Jude 24

Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling. and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. 

Heavenly Father, as I look unto Jesus, Your perfect pure Son who is without spot or blemish I am so thankful for Your grace, mercy and love that opened my eyes to see He is the author and finisher of our faith. Thank You Jesus for doing everything necessary for me so I may endure in faith. Wholly trusting You in all situations and circumstances. You are our example and model for You were focused on the joy set before You. Your attention not focused on the agony of the cross but the crown, not the suffering but the reward. I think what joy it would be to have the reward of a crown that I could lay at Your feet in thanksgiving of all You have done for me. I'm so similar to the little drummer boy who only had his little drum to play for You. I pray my simple heart of praise and thanksgiving would be acceptable to You and a sweet-smelling aroma. You have told us not to be anxious about our lives. But yet we go around anxiously saying "What shall we eat? What shall we drink? What shall we wear? When You our heavenly Father knows we have need of them and how much greater You knew our need for a Savior. Therefor we need not be anxious about tomorrow because Jesus said, "It is finished." So today, Lord, we will seek You first and Your righteousness and thank You that all these things shall be added unto us. Amen.

Hebrew 12:1-3 and Matthew 6:25-34

Matthew 7:21

Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 

Your Word Father is more superior to any miracle, help me to remember this always. I just read a quote by Your servant A.W. Tozer who said "A church fed on excitement is no New Testament church at all. The desire for surface stimulation is a sure mark of the fallen nature, the very thing Christ died to deliver us from." There are charlatans and false teachers prophesying, casting out demons and performing wonders all the while getting rich from their schemes. Father, please grant us discernment in these days of illusions and delusions. Restore those who have been lured or are following after a false gospel. Remind those who are struggling that the little faith they have left is not no faith it is a faith that is ineffective, defective or deficient in some way. Reveal the hidden or blatant sin that is keeping them from the true Gospel. Some would have us believe that there is a demonic origin behind every sickness, but You have made a distinction between the sick and casting out spirits from those oppressed by demons. Strip the scales from our eyes, remove the callouses from our hearts so we may never hear depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness. Father, please forgive us for taking far to much delight in surface stimulation instead of being still, sitting at Your feet, living a quite life of devotion to You and You alone. In Jesus name I pray You will bless Your children today to remain strong, fighting the good fight of faith. Amen. 

Jude 20 and 21

But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.  

Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of Your one and only Son Jesus. I thank You that You are the one who keeps me from stumbling and You Lord keeps me from being deceived. With great joy I come before You as You alone are wise, having dominion and power both now and forever. By Your Holy Spirit may I continue to cultivate my love for Christ. May I show mercy to others in the faith who have spiritual or physical needs. May simple acts of service help to build them up in the most holy faith. You God are always with me guiding me to brothers and sisters who need tender care and patience to help them grow in You. Sometimes drastic measures are needed to rescue them from the temptations to sin. Grant me strategies, wisdom and caution to prevent me from getting caught up in the sin that caused them to fall. May Your children run well and not be hindered from obeying the truth. Let our labors not be in vain and our suffering in tribulations not cause weakness to fall into temptation. You, Lord delivers us from evil. For the steps of a good person are ordered by You. Help us to apply ourselves the best we can today with the awareness that You stand ready to help. I have been young, and now am old yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken nor Your descendants begging for bread. You are ever merciful and lend and You bless You children with the Bread of Life. Amen.

Jude, Galatians 5:7 and Psalm 37:23 and 25-26

Matthew 28:20

 "Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Amen.

Immanuel. Gloria! Gloria! We are Your people, and You are our God. The Word became flesh and You dwelt amongst us. We have seen Your glory, glory as the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Let us go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, the Jesus Christ is born. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness. You were manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by the angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world and taken up in glory. Jesus Messiah You are Lord of all. We praise You, we thank You for filling us with Your Spirit, the Helper. You never leave us or forsake us, ever. Let our lives reveal Your people as resilient faithful having an enduring spirit of hope. Though we face adversities of various kinds we will not be overtaking because of Your promise You are with us even to the end of the age. And that Lord is amazing. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race You have set before us. May all glory and honor begiven to You Jesus, Amen. 

