Father, we pray for those who are walking in the valley of the shadow of death with a loved one today. Give them deep abiding peace and calm assurance in place of worry and fear as they’re confronted with the circumstances that surround them this day. We pray for their loved one who is waging war between life and death, that they will find a place of quiet rest near to Your heart, O God; a place where Your sweet Spirit ministers in ways where human words fall short. Help us to trust You for that which we can’t understand and to search the Scriptures for that which You want us to more fully comprehend on this side about life and death. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Father, Your Word teaches us that the way to heaven isn’t secured by what we say with our lips or the label we go by. Instead the way to heaven is found through surrendering our lives to Jesus Christ who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. As we surrender to Your will we will obey Your commands and live a life above reproach, conforming our will and desire to Yours. Spiritual showmanship will not assure us entry into heaven, for Jesus taught that some who cast out demons, perform miracles, and prophesy in His name did not gain entry into heaven since they were living double lives. Outwardly they performed great works in Your name, but inwardly they were sinful and disobedient. Hypocrites are usually exposed in time, but many will not be exposed until the final harvest. Help us to live humble lives, not seeking to impress others by our good works, but rather seeking to live earnest lives of obedience to Your commands with ever-increasing love for Your people and for the lost. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Father, because we place our trust in You as our sovereign Lord we have an enduring peace that You are the Great Deliverer and that You work all things together for good to those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. We seek to glorify Jesus, our Solid Rock, who was put to the ultimate test and laid an unshakable foundation for our faith, as He remained true to His mission to provide for our salvation. Our faith is strengthened and our peace perfected as we keep our minds stayed upon You, not only on the bright, cheerful days but on the dismal days when the cloud of discouragement would otherwise obscure the brightness of Your promise to keep us in perfect peace if we keep our minds stayed upon You. Amen.

Father, there is a place of quiet rest and spiritual uplifting when we draw near to You. So many activities, attractions, and affections rival for our attention. But when we prioritize by giving You first place we give opportunity for You to “show your love to a thousand generations of those who love you and keep Your commandments.” We continually offer to You a sacrifice of praise through our lips that confess Your name and through our lives that reveal Your transforming power at work within us; as we do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with You, our God. We bless and praise You in Jesus’ name. Amen

Father, to know You is to know the way to eternal life. Help us to hold fast to the directions we receive through Your Word. Thank You for sending Jesus who bridged the gap that stood between heaven and earth. And thank You that, because of Your mercy, we have entrance into heaven as we walk over Your bridge of mercy and forgiveness. Amen.