The Daily Liturgy
Monday, May 6, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Glorious God: I confess today the great sin of Pride. I have thought too highly of myself. I have spoken boastfully, loved selfishly, and lived independently. Forgive me, and conquer my pride through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who humbled himself to the point of death. Make me humble like him, that I might bear his image more faithfully. Amen
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 55
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Peter 3:8-22
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you in your humiliation and your exaltation. You suffered for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that you might bring us to God. Now, you are at the right hand of the Father, with angels, authorities, and powers being subjected to you. I adore you for your humility and for your victory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 66
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: This psalm reminds me that the day is coming when all the earth will worship you. So today, make my life an offering of worship to you. Let me not cherish sin in my heart. If I am harboring sin or protecting idolatry, show me, and bring me to my knees in repentance. Let me perform my vows to you and be faithful to the promises I’ve made. Thank you that in spite of my weakness and fickleness, you have not rejected my prayer or removed your steadfast love from me. When I am faithless, you remain faithful. My hope today is not in my own strength, but in the power of your steadfast love. So fill me with your Holy Spirit today, and give me the grace to walk with you faithfully and worship you wholeheartedly. 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.
Saturday, May 4, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: Hosea 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 Peter 2:13-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you because you suffered for me, leaving me an example, that I might follow in your steps. Thank you for the beauty of your obedience. When reviled, you did not revile in return; when you suffered, you did not threaten. I adore you for bearing our sins in your body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 148
Prayer of Consecration
God, the Psalmist calls everything around him to praise you. And indeed, you are worthy of extravagant praise! As I ponder this Psalm, I am convicted of my tepid praise; of my half-hearted worship; of my timidity to call the world to praise you. So today, awaken a hunger in me to praise you more deeply. And awaken courage in me, that I might unashamedly call others to join in praising you. The fact is, the world around me is FULL of praise; it’s just that people are praising the wrong things. They are exalting the creation over the Creator, and delighting in the gift rather than enjoying the Giver. Everyone praises something. So let me praise YOU today, with all of my being; let me lead your people to praise you, through my enthusiastic worship on the Lord’s Day; and let me invite the world to praise you as I boldly proclaim the good news of salvation in Jesus Christ.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Friday, May 3, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, I confess to you the shallowness of my repentance. I am content to deal with surface sins, rather than exploring the dark contours of my inner being. I am content to offer words of repentance, rather than bringing forth the fruit of repentance. Humble me greatly today. Reveal to me the depth of my depravity and the strength of my idolatry, that I may drink more deeply of your mercy and delight more fully in the beauty of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 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: 1 Peter 1:3-25
Prayer of Adoration:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! Father, thank you for the mercy you’ve poured out in your Son. By your living and abiding word, I have been born again to a living hope. In Jesus, I now rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 113
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, teach me to praise you with the same joyful exuberance expressed in this psalm. Enlarge my capacity to see you, admire you, enjoy you, and celebrate you. I praise you that you are seated on high, looking down on the heavens and the earth; this image reminds me of your glory and majesty. And yet at the same time, you raise the poor from the dust and the needy from the ash heap; this image reminds me of your closeness and your personal care for each one of your people. You are both transcendent and immanent; exalted and humble; majestic and merciful. I don’t have to choose between a God who is high and exalted, or a God who is present and active; you are both, and you always have been. Today, I walk into the world confident of both your loving care for me and your majestic sovereignty over everything. From the rising of the sun to its setting, may your name be praised - and may my life bring glory to you.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Thursday, May 2, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Holy God: Dust I am, and to dust I shall return. I am like a flower of the field, that appears for a little while and then vanishes. But I confess my tendency to live days, weeks, even months at a time with little thought for my mortality, and little consideration for eternity. Forgive my presumption and self-reliance. Humble me to the dust, that I might be ever-mindful of my frailty, and freshly awed by your eternal, infinite beauty. Through Christ, our Lord: Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-14
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: 1 John 5
Prayer of Adoration:
GOD: thank you that you have given us eternal life in your Son. I adore you as the one who is True - indeed, as Truth itself. There is no truth outside of you, no life apart from you, and no other way of salvation. I worship you - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 30
Prayer of Consecration
God: this Psalm is a great reminder that all sorrow is temporary. “Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” This world is full of sorrow and pain; yet joy is guaranteed for your people, and it is coming as surely as the sun rises! So fill me with anticipation for the new heavens and the new earth. And in the midst of my current sorrows and hardships, remind me that you already HAVE turned my mourning into dancing. Jesus Christ has risen from the dead and called me to himself. Therefore, I am clothed with the gladness of salvation even in the midst of the sadness and trials of this earthly life. So today, whatever my circumstances, fill me with the joy of the Lord. Let me not be numb to the sadness and sorrow of life on earth; but let the joy of the Holy Spirit outweigh the burdens and concerns I carry. Fill me with gladness today, and let me be a source of gladness to others.
