The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 2:15-17 & 3:1-7
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: Luke 4:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
I praise you, Lord Jesus, for your obedience to the Father; for your strength in temptation; and for your resistance to the devil. Because of your humility, I follow you as my example. Because of your faithfulness, I love you as my King. Because of your triumph, I worship you as my God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 6
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for giving me prayers and psalms that teach me to express repentance. I live in a culture that dreads even the idea of guilt, and goes to great lengths to self-justify. But there’s a deeper wisdom in repentance that allows me to speak the truth about myself to you. Knowing that you’ve already seen and made provision for my sin, I can lay my burden down. Even in my troubled state, I can follow the path of David, who didn’t hide from you, but knew you well enough to appeal for your mercy. Thank you that just as you heard his weeping, you also hear mine. As you accepted his prayer, so you accept mine, through the mediation of the Lord Jesus Christ. Where I need to make amends to others, help me do so. Where I need to change my actions, help me do so. Fill my inner person with the sense of your loving presence to an ever-increasing degree, so that my most familiar sins become alien to me. Make them bitter, and yourself sweet, for Jesus’ sake.
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.
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, today I enter the season of Lent mindful of my sin, my weakness, and my mortality. I confess that I often avoid introspection, reflection, and mindfulness. I do not number my days or consider the brevity of life. So today, I invite You to humble me; to chasten me; to convict me. Bring me low in deep awareness of my fragile and faltering condition. May dust and ashes point the way to joy and gladness through union with your eternal Son. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
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: 2 Corinthians 5:16-6:10
Prayer of Adoration:
I magnify you, O God, because in Christ you have reconciled the world to yourself, and given your people the ministry of reconciliation. For our sake you made him who knew no sin, to be sin. In Christ, the old has passed away; the new has come!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 51
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm is a cry of sorrow over sin and a plea for forgiveness. As I join my prayer to it, guide me into right repentance. Sharpen my conviction over my sin. Heal and restore the sensitivity of my conscience. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and give me renewed passion for total integrity before you. You are delighted by truth in my inward being; you want me to learn wisdom in my secret heart, so that I can know true authenticity and freedom. Wherever repentance is needed in my life, I welcome the searching eye of your all-knowing Spirit. It may be costly and painful, like bones breaking. But the psalm says, “let the bones that you have broken rejoice.” You’re not interested in showy acts of sacrifice; you love a broken and contrite heart. And you have promised to forgive all my sin through the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. So restore to me the joy of your salvation today, for Jesus’ sake.
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.
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: you have commanded me to love my neighbor as myself. But today, as I contemplate my lack of love, I am humbled to the dust. Too often, I avoid others when they bother me. I ignore others when they don’t interest me. I use others when they benefit me. I reject others when they sin against me. My love is shallow and self-serving. Forgive me, O God. Thank you that in Christ, you have loved me with a love incomprehensible. May your love fill me, and transform me, for the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18
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: Mark 4:1-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for in you the mystery of God’s salvation has been made known. You have revealed your kingdom to the simple, the lowly, and the humble, and have given your people ears to hear and understand. Thank you for making yourself known to me!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 37:1-22
Prayer of Consecration
O God, your word is a powerful corrective for my anxious, worried mind. In this psalm, you wisely and gently doctor my soul. When I look at the world on my own, I can’t understand why people who do evil seem to flourish, achieving success and the affirmation of the world even as they dishonor you. It seems like the godly should prosper, but often they’re the ones with the most struggle. Why? This psalm prompts me to look beyond the surface to deeper realities, reminding me that your kingdom operates on a different economy. Justice and righteousness are coming as surely as the new day will break. In the meantime, help me stop fretting over the situations of others, and look carefully to my own soul. Help me trust in you today, and do good, as your word says. Help me to dwell faithfully in my own place, knowing that you establish my steps and hold my hand as I wait patiently for you.
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.
