North Queensferry Church

5th. August. 2021. Daily Devotion.

33 ‘I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.’ John 16:33

It causes us unnecessary grief, to think that we should not be suffering when we are in pain. The pain is bad enough. Illness, divorce, betrayal, grief, injuries, disappointment, heartache, crime and death are real, and they are awful. But do you know how to make them even worse? Just think, “This is not supposed to happen to me.” Believe that you are entitled to be free of adversity. Envy those who are younger, richer, healthier. Fill yourself with anger at your misfortune. Turn your back on Calvary and try to outrun the human condition.

If instead, we know Christ and do as He commanded, facing our tribulation in the fullness of faith, our envy and anger and entitlement fade away, and we are better equipped to take our suffering in stride. Our pain diminishes. For with true faith, the joy of Christ is greater than the worst the world can inflict upon us.

Prayer to Do Good

If there be some weaker one,
Give me strength to help him on;
If a blinder soul there be
Let me guide him nearer thee;

Make my mortal dreams come true
With the work I fain would do;
Clothe with life the weak intent,
Let me be the thing I meant;

Let me find in Thy employ,
Peace that dearer is than joy;
Out of self to love be led,
And to Heaven acclimated,
Until all things sweet and good
Seem my natural habitude.

Amen. ~  John Greenleaf Whittier

Prayer for Physical Renewal

Lord, I come before you today in need of your healing hand. In you, all things are possible. Hold my heart within yours, and renew my mind, body, and soul.

I am lost, but I am singing. You gave me life, and you also give me the gift of infinite joy. Give me the strength to move forward on the path you’ve laid out for me. Guide me towards better health and give me the wisdom to identify those you’ve placed around me to help me get better. In your name I pray, Amen.

Prayers for those who serve

Bless all who work in stressful situations; healthcare, teaching, law enforcement,
social services and other occupations where patience, love and perseverance can wear thin, and daily stress levels rise. Keep them safe and keep them well, equipped to follow their vocation through the most difficult of times. And at the end of their day, grant rest. Amen.