Each week for this season our devotions will be centered around the practice of PRAYER. Like the disciples we too have the opportunity to ask Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray.” We encourage you to read all prayers and Psalms out loud – let the words of Scripture fill your prayers!
Prayer of Confession
Eternal God, in whom we live and move and have our being, whose face is hidden from us by our sins, and whose mercy we forget in the blindness of our hearts: cleanse us from all our offenses, and deliver us from proud thoughts and vain desires, that with reverent and humble hearts we may draw near to you, confessing our faults, confiding in your grace, and finding in you our refuge and strength; through Jesus Christ your Son.
Psalm 111
1 Praise the Lord. I will give thanks unto the Lord with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, and among the congregation.
2 The works of the Lord are great,
sought out by all who have pleasure in them.
3 His work is worthy to be praised and held in honor,
and his righteousness endures for ever.
4 He has made his marvelous works to be had in remembrance;
The Lord is gracious and merciful.
5 He has given food to those who fear him;
he shall ever be mindful of his covenant.
6 He has shown his people the power of his works,
that he may give them the heritage of the nations.
7 The works of his hands are faithfulness and justice;
all his commandments are true.
8 They stand fast for ever and ever,
and are done in truth and equity.
9 He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever;
holy and awesome is his Name.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
a good understanding have all those who live accordingly; his praise endures for ever.
Scripture Memory
Memorizing Scripture is a great way to allow God’s word to transform you. Take these small sections of our passage and say them outloud. Then look away and test yourself; can you say it without looking? Good job!
9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Romans 12:9–11 (NRSV)
Thanksgiving Prompt
List something good that has recently caught your attention to make you realize how fortunate you are.
Collect Prayer
These succinct prayers are designed as a way for the Church to pray together throughout time and space, in different ways throughout the seasons. Pray these prayers out loud with us!
O God, our refuge and strength, true source of all godliness: Graciously hear the devout prayers of your Church, and grant that those things which we ask faithfully, we may obtain effectually; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.