Father, it is because of our sinful human condition that we spend so much time worrying about what others think and live our lives with their view in mind, instead of Yours. You who view our minds and hearts from inside out – You know that which motivates our actions, when others simply judge us by our actions. We lay out our hearts bare before You today and ask Your Spirit to reveal that which honors You and that which should be burned like chaff. Remove our pride and replace it with humility as we confess our need for cleansing. “More of You and less of me” is my prayer today. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Father, it is Your desire that we stay faithful to Your teachings. Scripture gives many examples of those who knew to do right, but chose to do wrong. The consequences of their wrong actions inflicted a great deal of loss, life-long regret and emotional pain, not only for themselves but often inflicting others as well. Help us to avoid the traps Satan has set for the believers by not only reading the Word, but applying its truth to our lives, and standing firm when the temptation to do wrong is ever before us. Help us *to control our own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know You. We pray for this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Father, Your Word tells us that Jesus suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we might also suffer indignity and injustice just as the disciples did, many of them giving their lives for the Gospel. But when we consider all that You have set before us; redemption, forgiveness, a clear conscience, a pure heart, a satisfied mind, virtuous gifts that increase over a lifetime, unconditional love, grace beyond measure and a home prepared for me in heaven, things suffered in this life pale in comparison. May the lives we live, the words we speak, and the love we generously pour out to others “amaze” those who see it so that they might declare, “We recognize them as having been with Jesus.” In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Father, how blessed we are to view glimpses of beauty and awe on this side of heaven. But with great anticipation we await the glorious day when we will behold the ultimate view; Jesus in all His glory. This world with all its troubles and disappointments will vanish from our memory as we behold a new heaven and a new earth. Contemplating that ultimate view diminishes our heartaches and burdens of this life. Keep us keeping on as we journey below so that we will ultimately reach our eternal resting place. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

Father, we desire to be a grateful people. We want to be mindful of our blessings and express thanksgiving regularly for that which we do not deserve but receive regularly because of Your merciful Spirit toward us. It is far too easy to observe ingratitude in others and be blind to its presence in our own lives. When we’re tempted to grumble prompt in us a grateful response instead, so that we will bear the fruit of thankfulness which brings about contentment, peace and joy. In the name of Jesus we pray these things. Amen.