Reading: Proverbs 22-24; Psalm 5
Father, in the morning you hear my voice. I call out to you and you turn your ear to me. Oh, how wonderful it is to know you listen! Keep me from evil and do not lead me into temptation, for evil cannot stand with you. It is only through your love that is fixed on me and through your mercy in Christ that I am able to come into your presence. My heart rejoices in you, my Refuge. The rich and the poor are all made in your image. May your church not be guilty of oppressing the poor or needlessly giving to the rich, for you are on the side of the poor. Keep me from making friends with those who are quick to anger, lest I become like them. Thank you for your grace in showing me how to live within my means and stay out of debt. May your grace continue. Father, soften my heart to be more generous and hospitable. Let me not keep tabs on what I give to others, but give freely instead. Protect my spirit from being enticed by alcohol. Let me approach it with wisdom so I do not become its slave. Lord, continue to give Maggie and I wisdom and understanding for establishing a loving and thriving home filled with beauty. Break my heart for those careening towards death in sin, knowing that you are aware of whether or not I have reached out to then in love.
Grayson Pope 