Monday, February 12, 2024
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I cannot keep silent about my sin; when I do, my bones waste away and your hand is heavy upon me. So I will acknowledge my sin to you, and I will not cover my iniquity. Today, I acknowledge the sin of ENTITLEMENT. I live with a demanding spirit that grabs, clutches, and expects, rather than with a generous spirit that thanks you and blesses others. Forgive me, O Lord, by the mercy of Jesus, who did not regard equality with you as something to be grasped, but emptied himself that I might be filled. Fill me up today with the freedom and joy of grace, for Your name’s sake: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 29
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: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Triune God, I bow in worship and adoration before you. Father: from you and for you all things exist. Jesus: you are Lord of all creation, through whom everything has been made. Spirit: with the Father and the Son you are worshiped and glorified. Thank you for your love, which binds your people together in unity.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 34
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this prayer invites me to meditate on your goodness, so I ask for the grace to set distractions aside and fix my inner gaze on you. As I remember your work in my life, I’m filled with gratitude because you’ve shown your goodness again and again. When I’ve called out to you in need, you’ve provided for me. I know my deep tendency to forget your faithfulness and go through the day driven by fear or stubborn self-sufficiency. Orient my heart to the truth of your goodness. When I’m crushed in spirit, remind me that you are near to the broken. I long for the kind of life described in this psalm, one that sees many good days, so I pray that you would keep me from evil today and help me pursue peace. Redeem the broken places in my life according to your word, Lord, and teach me to find my refuge in you.
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.
Saturday, February 10, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-13
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: 1 Corinthians 6:12-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you that I am not my own but belong to you in body and soul. My whole being is yours, in life and in death, for your purposes and for your glory. Thank you that you are faithful to keep, protect, and guide me.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 149
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, you invite your people to extravagantly praise you with dancing and loud music. Maybe I love to worship with this kind of joy, or maybe I’ve never worshipped this way in my whole life. Thank you that you invite us to know you so intimately and enjoy you so deeply that our inner lives flow with praise. Cultivate a joyful and wholehearted response in me and set me free from passive worship. In that spirit, help me wage war against evil using the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Before I look at the faults of others, help me to reckon humbly and truthfully with the sin in myself. Then, freed by the righteousness of Christ given to me, help me fight sin and worship you with all my heart today.
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.
Friday, February 9, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshipping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus' sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 30:18-33
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: Luke 6:17-26
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I stand in awe of you as the master teacher. You are God’s true wisdom and true revelation. May I revere you not only as my Savior, but as my teacher and guide. Your ways are the ways of life; your words are the words of truth.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:121-136
Prayer of Consecration
Dear Father, the unfolding of your word gives light. So I humbly ask you to open my eyes, so I might understand more and more of it today. I want eyes to see and ears to hear, as Jesus said. Show me that your ways are wonderful, wise, and deep. Align my soul to respond to them with delight. If I’m blind to the beauty of your statutes, if your laws seem restrictive or limiting, I ask you: please help me see them in all their redemptive fullness, and through them, draw me into communion with you. Let me know you so intimately that as your word unfolds, I comprehend its beauty. Amen.
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.
Thursday, February 8, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 28
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: 1 Corinthians 3
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you as the giver of life and the object of your church’s worship. Jesus Christ, I worship you as the firm foundation upon which your church is built. Holy Spirit, I rejoice that you dwell in God’s people and make them holy.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:97-112
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm reminds me that your word is given as a guide for my life: a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. I’m constantly occupied with planning the future or re-playing the past, but you know every inch of my path, and you illuminate it one step at a time with your word. Help me to walk with you patiently in this moment, alive to your presence. There are many ways in which the wicked have laid a trap for me, many kinds of temptation, but I invite you to shape my will and form my inner person so deeply that I will not stray from your commandments. You are my hiding place and my shield. Through the complications and challenges ahead of me today, keep my heart steady with love for you and my ears filled with your word. Help me walk in obedience and companionship with you.
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.