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, May 1, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Merciful Father, I come into your presence with deep gratitude, for I am no longer under the law but under grace. Resting in that truth, I freely confess my brokenness and my weakness before you. Instead of worshiping you, I have put myself at the center of my life. Instead of honoring others, I have withheld words of blessing and spoken words of harm. Have mercy on me, for Jesus' sake. By your Holy Spirit, awaken in me today passionate worship, joyful obedience, and wholehearted love for others. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 35
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 John 4:7-21
Prayer of Adoration:
Father: thank you for sending your Son to be the Savior of the world. And thank you for giving us your Spirit. I worship you for your great love, which you have made manifest by sending your only Son into the world to be the propitiation for our sins.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 22:19-31
Prayer of Consecration
O God: do not be far off. Come quickly to my aid. As I read this psalm, awaken in me a deeper longing for communion with you. You see my anxieties; you understand my concerns; you invite me to pour out my heart before you. So I bring to you now the needs and concerns of this day. I place them before you and ask you to intervene in each situation and to fill me with wisdom in each interaction. When I reflect on my life, I see your hand continually preserving me and providing for me. But it’s not enough to remember these things in private. I’ll praise you in the great congregation, joining with your people to tell stories of your faithfulness. And I’ll pray for the day when “all the ends of the earth turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations worship before you.” Hasten that day, O God, through the proclamation of the gospel to the ends of the earth.
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, April 30, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, you promise to work all things for my good, Yet I confess that instead of delighting in your grace, I find reasons to be unhappy. I have filled my life with busyness and scheduled myself into exhaustion. I have been quick to judge others and slow to forgive them. Open my eyes to Your glory which is all around me, and to Your love which is smiling through all things. Renew in me a sense of wonder in You and your good creation. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:15-28
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 John 2:28-3:24
Prayer of Adoration:
O God, what kind of love is this, that we should be called children of God? Thank you that you abide in us, by the Spirit you have given us. Thank you for your great love for us, which flows out of us toward one another.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 11
Prayer of Consecration
God, this Psalm speaks honestly about the reality of evil. There really are wicked people in the world - and in my life - who “bend the bow… to shoot at the upright in heart.” It’s easy to feel like no one sees; like no one cares about what is right or good. But your eyes see. You hate the wicked, and you love the righteous. You promise that the upright shall behold your face. So today, let me take refuge in you from the evil around me; and let me walk before you in integrity and righteousness. Let me not return evil for evil or insult for insult; but let me love my enemies and bless those who curse me. You see all things with perfect clarity. So let me live for your approval on the last day, with an eye toward pleasing you and bringing you glory.
BENEDICTION
And now may the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us now and always, until the day of Christ's return.
