All the Christian virtues are locked up in the word “prayer.” (Charles Spurgeon)

This Week’s Scripture

• Genesis 32:22-31

• Psalm 17:1-15

• Romans 9:1-5

• Matthew 14:13-21

Adoration

Psalm 17:6-7
I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God;
    incline your ear to me; hear my words.
7 Wondrously show your steadfast love,
    O Savior of those who seek refuge
    from their adversaries at your right hand.

Amazing Grace (verse 1)

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind but now I see.
(John Newton)
Take time now to offer God your praise and worship.
 
Confession

You have tried my heart, you have visited me by night,
    you have tested me, and you will find nothing;
    I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress. (Psalm 17:3)

Heavenly Father, for unguarded moments and sins of impulse; for anger and uncharitableness; for impatience and thoughtlessness which have wounded others; Lord have mercy upon me. For resentment under rebuke and the pride which hardens me against the truth; for slackness in self-discipline and complacency in unworthy habits; Lord have mercy upon me. In my waywardness and self –sufficiency; and in my utter need and helplessness; Lord have mercy upon me. Amen. (The Book of Worship for Church and Home)

As David did in Psalm 139, ask the Lord to search you and know you through and through. Confess the sins God brings to mind, knowing you are forgiven and that He will cleanse you from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).
 
Thanksgiving

Gracious God, Sovereign Provider of all our needs, I give you thanks for being mindful of even me. You are the God of great compassion. You see our illnesses, suffering, and pain and you heal us. You see our problems and struggles and you lead us. You see how we hunger and thirst and you meet our every need, both physically and spiritually. More than that, O Lord, you teach us to have the same compassion as you. You call us to trust you as we seek to meet the needs of others. I confess that all too often Father, I am a person of little faith. Fill me with your Spirit that I may have eyes to see those you love and have compassion for. And give me that same love and compassion, that upon seeing those in need, I may trust you, even as I seek to heal, lead, and minister to others as you have done. Please let me do this for your glory and the blessing of others. Thank you Lord, for the privilege of serving you. In Christ’s name I pray. Amen. (based on Matthew 14:13-21)

Spend some time reflecting on the prayer of thanksgiving above and then thank God for who he is and the many ways he has poured out his goodness and grace in your life.
 
Supplication (Petitions – prayers for yourself)

• Give me greater knowledge, depth of insight, and understanding of God’s Word.

• Remind me daily of who I am in Christ. Let me be defined by who God says I am, not the world around me.

• Guide me into greater understanding and faithfulness of God’s call in my life.

• Today’s events and interactions with others, planned and unplanned

• Other needs

Supplication (Intercession – prayers for others)

• My family

• My pastor(s), church staff, and missionaries

• Those wrestling with anger, anxiety, or the overwhelming desire to please people at all costs

• Other needs

Christianity demands a level of caring that transcends human inclinations. (Erwin Lutzer)

Thank you for joining me today as we begin our week walking with our Lord. Remember, there are resources that come out weekly that do not go out via email. You can find more devotionals, Bible studies, and other resources by clicking here: Walking Points.