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, I confess today my worry and anxiety. Instead of resting in your sovereignty, I fear the unknown. Instead of bringing my requests before you in prayer, I worry and fret. Instead of letting you be God, I fight for control. Forgive me, O Lord. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. Set me free from all anxious thoughts today. Give me contentment and peace, for you have assured me that if I seek your kingdom, I will not lack any good thing. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 5:1-14
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: Mark 2:23-3:6
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, Jesus, for showing us the true meaning of the Sabbath. Thank you that you came to do good, and to open the way to God’s eternal rest. I rest in you as I await your coming Shalom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 30
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, make me a good student of your word. This psalm has something to teach me; give me ears to hear it. Parts of it are worshipful and celebratory, but there are also hints that the Psalmist has suffered after presumptuously assuming himself to be prosperous and secure. O Lord, if I worship prosperity, security, and comfort, I humbly invite your correction. You know that complete prosperity isn’t good for my soul. Even the joys of hope need to be mixed with the pains of experience, that I might trust in you more deeply. So let me follow the pattern of the psalm: let me turn from my sin; let my repentance be met with grace and restoration; and let Your mercy be glorified. Take my shame, and dress me in the true gladness that comes from walking with you.
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.
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of majesty and light, all of creation testifies to your glory. Though your law is perfect, I have disobeyed. Though your revelation is true, I have disbelieved. Though your commandments are pure, I have not trusted you. Forgive me, O Lord, for my willful sin and for my hidden faults. Preserve me with your mighty power this day, that I may not fall into temptation. Straighten my path, and give me wisdom to discern your will, that you might be glorified in everything. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 27
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: 1 Corinthians 2
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: I worship you for revealing to me the things of God. By your power and wisdom, I have come to understand and believe the gospel. Thank you for revealing what no eye has seen and no ear has heard: the glorious things that God has prepared for those who love him!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 5
Prayer of Consecration
The psalm says, “through the abundance of your steadfast love, I will enter your house.” Thank you, Lord, that I have access to you and peace with you because of your steadfast love expressed in the work of Jesus. Someday, I will enter your house eternally; but now, I sojourn in this world, journeying toward your heavenly kingdom. So teach me to savor your steadfast love as I go through this day. I confess that in my inner world, I’ve lived as an orphan for a long time. I’ve taken care of myself by controlling others, using my power in unhealthy ways, or endlessly distracting myself. So drive a vision of your majestic temple and your steadfast love deep into my imagination. You are my protector and shield. In Jesus, I’m completely covered by your favor. Please help me take hold of your love in my inner person, and let it overflow from me into the world around me, for Jesus’ sake.
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.
Monday, February 5, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I confess with the Psalmist that your law is perfect. The way of your commandments is the way of life; your statutes are full of wisdom. Yet I have violated your law; I have broken your commandments; I have dishonored your name. I ask your forgiveness; and I thank you for sending Jesus, who perfectly obeyed your law and died for my sin so that I might live to righteousness. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit, that I might walk in wholehearted obedience to you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 30
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: Matthew 5:13-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, I exalt you, because your obedience is my obedience. As the light of the world, you shine through your people, driving out darkness and drawing sinners to yourself. I kneel before you as my God, my king, and my Teacher.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 1
Prayer of Consecration
Lord: I long to obey you perfectly, avoiding the counsel of the wicked, the way of sinners, and the seat of scoffers. But I can’t meet that standard on my own. So I thank you that Jesus is the righteous man of Psalm 1, whose delight is in the law of the Lord. Through faith in him, I can live a Psalm 1 kind of life. I ask you to form my inner being so that I become more and more like Jesus. Sharpen my appetite for your law; help me meditate on it throughout the day, and make it my delight. Let me be a tree planted by streams of water, satisfied and made strong by your presence. I don’t know what this day will bring; but you know my way. Guard my steps and keep me in your truth today.
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.
