28th. February. 2022. Daily Devotion.
20 ‘You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour. Deuteronomy 5: 20
Psychologists have observed that we lie in various ways. Some of our lies seem relatively harmless, or even polite: “Yes, I’m working on that project; it’ll be done soon,” or “That outfit looks nice on you.” Or how about “It’s low-fat” (but high in sugar).
Unfortunately, there is often little difference between the speech of Christians and non-Christians. Non-Christians and Christians alike have raised groundless conspiracy theories. They say hateful things about public figures. They delve into vats of moral swill. This should not be.
There is no place where a Christian should promote falsehood. If you think you are supporting a good cause while turning a blind eye to a few lies here and there, you are wrong. False is false, evil is evil, and wrong is wrong; the cause is not more important than truth. The end does not justify the means.
Our neighbours are made in the image of God, just like you and me. How can we claim to love our neighbours, as God commands, if we cut them down and lie about them? K. Van Til.
Lord, you are the way, the truth, and the life. Forgive me for lying and help me to seek and speak only truth. Amen.
Defend us, O Lord, with your heavenly grace, that we may continue yours for ever and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until we come to your everlasting kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen Book of Common Prayer (1552)
Gracious and loving God, thank you for staying close to us in all that we have experienced in recent times. As your holy people, we ask you to strengthen us with wisdom and understanding as we look forward to the new opportunities you will share with us. Encourage us to offer rich hospitality: to recognise the individual, welcome the stranger and offer a community of love to all. Amen.
Prayer for Ukraine
God of all, with alarm and concern we bring before you the military intervention in Ukraine. In a world you made for peace and flourishing, we lament the use of armed force.
We mourn every casualty of this conflict, every precious life extinguished by war. We pray comfort for those who grieve and those who are fearful.
Hear our longing that leaders and nations will honour the worth of all people
by having the courage to resolve conflict through dialogue.
May all our human failings be transformed by your wonderful grace and goodness. We ask this in the name of Christ, the author of peace and sustainer of Creation. Amen. (From the United Reformed Church.)