The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, by whom all things were created and for whom all things exist, I bow before you in humility. Truly I have more than sufficient reasons to overflow with gratitude and thanksgiving. Yet how easily I default to complaining, whining, and grumbling. I acknowledge and grieve the entitlement and selfishness in my soul. Have mercy on me, O Lord. Free me for joyful gratitude and humble thanksgiving, through Jesus Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 6:1-19
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 6:14-29
Prayer of Adoration:
God of wisdom, in you all things hold together. By your providence, even acts that seem senseless and unjust can glorify you and vindicate your truth. I thank you that as your disciple, I have the opportunity to suffer in your name, and to exalt my Savior and Lord.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 49:1-12
Prayer of Consecration
God: why should I fear in times of trouble? Why should I envy those who trust in their wealth and boast in the abundance of their riches? Both the wise and the fool will die and leave their wealth to others. So today, deliver me from the power of wealth. Free me from greed, from envy, and from anxiety over riches. I can’t avoid living in a world where money is power; and I do thank you for giving me daily bread and entrusting me with resources. But I confess that all too often, money controls me. It determines what I think about, what I worry about, and what I fight about. So today, free me from the grip of wealth, and make me open-handed and generous with what you have given me. Give me opportunities today to sacrifice and to bless others. Let me live with eternity in mind, realizing that only the soul lasts 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.
Monday, July 15, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid. Cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the working of your Holy Spirit, that I may perfectly love you, joyfully obey you, and worthily magnify your holy name, through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 29:1-28
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: Matthew 13:44-58
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord, I adore you, because in you I have found a great treasure. Your kingdom is so valuable, so important, that it’s worth sacrificing everything for. Thank you for blessing me with the riches of your glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 24
Prayer of Consecration
O God: the earth is yours. You are the King of Glory who rules over everything. And that means you know everything that will come my way today... and you are in control of it all. I don’t need to doubt, worry, or be afraid, because I am yours, and you are mine. Today I want to be the person this Psalm speaks of: the one who has clean hands and a pure heart. Left to myself, this is NOT who I am. But Jesus ascended the hill of the Lord in my place; and through him, I am changed, forgiven, and transformed. He has sent the Holy Spirit to help me walk in truth and freedom. So today, blessed Spirit, I surrender myself to you. Fill me, heal me, use me, for the glory of your name.
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, July 13, 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.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come before you today not in penitent fear but in repentant faith. Because you have raised me up with Christ, I now humble myself before you. I confess that I have been proud, attempting to live an autonomous life and believing the lie of self-sufficiency. I have avoided Jesus by treasuring other things more than you and your kingdom. Have mercy on me today, O Lord my God, and empower me for greater trust, submission, and obedience, through Christ my Savior: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Hosea 1
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: Colossians 2:6-19
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ: I adore you as the head of all rule and authority - the one who has triumphed over all the powers of darkness through your death and resurrection. In you the whole fullness of deity dwells; and in you I am made complete.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 149
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, your word encourages your people to extravagantly praise you, with dancing and loud music. Thank you that you invite free, enthusiastic praise! Maybe this kind of expression is familiar to me, or maybe I’ve never worshipped you in this way. Set me free from passivity in worship, and cultivate in me a joyful and wholehearted response to your goodness. Part of praising you is loving your justice, so help me engage the part of the psalm that pivots from praise to judgment. When you invite your people to wage war against evil, may that war be constrained and directed by 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 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, July 12, 2024
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy Spirit of God: I confess today my neglect of you. I am not yielded to your influence as I ought to be. I walk in the flesh rather than in the Spirit, and as a result I bear the fruit of the flesh rather than the fruit of the Spirit. Gracious Holy Spirit, forgive my sin and overcome my weakness. Subdue my restless heart and overwhelm me with your presence, that I might hear your voice clearly, yield to your control eagerly, and bear your fruit consistently. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 2
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 12:2-10
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you because your grace is sufficient for me. Thank you for my many weaknesses, which magnify your power and glory. Help me boast gladly in them, that your power may rest upon me.
