Father, we’re reminded of the amazing and unpredictable way You work all things together for good when we read the story of Joseph, from the time of his youth to his final breath. Instead of scheming for revenge he sought to relieve his brothers. He comforted their troubled hearts with the reassuring message; You sold me, but God sent me. Help us to recognize that when we are hurt by other’s words or actions, You surpass their debilitating impact on our lives by the greater plan You’re working in us; teaching us to trust You implicitly, forgive unreservedly, and to be molded into the character of Christ who gave His all in the midst of hateful injustice. Evil was present, but the much greater purpose was that we might be saved from our sins through His submission to Your overall plan. We thank You in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Father, may we be found trustworthy in our relationship to You and in our relationship to our fellow man. In a cold often harsh world help us to be shining lights. As we seek to understand and demonstrate the teachings of Scripture help us to be faithful stewards of all that is entrusted to us. Help us to do the next right thing and live responsible lives as we seek to honor You, showing respect and consideration to others. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Father, You know that many of my days are spent at a frantic pace. Often it’s due to my improper use of time, other times it’s responding to unexpected needs that arise. As I invite You to examine my heart and mind, I lay before You the people, projects, and pursuits that drain me of needed peace and rest and further away from a heart and mind that is fully submitted to You. Though You have not removed me bodily from this world, You have raised me up spiritually to find peace and rest even as I carry out my daily duties. As a vehicle needs fuel to properly function, I need Scripture and prayer to uphold and equip me for the day that lies ahead so I place this discipline at the top of my list and submit all other duties in accordance to Your leading. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Father, You have chosen the foolish things of this world to shame the wise, and the weak things of this world to shame the strong. That which is despised, even discarded by the world may be among some of Your most precious treasures. It reminds us that we must realign our values according to Your value system, regarding those things which are precious in Your sight to be precious in ours as well. As we walk in humility we will value others in the same way You do and respond in accordingly. Thank You for these precious individuals You place in our life’s experience and in ourfamilies that show us the way to the heart of the Father. Amen.

Father, we thank You for the greatest hero of our faith, Jesus Christ, who took on flesh, walked in holiness and gave His all, that we might have access to You and become Your children. But You’ve also chosen ordinary folks who walk right alongside us in our earthly journey who have taken us by the hand, tucked us in their heart, and committed us to prayer, while also living in a manner worthy of honor. We do give them our utmost respect and honor, and pray that You will bless them and assure them that their investment will bring eternal reward. We give You thanks for their life, their devotion to us, and the lasting difference it has made in us. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.