Here is today's quote:
"A Christian is a perfectly free lord of all, subject to none. A Christian is a perfectly dutiful servant of all, subject of all, subject to all."
Martin Luther
Friday, April 30, 2010
April 30, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
For Those Searching for God
O Lord my God,
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.
--- St. Anselm
For Those Searching for God
O Lord my God,
Teach my heart this day where and how to see you,
Where and how to find you.
You have made me and remade me,
And you have bestowed on me
All the good things I possess,
And still I do not know you.
I have not yet done that
For which I was made.
Teach me to seek you,
For I cannot seek you
Unless you teach me,
Or find you
Unless you show yourself to me.
Let me seek you in my desire,
Let me desire you in my seeking.
Let me find you by loving you,
Let me love you when I find you.
--- St. Anselm
Thursday, April 29, 2010
April 29, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"They gave our Master a crown of thorns. Why do we hope for a crown of roses?"
Martin Luther
"They gave our Master a crown of thorns. Why do we hope for a crown of roses?"
Martin Luther
April 29, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Prayer for Trust in Jesus
O Christ Jesus,
when all is darkness
and we feel our weakness and helplessness,
give us the sense of Your presence,
Your love, and Your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
in Your protecting love
and strengthening power,
so that nothing may frighten or worry us,
for, living close to You,
we shall see Your hand,
Your purpose, Your will through all things.
--- St. Ignatius of Loyola
Prayer for Trust in Jesus
O Christ Jesus,
when all is darkness
and we feel our weakness and helplessness,
give us the sense of Your presence,
Your love, and Your strength.
Help us to have perfect trust
in Your protecting love
and strengthening power,
so that nothing may frighten or worry us,
for, living close to You,
we shall see Your hand,
Your purpose, Your will through all things.
--- St. Ignatius of Loyola
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
April 28, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Next to faith this is the highest art -- to be content with the calling in which God has placed you."
Martin Luther
"Next to faith this is the highest art -- to be content with the calling in which God has placed you."
Martin Luther
April 28, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
God Is Our Hope
God is our hope and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the hills be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though the waters thereof rage and swell,
and though the mountains shake at the tempest of the same.
There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God,
the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
--- Psalms 46: 1-4
God Is Our Hope
God is our hope and strength,
a very present help in trouble.
Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be moved,
and though the hills be carried into the midst of the sea;
Though the waters thereof rage and swell,
and though the mountains shake at the tempest of the same.
There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God,
the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
--- Psalms 46: 1-4
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
April 27, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing."
Martin Luther
"To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing."
Martin Luther
April 27, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
A Prayer for Comfort and Hope
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress, the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins. In time of darkness give us blessed hope, in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage; and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy, and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness, and the sun is too bright, and life too mirthful, then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us, and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light; that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy, we may pass on through this our mortal life with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust, hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years. Hear us of Thy mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord – Amen.
--- George Dawson
A Prayer for Comfort and Hope
Grant unto us, Almighty God, in all time of sore distress, the comfort of the forgiveness of our sins. In time of darkness give us blessed hope, in time of sickness of body give us quiet courage; and when the heart is bowed down, and the soul is very heavy, and life is a burden, and pleasure a weariness, and the sun is too bright, and life too mirthful, then may that Spirit, the Spirit of the Comforter, come upon us, and after our darkness may there be the clear shining of the heavenly light; that so, being uplifted again by Thy mercy, we may pass on through this our mortal life with quiet courage, patient hope, and unshaken trust, hoping through Thy loving-kindness and tender mercy to be delivered from death into the large life of the eternal years. Hear us of Thy mercy, through Jesus Christ our Lord – Amen.
--- George Dawson
Monday, April 26, 2010
April 26, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"If the devil were wise enough and would stand by in silence and let the Gospel be preached, he would suffer less harm. For when there is no battle for the Gospel it rusts and it finds no cause and no occasion to show its vigor and power. Therefore, nothing better can befall the Gospel than that the world should fight it with force and cunning."
