12th - 18th August 2024
Guest Contributor - Ruth Ford
MONDAY
In the beginning, God
“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.” John 1:1-4 (NLT)
Father God, we remember that at the very beginning of time, when darkness was spread all around, your words spoke light into creation. It is hard for us to imagine the wonderful impact that first light had, as it shone brilliantly and dispelled the surrounding darkness. We thank you that just as the sun today gives us energy and warmth, your light still brings life to each of us. Help us grasp the truth that your Holy splendour outshines even the brightest sunshine and the most vibrant aurora. We worship you today.
Suggested listen for today: CityAlight – “Only a Holy God”
TUESDAY
God’s covenant with His people
“I will confirm my covenant with you and your descendants after you, from generation to generation. This is the everlasting covenant: I will always be your God and the God of your descendants after you.” Genesis 17:7 (NLT)
Isn’t it great to be chosen? Whether it’s being invited along to an event or picked for a sports team, being singled out by someone we love or respect can bring us joy. How much more amazing that, from the beginning of time, God chose us as his own dearly loved children. Just as God’s promises to the Israelites are fulfilled in His faithfulness throughout long years of journeying, we can hold fast to His constant presence and guidance.
Father, no other belonging comes close to the joy of knowing that you claim us as your own. We rest in that security today.
Suggested listen for today: Keith & Kristin Getty – “By Faith”
WEDNESDAY
Our hearts need God
“Once we, too, were foolish and disobedient. We were misled and became slaves to many lusts and pleasures. Our lives were full of evil and envy, and we hated each other. But - when God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.” Titus 3:3-5 (NLT)
Father, our hearts are heavy when we think about the sin that so easily entangles us. We are ashamed of the jealousy, bitterness and anger that we can hold on to. We are saddened that so often our thoughts, words and actions do not reflect our love for you. We are amazed that you see the very deepest and most hidden reaches of our heart and yet you love each one of us wholeheartedly. Thank you for the mercy and lovingkindness that you lavish on us each day.
Suggested listen for today: Chris Tomlin – “Indescribable”
THURSDAY
Why should I be afraid?
“The Lord is my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident.” Psalm 27:1-3 (NLT)
Father God, when we read the psalms, we see that when David was in trouble, fleeing from his enemies, facing opposition, fearing for his life, his response was to call out to you. Instead of giving in to fear, he remembered all your faithfulness in years gone by. Instead of concern for the future, he knew that your love and comfort would follow him all the days of his life. Help us today, even if we are worried and anxious, to raise our voices in praise and thanksgiving, knowing that your perfect love casts out fear.
Suggested listen for today: Hillsong United – “Whole Heart”
FRIDAY
The cross that leaves no question
You were dead because of your sins and because your sinful nature was not yet cut away. Then God made you alive with Christ, for he forgave all our sins. He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross. Colossians 2:13-14 (NLT)
Father, it can be hard for us to believe the truth in these verses. Previous earthly experience has shown us that our misdemeanours might be forgotten for a time, but they are often waiting in the wings to rear their ugly head later on. It’s hard to grasp the completeness and the finality of your forgiveness – that Jesus’ death on the cross quite literally wiped our slate clean. Our efforts could never come close to meeting your perfect holiness. Thank you for your sacrifice that has opened the way for us to draw close and live in the light of your presence.
Suggested listen for today: Hillsong Worship – “The Passion”
SATURDAY
Living the new life
“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honour and power. Let heaven fill your thoughts” Colossians 3:1-2 (NLT)
What has filled my thoughts this week? I’m sorry to say that stresses and worries, scrolling and daydreaming and the mundane day-to-day practicalities have occupied my mind so much more than heavenly details. Yet these verses urge us to renew our minds and to very intentionally set our sights on heaven. Father, help us to lift our eyes to the reality of heaven, and to trust you as we run towards that goal. Lord, focus our hearts away from the distractions that crowd our minds, as we take captive our interfering thoughts. Help us to commit each day to fix our eyes on you alone.
Suggested listen for today: Pat Barrett – “Morning by Morning”
SUNDAY
Christ be magnified
For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. Philippians 1:20 (NLT)
Lord, we desire that our love for you would be evident in our every attitude, word and action. We pray that by your help we would live our lives in a way that builds your name and not our own reputation. Soften our pride-filled hearts and remind us that our true purpose is to glorify your holy name. We pray that, as your church, we would be notorious for lives full of grace, love and hope.
Suggested listen for today: Cody Carnes – “Christ be magnified”