Monday, April 29, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, I confess today my worry and anxiety. Instead of resting in your sovereignty, I fear the unknown. Instead of bringing my requests before you in prayer, I worry and fret. Instead of letting you be God, I fight for control. Forgive me, O Lord. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. Set me free from all anxious thoughts today. Give me contentment and peace, for you have assured me that if I seek your kingdom, I will not lack any good thing. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 37:1-14
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: 1 John 1:1-2:2
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you because you are Light, and in you there is no darkness. Thank you for the blood of Jesus, which cleanses us from all sin. And thank you that you are faithful to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness when we confess our sin to you.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 2
Prayer of Consecration
Oh Lord, the nations rage today just as they did when this Psalm was written. Empires and kingdoms rise and fall. Rulers plot evil against your people, as they have always done. Thank you for the reminder that you laugh at the plans of the wicked. You have set King Jesus on Zion, your holy hill, and you have given the nations as his heritage. Nothing will hinder or thwart the spread of his rule and reign. I rest today in your strong sovereignty over all things. I do not know what trials may come my way, but I know who holds the future. You have established your kingdom forever, and someday you will judge the world in righteousness. So today, may I serve you with fear, and rejoice with trembling. 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.
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of majesty and light, all of creation testifies to your glory. Though your law is perfect, I have disobeyed. Though your revelation is true, I have disbelieved. Though your commandments are pure, I have not trusted you. Forgive me, O Lord, for my willful sin and for my hidden faults. Preserve me with your mighty power this day, that I may not fall into temptation. Straighten my path, and give me wisdom to discern your will, that you might be glorified in everything. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 25
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-58
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I adore you, for because of your resurrection, my labor is not in vain. Death has been swallowed up in victory; and mortality has given way to immortality. As the Last Adam, you have inaugurated the new creation, removing the sting of death, the rot of decay, and the power of the grave! Thanks be to God.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 141
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, I am reminded by this Psalm that prayer is worship. My prayer is like incense, rising up to you with a fragrant aroma. You are pleased by my dependence upon you. So today, give ear to my voice. With the Psalmist, I ask you to “set a guard over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.” I know how often I am tempted to sin with my words. So today, let my speech be gracious. Even when others provoke me and speak evil of me, let me pray against their evil deeds rather than retaliating in sinful ways. “Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I pass by safely.” Give me the courage and faith to let YOU be God, trusting you as my vindicator and protector. Like my Savior, let me return blessing for cursing, and let me pray for my enemies who persecute me. In this way, may I please you and help your kingdom come “on earth as it is in heaven.”
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, April 26, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I confess with the Psalmist that your law is perfect. The way of your commandments is the way of life; your statutes are full of wisdom. Yet I have violated your law; I have broken your commandments; I have dishonored your name. I ask your forgiveness; and I thank you for sending Jesus, who perfectly obeyed your law and died for my sin so that I might live to righteousness. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit, that I might walk in wholehearted obedience to you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 13:14-25
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:1-28
Prayer of Adoration:
Lord Jesus, I worship you for your resurrection. In your victory, the powers of death have been defeated. And now nothing is outside of your rule; everything has been put under your feet. As I await the consummation of your promises, I ground all of my hope, my security, and my joy on the sure foundation of your resurrection.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 93
Prayer of Consecration
Almighty God, this Psalm celebrates your kingly rule over everything. You are robed in majesty and strength; your throne is established from of old. It brings me great peace today to know that you reign and rule over everything - because this means you reign and rule over my life, and over the events and responsibilities that concern me today. All of creation has been established by your powerful word, and all things hold together in you. So as I go about my day today, help me act and live as a citizen of your kingdom. Help me trust your reign in situations and circumstances I can’t control; and help me extend your kingly rule in all areas which are under my dominion. I cannot do everything, because I am not you; but I can do something, because you are with me. By your Spirit, set me free from worry, stress, and fear; and help me be faithful to your kingdom purposes in my little corner of the world. 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, April 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
Glorious God: I come to you now in need of grace. Throughout this week, a war has been raging in my heart. I find myself looking to people, situations, and experiences to give me security, identity, and hope. I have sought from others what can only be found in you. Forgive me, and awaken me to the only glory that really satisfies: the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Savior and Redeemer. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:18-37
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 28:11-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Almighty God: thank you for sending your salvation to the Gentiles. Thank you that the kingdom of God is going forward as your people proclaim the Lord Jesus Christ. Some will be convinced, and others will disbelieve; and you are sovereign in all of it!