Martin Luther
"If the devil were wise enough and would stand by in silence and let the Gospel be preached, he would suffer less harm. For when there is no battle for the Gospel it rusts and it finds no cause and no occasion to show its vigor and power. Therefore, nothing better can befall the Gospel than that the world should fight it with force and cunning."
Martin Luther
April 26, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
An Evening Family Prayer
Lord, behold our family here assembled.
We thank you for this place in which we dwell,
for the love that unites us,
for the peace accorded to us this day,
for the hope with which we expect the morrow;
for the health, the work,
the food and the bright skies
that make our lives delightful;
for our friends in all parts of the earth. Amen.
--- Robert Louis Stevenson
An Evening Family Prayer
Lord, behold our family here assembled.
We thank you for this place in which we dwell,
for the love that unites us,
for the peace accorded to us this day,
for the hope with which we expect the morrow;
for the health, the work,
the food and the bright skies
that make our lives delightful;
for our friends in all parts of the earth. Amen.
--- Robert Louis Stevenson
Sunday, April 25, 2010
April 25, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"I have held many things in my hands, and have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess."
Martin Luther
"I have held many things in my hands, and have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God's hands, that I still possess."
Martin Luther
April 25, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
A Prayer for Aid Against Perils
Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
--- Book of Common Prayer 1979
A Prayer for Aid Against Perils
Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
--- Book of Common Prayer 1979
Saturday, April 24, 2010
April 24, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"My temptations have been my Masters in Divinity."
Martin Luther
"My temptations have been my Masters in Divinity."
Martin Luther
April 24, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Christ Be With Me
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord.
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.
--- St. Patrick
Christ Be With Me
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every one who speaks to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord.
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation, Lord, be ever with us.
--- St. Patrick
Friday, April 23, 2010
April 23, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Is it not wonderful news to believe that salvation lies outside ourselves?"
Martin Luther
"Is it not wonderful news to believe that salvation lies outside ourselves?"
Martin Luther
April 23, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
A Hebrew Blessing
Blessed are You, O Lord our God, Eternal King,
Who feeds the whole world with Your goodness,
With grace, with loving kindness, and with tender mercy.
You give food to all flesh,
For Your loving kindness endures forever.
Through Your great goodness, food has never failed us.
O may it not fail us forever, for Your name's sake,
Since You nourish and sustain all living things,
And do good to all,
And provide food for all Your creatures
Whom You have created.
Blessed are You, O Lord, Who gives food to all.
A Hebrew Blessing
Blessed are You, O Lord our God, Eternal King,
Who feeds the whole world with Your goodness,
With grace, with loving kindness, and with tender mercy.
You give food to all flesh,
For Your loving kindness endures forever.
Through Your great goodness, food has never failed us.
O may it not fail us forever, for Your name's sake,
Since You nourish and sustain all living things,
And do good to all,
And provide food for all Your creatures
Whom You have created.
Blessed are You, O Lord, Who gives food to all.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
April 22, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
O God,
who has set us in a world of soaring beauty,
and profound mystery. . .
who has enclosed our years within the eternal context
of fragrant spring mornings,
and sparkling winter nights. . .
who has granted us, over the years,
the lilt of lively companionship,
the provocation of ideas and personalities,
the sheer, clear point of joy
in creating a thing of loveliness,
or of excellence,
the steady, solid support of friendships tried, and tested. . .
we thank you.
Above all we thank you,
for the first flowing of conscience.
We look back,
and we recognize, in ourselves,
the dawning of a conviction that life is not simply
a random series of opportunities and disappointments.
We look back,
and we acknowledge that our life has been a gift,
a gift to be accepted - savoured,
a gift to be lived out,
fully lived out between the twin poles of freedom
and responsibility.
And now we step forward in this freedom and this responsibility.,
Free in the knowledge of how little is really essential.
Responsible in the conviction of how much is desperately needed.
Help us, living God,
to maintain this tension,
this heart-rending,
heart-healing tension.
And in all this grant us grace:
that elusive tenderness
that blesses all it touches,
that lightens every load,
that sings in every song
and dances in every step;
that grace which is the flame of love,
leaping up in our hearts,
and setting our lives afire.
