The Daily Liturgy Podcast
Saturday, July 27, 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
O Lord, I confess that my heart is restless. I have sought comfort and security in created things rather than in you, the Creator. I have suppressed the truth in unrighteousness and exchanged Your glory for lesser things. Forgive my sin, O God, and subdue my restless heart. By your Spirit, strengthen me today for greater obedience to you, greater delight in your goodness, greater trust in your promises. Help me to rest in my adoption as your child. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 23:1-8
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: Hebrews 11:1-28
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, I adore you for the great cloud of witnesses that have gone before me. Thank you that I do not walk this path of faith alone, but am surrounded by the communion of saints past and present. I worship you for your faithfulness to your people throughout history, and I eagerly await the enjoyment of all your promises.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 145:1-13
Prayer of Consecration
O God, as I approach the end of another week, I meditate on the glorious splendor of your kingdom. This week has come and gone; tomorrow marks the beginning of a new week that will have its own responsibilities and challenges. And through it all, in the midst of my everyday joys and trials, you are bringing your kingdom and moving all of history toward its appointed end. One day every knee will bow, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord of all. One day every deed will be brought to judgment, every wrong accounted for, and every injustice rectified. So let me live today as a faithful citizen of your kingdom. Help me speak of your glory and tell of your power. Help me even now to prepare for worship tomorrow, gathering with your people to sing aloud of your righteousness and rejoice in 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.
Friday, July 26, 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
O Lord of heaven and earth, remember me, cold of heart and impure, in your Kingdom. Deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from pettiness of the soul and stony hardness of heart. O Lord, save me from temptation; receive me in repentance; grant me pure thoughts; that I may love You with all my heart and soul and that I may obey your will in all things to the glory of your name. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 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: Ephesians 2:1-22
Prayer of Adoration:
God of mercy, I am awed by the immeasurable riches of your grace and mercy to me in Christ! I who was once dead have been made alive by grace through faith. I, who deserve nothing, have been given everything! How awesome is your amazing grace.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 89:19-27
Prayer of Consecration
O God: your faithfulness to David is a foretaste of your faithfulness to me and to all who are yours through Christ. This Psalm points forward to the great descendant of David, the Lord Jesus Christ, “the highest of the kings of the earth.” So today, please remind me that I am a subject of King Jesus. I belong to him. I am one of his people. And you have promised that Jesus’ reign will never end; his purposes will never fail; his kingdom will never be thwarted! So let me joyfully give all of myself to Him and to His cause. May I joyfully worship King Jesus, obey him, and live for his glory and fame, that all the ends of the earth may sing his praise.
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 25, 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
Merciful God, I confess before you that I have sinned. I have sinned in what I have thought and said; in the wrong I have done and in the good I have not done. I have sinned in ignorance; I have sinned in weakness; I have sinned through my own deliberate fault. I repent and turn to you. Forgive me, for the sake of my merciful Savior Jesus. By your Spirit, transform my desires, renew my affections, and strengthen my obedience, for the glory of your name.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 7:18-29
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: Romans 9
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, God, for the mystery of your sovereign grace. You have mercy on whom you have mercy, and you harden whomever you will. Because your purposes are beyond my capacity to understand, kindle in me reverence and awe, and grant me wholehearted confidence in you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 50
Prayer of Consecration
O God, there’s nothing I give you that is not already yours. Every beast and bird is yours; the world and all its fullness belong to you. So deliver me from the superstition that my obedience and worship gives you something you need, or fills up some lack in you. Rather, remind me that worship and obedience are my grateful response to your salvation and benevolence. You are fully satisfied in yourself, and you invite me into the joy of your eternal happiness. So help me today be faithful to your covenant. Help me not cast your words behind me. Rather, let me order my way rightly and be faithful to the covenant vows I’ve made to you. May the water of baptism drench my imagination, and may the taste of the bread and wine linger upon my tongue.