Psalm Reading: Psalm 77
Prayer of Consecration
Father: thank you for Psalms that help me reach out to you in days of trouble. Like the Psalmist, I have known what it’s like to spend the night filled with anxiety about the future, or mulling over events from long past. And like the Psalmist, my deepest doubts often have to do with you: Has your steadfast love ceased? Have your promises come to an end? Am I beyond the reach of your grace? Your word comforts me, because it reminds me that these sorts of questions don’t threaten you. Your love embraces me even in the midst of my doubt and turmoil. My questions don’t change what is true; they don’t pull you down from your throne or erase your history of faithfulness to your people. Thank you for your acts of deliverance in time and space and history - the Exodus from Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, the incarnation of Jesus Christ. You are not a concept or an idea - you are the God of history, who acts to redeem your people. So today, ground me in the narrative of Scripture, that I might be strengthened as I remember both your acts and your promises. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever - and for that, I give you 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.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Father, for your steadfast love, I bless you. For your abundant grace, I praise you. For your daily mercies, I trust you. I ask your forgiveness today for my willful lack of love. I have ignored those less capable than me; I have resented those who have wounded me; I have withdrawn from those who are inconvenient and difficult. By Your Spirit, overcome my sin and weakness, and fill me with overflowing love, through the mercy of Jesus Christ my Savior. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 4:1-17
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: Acts 17:16-31
Prayer of Adoration:
Living God, I adore you because you don’t need anything. You made the world and everything in it. You give to all men life, and breath, and everything. You are not unknown, hidden, and vague; in Jesus, you have revealed your character and your salvation. Thank you for assuring us of your promises by raising Jesus from the dead.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 56
Prayer of Consecration
Be gracious to me, dear Lord, at the start of a new day. Your word reminds me that you are near to the suffering and the oppressed, that you are FOR your people when trouble is near. I don’t know if I’ll face this kind of danger today, but I pray these words in solidarity with my brothers and sisters around the world who will. I also pray this psalm to prepare my soul, so that when suffering comes, I may instinctively turn to you. Thank you that in Jesus, I can confidently say: “This I know, that God is for me.” What a liberating thought! No matter what trial and trouble may come my way, in you I will trust, and not be afraid. Prepare me now for every challenge I will face today, and help me love you with every part of my being.
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, April 23, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Lord Jesus, all authority in heaven and earth has been given to you. I confess that I have neglected your command to make disciples. I have been content to keep the light of your gospel hidden. I have valued my comfort over your kingdom, my security over your power, and my reputation over your glory. Forgive me Lord, for my unbelief in the power of your Gospel and for my lack of faith in your promises. Jesus, ignite my desire for your coming kingdom, that my faith would be renewed and my hope strengthened. Let your light shine in me that others may see my good works and glorify you. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 2 Kings 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: Acts 16:16-40
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you for your marvelous providence. You have promised to work all things together for the good of those who love you. In every circumstance, you are at work fulfilling your wise purposes. Thank you that I can trust you in everything.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 14
Prayer of Consecration
O God: this Psalm reminds me of the pervasiveness of sin. As you look down on the children of man, there is none who seeks you. There is none who does good - and that includes me. There is none who understand - and that includes me. My only hope - OUR only hope - is for you to come and deliver us from our foolishness, our blindness, and our corruption. And in Jesus, you have done just that. So help me delight in my helplessness and glory in your full deliverance. Forgive me for imagining that I contributed anything to my salvation. Left to myself, I would say with the fools: “There is no God.” So thank you for not leaving me to myself!