John 1:14 1 Timothy 3:16, "Go Tell It on the Mountain" by John Wesley Work Jr. Hebrews 12:1-3

Matthew 2:11

And when they had come into the house, they saw a young child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  

How very wonderful and truly marvelous Lord that You use many means to draw quasi-pagans to You. A prophecy, a star, a wonder drawing all people of various religions who do not understand Your divine nature. The longing You place in our hearts that only You the creator of them can satisfy. Father, I pray for those who are still wandering in the desert following after seducing spirit or listening to lying tongues to hearken to the sound of Your voice saying "Come to Me all You who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest. May today be the day of making room in their hearts, coming and bowing down to worship You the King of kings and Lord of lords. Father, You know my simple sincere heart is all that I have to offer and lay at Your feet but with great joy I rejoice exceedingly for You have delivered me from captivity. I believe You can do it again and again and again in those around me as it is Your good pleasure to do so. What joy in heaven to behold the worldly wise, spiritually poor, and the curious coming into Your house bowing down to worship You Jesus, the Messiah. In this season of packages, ribbons and bows may we remember the golden strand. Christ holds together the royal tapestry of truth. Jesus You are the way to life, one that is more abundant and without charge. As the dust settles from the flurry of holiday hoo-ha may we turn our attention solely back to You the lover of our souls. Thank You Lord for bringing light into the dark world illuminating our way to eternity. I love You Lord, and am forever grateful, Amen.

Luke 24:45

And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the scriptures.

Bless You Heavenly and Holy Father. I thank and praise You for giving me insight beyond my abilities so I may behold marvelous things that reveal You to me. On the glorious splendor and of Your majestic wonderous works, I will meditate. You Lord are faithful in all Your words and kind in all Your works. May I never forget the day of my salvation when You graciously opened my eyes to understanding I am a sinner in great need of a Savior. Father, everything that is written about Your beautiful Son Jesus in the Law of Moses and the Prophets as well as the Psalms must be fulfilled. He was born in the City of David our Prince of Peace, He did miracles of various kinds, spoke truth in love and extended mercy where mercy was absent. He went to the cross in meekness and up from the grave He arose. Truly the greatest gift ever given to mankind. Jesus our Messiah is Lord of all. Today I bow in humble adoration of You my King, my Lord, my Redeemer and bless Your Holy name. I pray for those whose hearts are filled with darkness may Your goodness be revealed. May many comprehend that You are the Light of the world beckoning come to Me all You who are weary and heavy laden, and I will give You rest. May You Lord be born in innumerable hearts this Christmas eve. Oh, come let us adore Him, oh come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord. Yes Lord, we greet thee, Born this happy morning. Jesus to thee all glory giving, Word of the Father now in flesh appearing. O come all ye faithful, come let us adore Him! Christ is the Lord. Amen.

Psalm 119:18, Psalm 145:5&13 and Matthew 11:28. "O Come Let Us Adore Him" by John Francis Wade.

Luke 23:12

That very day Pilate and Herod became friends with each other, for previously they had been at enmity with each other.

Lord, You are God. who made heaven and earth and sea, and all that is in them, who by the mouth of Your servant David have said: Why did the nations rage, and the people plot vain things? The kings of the earth took their stand, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord and against His Christ. Father as You are well aware even today many who are at the opposite ends of the political spectrum, unite in their hatred of Jesus Christ. May we be aware of ungodly alliances in our lives. Father, I pray for those who are against Your holy Servant Jesus whom You have anointed may they stop, look and listen before going any further down the road leading to their destruction. Grant Your children boldness to speak Your word, to stretch out our hands to be used to heal, and signs and wonders be done through the name of Jesus who deserves all the glory. It is remarkable that even though there is no fault found in Jesus, who is spotless and perfect many still choose Barabbas. The stench of the spirit of death, rebellion and hatred permeates this nation and is bringing judgement on the land. Father, forgive us as we honor You with our lips, but our hearts are far from You. We are a double minded people who say one thing and do another. We say we love You, but we are only tickling Your ears with insincere praise. Please Father, pour out Your Holy Spirit to cleanse hearts and minds so the gift of sorrowful repentance may be received, and lives transformed. May we one day soon be a restored nation that is a beacon of hope for the world no longer being one of mockery and distain. I pray for the multitudes of people who do follow You, the ones who are mourning and weeping regarding all the injustices that are happening around us. The dark cloud that is thundering perverted words of calling evil good and good evil. Strengthen Your faithful ones to endure and be victorious in every battle. May we have a vim, vigor and vitality for the truth and speak it with confidence not being ashamed of the Gospel. Have mercy on us Lord and be gracious to Your children. Maranatha, Amen.

Acts 4:23-30

Luke 22:3

Then satan entered Judas, surname Iscariot, who was numbered among the twelve.