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; 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 interrupt my connection 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. 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.
Thursday, July 11, 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
God of mercy, whose Son, Jesus Christ, beckons me with the wide embrace of his love: I confess that I have been a wayward child. I have disobeyed your commands; I have been deaf to your call; I have been cold to your love. In thought, word, and deed, I have hurt others and dishonored your name. In your great mercy, receive me again as your beloved child, not because I am worthy, but for the sake of Jesus, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 44:1-20
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: Romans 8:12-25
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, Father, for giving me the Spirit of adoption, by whom I cry, “Abba, Father!” Thank you, Holy Spirit, for bearing witness with my spirit that I am a child of God. And thank you for the sweet inward groaning that I experience as I wait eagerly, with all creation, for your full and final redemption.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 128
Prayer of Consecration
Father, today I take hold of this promise: “Blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in his ways.” I know the word “blessed” means happy, content, satisfied. All around me today, I hear voices telling me where true happiness is to be found - promising that I will be BLESSED by chasing after the gods of this world. So let this Psalm be an anchor for me, today and every day. Help me believe that fearing you and walking in your ways is the path to true fulfillment. And then help me take the small, everyday steps of walking in your ways. Guide me today by your Spirit, and let my heart be soft to your leading. I pray this not just for myself, but for all your people. May we fear you, and walk in your ways.
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, July 10, 2024
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead 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
Heavenly Father, I enter this day full of thanksgiving, because you have redeemed my life by your mercy and grace. I worship you for such a great salvation even as I come to you in repentance. Hear my confession, Father. Forgive me for under-believing your gospel and over-believing my worries. Forgive me for being slow to listen and quick to judgment. Forgive me for failing to love you and your church. Have mercy on me, Lord, for Jesus’ sake. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 5
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 11:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I adore you because you are a good Father. You give good gifts to your children, and you answer those who call on you. You promise to give the Holy Spirit to all your children who ask; so today, I ask. Fill me with your Holy Spirit!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 123
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm reminds me how important my eyes are to worship. I’m going to look to something today for identity, for security, for meaning. As the eyes of servants look to their master, my eyes are meant to look to you. I realize how often my eyes look down - to people, to experiences, to tangible realities in this world - as my source of life and meaning. Today, help me lift my eyes to you, who are enthroned in the heavens! Get my eyes UP - off of this world, with its many vanities, and onto you, in all of your glory. My soul has had more than enough of the contempt of the proud. Fill my soul with life and joy as I look to you, this day and every day.
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, July 9, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord God, in Christ you have adopted me as your beloved child. But I confess that deep inside my soul I doubt your love for me. Instead of being satisfied in your acceptance, I look for acceptance elsewhere. Instead of resting in your love, I am restless with fear, control, and worry. Forgive my lack of trust in your promises. Forgive my doubt of your great love. Let your perfect love cast out all fear, and free me to glorify and enjoy you fully. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 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: Mark 6:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, I adore you because you use flawed, foolish disciples as the means of making your kingdom known in this world. Thank you for your power which works mightily in me, and in all who bear your name and live for your glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 85
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm looks back to your faithfulness in the past as our hope for revival in the present. Because you have restored your people, I know you can restore your people. But we are fickle, O Lord. We are prone to wander, to spurn your steadfast love, and to turn back to folly. I see this in my own life, and I see it in the lives of those I love. Our hope is not in our faithfulness, but in yours. So restore us again, O Lord! Renew our love for you, our obedience to you, our fear of you. Speak peace to your people, to your saints. Revive us again, that we may rejoice 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.