Amen
--Barrie Shepherd
O God,
who has set us in a world of soaring beauty,
and profound mystery. . .
who has enclosed our years within the eternal context
of fragrant spring mornings,
and sparkling winter nights. . .
who has granted us, over the years,
the lilt of lively companionship,
the provocation of ideas and personalities,
the sheer, clear point of joy
in creating a thing of loveliness,
or of excellence,
the steady, solid support of friendships tried, and tested. . .
we thank you.
Above all we thank you,
for the first flowing of conscience.
We look back,
and we recognize, in ourselves,
the dawning of a conviction that life is not simply
a random series of opportunities and disappointments.
We look back,
and we acknowledge that our life has been a gift,
a gift to be accepted - savoured,
a gift to be lived out,
fully lived out between the twin poles of freedom
and responsibility.
And now we step forward in this freedom and this responsibility.,
Free in the knowledge of how little is really essential.
Responsible in the conviction of how much is desperately needed.
Help us, living God,
to maintain this tension,
this heart-rending,
heart-healing tension.
And in all this grant us grace:
that elusive tenderness
that blesses all it touches,
that lightens every load,
that sings in every song
and dances in every step;
that grace which is the flame of love,
leaping up in our hearts,
and setting our lives afire.
Amen
--Barrie Shepherd
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
April 21, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"The world is a den of murderers, subject to the devil. If we desire to live on earth, we must be content to be guests in it, and to lie in an inn where the host is a rascal, whose house has over the door this sign or shield, 'For murder and lies.'"
Martin Luther
"The world is a den of murderers, subject to the devil. If we desire to live on earth, we must be content to be guests in it, and to lie in an inn where the host is a rascal, whose house has over the door this sign or shield, 'For murder and lies.'"
Martin Luther
April 21, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Thank You, Thank You, Generous God!
Thank You, thank You, thank You, generous God!
You have injected life with joy, thus we know laughter.
You have dabbed creation with color, thus we enjoy beauty.
You have whistled a divine tune into the rhythm of life, thus we hear music.
You have filled our minds with questions, thus we appreciate mystery.
You have entered our hearts with compassion, thus we experience faith.
Thank You, God, Thaank You. Thank You!
- C. Welton Gaddy
Thank You, Thank You, Generous God!
Thank You, thank You, thank You, generous God!
You have injected life with joy, thus we know laughter.
You have dabbed creation with color, thus we enjoy beauty.
You have whistled a divine tune into the rhythm of life, thus we hear music.
You have filled our minds with questions, thus we appreciate mystery.
You have entered our hearts with compassion, thus we experience faith.
Thank You, God, Thaank You. Thank You!
- C. Welton Gaddy
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
April 20, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"The law works fear and wrath; grace works hope and mercy."
Martin Luther
"The law works fear and wrath; grace works hope and mercy."
Martin Luther
April 20, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Give me a good digestion, Lord, and also something to digest;
Give me a healthy body, Lord, and sense to keep it at its best.
Give me a healthy mind, good Lord, to keep the good and pure in sight;
Which, seeing, sin, is not appalled, but finds a way to set it right.
Give me a mind that is not bound, that does not whimper, whine or sigh.
Don't let me worry overmuch about the fussy thing called "I."
Give me a sense of humor, Lord; give me the grace to see a joke,
To get some happiness from life and pass it on to other folk.
- Thomas H. B. Webb
Give me a good digestion, Lord, and also something to digest;
Give me a healthy body, Lord, and sense to keep it at its best.
Give me a healthy mind, good Lord, to keep the good and pure in sight;
Which, seeing, sin, is not appalled, but finds a way to set it right.
Give me a mind that is not bound, that does not whimper, whine or sigh.
Don't let me worry overmuch about the fussy thing called "I."
Give me a sense of humor, Lord; give me the grace to see a joke,
To get some happiness from life and pass it on to other folk.
- Thomas H. B. Webb
Monday, April 19, 2010
April 19, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Faith cannot be inherited or gained by being baptized into a Church. Faith is a matter between the individual and God."