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 24, 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
Almighty God: because of Christ’s blood, do not hold against me, poor sinner that I am, any of my sin, or of the evil that constantly clings to me. By myself I am too weak to stand on my own even for a moment. And my sworn enemies - the world, the flesh, and the devil - never stop attacking me. Uphold me and make me strong with the strength of your Holy Spirit, so that I may not go down to defeat in this spiritual struggle, but may firmly resist my enemies until I finally win the complete victory, through Jesus Christ my Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Samuel 7:1-17
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: Luke 11:37-53
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you for your righteous anger at hypocrisy and injustice. You will not tolerate religion that is shallow and self-centered. You are loving enough to name it, and merciful enough to heal it.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 33:13-22
Prayer of Consecration
God, today I remember that you look down from heaven on all the inhabitants of the earth. You see all, you know all, you take notice of everything. Nothing escapes your watchful eye. And this awakens in me two longings. One, I want to turn from sin today. I want to please you and bring glory to you, rather than acting in shameful ways that dishonor your name. Second, I want to experience your closeness today. This Psalm reminds me that you are not a distant observer, but are intimately involved in the lives of your people. So today, let me know and sense your nearness. Make me glad in you. Let your steadfast love be upon me, even as I hope 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.
Tuesday, July 23, 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
O God: forgive my doubting, questioning heart. Like those who witnessed Jesus’ miracles of healing yet spurned belief, I too have seen wonders, yet have hardened my heart. I confess the way my pessimism has caused others to doubt themselves and your Spirit; the times my criticism has wounded others; the times my dejection has dampened the enthusiasm of those inspired by your Word and work. O God, forgive me, and in your mercy, renew me, that with an open heart I may believe and never pose an obstacle to the faith of others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 32:22-31
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: Mark 6:30-52
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus Christ: I adore you for your redemptive power which fills hunger, heals sickness, and subdues nature. Your miracles are not bare displays of divine power; they are signs which reveal you as the long-awaited Messiah. I bow my knee before you in reverent worship.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 23
Prayer of Consecration
O God, what a joy to walk into this day with this beloved Psalm on my lips. You are my shepherd, and I am one of your sheep. I do not know whether this day will be full of green pastures and still waters, or whether I may walk through the valley of the shadow of death. But I DO know that whatever lies before me, you are with me, and you lead me. I can trust in your faithful care. Moreover, I am confident that because of Jesus Christ, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Strengthened by these promises, let me enter this day with unshakable confidence in your goodness and care.
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 22, 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
Heavenly Father, you made me for your glory, redeemed me by your Son, and sealed me with your Spirit. Grounded in this new identity, I make my confession before you. I grieve today the many expressions of my self-centeredness. I am self-loving; self-serving; self-protecting; self-righteous; and self-interested. The habits of my heart revolve around SELF; and so your glory does not shine brightly from my life. By your grace, forgive my sin and conquer my selfishness. Establish your Son as the king of my heart and the center of my life. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 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 14:1-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you for your great compassion. You are the good shepherd, who cares for his tired, lost, weary sheep. I come to you hungry, and you truly satisfy. Thank you for your abundant provision.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 17
Prayer of Consecration
I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God. I confess that this Psalm doesn’t resonate as deeply as others. I don’t face “the wicked who do me violence” or “deadly enemies who surround me.” At least… it doesn’t seem like I do. And that’s the problem! Your word tells me that I do in fact have a sworn enemy, the devil, who seeks to destroy me. And yet, in my rationalistic slumber, I have taken him for granted, blind to the great spiritual conflict that rages around me. So today, keep me as the apple of your eye. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Make me aware of the schemes of the enemy, and all the ways he seeks to devour and destroy. Arise, O Lord! Confront him, subdue him, by the power of your cross and resurrection.
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 20, 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
Lord Jesus, if I say I have no sin, I deceive myself and the truth is not in me; so I humbly confess my sins today. The idols of my heart are many. I have bowed down to false gods, and looked to them to provide what only you can provide. Forgive me. Free me. Deepen my sorrow for the wrong I have done and the good I have left undone. My comfort is found in knowing that you are full of compassion, slow to anger and abounding in grace. I trust boldly in Christ my redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Amos 7:7-15
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: Colossians 3:1-17
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I adore you for the beauty of holiness. Thank you that you do not leave your people as they are, but you radically transform them, filling them with moral beauty as they participate in the very life of Christ. Thank you that in Jesus, I truly have a new self.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 119:25-48
Prayer of Consecration
God: with the Psalmist, I cling to your Word. I want to keep your law continually and observe it with my whole heart. And yet I know that I fail to do so. So thank you for my Savior, who fully kept your law and obeyed all your commandments. Through him, this Psalm becomes not a mirror to reveal my faults, but a lamp to guide my feet on the path of obedience. Deepen and strengthen my love for your word, O Lord. Let me cling to your testimonies and run in the way of your commandments. Let me never set your gospel and your law against one another, as though they are opposites. Rather, let me embrace your law in all its fullness, seeing how it drives me to Christ for salvation AND how it guides me in a life of obedience through your Spirit. I have chosen the way of faithfulness; so put false ways far from me, and lead me in the path of your commandments.
