Discipleship Point and Prayer
2 Corinthians 8:9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
~ Apostle Paul
Pondering Point
From Luther’s Small Catechism explanation to the Apostles’ Creed, Article 2:
I believe that Jesus Christ, true God, begotten of the Father in eternity, and also true man, born of the Virgin Mary, is my Lord. He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned creature – having purchased and freed me from all sins, death, and the power of the devil. This He did, not with gold or silver but with His holy, precious blood and with His innocent suffering and death. He has done this in order that I may belong to Him, to live under Him in His kingdom, and serve Him in eternal righteousness, innocence, and blessedness.
Don't lose sight of these words about forgiveness – in this moment of devoting with God – and in light of another of Jesus' teachings: "If you love Me, you will obey what I command".
Discipleship Prayer
Lord Jesus, I am grateful to belong to You. I want to live my entire life under Your leadership. I want to serve You well with whatever time, talents, and resources that You make available to me. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 139:19-24
- If only you, God, would slay the wicked!
Away from me, you who are bloodthirsty! - They speak of you with evil intent;
your adversaries misuse your name. - Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord,
and abhor those who are in rebellion against you? - I have nothing but hatred for them;
I count them my enemies. - Search me, God, and know my heart;
test me and know my anxious thoughts. - See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Psalm 143:10
- Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground.
The Promise
John 14:6
Jesus answered, I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Pondering Point
Psalm 139:24 brings to mind step 4 of the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-Step program: Fearless Inventory.
Are you open to a fearless inventory of your life with God?