Martin Luther
"Faith cannot be inherited or gained by being baptized into a Church. Faith is a matter between the individual and God."
Martin Luther
April 19, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
O God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.
Amen.
- Samuel F. Pugh
O God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.
Amen.
- Samuel F. Pugh
Sunday, April 18, 2010
April 18, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"There is no more lovely, friendly or charming relationship, communion or company, than a good marriage."
Martin Luther
"There is no more lovely, friendly or charming relationship, communion or company, than a good marriage."
Martin Luther
April 18, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Holy God, help me to see my day today through your eyes. Help me to recognize where I have been insensitive, where I have lacked compassion or grace, where I have been overbearing or rude, or where I have had any shortcoming in my dealings with you or with others. Show me where I need to make amends and grant me the strength and courage to follow through with those amends.
Help me also to recognize those places where I have been a reflection of you. Grant me the humility to recognize your continued work of grace in and through me. It is in the holy and precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Holy God, help me to see my day today through your eyes. Help me to recognize where I have been insensitive, where I have lacked compassion or grace, where I have been overbearing or rude, or where I have had any shortcoming in my dealings with you or with others. Show me where I need to make amends and grant me the strength and courage to follow through with those amends.
Help me also to recognize those places where I have been a reflection of you. Grant me the humility to recognize your continued work of grace in and through me. It is in the holy and precious name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
April 17, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"A man may study because his brain is hungry for knowledge, even Bible knowledge. But he prays because his soul is hungry for God."
Leonard Ravenhill
"A man may study because his brain is hungry for knowledge, even Bible knowledge. But he prays because his soul is hungry for God."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 17, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Father, today we pray that our pastors would know and love the living God, would have a saving interest in Christ, being purchased by His blood, and thus would be bound to the Lord by the indissoluble bond of the Holy Spirit. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Father, today we pray that our pastors would know and love the living God, would have a saving interest in Christ, being purchased by His blood, and thus would be bound to the Lord by the indissoluble bond of the Holy Spirit. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Friday, April 16, 2010
April 16, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere."
Leonard Ravenhill
"This much is sure in all churches, forgetting party labels; the smallest meeting numerically is the prayer- meeting. If weak in prayer we are weak everywhere."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 16, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Gracious God, today we pray that You would protect our pastors from themselves, from the enemy of their soul, and from all earthly enemies. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.
Gracious God, today we pray that You would protect our pastors from themselves, from the enemy of their soul, and from all earthly enemies. In the name of Christ we pray. Amen.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
April 15, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"The true man of God is heartsick, grieved at the worldliness of the Church...grieved at the toleration of sin in the Church, grieved at the prayerlessness in the Church. He is disturbed that the corporate prayer of the Church no longer pulls down the strongholds of the devil."
Leonard Ravenhill
"The true man of God is heartsick, grieved at the worldliness of the Church...grieved at the toleration of sin in the Church, grieved at the prayerlessness in the Church. He is disturbed that the corporate prayer of the Church no longer pulls down the strongholds of the devil."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 15, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our pray for our pastors series:
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be great parents to their children. That they would love God, their parents and the church. Amen.
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be great parents to their children. That they would love God, their parents and the church. Amen.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
April 14, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"If Jesus preached the same message minister's preach today, He would have never been crucified."
Leonard Ravenhill
"If Jesus preached the same message minister's preach today, He would have never been crucified."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 14, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be a testimony in their homes so that their spouses might be able to respect them when they are in the pulpit, and so that our pastors will be able to feed their spouses souls, along with the rest of the congregation. Amen.
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be a testimony in their homes so that their spouses might be able to respect them when they are in the pulpit, and so that our pastors will be able to feed their spouses souls, along with the rest of the congregation. Amen.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
April 13, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Our seminaries today are turning out dead men."
Leonard Ravenhill
"Our seminaries today are turning out dead men."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 13, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Father, today we pray that no decision which our pastors ever make or desire that our pastors ever pursue would restrict their ability to pour their whole soul into the Gospel ministry. Amen.
Father, today we pray that no decision which our pastors ever make or desire that our pastors ever pursue would restrict their ability to pour their whole soul into the Gospel ministry. Amen.
