Prayer for Friday: O Ever Watchful Shepherd: lead, guide, and tend my life this day. Without Your restraining grace, I will err and stray. Hedge up my path and grant that I will not wander into unwholesome pleasure. Let me not drink of the poisonous streams of sin, and please direct my feet in such a way so I will not be entangled in Satan’s secret snares. Defend me, Lord God, from darkness and evil. O Heavenly Father, make me an empty vessel for your Spirit to fill. Purge me of the world, of pride and lust and greed and foolish wanderings of mind, that I may be prepared to hear your truth. In Christ's Name, Amen.
Scripture Reflection for Friday: Today's journey "Through the Bible" visits Exodus 17-18.
In Exodus 17, we are reminded that when judgment fell from the Lord through the rod of Moses, rivers of water streamed out to give life to sinners. When God’s wrath fell upon Christ through the cross, rivers of the Holy Spirit flowed from heaven to give life to sinners (John 7:37–39; Gal. 3:13–14). Let us marvel at God’s grace and drink deeply of the streams of life He bought with blood. Why did judgment have to fall on Christ for the Spirit to give life to God's people? Why do you owe your entire life and eternity only to Christ?
In Exodus 18, we see that God’s saving work aims at His glory among all nations. He must be praised by all; He must become the joy of all the earth. This is why we must declare His glory among the nations and the gospel of His great works in Christ to all peoples. How will you use your abilities and resources to help your church to make disciples of all nations?
Spiritual Meditation for Friday:
All through this day, O Lord, by the power of your quickening Spirit, let me touch the lives of others for good, whether through the word I speak, the prayers I offer, or the life I live.
May God help you to grow in Christ today,
