A Prayer for Today

 

Verse for Today

1 Corinthians 2:6-7 We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. (NIV)

Prayer

O Loving Lord, speak to us wisely so that we know the path to choose, the words to say, and the deeds that need to be done. Embrace us as a people and help us to overcome our fears. Grant us the courage to stand against evil and live peaceably with one another. Allow Your Spirit of truth and righteousness to guide our decisions; permit us the sacred gift of discernment to know what is true, to reject all that is false, and to be humble servants of Jesus Christ. In His Holy Name, we earnestly pray. Amen.

Pastor John Stuart

www.erinpres.org

Pursuing Wisdom - James 3:17

James 3:17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. (NRSV)

When I was much younger, I thought that life was all about pursuing happiness and finding pleasure. Now that I am older, I realize that wisdom is more important than indulgence and that God’s wisdom is greater than anything I can possibly know or experience. Pursuing His wisdom is now the main part of my life, so when I read James’ words about the wisdom from above, I can relate to them in ways that my younger self would never have understood or even cared to receive. I guess that Time has a way of stripping away trivial pursuits and showing what is truly important – to enjoy all that God has created and live in His love forever.

Application: Take time to quietly think about God and cherish His love.

Prayer: Lord God, thank You for our lives and the many ways when we encounter Your wisdom, love, and presence. Be with us this day and help us to take time out to contemplate Your words, works, and ways. In Christ’s Name, we pray. Amen.

John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come and join us for worship each Sunday at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome 😊

Today’s image is one of John’s drawings called ‘Christ is King’. If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: King.