Heavenly Father You are sovereign and compassionate. Your plans and purposes are perfect. The journey Jesus took to the cross was not just a matter of human effort or Judas' plot. For Jesus said to His disciples "Behold the hand of My betrayers is with Me on the table." You know the heart and intention of every person. Truly the Son of Man goes as it was determined, but woe to the one whom betrayed Him. Father, search our hearts today and try us to see if there are any wicked ways in us. You know our anxieties so please lead us in the way everlasting. Where can we go from Your Spirit or where can we flee from Your presence? But more importantly why would we ever want to unless we have allowed satan to tempt our pride, lure us with lust of our eye and flesh. As we ready for the day may we remember to put on the full armor and walk in love being imitators of our God. Remembering Christ loves us and gave Himself for us as an offering and sacrifice to You God for a sweet-smelling aroma. May praises continually go forth on our lips for You Jesus are great and greatly to be praised! And may the peace of You Lord which surpasses all understanding shall keep our hearts and minds always. In Your matchless name Jesus thank You for Your steadfast love and protection. Amen.

Luke 22:19-22, Psalm 139:23-24 and 7, Ephesians 5, Philippians 4:7

Luke 21:34

But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. 

Heavenly Father, I pray always that Your children may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass. May we be found faithful when we stand before You. Father, I believe what is written that one day heaven and earth will pass away but by no means will Your word, it stands forever. Father, I confess my head is swirling and my body feels sick from the excess of this season because I have forgotten the simple things. My desire to not miss out on all the pleasures and excitement this season offers has left me vulnerable and weighed down. Even the things that are morally legitimate and may be permissible are not all beneficial. Because not all things edify or satisfy. Help us Lord to keep our minds and heart steadfast while maintaining boundaries. Your reminder for us to take heed that we may not be deceived, living our lives restrained, decently and in order. Help Your sons and daughters to live in moderation not succumbing to the plenty that vies for our attention remembering Jesus is the reason for the season. May all praise and honor be given Him and Him alone. May we be good examples to our loved ones, and they take hold of the truth early in their lives. May we spend our days loving You with all our hearts, minds, souls and strength and our neighbors as ourselves. Thank You Lord for this day to rest. Amen.

Luke 21 and 1 Corinthians 10:23 

Luke 20:21

Then they asked Him, saying, Teacher, we know that You say and teach rightly, and You do not show personal favoritism, but teach the way of God in truth...

Religious leaders watch You closely, some pretending to be righteous trying to look sincere, but they have vinegar and gall in their hearts. How very sad Father that many play games looking for loopholes to get around being obedient to how You have instructed us to live. Their pride keeps them blinded and they see not the error of their ways. Many fear the reaction of the crowd instead of fearing You Almighty God. Many are at the opposite ends of the political spectrum but they unite in their hatred of Christ. Father, I pray for your children to truly teach Your word no matter what people may think of You. Strengthen Your pastors, elders and teachers to stand firm not wavering or compromising to appease the masses. Father, I pray for a quickening in the souls of Your children to discern the intentions of those who are in their lives so as not to be ensnared or exposed as hypocrites. Help us Father to guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Father although You don't have favorites You do have intimate and I long to be one. There is nothing in this world that can satisfy my heart but You the one who created it. May I daily bear witness of Your love so others will taste and see You are good. Amen. 

Matthew 22:16 and Mark 12:14

Luke 19:45

Then He went into the temple and began to drive out those who bought and sold in it, saying to them, "It is written, My house is a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves."

Heavenly Father we may be sons and daughters of foreigners, but Jesus has grafted us in, and we are grateful. What a blessing to be Your servants and love Your name. You have blessed us bringing us to Your Holy Mountain making us joyful in Your house of prayer. You have said "For My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations." Have we become like the people in Malachi's day? Cold, indifferent and apathetic. Search our hearts, Lord. Many may ask "In what way have You loved us?" Forgive us Lord for demanding proof of Your love. "In what way have we despised Your name and defiled You?" Forgive us Lord for not offering You our best in worship, at times just going through the motion. "In what way shall we return?" Help us Lord to face our sin and not make excuses. Cleanse our temples Lord so our offerings of praise and prayers will be acceptable to You our Lord and Savior. You are the great I AM and do not change, may we be a people who have awe reverence of You, meditating on Your great name Jesus. What do You require of us for our love to be without hypocrisy, abhorring what is evil, clinging to what is good. May we be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love. Honoring and giving preference not lagging in diligence but fervent in the spirit as we serve You Lord. May we rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulations and continue steadfast in prayer. Father, we humbly ask that You restrain Your anger and be merciful to us as we have made Your Holy temple a den for thieves. We have succumbed to making mammon our idol and not giving all the glory due You. Let us not gloss over our wrong doings but come out into the Light of Your grace and be restored. You Lord Jesus are the one who satisfies so may we be as Mary who sat at Your feet and listen intently to Your word. For she has chosen the good part, and it will not be taken from her. The Spirit is willing, but our flesh is weak, strengthen us Holy Spirit to be the house of prayer. Jesus thank You for loving us while we were still sinners, Amen.