Monday, July 8, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy Spirit: because of my union with Christ, you dwell within me. Yet I confess that I still live according to the flesh. I do not live in conscious dependence upon you. I do not walk in vital communion with you. I am self-reliant and self-trusting, more defined by this age than by the age to come. Forgive me, Gracious Father, for neglecting the gift of your Spirit. Today, fill me afresh with the Spirit’s presence. Revive my soul. Renew my zeal. Release your power in me, for the glory of Your name.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 18:16-33
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: Matthew 13:24-43
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, your kingdom often appears weak, hidden, and ineffective, in this world. Yet I thank you that one day you will rule the whole world, purging evil, rewarding righteousness, and bring to creation to its full glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 48
Prayer of Consecration
O God, with the Psalmist I will meditate on Zion, your holy city. It’s a physical place, but it’s also meant to depict you as our loving, powerful, and steadfast king. This psalm gives fire to my imagination and stirs my affections as I picture your city, beautiful in elevation, the joy of all the earth. Kings and rulers are humbled by its power, but your people are invited to walk freely among its towers, seeing them as symbols of your strength and steadfast love. Help me to direct my imagination to your city today, Father. I may find myself in pleasant surroundings, or I may face various kinds of darkness. Whatever my circumstance, help me remember your steadfast love by meditating on the beauty and strength of the City of God.
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, July 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.
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: Amos 8:1-12
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: Colossians 1:15-29
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ: I adore you because by you all things were created, and in you all things hold together. You are the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything you might be preeminent.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 130
Prayer of Consecration
Father, today I hear the Psalmist telling me, “O Israel, hope in the Lord!” And my soul says, “I will! I will wait for the Lord, and in his word I will hope.” Lord, I realize that hope involves waiting. Like night-watchmen wait for the morning, life with you is full of waiting and hoping, trusting that you will make good on your promises. So help me wait on you. Let me not be in a hurry. Help me reject the lies of instant gratification and immediate fulfillment. Strengthen my hope by the power of the Holy Spirit, that I might embrace a long obedience in the same direction.
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, July 5, 2024
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
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: Lamentations 3:1-33
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: 2 Corinthians 8
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy God, I adore you for the grace of our Lord Jesus, who, though he was rich, became poor, so that we through his poverty might become rich. Grant me a generous spirit, Lord, that with joy I may earnestly give my time and resources to build your church.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:1-24
Prayer of Consecration
Father: in these moments, I seek to store up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I want to love your word more than I do. I want to revere and respect your word more than I do. I want to meditate on your word and give attention to it, that it may shape how I see the world. So even today, let me see your word bearing fruit in my life. Bring the Scriptures to mind throughout the day; let your truth be on my heart and on my tongue. Make your word delightful to me, that I may desire it more than all riches.
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, July 4, 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, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 55
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: Romans 8:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
Gracious Father, I adore you because you have set me free in Jesus Christ from sin and death. And I adore you, Holy Spirit, because you live in me, enabling me to walk in holiness and gratitude. Thank you that instead of a law that condemns me, I have a God who dwells in me. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 65
Prayer of Consecration
Praise is due to you, O God, in Zion! I don’t pray to you this morning only because I need it; I pray to you because praise and worship and adoration and glory are your rightful due. “Blessed is the one you choose and bring near” - so thank you that in your sovereign grace, you have chosen me and brought me near through the work of Jesus Christ. “YOU are the hope of all the ends of the earth and of the farthest seas.” But so many around me don’t hope in you! Even though you’re the only one they can find true hope in… they spend their energy and time and money on lesser things. So give me today a rightful jealousy for your glory. Break my heart for the ways my friends and neighbors are not giving you your rightful due. Let me be driven to prayer and mercy and evangelism by an earnest concern for the glory and beauty of your name.
