Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will repay him according to his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth.

Lord, as You stood by Paul through all manner of trials from opposition by a pagan to desertion by friends, so You will stand with me. However, as with Paul, I must be single-minded in my determination to present the Gospel. Keep me focused, Lord.

Today's readings in the Psalms:

Morning: Psalm 138

Mid-day: 119:65-72

Evening: Psalm 63

Voices Together is available as an annual daily devotional and can be purchased at theFellowship Of Ailbe bookstore.