The Daily Liturgy
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, Every day I call upon you, In the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, And my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, That I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 42:1-17
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: Matthew 1:1-17
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I adore you for your faithfulness to your promises. Christ Jesus: I worship you, for you are the offspring of Abraham; the royal heir of David; the one in whom all of God’s promises find fulfillment.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 25
Prayer of Consecration
Almighty God: today I entrust my body and soul into your care. Turn to me and be gracious to me; consider my affliction and my troubles. Remind me every moment of your care and companionship. Teach me to return to you in my thoughts and prayers again and again throughout this day, and remind me that you use every circumstance to draw me closer to you. I commit myself to your watchful care, claiming Jesus Christ as my hope. Give me grace today to follow the road that you walked, and to your name be all the glory and praise, even to the end.
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, November 30, 2021
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; Test me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there be any hurtful way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart. Be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord of heaven and earth, remember me, cold of heart and impure, in your Kingdom. Deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from pettiness of 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 8:11-22
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Luke 1:5-25
Prayer of Adoration:
I rejoice, O God, in your great mercy. To the barren, you bring fulfillment; to the hopeless, you give joy and gladness; to the poor, you grant abundance. I thank you that just as you answered the prayers of your servants Zechariah and Elizabeth, so you hear the prayers of your people today.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 80
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm unfolds my family history. It tells the story of your work with your people; how you brought them to freedom, how you cleared a space for them, and then how they fell under the weight of their own sin. It’s punctuated by their repeated cry for restoration, and I echo that cry in my own soul. I add my prayer to the ancient prayer of your people. Restore us, O Lord! Your people are so prone to worldliness, to selfishness, to idolatry. Thank you that at the very moment when the story seems to fall apart in failure, a voice cries out in the wilderness, “Every valley will be exalted, every mountain and hill made low. Prepare the way of the Lord.” You sent your son to enact the magnificent restoration that your people need. We cried out, “Let your face shine on us,” and you sent Jesus, the radiance of your glory and the exact imprint of your nature, to bring us back to yourself. Glory be to 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.
Monday, November 29, 2021
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: Isaiah 2:1-5
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: Romans 1:1-7
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I worship you because you have called me to belong to Jesus Christ. And I thank you that you are bringing about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, through the glorious gospel of Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 122
Prayer of Consecration
Gracious Father, this psalm calls me to turn away from the rush of the world and come to the peaceful house of the Lord. I answer that invitation with gladness, looking ahead to Sunday when I’ll gather with your people, but also grateful that I can enter your house now in prayer. Today, Lord, I offer myself to you, inviting your life to flow through me. Guide my work, and give me the capacity to attend to it, free from distraction. Direct my interactions with others so that I honor them as fellow image-bearers, loved and valued by you. Most of all, as I walk with you today, take me beyond outward compliance with your laws, into true friendship with you. In this psalm, you urge me to pray for peace, so I invite your peace to rule in my soul, in my work, in my interactions, and in the lives of those who love you all around the world. Let your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, as we have hoped in you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, November 27, 2021
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
God my Father, in my weakness and unbelief I have lived by my own strength rather than by the power of your resurrection. I confess my self-reliance. By your Spirit, so draw my heart to you, so guide my mind, so fill my imagination, so control my will, that I may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use me as you will, for your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Daniel 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: Revelation 1:4-8
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: I bow in worship before you, the one who was and who is and who is to come. In you I find my beginning and my end, my source and my destiny. To you be glory and dominion forever and ever.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 127
Prayer of Consecration
O God: thank you for this direct frontal attack on my anxiety and restlessness! I admit my anxious toil; my rising early and staying up late seeking to build something stable and lasting. But apart from you, it’s all in vain. So help me commit my labors to you. Help me this evening to receive the gift of sleep as a gracious blessing from a loving Father. Thank you also for this Psalm’s unapologetic embrace of children and family. In a culture that both idolizes children and sees them as optional and expendable, may your church honor and welcome and treasure little ones. Help me do my part to encourage the families around me and to be a godly example to those younger than me. Fulfill your covenant promises to your people, so that when I am old and gray, I can rejoice in your faithfulness to the next generation.