Isaiah 56:6-8, Malachi 3, Romans 12:9-12 and Luke 10:42

 

Luke 18:8

I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?

Dear Heavenly Father, I thank You for hearing our relentless prayers and Your just answers to them. I thank You that You are not like us who begrudgingly answer requests, but Your loving kindness tends to each of us as You respond to our continual prayers. I pray for all Your children in the faith to endure till the end with enthusiasm and not lose heart casting away our confidence which is a great reward. May we rest knowing vengeance is Yours and You will repay. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of You the living God. I thank You Lord for Your Holy Spirit to strengthen us to endure struggles that come with suffering. I pray we persevere to do Your will and receive the promise. You have said the just live by faith and have written, the vision is yet for an appointed time but in the end, it will speak, and it will not lie. You will behold the proud whose soul is not upright. But Your children who have lived by faith will rejoice when Jesus comes on the clouds having a golden crown on His head and in His hand a sharp sickle and will judge humankind. I thank You Lord for the seal of the Holy Spirit on those who have repented and believe in Jesus. I thank You for saving me and calling me Your own may You find me faithful upon Your return. Amen.

Hebrews 10:32-29, Habakkuk 2:2-4, Revelations 14:14

Luke 17:3

Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him.

I have cried to You Yahweh Hesed and extol You with my mouth for You are loving, merciful and kind. Father, I declare to all to come and hear what You have done for my soul. Grant me opportunities to share the good news You sent Your Son to save sinners. If we hide iniquity in our hearts, You Lord do not hear. I am so thankful for Your mercy that is new every day and You attend to the voice of my prayer for forgiveness. How I want to be like Jesus and forgive, forgive and forgive. You have instructed us that if anyone is overtaken by trespasses, we who are spiritual should restore them in the spirit of gentleness considering ourselves lest we be tempted. I confess Lord it isn't always easy to bear each other's burdens to fulfill the law of Christ. When we have a loved one that sins against us over and over. When they repent and go and do it all over again. But then I am reminded Jesus' love poured out from the cross has covered a multitude of sins, of which I have been a recipient of far too many times. Lord by Your Spirit living within us may we not think we are something deceiving ourselves and dishonoring Your finished work. Father, I pray today for those who are struggling to break habitual sin may they come to liberation, for who the Son sets free is free indeed. I pray for those who have been repeatedly sinned against and are weary in well doing. Grant them the strength through grace to forgive again but also wisdom on how to proceed with troubling relationships. Keep them safe from harm. Break the generational curses of addiction so families may live a life abundant and free glorifying You. Let our anthem be "Oh come let us magnify the Lord together for He has done great things." May the joy of Jesus be our delight. In Your matchless name and with thanksgiving, Amen.  

Yahweh Hesed - God of forgiveness. Galatians 6:1-5

Luke 16:15

And He said to them, "You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God."

Heavenly Father You are a just judge, and angry with the wicked every day. Father, I pray that You would let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just, for You are a righteous God who tests the hearts and minds. You save the upright in heart and know those who have made You Lord over their lives. Oh, that we should live together in peace. There are six things You hate and the seventh is an abomination to You. Forgive us Lord for our prideful look and lying tongues. Forgive those who devise wicked plans and shed innocent blood. Have mercy Lord, have mercy for many feet run swiftly to do evil and bear false witness speaking lies of others. We arrogantly puff ourselves up as we strive for bigger, better, best and the accolades of the world. But the most grievous offense is to sow discord among the brethren. As Your sons and daughters help us to keep Your words so we may live free. For many Father have had a lifelong companion with folly, but You have promised as long as there is breath there is hope for repentance. I thank You Lord for Your mercies that are new every day. Father, remove the hearts of stones and bless our lost loved ones with a heart of flesh. May we love as You love and cherish the things that You have said are pure, holy and lovely. Jesus is the way the truth and the life may He be found in our hearts always. Father bless Your faithful servants who are far too often overlooked or shunned by the world around them. Remind them great is their reward in heaven for this is not our home. I love You Lord and thank You for the indwelling of Your Holy Spirit to guide me in the large and small challenges of the day-to-day life. May all praise be Yours Jesus, in Your name, Amen.

