4th. August. 2021. Daily Devotion.
We continue with more thoughts from the letter of James
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom and continues in it – not forgetting what they have heard but doing it – they will be blessed in what they do. James 1:19-25
Self-centred pride and malice toward others must be replaced by a humble acknowledgment of our need for walking in the light of the truths of Scripture. Just as we were brought to a knowledge of God by the word of truth, so there is a present sense in which daily acknowledgment of the implanted word will save us from anger and foolish decisions. However, this will only be true to the extent that we hear and respond to the word. Working through Scripture, the Spirit reveals areas of our lives which need to be changed. When we see these areas and do nothing about them, it is as foolish as a person who looks in a mirror, realizes he has forgotten to put on his pants, and continues to walk out of the house. Revelation is designed to transform, not merely inform, but it cannot accomplish this without our response. K. Boa.
Lord, give me the strength and will and wisdom to allow you to transform me. Amen.
For Wisdom
Almighty God, bestow upon me, and upon all of us who pray together, the meaning of words, the light of understanding, the nobility of diction and the faith of the true nature. And grant that what we believe we may also speak. Amen. St. Hilary 345 A.D.
Simple Prayer
God of love, my prayer is simple: Your son, Jesus, suffered and died for me. I know only that I cannot have real strength unless I rely on you. I cannot feel protected from my many weaknesses until I turn to you for forgiveness and your unalterable love. Help me to share this strength, protection and love with others. Amen.
For the lifting of restrictions
Heavenly Father, we turn our hearts to you. You are utterly faithful, and you have never failed us. Grant us hope, strength and mercy in our time of need. Enable us to throw our cares onto you, our mighty God. O Lord, hear our prayer.
As restrictions are eased, we pray for wisdom and clarity for those making key decisions, for scientists, medical experts, politicians and public health officials. We pray for acts of kindness to spread in every community. Enable us to be quick to see need and respond in gracious and loving ways. Take us through this time of trial. O Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for those touched by the coronavirus, those who face continuedsorrow, fear, illness and isolation. We ask for compassion, love, healing, and kindness. Make us a people living in your perfect love that we may drive away fear. O Lord, hear our prayer in Jesus’ name Amen
