut. You have so little power, and yet you have kept my word and haven’t denied my name.

THE ESSENCE
God honors faithfulness in the face of adversity. 

DAILY FODDER
What specifically, is currently challenging your allegiance and faithfulness to the Lord? 

PRAYER
True God, I confess to being attracted by false gods: anger, fear, revenge, all the world’s shiny temptations. Thank you for keeping your doors firmly open, calling me by name. Save me when I play with fire. Grant me resistance to all who would harm your children. Sharpen my will for justice. Your power, my weakness. What a combination! Amen. (Daily Texts, Ground Up Grace edition)

THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
     we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
     so that everything that happens here will align
     with what is happening in heaven.

Give us enough food for today.

Forgive us our wrongdoing,
     and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.