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, April 22, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God, in whom we live and move and have our being, you have made us for yourself, so that our hearts are restless until they rest in you. Yet in my foolishness I have not trusted you, nor rested in my election as your beloved child. I confess my unbelief. Lord, grant me purity of heart and strength of purpose. Let no selfish passion hinder me from knowing your will, nor weakness from doing your will. In your light may I see light, and in your service find perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Old Testament Reading: Ezekiel 36:22-38
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: Acts 16:1-15
Prayer of Adoration:
Holy Spirit, I praise you for your glorious work of opening hearts to the good news of Jesus. You convict, soften, and awaken, bringing new birth and new life. Thank you for applying redemption to the hearts of men and women.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 9
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: this Psalm reminds me that you “sit enthroned forever.” You are the rightful king over all creation - and over my life. So in this quiet moment of prayer, I bow my knee before you and submit myself to you. In any places of my life where I am resisting your rule, please convict me and move me to repentance. And help me today, in all I do, to make your invisible kingdom visible. There are rival kings and rival kingdoms all around me; let me not give them my allegiance. My own heart is prone to wander from your love; keep me steady and steadfast. And help me embrace the tension of living in the “already” and the “not yet,” praying and working so that your kingdom might come, and your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
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, April 20, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have searched me and known me. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know my words before I speak them. You know my past, my present, and my future. Awaken me now, to seek you while you may be found, to call upon you while you are near, and to live a life that brings glory to your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
God of Truth: I confess today the sin of Dishonesty. Rather than walking in the light, I have walked in darkness. My mind has conceived deceit, my lips have uttered falsehood, my heart has been cold toward the truth. In your mercy, forgive me. And remind me that because Jesus died for me, I need not be ashamed, but can freely admit all my faults and failures. My hope is not in my own goodness, but in your mercy to me through Jesus Christ. By Your Spirit, help me speak truth and walk in light today. Amen.
Old Testament Reading: 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: Acts 11:1-18
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I glorify you, for you are capable of far more than I ask or imagine. In the fullness of time, you made known the mystery of salvation planned from long ago - that not only Israel, but the Gentiles are fellow heirs of your gracious promises! Thank you for granting to ALL your chosen people the repentance that leads to life.
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. So give me the lively, wide-awake heart of David as I meditate on you. Give me the inner vitality to respond joyfully to your love and your promises. As I have opportunity today, let me lift my voice to sing to you. Worship restores the health of my soul, so give me grace to sing your praises as long as I live. 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, April 19, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.”My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: 1 Samuel 2:1b-10
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 10:34-48
Prayer of Adoration:
God: I adore you because you show no partiality. Anyone and everyone who believes in Jesus receives forgiveness of sins through his name. Thank you that you are pursuing people in every tribe, tongue, and nation, through the proclamation of the gospel and the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 91
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, you are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. This Psalm promises that you will deliver me from evil. And yet, this is also the very Psalm that Satan used to tempt Jesus, urging him to throw himself down from the temple, because “angels will bear you up.” So today Lord, let me rest in this Psalm as Jesus did - confident of my final vindication, but aware that in this world I will have trouble. Help me not to put you to the test by making demands of you. Instead, let me rest in the good of the gospel, confident in the promise of eternal life. Let me hold fast to you in love, as my Savior did. 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, April 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
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: 1 Samuel 1:1-20
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: Acts 9:32-43
Prayer of Adoration:
I adore you, O God, for your power over suffering, illness, and death. Your son Jesus performed signs and wonders in his earthly ministry; so he continues to do through his disciples. I rejoice that you are not limited by human frailty, human doubt, and human sin, but continue to accomplish your purposes by your word and Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 60
Prayer of Consecration
Lord, this Psalm reflects the paradox of life with you. On the one hand, “You have made your people see hard things.” My life has not been smooth, and even today I face situations that are confusing and challenging. On the other hand, “With God we shall do valiantly; it is he who will tread down our foes.” The final victory has already been won, and I am assured of eternal peace and joy in your presence. So today, keep me from both despair and naivete. Help me live in the paradox, bringing my challenges and hardships before you in prayer, and remembering the certainty of your final victory.