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 19, 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: in Jesus Christ you love me, but I have not loved you. You have given me all things, yet I have squandered your gifts. I have grieved you and caused hurt to others, and I am not worthy to be called your child. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am ashamed and sorry for all I have done to displease you. Cleanse me from my sin and receive me again into your household, that I might never stray from your love, but always remain within the sound of your voice. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Hosea 11:1-11
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: Ephesians 1
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of Glory: I marvel that you chose me in Christ before the foundation of the world. Blessed Jesus: thank you that in you, I have redemption through your blood. Holy Spirit: thank you for sealing me in Christ and guaranteeing my inheritance. Amen.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 105:1-22
Prayer of Consecration
God, as I meditate on your faithfulness to your people throughout history, I am reminded of your goodness. And I’m challenged by this one phrase in the Psalm: “let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.” I’m reminded of how joyful the Lord Jesus was during his life on earth; how freely he enjoyed his relationship with you! And I’m reminded of how often my disposition is marked instead by fear, doubt, worry, anger, shame, discouragement, or despair. The bottom line is that I’m more consumed with my worries than with your glory. So today, would you fill me with joy? Would you let my heart rejoice as I remember the wondrous works you have done? Holy Spirit, I know that joy is a fruit of your presence; so fill me today, that I might overflow with joy through your abundant goodness.
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 18, 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
Heavenly Father, with my eyes fixed on Jesus, I ask you to forgive my sins. Forgive me for hurting people I love by my impatience, by my irritation, and by my unkept promises. Forgive me for caring more about what others think about me than what you think about me. Forgive me for being too busy to behold your beauty in Word, meditate on your mercies in Christ, and hear you call to me in the gospel. Have mercy on me, Father, in the name of Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 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: Romans 8:26-39
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, I adore you for the power and depth of the love of Christ. Because of your predestining, electing grace, I cannot be charged, I cannot be accused, and I cannot be condemned. Indeed, nothing in all creation can separate me from your love!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 71:1-16
Prayer of Consecration
Refuge. That’s the theme of this Psalm, Lord - and that’s what I need you to be for me today. Wicked and unjust people surround me. Sometimes I am in physical danger; but more often, the threats are social, psychological, and spiritual. I need someplace I can go; someone I can run to. Remind me today that you are my strong refuge; that you will never let me be put to shame; that you will not forsake me when my strength is spent. Even in these short moments now, incline your ear to me, and strengthen me through your Word and Spirit. May my mouth be filled with your praise, and with your glory all the 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.
Wednesday, July 17, 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
Word of God Incarnate: you came to this world to accomplish salvation. By your grace, you call me to repent, to be crucified with you, and to be raised as a new creation. But I confess that often I do not live as a renewed person! I “go with the flow” instead of stemming the tide of sin. I allow the fruit of the Spirit to be choked out by the weeds of evil. Forgive me, for Jesus’ sake, and help me show evidence every day of your kingdom’s reign in my heart.
Old Testament Reading: Ecclesiastes 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: Luke 11:14-36
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord God, you are light and in you is no darkness at all. I adore you for your power over evil and for the clear, bright truth of your revelation. Help me to walk in the light, that my words and actions may display your glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 49:13-20
Prayer of Consecration
Father: when I die, I will take nothing away. So let me live today with that truth in mind. The world entices me to live for the moment, consumed with what I can get in this life. But the gospel frees me to live for your kingdom, joyfully giving myself away for the good of others. Open my eyes today to every opportunity you give me to serve others. Let me not be like “the beasts that perish,” living merely to satisfy my own cravings and desires. Instead, let me live as one who has understanding. Help me consider the glorious future you have promised me, and help me live today in light of that.
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 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.