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, November 26, 2021
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
Merciful God: You created me in your image, with a mind to know you, a heart to love you, and a will to serve you. But my knowledge is imperfect, my love inconstant, my obedience incomplete. Day by day, I fail to grow into your likeness. I confess my failure to glorify you as you designed me to. In your tender love, forgive me by the mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Strengthen me by your Spirit to walk in a manner worthy of the calling I have received, for the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 34:11-24
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Hebrews 10:11-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: what joy it is that I can draw near to God with a true heart in full assurance of faith because of your work! I adore you, because as the great high priest you have cleansed me from my sins once for all. Thank you for your precious blood that has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 110
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm is the most-quoted Psalm in the entire New Testament, because of its clear focus on the Messiah. And so, Lord Jesus, today I bow my knee in recognition of your sovereign rule. The kings of the earth are no match for you; you will bring your righteous judgment against the wickedness of human empire and oppressive power. “Your people will offer themselves freely;” and that’s what I do even now, by bowing my heart in prayer. I am one of your people; I have surrendered to your rule; I have come under your wonderful dominion. Let me now go forth into the world with confidence, resting in the sure promise of your coming kingdom. With all your people, I await the day when your enemies will become your footstool. Until that day, I delight in the power of the gospel, which turns your enemies into your friends, and rebels into worshipers.
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, November 25, 2021
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 Father, although you have promised me everlasting joy, I am often lazy, apathetic, and hard-hearted. Deliver me, O God, from a slothful mind, from all lukewarmness, and from all dejection of spirit. I know these cannot but deaden my love to you; mercifully free my heart from them, and give me a lively, zealous, active, and cheerful spirit; that I may vigorously perform whatever you command, thankfully suffer whatever you choose for me, and be ardent to obey your holy love in all things. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 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: Ephesians 1:15-23
Prayer of Adoration:
Father of Glory: I worship you for the hope to which you have called me; for the riches of your glorious inheritance; and for the surpassing greatness of your power toward us who believe. Your greatness is immeasurable and your blessings to me in Christ are incomparable.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 100
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this psalm invites me to “serve the Lord with gladness!” And that’s what I want to do, today and every day. I don’t want to serve you half-heartedly, or dutifully, or begrudgingly - but with a full and joyful heart that delights to bring you glory. So today, let me serve you with gladness. Give me eyes to see my work as service to you, working heartily, as unto the Lord. Help me see every interaction with people as a chance to serve to you, honoring them as your image-bearers. And help me serve you even in the hardships, annoyances, and challenges that come my way today, responding to them in ways that please you. Fill my heart with gladness and my life with praise to you 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.
Wednesday, November 24, 2021
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
Eternal God, my fear and unbelief run deep. While I may outwardly confess your salvation, inwardly I deny the power of your Gospel. I work to keep up appearances, but I neglect the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy and faithfulness. Yet according to your steadfast love, you have forgiven me through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. Direct my path, Lord, that I may walk in repentance and humility before you and others. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Proverbs 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: Luke 23:33-43
Prayer of Adoration:
Jesus Christ, Lamb of God: I adore you for the beauty and power of your sacrifice. In humility you received our judgment, our sin, and our scorn. Remembering your great mercy, I worship you as my Lord, my God, and my King. And I say with the thief: remember me when you come into your kingdom.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 95
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this Psalm puts before me both an invitation and a warning. It shows me two scenes from my spiritual family history: first, Israel united in joyful worship, fully alive to the goodness of God; and then, the generation who hardened their hearts in the wilderness. These remembrances lay out two possible paths for my soul. So help me respond with wisdom and teachability. I want to hear your voice today, and not harden my heart. I want to come into your presence with thanksgiving and with joyful praise. So in my heart right now, I bow down; I kneel before the Lord, my Maker. I affirm that I’m yours, a sheep of your pasture, dependent on your direction to keep me safe and secure. Keep me from going astray in my heart; align my inner being according to your ways. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, November 23, 2021
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
Gracious and merciful God: I confess to you today my lack of faith. You have saved me by grace, yet still I try to earn your favor by my works. You have met my deepest need in Christ, yet still I doubt your fatherly care. You have given me your Spirit, yet still I walk according to the flesh. Forgive my lack of faith, and strengthen me by your grace, that I may walk with you in freedom, joy, and worship. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 1 Kings 18:20-40
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 13:1-8
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you because your words are true. Though the world around me is filled with upheaval and chaos, these are but the beginning of birth pains. You are the true Temple where the fullness of God dwells; therefore I know I have a refuge in you. I adore you, for in the midst of unrest, you will protect your people.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 92