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, April 17, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, God of my salvation, every day I call upon you, in the morning my prayer comes before you. Incline your ear to my cry! For my soul is full of troubles, and my strength fails. Renew me each morning with your steadfast love, that I may rejoice and be glad all my days.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: Deuteronomy 32:28-47
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: Acts 9:1-31
Prayer of Adoration:
GOD, I praise you for the miracle of the new birth, which turns murderers into missionaries. Thank you for making sinners your chosen instruments. Thank you that your church continues even today to multiply and be built up, walking in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 55
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord, this psalm reminds me that you are my refuge when people let me down. The Psalmist speaks of betrayal by a close friend - and I, too, have experienced that sort of relational pain. It hurts, God! Thank you that when others are faithless, you are faithful. When there is injustice and violence around me, you will not let the guilty go unpunished. You see, you know, you take notice. And you will not permit the righteous to be moved. So by your Spirit, help me to take stock of my own heart, and confess any sin that is present there. Where I have betrayed others, let me seek forgiveness. Where my words have been like drawn swords, let me be the first to repent. And then, help me to cast my relational burdens on you. Thank you that through Jesus, you reconcile sinners to yourself and to one another. May I trust you as the judge of all things. 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, April 16, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts; and see if there be any hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
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: Deuteronomy 32:1-27
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
New Testament Reading: Acts 8:26-40
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, thank you for the good news of Jesus, which fulfills the law and the prophets. By the proclamation of your word, you continue to bring sinners around the world to repentance and faith. I worship you as the Lord of every people, tribe, and nation.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 7
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord God: the world is full of hardship and sometimes even brutality. Many of your people face opposition and suffering. Arise and defend them, O Lord. With the Psalmist, I look for the day when you return to judge the earth once and for all, shielding your people from harm and driving oppression away. Even now, I know that you judge the peoples; no act of evil goes unaccounted for, and all will be brought to judgment on the last day. This Psalm says that you “feel indignation every day.” I thank you for that truth, and I worship you as the defender and protector of your people. This Psalm also says that you test minds and hearts. So help me to reckon seriously with your righteous judgement, and to keep a repentant heart toward you. Remove all wickedness from my life, and give me clean hands and a pure heart. 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, April 15, 2024
Opening Prayer:
Lord God Almighty: Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things in your law. Open my ears, that I may tremble at your Word. Open my lips, that my mouth may declare your praise. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation. For you I wait all the day long.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
Almighty God: I confess 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: 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: Acts 7:35-60
Prayer of Adoration:
Father, I worship you for your sovereign control of history. You know when the kingdom will be restored; you have fixed the times and seasons and it is not mine to know. Thank you for the power you have given me through your Spirit to witness to Jesus.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 4
Prayer of Consecration
O Lord: Reading the psalms teaches me to pray like David, with a holy insistence that you hear me and answer! When your transcendence makes you seem unapproachable, let me come to you with the bold insistence of a treasured child. Teach my soul to reason thus: my Father loves me, he wants my companionship, he invites my most honest prayers. I don’t have to clean myself up or figure out the perfect words to say; “the Lord has set apart the godly for himself, the Lord hears when I call to him.” So make me bold to call upon you, O Lord. Though the world is filled with all kinds of trouble, I entrust myself to you completely. I will lie down and sleep tonight in peace, for you make me dwell in safety. 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.
Saturday, April 13, 2024
Opening Prayer:
O Lord, you have said, “Seek my face.” My heart says to you, “Your face, Lord, do I seek.” Do not hide your face from me. Do not turn me away in anger. Teach me your ways, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name.
Confession of Sin & Prayer for Grace
O Lord, 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: Job 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: Acts 6:8-7:34
Prayer of Adoration:
God, I praise you for the great story of your salvation. From generation to generation, you have been the rock and refuge of your people. Throughout time and history, you display your covenant faithfulness. Thank you for including me in your great story of redemption.
Psalm Reading: Psalm 150
Prayer of Consecration
Lord God: this final Psalm in the Bible sums everything up with a wholehearted burst of praise. Every nation, tribe, and tongue - everything that has breath - is called to praise the Lord for his exceeding goodness. I see you, Lord, fulfilling this Psalm as you gather a people from every nation on earth. I imagine the new heavens and the new earth, restored and at rest. Let me carry this picture with me into this day, knowing that in this broken world, I’m a citizen and ambassador of the world to come. Whatever my vocation requires of me today, let me do it with joy, joining in your work of bringing healing to the world. Let the tune of your praise be always in my ear, steadily reminding me that the king is coming, and all will be made well.
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.