Psalm 7:9-11 and Proverbs 6:16-19

Luke15:1

Then the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him.

Far too often Father we look at the speck in someone else's eye before removing the log in our own eye. Today Father may we have greater understanding of Jesus words to the Pharisees when He said, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice, for I did not call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."  You are more interested in our loyal love and devotion than external rituals. You have already judged sacrifice without mercy is worthless. Yet on and on it goes, the thinking ones pious and scrupulous law keeping makes one righteous. A broken and contrite heart You do not despise but with open arms welcome in the sinner who is sorrowful and grieved over their sin. Even when we are headed back to You with the realization of the transgressions we have committed, You see us from afar off and have compassion on us. It is a marvelous miracle when one understands they are no longer worthy to be called son or daughter But You Lord, place the best robe on us, a ring on our finger and new sandals on our feet. The robe of righteousness, the ring the symbol of our inheritance into Your kingdom and sandals to walk the narrow road that leads to life and life more abundant and freer.  Father, I pray for those who toil and spin laboring in vain not ever coming to the knowledge of the truth that is not buy works but by grace we are saved so we may not boast. Forgive them Father they know not what they are doing. Please remove the hearts of stone and bless them with hearts of flesh so they too may praise You always. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

Matthew 7:3-5, Matthew 9:10-13, Luke 15

Luke 14:15

Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, "Blessed is he who shall eat bread in the Kingdom of God!"

Father thank You for Your lovingkindness and tender mercies. You say to those called not my people "You are my people, and we say You are my God." I thank You that it is not Your will that any should perish but all come to repentance. And You have promised everyone who calls on Your name Lord will be saved. It is so astonishing that You Almighty God are more willing to save the lost than the lost are willing to be found. Through the ages the excuses people have given for not receiving Your invitation is laughable. I thank You for another day to go out into the highways and byways to the poor, crippled, lame and blind and invite them to Your wedding supper. Oh, it is a glorious thing to witness those who are spiritually broke, crippled by fear, unable to move forward in life, and blind to Your great love, tasting and seeing You are good. I praise You today Lord for freeing captives from various addictions, illness and infirmities. I thank You for pouring out Your Spirit today to loosen the grip of regret, bitterness, anger and unforgiveness to dance in the light of Your grace. I thank You Lord for Your desire to draw all unto Yourself the Bread of Life. Thank You for loving us with a perfect love. May praises and thanksgiving to You echo through the mountains and valley's as You are the only One worthy of our adoration. Lord, I adore You and thank You for inviting me to sup with You forever. Amen.

Hosea 2:23, 2 Peter 3:9 and Romans 10:13

Luke 13:5

 "I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish."

Father it is an odd curious thing that the word repent is vilified. When it is to me one of the sweetest words of grace. It is a blessing to feel or express sincere regret, a remorse about one's wrongdoing that separates us from You Almighty. There are remedies to all kinds of illnesses, and we eagerly desire the prescription. The will to live is a strong force within us, but when it comes to eternal life many deny it is a destiny. Your word teaches us the manner in which a person dies is not a measure of righteousness, but not to die outside Your grace and care. Father today I pray that those who have ears to hear would harken and turn and come to Jesus the great physician, the healer of our broken souls. Repenting and believing He came to save us from our sin by taking our punishment on the cross and raising from the dead to reveal His deity. This Christmas Father may many receive the greatest gift ever given; an eternity secured in heaven with You forever.  It is a joyful thing to feel conviction in our souls as it leads us to repentance and with it comes forgiveness from our sin. Father by Your Spirit embolden us to keep sharing final judgement is coming, wake up people repent and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. Today is the day of salvation when there is much rejoicing at sinners coming home. Their names written in Your book of life for all eternity. In Jesus matchless name I pray and give thanks, Amen.

Luke 11:28

But Jesus said, "More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!"