Prayer of Consecration
O God: Make me like one of the righteous in this psalm, planted and flourishing in your house. I love the picture of a life rooted in you, always green and alive, always bearing fruit. The psalm lays out a pattern for me as I seek deeper knowledge of you: I will declare your love in the morning, and meditate on your faithfulness at night. Help me live with this rhythm, with my inner person continually oriented toward you. Draw my mind toward you in the morning and in the evening. I want to reject distraction and anxious meditation; I want instead to fill my mind with your word. I want to still bear fruit in old age, ever full of sap and green, declaring that the Lord is upright. Make me like a thriving tree planted in your courtyard, because it’s good for me to be near you. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, November 22, 2021
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
Father, I come before you this day with a humble and contrite heart, which you will not despise. Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Against you, you only, have I sinned, and done what is evil in your sight. Wash me, that I may be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, and renew in me a right spirit. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and give me a willing spirit to sustain me. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 1 Kings 17:8-24
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Matthew 25:31-46
Prayer of Adoration:
O God: I worship you for the piercing conviction of these words. You are the Judge of all the earth. My love for you is reflected in my love for the poor, the weak, the lowly, and the lost. I adore you that by grace, you transform selfish people into those who care for the least of these.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 5
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: “through the abundance of your steadfast love, I will enter your house.” Thank you that I have access to you and peace with you because of your steadfast love expressed in Jesus. Teach me to savor your steadfast love as I go through this day. In my inner world, I’ve lived as an orphan for a long time. I’ve taken care of myself by controlling others, using my power in unhealthy ways, or endlessly distracting myself. So drive a vision of your majestic temple and your steadfast love deep into my imagination. In Jesus, I’m completely covered by your favor. Please help me take hold of your love in my inner person, and let it overflow from me into the world around me, for Jesus’ sake.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Saturday, November 20, 2021
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 God, although I have been raised with Christ, I have failed to put to death the sin in my heart. I have become complacent and self-satisfied. I have willfully ignored the sin that lingers in my life. Of this I repent and ask for your mercy. Direct me, O Lord, in all my doings with your gracious favor, and further me with your continual help; that in all my works begun, continued, and ended in you, I may glorify your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 26:1-11
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: 1 Corinthians 4
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, thank you for the ministry of the apostles, who were servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. And thank you for giving me guides and mentors in my own life, to lead me in the way of Christ Jesus. I adore you for adopting me into your family and giving me models to follow and imitate.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 128
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, your Word repeatedly reminds me that there is blessing for those who fear You. You honor and reward those who love you; you resist and oppose those who rebel against you. So today, let me live for your blessing! Fill my imagination with pictures of a life lived in close fellowship with you. Help me to open my hands wider, to receive the good that you pour out. Too often I regard my life with fear of scarcity. Too often, I allow myself to be robbed of a good and healthy satisfaction with your blessing. Open my eyes to the fruitful vine you have given me, and the olive shoots around my table. Expand my capacity for celebrating these gifts. And help me long for the flourishing and prosperity of your church. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, November 19, 2021
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
Living God, I confess today my deep tendency to pretend and perform. Rather than resting in the righteousness of Christ, I try to earn your favor through what I do. And when I fail to live up to your standard, I hide and pretend rather than running to the cross of Christ. In this pattern of pride and unbelief, I am weary. And so I come to you, knowing that I do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with my weakness. I have one who was tempted in every way, yet without sin. So let me draw near to the throne of grace with confidence, that I may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Strengthen me by your Spirit to live in the good of the gospel, today and always. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Deuteronomy 11:1-23
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 2
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit: I rejoice in the mystery of your ministry. You comprehend the thoughts of God, and you help us understand the things of God. You have given me the mind of Christ, that I may know the truth and believe the gospel. Thank you for revealing what no eye has seen and no ear has heard: the glorious things that God has prepared for those who love him!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 108
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, this psalm reminds me that your steadfast love reaches to the heavens. Your faithfulness is so expansive and all-encompassing that it reaches the clouds. Sometimes this statement brings me joy, but often it feels more abstract than real; something I know intellectually but don’t easily experience. Give me the lively, wide-awake heart of David as I meditate on you. Let my heart cry out: “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!” Let me long for you to get the glory you deserve, from all of creation; and fill me with your Spirit today, that I may bring you glory in my words, attitudes, and actions.
