UNENDING GRACE

the First Sunday in Advent

PSALM 115:14 (CEV)
I pray that the Lord
     will let your family
and your descendants
     always grow strong.

LUKE 1:50 (CEB)
He shows mercy to everyone,
from one generation to the next,
who honors him as God.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
God's grace is unending.

PRAYER
Thank you, God, for extending so much mercy and grace to me. I mess up a lot and maybe I take your kindness too casually but it's what keeps me going. Help me to approach my family and my neighbors with the same kind of grace. I'm going to bask in your kindness. Amen.

NOT ABANDONED

ISAIAH 66:13
As a mother comforts her child,
     so I’ll comfort you.

JOHN 14:18-19 (NTE)
I’m not going to leave you bereft... Because I live, you will live too.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
God does not abandon his children.

PRAYER
Gracious Father, I'm grateful that you never abandon us. Sometimes I act like I've been orphaned because I want attention or to impress people with how much I've overcome to get to where I am. But that is a facade. Remind me of your presence so that I never lose track of you. Keep me close. I'm going to live as a confident child. Amen.

OUTCOMES

PSALM 38:9 (NLT)
You know what I long for, Lord;
     you hear my every sigh.

JAMES 1:3 (NTE)
...you know that, when your faith is put to the test, what comes out is patience.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Rough times can produce significant outcomes.

PRAYER
Lord, thank you for recognizing my sighs for what they are. Thank you for taking me by the hand through these difficult days. I'm hoping that you'll use them to produce maturity in me. I'm confident that when we put our faith in you no experience is wasted. Amen.

THANKS!

1 CHRONICLES 29:13 (MSG)
And here we are, O God, our God, giving thanks to you,
praising your splendid Name.

EPHESIANS 5:20 (CEB)
Always give thanks to God the Father for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ...

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Look for opportunities to be thankful and then thank God.

PRAYER
Father, remind me that I can always find a reason to thank you. When I struggle and feel alone, remind me that you are with me and that I am an important part of the family of Christ. Help me express my gratitude by receiving and sharing your love today. Amen. (Daily Texts, Mount Carmel Ministries edition)