31st. July. 2020. Daily Devotion.
Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:15-18
Have you noticed how St Paul always in his letters ends with positive encouragements? How often he advises us to rejoice; that is to be glad, to be happy? This surely is the product of a conscience that is clear, a life that feels secure because it is united with the source of life, and a mind that is thankful and content.
Nowadays it is not difficult to find books, articles and videos which purport to teach us how to live happy and stress-free lives. Here is ancient advice freely available to us which takes no more effort to put into effect. It is more than advice; it is a directive from God “for this is God’s will for you.” And if there are days when it is hard to follow, then there is a helpline which is always available: prayer. Not now and again or only in extreme circumstances, but continually. When we are in the habit of involving God in the small things of life, we will have confidence in bringing the big things.
One of the big things may be resentment at another’s behaviour, the desire to retaliate, or to give up on someone. The other directive here is to strive, note that this word implies more than a little effort, to do what is good for each other and everyone else. That may take a fair bit of prayer too!
Prayer
Gracious God, Jesus is calling me to a new beginning; to a fresh call to discipleship. You are asking me to deny myself, take up my cross and follow you. It was at my baptism that you claimed me as your child.
Today, I affirm that I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. I surrender my will, my desires and my life to you, O God. I commit myself to your call to discipleship: to pray, study your Word, worship you, invite other people to a life of discipleship, encourage Christians in their life of faith, serve those in need, and give joyfully of the gifts that You first gave me. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
To Help Others This Day
Heavenly Lord, I pray that this day, you will continue to bless me, that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can’t find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don’t know you intimately. I pray that others will find your strength, that they can love and help one another. I pray for those that don’t believe that they may find you.
And when this world closes in on me, let me remember the example of my Lord and Saviour: to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. Remind me, nudge me, let me remember to find you when I feel like I’m pushed beyond my limits. In Christ’s name, I come to you, Amen.
In the Hospital
Merciful God, your Spirit hovers over us and all our troubled world, interceding for us with sighs too deep for words. Help us now. Chaos and destruction have shattered our lives. Stay with us as we wait for news, for healing, for help. Give us strength and courage to bear the unknown. Uphold us with your sustaining grace, and show us your care through neighbours, strangers, and friends. Sustain all those whom we love with your healing and your peace. Guide the hands and strengthen the hearts of medical professionals as they work to save. Let those who have been injured know that you are near; give them rest from pain and fear, and restore their hope, we pray in the name of Christ, our light. Amen.