Discipleship Point
Matthew 6:32-33
So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Pondering Point
Where is your focus? Family, career, goals, maybe retirement?
Our Father knows what we need and when we need it – with every area of concern. As disciples, we seek to put our hearts in position to be productive with the Lord.
Good ways to do so include spending time with Jesus (abiding – John 15:5), praying through worry since it chokes out the work of God’s Word in our lives (Matthew 13:22), and to not fear those who are may think less of me because of the way I live or the decisions that I make (Matthew 13:21).
What are you currently anxious or fearful about?
Discipleship Prayer
Father God, continue to unfold blessings for me – and for my brothers and sisters – as we work through our devotions this week. Let Your Word and Spirit enable me to handle anxieties and pressures in ways that are healthy for my spirit. Then let this have an encouraging effect on those around me. I pray to experience in practical ways the blessings You describe in Philippians 4 about peace that guards my heart and my mind despite anxieties. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Micro-Meditation Scripture
Psalm 32:11
11 Rejoice in the LORD
and be glad, you righteous;
sing, all you who are upright in heart!
Micro-Meditation
Teaching or Command of God
Psalm 105:2
Sing to him, sing praise to him;
tell of all his wonderful acts.
Psalm 112:4
Even in darkness light dawns for the upright, for those who are gracious and compassionate and righteous.
Micro-Meditation
Pondering Point
Can you hear this hymn in your mind: Rejoice Ye pure in heart (LSB #813) or its variant title, Rejoice O Pilgrim Throng? It draws from Psalm 32:11:
Rejoice Ye pure in heart! Rejoice, give thanks, and sing;
Your festal banner wave on high the cross of Christ your King
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice, give thanks and sing.