Blessed are those who seek You Lord with their whole heart. You Lord are our Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel. The Lord our God who teaches us to profit and lead us the way we should go. I pray we heed Your commandments. May Your peace be like a river and Your righteousness like the waves of the sea, constant, powerful and producing luxuriant growth and increase. Father, I pray for Your church not to be smitten with traditional practices, the rituals that lead us away from or take the place of the authority of scripture. Your word is a lamp unto our feet and light to our path. I thank You for the promises of blessing that come to those who are concreted to Your word. Blessed are those who walk not in the council of the ungodly, not stand in the path of sinners or sit in the seat of the scornful. To delight in the law of the Lord meditating on it day and night. Make us Lord I pray like trees planted by rivers of water bringing forth fruit in season and out. May we never wither no matter the adversity we may face. Father grant that all we do prosper and be a blessing to offer back to You. Grant Your children wisdom and discernment for the days seem to get more and more evil. Father, I thank You for Your loving protection over Your sons and daughters all their days. Blessing them with all the good and perfect gifts from above. May praise and thanksgiving be a sweet-smelling aroma to You as it reaches the highest heavens. This season Lord may we honor You in words and deeds bringing light into the dark dreary world around us. May it be a Merry Christmas to all as Jesus is lifted high and exalted above everything.  Amen.

Psalm 119:1, Isaiah 48 and Psalm 1

Luke 9:25

For what profit is it to man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?

Heavenly Father, hear my joyful noise, my heart of thanksgiving that blesses Your name. I serve You Lord with gladness! Coming into Your presence with singing! You know Lord the desire of my heart is for me and my house to be fully devoted to You. My eternal destiny is so much more valuable than the gaining of this world. By the power of Your Holy Spirit and sustaining grace may I stand up to the schemes and lures of the adversary. Father, I pray to stay aware and conscious of my thoughts and actions as I never want to hear Your say "Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?" Help me Lord to be intentional in the work I do to bring honor and glory to You, the King of the universe. Your reminder to us to take care and be on guard against covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions. How easy it is to get swept in the excitement of the holiday season, the drive for promotion, the competition of bigger, better best can overwhelm us. But You have said to take up our cross and follow You on the narrow road. To store up our treasure in heaven where there is neither moth nor rust but there is reward that is for eternity. Father, I pray that we remember the orphans and widows, to love mercy, do justly and walk humbly with You, our God. In Jesus name I pray Amen.

Psalm 100, Luke 12:13-21 and Matthew 6:19-21 

Isaiah 9:2

The people who walk in darkness have seen a great light; Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined.

Today Oh Lord may many confess with their mouths "Jesus is Lord" and believe in their hearts You were raised from the dead, and they will be saved. Their coming out from the darkness into Your marvelous Light, hallelujah! How wonderfully breath-taking Father it is to see a soul that glistens because the precious blood of Jesus has washed away all spots and blemish and no shame resides upon their faces. With You there is no distinction between Jew or Gentile, white or black, rich or poor but Your desire for all You have lovingly created in Your image to be reconciled back to You through Christ. Father, I pray for beautiful feet to go out this day to bring glad tidings of peace. Not man-made attempts at attaining temporary serenity but the peace that passes all understanding that is the gift that is given by Your Holy Spirit. Father may today be the day of renouncing the hidden things in our hearts that bring shame. As far as east is from the west so You have removed our transgressions from us. Thank You Lord that therefore there is no condemnation for those whose lives are hidden in You, and we no longer walk according to the flesh but according to Your Spirit. May the deceptions and the craftiness of handling of Your Holy Word be revealed in the light to unveil the truth. There's a light for a look at the Savior, and life more abundant and freer. May all turn their eyes upon Jesus and look full into His wonderful face and the things of this world will grow strangely dim in the Light of His glory and grace. Your word shall not fail us, You have promised. Believing in You so all will be well. Let us go to the world that is dying and Your perfect salvation we will tell. Amen.

Romans 10, 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, Psalm 103:12, Romans 8:1 and "Turn your eyes upon Jesus" by Helen H. Lemmel, 1922

 

Luke 7:11

Now it happened, the day after, that He went into a city called Nain; and many of His disciples went with Him, and a large crowd.

Heavenly Father, great is Your faithfulness. Your mercies new every day. The Roman Centurion and a Canaanite woman were the ones Jesus marveled declaring they had "great faith". Your plan for redemption started from the beginning when a male and a female created in Your image fell. Pride of life, lust of the eyes and flesh get us every times as the schemes of the devil have not changed. You Lord are my Shepherd. In You I have no want. You make me to lie down in green pastures beside still waters and restore my soul, thank You. Father it is interesting Your Son went into a city called Nain which means green pastures, lovely and pleasant and there He raise the woman's son from the dead. A prophetic fore shadow of what was to come. You send Jesus the Messiah to die on the cross and be raised from the dead so the multitudes could be saved. You have love and compassion on those who weep, the cry of the ones who love their children who are dead in sin and by Your grace raise them from death to new life in You. Amazing! Great is Your faithfulness. Thank You for hearing our cries on behalf of our loved ones who have not been awaking to the truth of the Gospel. Save them Lord for Your glory and for their good. May large crowds follow You into eternity where the flowers never fade, and the grass is always green. In the name above all names Jesus I pray, Amen. 