Monday, April 12, 2010
April 12, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"My main ambition in life is to be on the devil's most wanted list."
Leonard Ravenhill
"My main ambition in life is to be on the devil's most wanted list."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 12, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Gracious God, today we pray that our pastors would be kept from pride, and especially spiritual pride. That the Lord himself would be gracious to slay pride in them, and that our pastors would endeavor to always be putting pride to death, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gracious God, today we pray that our pastors would be kept from pride, and especially spiritual pride. That the Lord himself would be gracious to slay pride in them, and that our pastors would endeavor to always be putting pride to death, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
April 11, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Today's church wants to be raptured from responsibility."
Leonard Ravenhill
"Today's church wants to be raptured from responsibility."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 11, 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be ever dependent upon and filled with the Spirit; and that they would possess true Spiritual wisdom. Amen.
Holy God, today we pray that our pastors would be ever dependent upon and filled with the Spirit; and that they would possess true Spiritual wisdom. Amen.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
April 10, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"The Bible is either absolute, or it's obsolete."
Leonard Ravenhill
"The Bible is either absolute, or it's obsolete."
Leonard Ravenhill
April 10. 2010
Here is today's prayer from our praying for our pastors series:
God, today we pray that our pastors would love to pray because they love to commune with You. God, we would ask that our pastors characteristically become people of prayer. In Christ's name, Amen.
God, today we pray that our pastors would love to pray because they love to commune with You. God, we would ask that our pastors characteristically become people of prayer. In Christ's name, Amen.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Vacaching Adventure, Day 1
Today I left for my week plus of vacation, during which time I will be geocaching through 10 states. Today I drove through Texas and Louisiana (I had already cached in these two states, so I didn't make any additional stops), and then drove through Mississippi and collected 16 smiley faces (that's finds for you non-geocachers) and 5 new travel bugs and 1 new path tag. It was a great day.
This morning started with a beautiful sunrise and led into an all around gorgeous day. There were all kinds of pastures full of varying colored flowers, but mostly yellows, blues and purples. One of the coolest parts of the morning trip was watching the more than 1 dozen crop dusters do all of their low flying antics right over the freeway in the early morning hours.
I had a little snag this evening in that I drove past my exit for my final destination...it took me about 30 miles out of my way, but I did eventually arrive here at Tessa's house with no other ordeals!
We are watching a movie, and then I am off to bed to go at it again tomorrow!
I will upload pictures when I get the chance.
This morning started with a beautiful sunrise and led into an all around gorgeous day. There were all kinds of pastures full of varying colored flowers, but mostly yellows, blues and purples. One of the coolest parts of the morning trip was watching the more than 1 dozen crop dusters do all of their low flying antics right over the freeway in the early morning hours.
I had a little snag this evening in that I drove past my exit for my final destination...it took me about 30 miles out of my way, but I did eventually arrive here at Tessa's house with no other ordeals!
We are watching a movie, and then I am off to bed to go at it again tomorrow!
I will upload pictures when I get the chance.
April 9, 2010
Here is today's prayer in the praying for our pastors series:
Gracious God, today we pray that you would pour out your Holy Spirit on Pastor _________. Let your Spirit flood their being. Allow them to be drawn time and time again to your Word. Give them the strength, perseverance, and discernment that they need to study, practice and teach the Word by your grace. In Christ's name, amen.
Gracious God, today we pray that you would pour out your Holy Spirit on Pastor _________. Let your Spirit flood their being. Allow them to be drawn time and time again to your Word. Give them the strength, perseverance, and discernment that they need to study, practice and teach the Word by your grace. In Christ's name, amen.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
April 8, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Could a mariner sit idle if he heard the drowning cry? Could a doctor sit in comfort and just let his patients die? Could a fireman sit idle, let men burn and give no hand? Can you sit at ease in Zion with the world around you damned?"
Leonard Ravenhill
"Could a mariner sit idle if he heard the drowning cry? Could a doctor sit in comfort and just let his patients die? Could a fireman sit idle, let men burn and give no hand? Can you sit at ease in Zion with the world around you damned?"
