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
Almighty and most merciful Father, we have erred and strayed from Your ways like lost sheep. We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts. We have offended against Your holy laws. We have left undone those things which we ought to have done; and we have done those things which we ought not to have done; and there is nothing good in us. O Lord, have mercy upon us, miserable offenders. Spare those, O God, who confess their faults. Restore those who are penitent; according to Your promises declared unto all people in Christ Jesus our Lord. Grant that we may hereafter live a godly, righteous, and sober life; to the glory of His name. Amen.
Psalm 119:89-104
89 O Lord, your word endures forever;
it stands fast in heaven.
90 Your faithfulness remains from one generation to another;
you have laid the foundation of the earth, and it abides.
91 Surely your ordinances stand firm this day,
for all things are your servants.
92 If my delight had not been in your law,
I should have perished in my affliction.
93 I will never forget your commandments,
for with them you have enlivened me.
94 I am yours; O save me!
For I have sought your commandments.
95 The ungodly lie in wait for me to destroy me,
but I will consider your testimonies.
96 I see that all things come to an end,
but your commandment has no bounds.
97 Lord, what love I have for your law;
all the day long I meditate on it.
98 You, through your commandment, have made me wiser than my enemies,
for it is always with me.
99 I have more understanding than my teachers,
for your testimonies are my study.
100 I am wiser than the agéd,
because I keep your commandments.
101 I have restrained my feet from every evil way,
that I may keep your word.
102 I have not turned aside from your judgments,
for you yourself have taught me.
103 Oh how sweet are your words to my taste;
indeed, sweeter than honey to my mouth.
104 Through your commandments I get understanding;
therefore I hate all evil ways.
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. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
Romans 12:9–12 (NRSV)
Thanksgiving Prompt
Name two family members you are thankful for. Consider reaching out to them and telling them!
Intercession Prompt
Take a few minutes and pray for your needs and the needs of those around you.
Closing Prayer
Father, you sent your Son not to be served, but to serve. He served all the way to the cross as an example for all humanity. Forgive me for the ways I serve with an absent heart or wrong motive. Grant me the desire and the energy to walk out your good works that have been planned in advance. Amen