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, July 3, 2024
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead 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
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: 2 Samuel 1
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: John 6:22-35
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you for you are the true bread from heaven; the true manna that gives eternal life. Like your disciples, I find myself asking what I must do in order to do the works of God. Thank you your work is already finished, the feast is already given, and all I need to do is trust in you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 52
Prayer of Consecration
O God: as I cross the threshold of this day, I thank you for this Psalm which draws a stark contrast between good and evil. I live in a world that has lost its moral clarity; but your Word has not! In my life, I will encounter people who “love evil more than good, and lying more than speaking what is right.” It gives me strength to remember that “You will break them down forever.” And it gives me hope to know that “the righteous will see and laugh.” Those who boast in evil are not to be feared; they are to be laughed at, because their rebellion is no match for your righteousness. Thank you for the picture of a green olive tree, thriving in the house of God: make me like that tree! Give me a firm trust in you, a resolute hatred of evil, and a joyful patience as I wait for the fulfillment of all your promises.
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, July 2, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
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: Genesis 25:19-34
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 5:21-43
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you for your great compassion. To the sick, the poor, and the desperate you bring healing, mercy, and hope. You ask for nothing except trust. Thank you for your healing grace.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 30
Prayer of Consecration
O God, this is the great promise of redemption: weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes in the morning. There is much in this world and in my life to cause weeping. But everlasting joy is coming! One day tears and sorrow will be no more; and even now, joy is the currency of life in your kingdom. Whatever things make me mourn, let me remember that they are but momentary. And help me remember that you HAVE turned my mourning into dancing. You have removed all my sin and united me with the Lord Jesus. And so, despite all the troubles of this world, my joy can never be taken away. Help me go about my work today with relentless joy, resting secure in the happiness and peace that is mine in Christ.
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, July 1, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
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 18:1-15
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 13:1-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit, I adore you for planting the seed of the gospel in my heart. Thank you for opening my ears and eyes to the message of the kingdom and for nurturing my growth in holiness, that I may bear fruit for your glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 15
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this is the person I want to be. One who does what is right; speaks truth; does not slander or do evil to a neighbor; one who honors the godly, protects the innocent, and keeps his word. Thank you that this Psalm so perfectly describes the Lord Jesus Christ, who ascended your holy hill on my behalf. And thank you that because I belong to you, you send the Holy Spirit to produce the fruit of righteousness in my character. You are making me into this kind of person. The progress is inevitable! So today, help me choose what is right; help me speak words of blessing and life; help me love truth and despise falsehood and evil. Thank you for the promise that “he who does these things shall never be moved;” anchor me and steady me in a life of joyful obedience to 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, June 29, 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.
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: Zechariah 9
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: Colossians 1:1-14
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I adore you for your word of truth, the gospel, which even today is bearing fruit and increasing in the whole world, and in me. Like your servant Paul, I thank you for the saints, your church, whom you have redeemed and who bear witness to your glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 145
Prayer of Consecration
God: “Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.” I confess how frequently I take you for granted, going days and even weeks without blessing you and praising your name. This Psalm is a rebuke to my hurried, busy, unattentive life. Like the Psalmist, I want to meditate on your wondrous works. I want to speak of your awesome deeds. I want to tell of your power and commend your works to the next generation. You are near to all who call on you - which means you are near to ME as I spend these moments in prayer. Let me know and feel your nearness. My eyes look to you today; satisfy my desire, hear my cry, show me your kindness. Fill my mind and my mouth with your praises, that I may declare your glory throughout this day.
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, June 28, 2024
Opening Prayer:
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours. For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O LORD, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
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: 1 Samuel 18:1-16
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 6:1-13
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ, I adore you for your abundant grace. Thank you that I don’t have to find just the right time or just the right place to encounter you. Now is the favorable time. Now is the day of salvation. Your grace is at work in my life right now in this very moment. And for that I praise and thank you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 133
Prayer of Consecration
God: I meditate this day on the beauty of unity. It IS a good and pleasing thing when your people dwell in the deep unity that you intend. So today I ask for that unity - in my own life, and in my church. Show me where I am contributing to disunity through bitterness, unforgiveness, or passivity. Help me be a peacemaker, moving toward others in reconciliation. Most importantly, bring to me - and to my church - the reviving and renewing influence of the Holy Spirit, who exists to make us one. Spirit, pour out your grace on us, that we might be marked by the relational beauty only you can bring.