Saturday, February 3, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Father, for your steadfast love, I bless you. For your abundant grace, I praise you. For your daily mercies, I trust you. I ask your forgiveness today for my willful lack of love. I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult. By Your Spirit, overcome my sin and weakness, and fill me with overflowing love, through the mercy of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 58
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: Mark 2:13-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I praise you for the gift of your Son, the physician come to heal the world and the bridegroom come to redeem it. The earthly ministry of Jesus is but a foretaste of his coming rule and reign. I rejoice as I await his glorious return!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 138
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, help me today to focus my whole heart and mind on your extraordinary goodness. This psalm shows three pictures of your faithfulness: you answer me when I call; you see me and are near to me when I’m low; and you fulfill your purpose for me with enduring, everlasting love. Make your love real to me today, Lord. Set me free from the old habits, addictions, and cheap sources of comfort that interrupt my communion with you and others. Help me, Lord, as I reject those counterfeit things and 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. And give me the strength of resolve and purpose to faithfully obey you today. 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.
Friday, February 2, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, all authority in heaven and earth has been given to you. I confess that I have neglected your command to make disciples. I have been content to keep the light of your gospel hidden. I have valued my comfort over your kingdom, my security over your power, and my reputation over your glory. Forgive me Lord, for my unbelief in the power of your Gospel and for my lack of faith in your promises. Jesus, ignite my desire for your coming kingdom, that my faith would be renewed and my hope strengthened. Let your light shine in me that others may see my good works and glorify you. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 25
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: Mark 2:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, without you I am dead in sin, unable to make myself well. But you have the authority to forgive sins, and the power to heal my sick heart. I praise you as the healer, restorer, and Redeemer of all creation.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 136
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for the repetitive rhythm of this psalm. It’s like the cadence of walking, or swinging on a swing, or swaying with a fussy baby. Everything happens, from the glorious to the mundane, because Your steadfast love endures forever. I’m made to move - to have my being - in this rhythm. I’m meant to internalize it, chew on it, meditate on it, and mutter it to myself, so that it’s as native to me as my own heartbeat. Lord, silence whatever other songs are in my head, and teach me to move to the cadence of your steadfast love.
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.
Thursday, February 1, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, in whom we live and move and have our being, you have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Yet in my foolishness I have not trusted you, nor rested in my election as your beloved child. I confess my unbelief. Lord, grant me purity of heart and strength of purpose. Let no selfish passion hinder me from knowing your will, nor weakness from doing your will. In your light may I see light, and in your service find perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 40:21-31
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: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
Prayer of Adoration:
O Lord: I rejoice today in the folly and scandal of the cross. Thank you that your foolishness is wiser than men, and your weakness is stronger than men. By your doing, I am in Christ Jesus; He is my wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. I rest and rejoice in him alone.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 112
Prayer of Consecration
As I meditate on this psalm, I long to be like the righteous man it describes. I want to delight in your commands and deal generously with everyone. I would love to be steady and unmoved in the face of difficult times, shining like a light. And yet I know my struggles and fears, my failures and shortcomings. So thank you, Lord Jesus Christ, that you perfectly embodied this ideal on my behalf. You are the one whose righteousness endures forever. You are the one who is gracious and merciful, never moved, always steadfast, abundantly generous. And You are re-making me in your likeness. Because I am united with you, I am becoming more and more like the righteous person this psalm describes. So today, I surrender to your transforming work in my life. Make me a little more generous than yesterday; a little more steady-in-faith than yesterday; a little more righteous than yesterday. Help me today to fear you and walk in your commandments, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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.