Matthew 8:5:13, Matthew 15:21-28, Psalm 23 and Luke 7

Luke 6:39

And He spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch?

Heavenly Father You may recall all the times I've followed the visually impaired and fallen into a ditch. But Your mercy is new every day. You are so loving to me. And I'm so thankful You remember my sin no more. May I extend the same grace to those who are stumbling, have fallen and are struggling to get up. You gave us Your Son Jesus. He is so kind to the ungrateful and the evil. This at times is hard to grapple with as there is wickedness abounding in the world, but then I remember I was once lost but now am found. I once was a pit dweller, but Your love reached down and washed the mire and muck off my soiled and stained soul. Let me not be blind to my own faults while judging others. Father, please make me aware of the times I've said, "Well at least I'm not like so and so, or Well I would never do that.", all the while fooling myself. I'm reminded of the golden rule do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I want to live in a way that guides others on the road that leads to life, and I desire to be led by those whose eyes are wide open to the truth of who You are and how You desire us to live. Father, please open the blind eyes today to see Jesus the way the truth and the life. Grant wisdom, discernment, knowledge and understanding to us Your children, who have come up from the trench that has a stench of stupidity, folly, ignorance and indifference. May I willingly extend a hand to those who have lost ones footing because of pride that led to a fall. May I desire to live as Jesus did loving sinners and restoring them to a right relationship to You Father. May the words of my testimony and the precious blood bring many to glory. Thank You Lord for hearing my prayers, Amen.

 

Luke 5:5

But Simon answered and said to Him, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless, at Your word I will let down the net." 

By Your word Lord the heavens were made, and all the hosts of them by the breath of Your mouth. You gather the waters of the sea together as a heap. May all the inhabitants of the earth stand in awe of You the great I Am. Lord, we believe you spoke, and it was done, You commanded, and it stood fast. Father, we confess sometimes we get discouraged as we toil and labor for the harvest. Forgive us. But just as Peter was obedient to Your word we desire to be also. When it seems, we cannot go one step further, You come in like a flood and overwhelm us with Your grace and peace. You fill our nets and boats with good things, we never lack for You are always on time. As You have instructed us to tell all the world the good news, we cast our nets out into the ocean of lost drifters, those whose lives are sinking without hope and to those who are caught up in the storms of life with no peace. We believe Jesus You are the anchor to our souls and desire to share this truth. We thank You for a great catch of fish this Christmas. We pray for the coming together of Your church to gather many lives into the ark of Your love. May we be astonished again at Your mercy of those who are like we once were sinful men and women who felt so unworthy to be in Your presence. We thank You Lord that You are willing to make clean, heal and restore. We praise You Lord from the earth. Praise the Lord you great sea creatures and all the depths. May Your name alone be exalted, Your glory in the earth, heaven and seas. Amen.

Psalm 33:6-9, Psalm 148 and Luke 5

Luke 4:1

Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, being tempted for forty days by the devil.

Heavenly Father Your Holy Spirit empowered David but the Messiah is more richly endowed with a threefold fullness of the Spirit. Your Prophet Isaiah said, "There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots." We bless His Holy name! Jesus, You have always demonstrated in Your life on earth the correct response to Father God. You honored and obeyed Him. Even when You were tempted in the wilderness You did not sin. You resisted the devil demonstrating to us Your allegiance to God. Something that Adam couldn't do, and we are not able without confession of our sins. Forgive us Lord for our mumbling and complaining demanding our own way. We can be like the children of Israel who were led out of Egypt not trusting for Your provisions. Their contention like ours are offensive to You as we challenge Your faithfulness. We have been led out from the wilderness of sin to rejoice in the Light of Your grace. Jesus told us we shall not tempt the Lord our God. Yet at times we do. So perhaps it's time for us to depart from the busy craziness of the world with all its temptations. May we sit at Your feet in the desert place where we find Your comfort when we are mourning. The place where You take our ashes and make something beautiful. Where You pour the oil of joy upon us and robe us in a garment of praise. May we be called trees of righteousness, and our roots go down deep. May we be Your plantings Lord to bring glory to You. This Christmas You are our present; you are the gift that keeps giving and we are forever grateful. You Lord are our hearts desire. We love and adore You Jesus. Amen.