Leonard Ravenhill
April 8, 2010
Today we continue the praying for our pastor series with the following prayer:
Holy and gracious God, today I pray for pastor ____________. Please use this pastor as a vessel of your grace and mercy; that they would be a useful servant of yours Lord. We pray that they would know and love your Word, your people, and your Kingdom; that they would be used to build it up, not for their glory, Lord, but for yours. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Holy and gracious God, today I pray for pastor ____________. Please use this pastor as a vessel of your grace and mercy; that they would be a useful servant of yours Lord. We pray that they would know and love your Word, your people, and your Kingdom; that they would be used to build it up, not for their glory, Lord, but for yours. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
April 7, 2010
I am a pastor and I frequently get asked how folks can be praying for me or for their own pastor. I ran across a great list published by lduncan on another blog (to which I have regrettably lost the link). It was a list of the types of thinks that we as pastors could use prayers for. I have put some flesh on the list by offering my own words to convey the ideas on the shorter list by Duncan. For the next couple of weeks, I want to invite you to pray these prayers for your own pastor and for all pastors.
Here is today's prayer:
Holy God, I pray for pastor ____________ (fill in the name of the pastor you're praying for). Please grant that they would know, embrace and ever more deeply understand the Gospel and be shaped by it in life and ministry. In Christ's name I pray. Amen.
Here is today's prayer:
Holy God, I pray for pastor ____________ (fill in the name of the pastor you're praying for). Please grant that they would know, embrace and ever more deeply understand the Gospel and be shaped by it in life and ministry. In Christ's name I pray. Amen.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
April 6, 2010
A little late, but here is today's prayer...it is a guide to a daily prayer of examen...follow the steps and then pray using your own words:
A Simplified Version (a latter Jesuit Examen)
1. Thanksgiving
Lord, I realize that all, even myself, is a gift from you.
- Today, for what things am I most grateful?
2. Intention
Lord, open my eyes and ears to be more honest with myself.
- Today, what do I really want for myself?
3. Examination
Lord, show me what has been happening to me and in me this day.
- Today, in what ways have I experienced your love?
4. Contrition
Lord, I am still learning to grow in your love.
- Today, what choices have been inadequate responses to your love?
5. Hope
Lord, let me look with longing toward the future.
- Today, how will I let you lead me to a brighter tomorrow?
A Simplified Version (a latter Jesuit Examen)
1. Thanksgiving
Lord, I realize that all, even myself, is a gift from you.
- Today, for what things am I most grateful?
2. Intention
Lord, open my eyes and ears to be more honest with myself.
- Today, what do I really want for myself?
3. Examination
Lord, show me what has been happening to me and in me this day.
- Today, in what ways have I experienced your love?
4. Contrition
Lord, I am still learning to grow in your love.
- Today, what choices have been inadequate responses to your love?
5. Hope
Lord, let me look with longing toward the future.
- Today, how will I let you lead me to a brighter tomorrow?
April 6, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Today Christians spend more money on dog food than missions."
Leonard Ravenhill
"Today Christians spend more money on dog food than missions."
Leonard Ravenhill
Monday, April 5, 2010
April 5, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Any method of evangelism will work if God is in it."
Leonard Ravenhill
"Any method of evangelism will work if God is in it."
Leonard Ravenhill
More About Daily Quotes
Everyday, I have been (and will continue) posting quotes from various authors, church leaders, and the like.
I want to invite you to view these as conversation starters. Tell me what you think about the quote. Does it speak to you? Do you agree or disagree? Why? What solutions can you offer to resolve the issues that are presented in the quote? These are the things I am interested in hearing about from you!
Today we will begin a 13 day series on quotes from Leonard Ravenhill. He is quite poignant. Sometimes we may think he takes things too far or not far enough, so I am excited about the conversations that we will be having in the comments section in the days to come!
Our first installment will be posted about 2:30 this afternoon...so be on the lookout!
Blessings,
Russell
I want to invite you to view these as conversation starters. Tell me what you think about the quote. Does it speak to you? Do you agree or disagree? Why? What solutions can you offer to resolve the issues that are presented in the quote? These are the things I am interested in hearing about from you!
