WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE

PROVERBS 1:7 (MSG)
Start with GOD—the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD.

COLOSSIANS 2:3 (ABP)
Look to Christ Jesus if you're seeking to find all of life's hidden treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
If you want to know anything start with knowing Christ.

PRAYER
Thank you, God, for revealing the meaning of life through Christ Jesus. Forgive me for overlooking him at times in my quest to get a handle on reality. He's just too obvious. Guide me into a deeper knowledge of Jesus so that I can live a rich and full life. Amen.

STAY SAFE BY STAYING CLOSE

DEUTERONOMY 33:27 (NCV)
The everlasting God is your place of safety...

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

SUMMARY SENTENCE
God is our consistent go-to safe person.

PRAYER
Eternal God, no matter what happens you are there for us all. Sometimes I feel confined by the idea of having to stick so close. I enjoy wandering -- even though I know that wandering away from you is unsafe. Have mercy and save me from myself and my rambling ways. I'm going to stay safe by staying close. Amen.

KINGDOM OF GOD

PSALM 44:26 (CEV)
Do something! Help us!
Show how kind you are
and come to our rescue.

LUKE 17:21 (CEV)
There is no use saying, ‘Look! Here it is' or ‘Look! There it is.’ God’s kingdom is here with you.”

SUMMARY SENTENCE
As requested, God has set up his alternative kingdom -- but not as expected, it is way more of an alternative than people recognize.

PRAYER
Gracious God, thank you for responding to our need and setting up an alternative kingdom. I admit, though, that I'm so locked into old ways of thinking that often I don't see how it is at work. I get frustrated and try to force change in ways that are incompatible with the kingdom of God. Tune my loyalties and allegiances so that I'm marching in step with you. I'm going to live according to your agenda. Amen.

GOD LISTENS

PSALM 25:5 (CEB)
You are the God who saves me.
I put my hope in you all day long.

1 JOHN 5:15 (ABP)
We know that God listens to us.

SUMMARY SENTENCE
Trust the God who listens to you.

PRAYER
God, in a world where no one seems to be listening, you're all ears. I admit that sometimes I think I'm talking to the air when I pray. Give me the faith I need to talk with you about everything that is important to me. And help me to trust so much in your listening attention that I'm willing to listen to you. I put my hope in you all day long. Amen.