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, June 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
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: 1 Samuel 17:38-58
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: Romans 7
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I praise you for your good, holy and righteous law, which reveals my sin. Yet I praise you even more for the gospel, which proclaims my freedom from that sin. Thank you for this good news, which has brought me from death to life!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 82
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm contrasts the righteousness of your judgments with the injustice and partiality that are all too common on the earth. So I pray with the Psalmist: “Arise, O God! Judge the earth!” Let not the injustice of this world drive me to despair; rather, as I see injustice, let it cause me to long for your coming and look forward to your judgment. God, the poor and needy need an advocate; the oppressed need a deliverer; the forgotten need One who sees them. And you are that One. So let me praise you for your righteous judgments today, and let me be an instrument of your mercy and goodness in the world. As I see injustice, help me right it; as I see poverty, help me alleviate it; as I see brokenness, make me an agent of restoration. Most of all, help me pray and long for your return. Arise, O God! Judge the earth; for you shall inherit the nations.
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, June 26, 2024
Opening Prayer:
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. O my God, in you I trust; let me not be put to shame; let not my enemies exult over me. Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead 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
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: 1 Samuel 17:1-37
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 10:25-42
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord, I adore you because you are my portion, the only thing I truly need. Why should I be anxious and troubled when you can never be taken away from me? Thank you for your loving patience, your nearness, and your steadfast presence.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 45
Prayer of Consecration
Jesus: thank you that you are the Happy King. God has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions. Because you are sovereign and good, nothing causes you to fret or worry. Nothing gets under your skin or fills you with nervous anxiety. You are pleased in your own glory and in the loving fellowship of the Trinity. Because I am finite, I am not like you; I am worried and anxious about many things. So today, let your gladness ground me and steady me. Remind me that I belong to you, and you hold my life in your hands. By worrying I cannot add a single hour to my life. So free me from worry and anxiety, as I worship the Happy King who is full of joy and peace.
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, June 25, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes! I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. Deal bountifully with your servant, that I may live and keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law.
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: Genesis 24:29-67
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 4:35-41
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I adore you, and I fear you. Who is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? Thank you for the power of your voice and the comfort of your presence.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
The words of this Psalm express the longing of my heart, O God. “Make me to know your ways; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me.” I want to be your disciple. I want to learn from you. I want to know your paths and walk in your ways. I realize this takes time and practice; the more I walk in your ways, the more familiar they become. So today, help me put one foot in front of the other. Help me do the next right thing. Give me the courage, power, and grace to turn from evil and to walk in obedience to Jesus. Thank you that you instruct sinners in the way, and lead the humble in what is right. Make me humble. Whatever may come my way today, may the friendship of the Lord be my delight and strength.
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, June 24, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; you will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.
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: Genesis 24:1-28
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: Matthew 11
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus: I adore you for the promise of rest. In your kingdom, the violence and upheaval of the world are ended: the blind see, the lame walk, the deaf hear, and the dead are raised to life. Your yoke is easy, and your burden is light; in you my soul finds rest.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 9
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, O Lord, that you are “a stronghold in times of trouble; those who know your name put their trust in you, for you have not forsaken those who seek you.” And so today, I know you welcome my prayer; you will not forsake me as I seek you. I ask you to “see my affliction from those who hate me.” Like the Psalmist, I have enemies; there are even those who hate me and seek my downfall. So give me the grace to love my enemies and to pray for those who persecute me. Give me the strength to bear up under affliction and to stay engaged in difficult relationships. My hardship is small compared to many; so I pray today for the needy, the oppressed, and the poor throughout the world: “Arise, O Lord! Let not man prevail!” Bring your justice speedily to the earth, that the wicked might perish, and that your rule of righteousness, peace, and justice might be established.
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.