Today we will begin a 13 day series on quotes from Leonard Ravenhill. He is quite poignant. Sometimes we may think he takes things too far or not far enough, so I am excited about the conversations that we will be having in the comments section in the days to come!
Our first installment will be posted about 2:30 this afternoon...so be on the lookout!
Blessings,
Russell
April 5, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Holy God, come alive in me today. Don't let me too quickly forget the power and grace of the resurrection. Help guide me in my journey with you, that your reflection in and through me may continue; not for my glory, Lord, but for your glory. In Christ's name, Amen.
Holy God, come alive in me today. Don't let me too quickly forget the power and grace of the resurrection. Help guide me in my journey with you, that your reflection in and through me may continue; not for my glory, Lord, but for your glory. In Christ's name, Amen.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
April 4, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Let us hear what the Bible says and what we as Christians are called to hear together: By grace you have been saved."
Karl Barth
"Let us hear what the Bible says and what we as Christians are called to hear together: By grace you have been saved."
Karl Barth
April 4, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
God our Father,
by raising Christ your Son
you conquered the power of death
and opened for us the way to eternal life.
Let our celebration today raise us up
and renew our lives by the Spirit that is within us.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
God our Father,
by raising Christ your Son
you conquered the power of death
and opened for us the way to eternal life.
Let our celebration today raise us up
and renew our lives by the Spirit that is within us.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
April 3, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"Let us not ask of the Lord deceitful riches, nor the good things of this world, nor transitory honors; but let us ask for light."
Gregory Nazianzen
"Let us not ask of the Lord deceitful riches, nor the good things of this world, nor transitory honors; but let us ask for light."
Gregory Nazianzen
April 3, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
O God, who makes this most holy night illustrious by the glory of the resurrection of our Lord, preserve in the new children of your family the spirit of adoption which you have given, that, renewed in body and soul, they may give you a pure service. This we ask of you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son. Amen.
O God, who makes this most holy night illustrious by the glory of the resurrection of our Lord, preserve in the new children of your family the spirit of adoption which you have given, that, renewed in body and soul, they may give you a pure service. This we ask of you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son. Amen.
Friday, April 2, 2010
April 2, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"For God loves to be entreated, He loves to be compelled."
Gregory Nazianzen
"For God loves to be entreated, He loves to be compelled."
Gregory Nazianzen
April 2, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
My Lord,
your son has suffered so much, shed so much blood.
I was born with so many faults
and my nature is so full of weakness,
and yet your son Jesus has died on the cross.
For me.
I know your grace has the power
to cleanse me of my many sins
and to make me more like your Son.
Thank you for your goodness and love for me.
I ask you, Father, to watch over me - always. Amen.
My Lord,
your son has suffered so much, shed so much blood.
I was born with so many faults
and my nature is so full of weakness,
and yet your son Jesus has died on the cross.
For me.
I know your grace has the power
to cleanse me of my many sins
and to make me more like your Son.
Thank you for your goodness and love for me.
I ask you, Father, to watch over me - always. Amen.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
April 1, 2010
Here is today's quote:
"The Self-Existent comes into being, the Uncreated is created, that which cannot be contained is contained."
Gregory Nazianzen
"The Self-Existent comes into being, the Uncreated is created, that which cannot be contained is contained."
Gregory Nazianzen
April 1, 2010
Here is today's prayer:
Loving Provider,
you gather me in this upper room with your son,
to be fed by your love.
At that supper, Jesus told us to "love one another"
and I know that is the heart of his gift,
his sacrifice for me.
I ask that I might find the source of my own heart,
the meaning for my own life,
in that Eucharist.
Guide me to the fullness of your love and life. Amen.
Loving Provider,
you gather me in this upper room with your son,
to be fed by your love.
At that supper, Jesus told us to "love one another"
and I know that is the heart of his gift,
his sacrifice for me.
I ask that I might find the source of my own heart,
the meaning for my own life,
in that Eucharist.
Guide me to the fullness of your love and life. Amen.
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