Saturday, August 17, 2024

Aug 17

Opening Prayer:

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace

Glorious God: I come to you now in need of grace. Throughout this week, a war has been raging in my heart. I find myself looking to people, situations, and experiences to give me security, identity, and hope. I have sought from others what can only be found in you. Forgive me, and awaken me to the only glory that really satisfies: the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and Redeemer. Amen.

Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 2:1-13

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

New Testament Reading: Hebrews 13:1-16

Prayer of Adoration:

Lord God: I adore you for the promise that you will never leave me or forsake me. Because of this, I can say: the Lord is my helper, I will not fear; what can man do to me? Thank you that you are the same yesterday, today, and forever.

Psalm Reading: Psalm 138

Prayer of Consecration

O Lord, help me today to focus my whole heart and mind on your extraordinary goodness. You care for me in many ways, but the psalm reminds me of three specific examples of your faithfulness: you answer me when I call; you see me and are near to me when I’m low, even though you are the highest being there is; and you fulfill your purpose for me with enduring, everlasting love. Set me free from the old habits, addictions, and inferior sources of comfort that disrupt my fellowship with you and others. Help me, Lord, as I reject those counterfeit things. Empower me to fix my heart on the true consolation of your love. Fill my mind with songs that remind me of your ways: your mercy, your glory, your attentive care, your strong protection. I love you, for your steadfast love endures forever.

BENEDICTION

And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.