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, November 18, 2021
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 Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner. For although you have forgiven my sin, I have not forgiven those who sin against me. Inwardly, I harbor bitterness, resentment, and anger. Lift my eyes to your cross, Lord Jesus, that in remembrance of your salvation I would be freed from all resentment. Moreover, purify my thoughts and protect me from biting, sarcastic words. Help me to love and forgive others as you have loved and forgiven me, to the glory of your name. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 12:1-9
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: Romans 4:13-25
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I adore you, for you are true to your promises. To the barren, you give hope; to the dead, you give life; to those who cling to your promises by faith, you give salvation. Thank you that you counted Abraham’s faith as righteousness; and thank you that you count me righteous by faith as well.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 47
Prayer of Consecration
Some days I can feel the joyful spirit of this psalm, and Lord, you know that some days I can’t. Regardless of my inner state, I honor you as the Most High, the great king over all the earth, the one who rightly deserves my wholehearted worship. Your word invites me to sing your praise, so bring hymns and worship songs to my mind throughout the day. Let me remember that, regardless of how things appear, you are ruling in glorious power. Capture my imagination with a vision of you high and lifted up. Awaken my soul to deeper and more fervent worship today, so that my communion with you is a source of healing for me and blessing for others. Some day, I’ll gather with all your people to worship you eternally. Let the events of this day prepare me for the glory of that day. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, November 17, 2021
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 confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 7:24-8:22
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 4:1-12
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, I adore you for your faithfulness to Abraham. And I adore you for counting ME as an heir of your promise to Abraham by faith. Thank you for the great drama of salvation which is unfolding even now as you bring sinners to faith in Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 36
Prayer of Consecration
Thank you, Lord, for your steadfast love. This psalm contrasts the small, futile shoddiness of evil with the immensity of your goodness. I want to be instructed by both images, motivated to turn away from sin and toward the vast and beautiful river of your delights. Help me see the proofs of your love today. If I feel my own scarcity, lavish me with your abundance. If I feel discouraged, assure me that I’m secure and protected under the shadow of your wings. Continue your steadfast love to me. Remind me of your faithfulness that reaches the clouds, and your judgements that extend to the deep. Let these realities strengthen and satisfy me as I approach the work of this day, for Jesus’ sake.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, November 16, 2021
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: I confess that I often honor you with my lips while my heart is far from you. I am content to appear righteous instead of truly being righteous. I repent of my sin and my self-love. Please search my heart, examine my motives, and forgive my faults. Awaken me to your glory, and send your Spirit to renew and change my heart. Help me to hear your voice today above the clamor of this world, and follow only you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Genesis 6:9-22
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Romans 3:21-31
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, because you have manifested your righteousness in the person and work of your Son Jesus. There is no distinction - all have sinned and fallen short of your glory, and are saved only by grace through faith in Jesus. Thank you for the redemption that is in Christ Jesus!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 27
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: in the midst of great danger, David found courage and confidence in communion with you. How often I allow the circumstances of my life to dictate my feelings, rather than resting in the fact that You are my light and my salvation. No evil that befalls me in this life can remove your steadfast love from me, or threaten my union with Christ. You have not promised me peace, prosperity, and safety; my life may be filled with hardship and struggle. But You will not forsake me, or hide your face from me. O Lord, give me the grace to seek your face even when my heart is pounding and my thoughts are scattered. Strengthen my confidence that I’ll see your goodness in the land of the living. Teach me what it means to abide in you, so that communion with you becomes my daily habit.
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, November 15, 2021
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, I acknowledge before you my sin, my wounds, and my weakness. I need your forgiveness; I need your healing; I need your strength. In Christ, you draw near to the weak and needy. You are merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Forgive my sin, for Jesus’ sake. Heal my wounds, for Jesus’ sake. Show your strength in my weakness, for Jesus’ sake. By your Spirit, empower me today to delight in you and to obey your will, seeking your glory above all else. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Daniel 7:1-14
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: John 18:33-37
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you for bearing witness to the truth. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, and those who love truth listen to your voice. I adore you as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 11
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, there is much in this world to make me fearful and troubled. Many things make me want to fly away and hide in the mountains, like the bird in the psalm. But I am reminded that you are on your throne. Your eyes see. You are not blind to the wickedness and violence that takes place on the earth. Remind me, in the midst of troubling events, that You are righteous, and that you love righteous deeds. I cannot change the world; my power and influence are small. But I CAN live righteously in my own corner of the world, pushing back darkness by my own commitment to righteousness and mercy. Let me not go along with the way of the world; instead, let me seek your kingdom and pursue holiness. Animate me with the promise that “the upright shall behold Your face;” fill me with the Holy Spirit today and conform my desires to yours. Help me say no to every form of sin and to everything that would dull your glory in my life.