Wednesday, January 31, 2024
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of Truth: I confess today the sin of Dishonesty. Rather than walking in the light, I have walked in darkness. My mind has conceived deceit, my lips have uttered falsehood, my heart has been cold toward the truth. In your mercy, forgive me. And remind me that because Jesus died for me, I need not be ashamed, but can freely admit all my faults and failures. My hope is not in my own goodness, but in your mercy to me through Jesus Christ. By Your Spirit, help me speak truth and walk in light today. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 24
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: 1 Corinthians 1:1-18
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: adore you for your faithfulness to your people. Thank you that you promise to sustain me until the end, and present me guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. I delight in your sustaining grace.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 65
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, I thank you that from your own abundance, you make the desert places overflow. The rain falls, the crops grow, the earth rejoices. In the same way, this psalm reminds me that when my soul feels dry and empty like the wilderness, I must not give up hope. In due season, I’ll know your abundance again. So I ask today for an outpouring of your refreshing grace - in my own soul, and in the souls of those I love. Satisfy us with the abundance, beauty, and goodness of your house, O God. Awaken our worship, engage our affections, and bring renewal to our hearts. Let the springtime of your grace blossom in dry and weary souls. And now, go with me into the work of this day, and enlarge my capacity to see and rejoice in your blessing. Keep me from all evil, and let me walk faithfully in your ways. Amen.
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.
Tuesday, January 30, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord God, although I have been raised with Christ, I have failed to put to death the sin in my heart. I have become complacent and self-satisfied. I have willfully ignored the sin that lingers in my life. Of this I repent and ask for your mercy. Direct me, O Lord, in all my doings with your gracious favor, and further me with your continual help; that in all my works begun, continued, and ended in you, I may glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 6
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: Matthew 5:13-20
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you as the one who fulfills the Law and the Prophets. Rather than abolish God’s holy law, you achieve and embody the fullness of God’s commandments. Thank you that in you I am made righteous.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 53
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this psalm reminds me that you look down from heaven and see both the fools who spurn you and the godly who seek after you. You understand the complexity of each human heart, and you draw near to those who are looking for you. I humbly pray that you would give me the grace to continually search after you and walk closely with you today and throughout my life. Keep me from being like the fool, who says there is no God. Remind me that in Jesus, you have restored the fortunes of your people - salvation HAS come out of Zion! So let me rejoice and be glad. Ground my soul in your steadfast love and strengthen me in the hope of your salvation.
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.
Monday, January 29, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Micah 6:1-8
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: 2 John 1:4-11
Prayer of Adoration:
O Lord my God, I adore you for your promise to protect your church. Out of love you called a people, out of love you saved them, and out of love you keep them. Many deceivers have gone into the world; but through your Word and your Spirit, you help your people abide in the teaching of Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 145
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, with the psalmist I affirm that you’re worthy of praise forever. Day in, day out, moment to moment, I want my life to continually express a worshipful awareness of you. Give me the grace to commend you to the next generation, so that the younger people in my life would see how thoroughly you satisfy. Remind me of your kindness to the generation behind me, so that I might walk with you more confidently. Fill my mind, my emotions, and my speech with fresh appreciation and love for you. And then let that love be displayed in words that declare your greatness; attitudes that reflect your beauty; and actions that seek your glory.
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.
Saturday, January 27, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 29:13-24
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: 1 Peter 2:2-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I worship you today as the Cornerstone. You are the stone rejected by men, but chosen by God and laid in Zion. To some, you are a rock of stumbling; but to your people, you are chosen and precious. Thank you that whoever believes in you will not be put to shame!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 84
Prayer of Consecration
Lord God, a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere. In the time this Psalm was written, the Psalmist had to choose between being in your house and being elsewhere. But now, in Jesus, you have come near; you dwell among your people. And so I don’t have to choose between dwelling in your courts and being away from your house. Rather, in the very mundane and ordinary parts of this day, I can experience the presence of your Spirit with me always. So give me special grace to sense your presence today. Draw my awareness back to you even as I do the tasks at hand. Cultivate in me a deepening delight in your nearness, and a deepening communion with you throughout the day. Keep me from all evil today; let me not dwell in the tents of wickedness. And in the times when my desire for you is weak and I cannot feel your presence, let me rest in your good and gracious promises. O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; Amen.
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.
