Death swallowed

He will swallow up death forever. ~ Isaiah 25:8 (CEB)*

Yes, while we are in this tent we groan, because we are weighed down. We want to be dressed not undressed, so that what is dying can be swallowed up by life. ~ 2 Corinthians 5:4 (CEB)

SUMMARY SENTENCE

God will swallow up all that drags us down and replace the weights with new lives.

PRAYER

Thank you, God, for the promise of new life. I confess that I get weighed down by the troubles I face and forget what lies ahead. Refresh my memory regarding the victory that Christ has secured and the unencumbered life toward which we look. I'm going to live with hope. Amen.

*25:7 in some Bible versions

Overcoming

How long will you forget me, Lord? Forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
~ Psalm 13:1 (CEB)

Jesus said, "I’ve said these things to you so that you will have peace in me. In the world you have distress. But be encouraged! I have conquered the world." ~ John 16:33 (CEB)

SUMMARY SENTENCE
There is no shortage of trouble but be encouraged because we are on the side of the triumphant conquerer.

PRAYER
Thank you, loving God, for taking on the challenge of defeating evil and all that goes with it. Forgive me for allowing myself to get dragged down by the laggering trouble in the world. Rekindle deep within me the image of the conquering lamb so that I can remain strong and encouraged regardless of what comes my way. Amen.

Pain

I’m caught in a maze and can’t find my way out, blinded by tears of pain and frustration. I call to you, GOD; all day I call. ~ Psalm 88:8-9 (MSG)

Father, I don’t ask you to take my followers out of the world, but keep them safe from the evil one. ~ John 17:15 (CEV)

SUMMARY SENTENCE
God doesn't necessarily spare us the pains of life but he will keep us through them.

PRAYER
Lord God, I'm thankful for your care. But I do wish that there was less pain -- less isolation -- less sickness -- less trouble in the world -- more answers. Help me to notice the ways that you are caring for me through the rough times. Toward that end, I'm going to call on you daily. Amen.

Honoring God

The 16th Sunday after Pentecost

Respect your father and your mother... ~ Exodus 20:12 (CEV)

Honor God by accepting each other, as Christ has accepted you. ~ Romans 15:7 (CEV)

SUMMARY SENTENCE
One of the ways that we honor God is by showing respect to others.

PRAYER
Thank you, God, for rolling out the red carpet and welcoming me into your family. Sadly, I sometimes forget that you are the Father of all people. I forget that Jesus died for all. I create division where you desire reunion. Help me to know you by seeking deeper connections with everyone I meet, for your glory, God. Amen. (Daily Texts, Mount Carmel Ministries edition)