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, November 13, 2021
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 God, I confess that I have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what I have done, and by what I have left undone. I have not loved you with my whole heart; I have not loved my neighbor as myself. In your mercy, forgive what I have been, help me amend what I am, and direct what I shall be, so that I may delight in your will and walk in your ways, for the glory of your holy name. Through Jesus Christ our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Zephaniah 1:7-18
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Hebrews 9:11-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Christ Jesus, I adore you for securing an eternal redemption through your perfect sacrifice. You are the mediator of a new covenant. You have offered yourself once for all to put away sin by the sacrifice of yourself. Because you are eternal, my salvation is eternal! Thank you that you have purified my conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 123
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, the words of this brief psalm are like a sigh. It’s a cry for mercy in the face of scorn and contempt. And just like your people of old faced contempt, so do your people today. The world increasingly rejects us, ridicules us, and finds your ways contemptible. So today, give me the courage to be bold and courageous in the face of hostility. Help me fear you more than I fear the rejection of those around me. Keep me humble, gracious, and winsome; but let me never depart from your word or compromise your truth for the sake of approval. Strengthen my faith, and help me bear the ridicule of others as my Savior did. I lift my eyes to you, crying out for your strength and care. Have mercy on me. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, November 12, 2021
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, 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: Amos 9:11-15
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: 1 Thess. 5:1-11
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus: I worship you for the promise of your coming. You will return, even as people mock and scoff at the idea. May the promise of your return spur me to be awake and sober, rejecting darkness and walking in the light of your truth. Thank you that you have destined me for salvation through the Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 93
Prayer of Consecration
O God: This psalm invites me to meditate on Your power and sovereignty. It was written to strengthen Your people in the face of trouble with an image of You in royal robes, prepared to act on their behalf. Images of dark, chaotic floodwater surge through it. As I approach a new day, I may face events that feel like a chaotic flood. If this isn’t my current circumstance, prepare me for the day when it might be. Lord, reassure my soul. As your Spirit hovered over the watery chaos at the dawn of creation, hover over me. As Jesus quieted the raging sea, quiet me with your word. Thank you that you’re the sovereign king, robed in majesty. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, November 11, 2021
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord 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: Proverbs 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: Colossians 1:11-20
Prayer of Adoration:
King Jesus - Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer of all things: I worship you with my whole being. As the source of my existence, I honor you. As the source of my salvation, I praise you. As the source of my peace, I glory in the wonder of your cross.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 33:1-12
Prayer of Consecration
O God: you are worthy of enthusiastic, wholehearted worship. The psalm calls this kind of praise “fitting for the upright.” It’s good and right that your people know you so deeply and admire your goodness so much that they greet you with shouts of joy! So today, move me toward that sort of worship. I know that my worship is often tepid, distracted, derailed by various objections and doubts. So teach me that my worship is not remedied by improving myself; it can only be set right by gazing at you. Expand my capacity to understand you. Stretch my comprehension and stir my hunger. I want eyes to see and ears to hear your faithful work, your steadfast love. Amen.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Wednesday, November 10, 2021
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
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: Ruth 3:1-5 and 4:13-17
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: 1 Corinthians 15:51-58
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, thank you for giving us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his triumph over the grave, death has been swallowed up. Your people no longer live in fear of death; we now taunt the grave: “O death, where is your sting?”
Psalm Reading: Psalm 31
Prayer of Consecration
O God: I remember that this psalm of trust was in the mouth of Jesus as he was dying. He prayed, “into your hands, I commit my spirit” - teaching us, even as he suffered, to cry out to you. His prayer in suffering teaches me to do the same. I confess that I expect my circumstances to be easy and my life to go well. The world seduces me with endless messages of prosperity, health, and success. These things are good gifts from you, to be received with gratitude when they come; but to always expect them is foolish and naive. Help me reckon honestly with my pain, without giving way to entitlement. Let me rest in your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you. Help me remember that “my times are in your hand,” and let my heart take courage as I wait for you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Tuesday, November 9, 2021
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: 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: Ruth 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: Mark 12:28-44
Prayer of Adoration:
Christ Jesus, I adore you as the one worthy of all my love. I know how often I fail to keep your greatest commandment; yet you have died for my sin, and you dwell in me by your Spirit, empowering me to truly love you and my neighbor.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 18:25-50
Prayer of Consecration
“O God, your way is perfect.” This whole psalm is David’s extended meditation on your way… your style of doing things, your mode of operating in the world. The more I walk with you, the more I know your way. In fact, it gets more more beautiful and captivating the longer I walk with you. And your way finds its zenith and fulfillment in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the one who fulfills all the battle-language of this Psalm: who has overtaken his enemies, subdued the nations, and brought salvation to his people. I have known darkness, yet through Christ you light my path. I have been exposed and vulnerable, yet through Christ you protect and restore me. Like David, I have weathered turbulent times - and if I haven’t yet, I inevitably will. Yet through Christ, you anchor me in spite of my turmoil. “This is God. His way is perfect.” Thank you, O God, that your word proves true; and that You are a shield for all who take refuge in You.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.