Friday, January 26, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I confess that I often honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. I am content to appear righteous instead of truly being righteous. I repent of my sin and my self-love. Please search my heart, examine my motives, and forgive my faults. Awaken me to your glory, and send your Spirit to renew and change my heart. Help me to hear your voice today above the clamor of this world, and follow only you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 18:15-22
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: Mark 1:29-45
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I adore you for your power AND your compassion. Not only do you have the strength to heal and deliver; but you are moved with mercy toward the needy. In you, sinners find rest, healing, and forgiveness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 71
Prayer of Consecration
I thank you, Lord, that you care for me in every season of my life. Whether I’m newly following you, or have walked with you for a lifetime, you prove to me again and again that I can trust you. This doesn’t mean that life is easy or perfect. This psalm speaks honestly of troubles and calamities, acknowledging that life is hard. I know that I will face suffering, even tragedy, so help me to respond to hard times by clinging tightly to you. Remind me of your faithful care in years gone by, so that I can be strengthened when I feel afraid. Fill my mind and heart with songs of gratitude, so that I might remember and celebrate your lovingkindness. I entrust myself to you today; keep me in your care, and let my tongue speak of your righteous help all the day long.
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.
Thursday, January 25, 2024
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. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, I acknowledge before you my sin, my wounds, and my weakness. I need your forgiveness; I need your healing; I need your strength. In Christ, you draw near to the weak and needy. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive my sin, for Jesus’ sake. Heal my wounds, for Jesus’ sake. Show your strength in my weakness, for Jesus’ sake. By your Spirit, empower me today to delight in you and to obey your will, seeking your glory above all else. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 22
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: Galatians 1:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
My God and Father: I praise you for the marvelous good news of the gospel. There is only one gospel, through which you call sinners to yourself; and one name under heaven by which we may be saved - the name of Jesus Christ. To Him be glory, honor, and praise.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 21
Prayer of Consecration
O God: in this Psalm you point my attention to Jesus, the new and better king. You gave him the desire of his heart, which he ardently pursued when he was on earth by his prayer, his actions, and his suffering. And as I slow down to ponder this, I realize: we are his desire. Jesus came to seek a people for himself: a people which includes me, and the company of believers through all time. Jesus’ heart belongs to us, and to the work of our redemption. Now in heaven his desire is granted him, for he sees his beloved coming to be with him where he is. Lord, warm my heart in response to your love. Awaken in me a corresponding passion to be with you. The desires of the Lord Jesus were from his heart, and you heard them. Make my heart right before you, so that in my case also, you’ll fulfill the request of my lips. In your strength I rejoice today. Amen.
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.
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God my Father, I confess that in my weakness and unbelief I have lived by my own strength rather than by the power of your resurrection. I admit my self-reliance, and I turn from it. By your Spirit, so draw my heart to you, so guide my mind, so fill my imagination, so control my will, that I may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use me as you will, for your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 1:4-10
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: Matthew 5:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: thank you for these words of deep comfort. To the poor, the meek, the hungry, the mournful, you promise blessing and satisfaction. I rejoice in the beauty and wisdom of your words.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 15
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, help me embrace both sides of the vision this Psalm puts forward. On the one hand, I know that I am unworthy to approach you on your holy hill. I don’t have clean hands or a pure heart. Even my best efforts to do the right thing are mixed with pride and foolishness. So thank you that you sent Jesus down from your holy hill to walk blamelessly among us, to speak the truth, and to enact the obedience that we cannot. Thank you that his righteousness covers our sins and reconciles us to you. On the other hand, I know that this Psalm paints a picture of the kind of life that pleases you. It’s not just a mirror to reveal my shortcomings; it’s a map to show me how to walk in holiness. So let me embrace its vision! Today, let me do what is right. Let me speak truth in my heart. Let me not slander with my tongue. Help me do no evil to my neighbor. Help me despise what is vile, honor what is good, and protect the poor and vulnerable. Let me do all this by the grace of my Savior, who died and rose again to free me for a life of joyful obedience.
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.