The weapon of righteousness

The weapons of the strong are smashed to pieces, while the weak are infused with fresh strength. ~ 1 Samuel 2:4 (MSG)

Paul wrote: In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind... We faithfully preach the truth. God’s power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. ~ 2 Corinthians 6:4,7 (NLT)

KEY THOUGHT:

Don't underestimate the power behind the weapon of righteousness.

PRAYER:

Almighty God, I confess that as I look at the state of the world around me I feel defeated. But as I read 2 Corinthians 6 I realized that I am underestimating the power of righteousness to crush evil. Lift my head up so that I can patiently wait without anxiety the victory that you have in mind. I'm going to confidently carry my weapon of righteousness. Amen.

Who are you following?

The 15th Sunday after Pentecost

Lead me by your truth and teach me... ~ Psalm 25:5 (NLT)

None of you should be called the leader. The Messiah is your only leader. ~ Matthew 23:10 (CEV)

KEY THOUGHT:

Jesus is our leader. So follow him.

PRAYER:

Powerful God, thank you for leading us. I confess that I'm not a very good follower. I am easily distracted. Don't give up on me or allow me to give up on myself. I am going to follow you and you alone. Amen.

Get moving

God said, “I am the God of your father. Don’t be afraid of going down to Egypt. I’m going to make you a great nation there." ~ Genesis 46:3-4 (MSG)

Now stand up straight! Stop your knees from shaking and walk a straight path... ~ Hebrews 12:12-13 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Get moving with God and things will turn out alright.

PRAYER:

God, thank you for your willingness to work with me. I confess, though, that I am lazy. I seem to lack the motivation and energy to do what you have called me to do. But I know that you will provide if I ask. So I am asking. I'm going to stand up straight and move forward with you. Amen.

Raw and needy

The poor and the needy will celebrate and shout because of the Lord, the holy God of Israel. ~ Isaiah 29:19 (CEV)

Some Pharisees asked Jesus' disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and other sinners?” ~ Matthew 9:11 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Jesus prefers the company of the raw and needy.

PRAYER:

Merciful God, thank you for welcoming needy people like me. Forgive me for pretending that I am whole and unbroken. Please give me a heart for needy people and the patience needed to go against the flow in serving them. By your grace I can become an outpost of your mercy. Amen.