Isaiah 11:1-5, Exodus 17:1-7, Isaiah 61:1-3 and Luke 4

Luke 3:2

...during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas the word of the Lord came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness.

Our souls wait silently for You alone. Our expectations are from You Lord. Father Your word teaches us two men went up to the temple to pray. One a Pharisee who thanked You that he was not like other men--extortioners, unjust, adulterers etc. saying he fasts twice a week and give tithes etc., etc., etc... But the other a tax collector stood afar off would not so much as raise his gaze to heaven but was sorrowful begging for Your mercy. Even John the baptizer knew he was unworthy to untie your sandals. But You in Your great love justifies the humble. Justified-Just as if I never sinned. How we desire for Your word to come to those we love who are wandering in the wilderness. Father this Christmas we bring before You those who have been hurt by religious leaders. Although they may have been well meaning their pride has caused great injury. Jesus, You leave the ninety-nine for the one and there are many ones roaming around us. Please Lord meet them in the desert places. Restore their souls. You have promised every valley shall be filled and every mountain and hill brought low; the crooked places shall be made straight and the rough ways smooth; and all flesh shall see Your Salvation. Holy Father, the best Christmas gift we can receive this year is to see our loved ones no longer begging for bread but to come to Bethlehem (the house of bread) and see that unto us a Child was born, a Son was given on the cross, His name is Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Prince of Peace. There will be no end. We thank You Lord of hosts for Your zeal performing many miracles the season. We love You Jesus and we desire for others to love You too! Amen.

Luke 3:5-6, Isaiah 9:6-7 and Psalm 61:5

Luke 2:32

"A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel."

Your majestic presence. The glory of You Lord shines in the dark places, causing some to be afraid. We are not afraid Lord because You are our Redeemer. When we meet a stranger, one who is foreigner to the faith, may they willingly receive the good tidings of comfort and joy we bring. "Jesus is alive!" Glory to God in the highest, the promise of peace is for all who welcome Your Son into the inn of their hearts. In You Lord we have obtain an inheritance, we have been predestined according to You, to the council of Your will. As we set about to the quickening pace this season brings may Your perfect peace be upon us. Not conforming to the pressures of the world and the false glitter that is not gold. May we take joy in the simplicity of just gathering in Your name singing praises, the breaking of bread and the hearing of Your word. May Your Spirit restrain us from overindulgence and with-it bring revelation of what is truly necessary. We live in a world where shiny things draw our attention, distracting us from the brilliance of who You are, the Messiah. As the shepherds keeps watch over their flocks so too may we be watchful over those You have entrusted into our care. May our children grow becoming strong, filled with wisdom and have favor with You Lord. Father, bless this day and may we rejoice in it. Amen.

Luke 1:13

But the angel said to him, "Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear a son, and you shall call his name John.

May we learn to wait on You in hope, to trust You, to delight ourselves in You and to unreservedly commit our ways to You Father. May our prayers to You be a sweet-smelling aroma and our praise and adoration be an offering without spot or blemish Lord. We are so much like Zacharias in our devotion to You, praying for the unsaved world around us and praying for our own desires. Considered to be righteous and blameless in all the commandments Zacharias made intercession on behalf of Israel as a nation along with his private prayers of the desire to have a child. It is so marvelous how You work Lord. Your plans never fail. Blessing his wife's womb and preparing the way of the Lord all in one. Nothing is impossible with You Lord God Almighty, El Shaddai. We like John are so unworthy to even untie Jesus' sandals but yet our loving Savior makes intercession for us, incredible! "Do not be afraid" is a constant theme in the Holy Scriptures but we confess sometimes we are afraid, forgive us Lord. We trust that You are working all things out in our loved one's lives and in our own heart for our good and Your glory, just as You did for this barren faithful couple and a people in darkness. The world today is enduring much shaking, quaking and upheaval but You Jesus told us these things would happen so we would have peace, to take heart for You have overcome the world. Father You are still Sovereign even when our personal worlds may be falling apart or have been in a battle for an extended period of time, we trust You because You are using it all to bring about glory. Our hope this December is You will pour out Your Spirit and bless Your children to receive answers to long petitioned prayers. May You Father God, the God of hope fill us with all joy and peace in believing that by the power of the Holy Spirit we will abound in hope and overflow with confidence of Your promises. Jesus be magnified in all we do and say, Amen.

Luke 1, John 16:33 and Romans15:13