Change of heart

I will give them hearts that recognize me as the Lord. ~ Jeremiah 24:7 (NLT)

And so God makes it possible for you and us to stand firmly together with Christ. God is also the one who chose us and put his Spirit in our hearts to show that we belong only to him. ~ 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (CEV)

KEY THOUGHT:

God turns our hearts toward him.

PRAYER:

Lord, you are busy in our lives drawing us closer to yourself. I can be a slow learner but you know that. Yet, you continue to work with me placing your Spirit in me. I pray that the Spirit would be successful in turning me completely your way. Amen.

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.