I write this daily post as somewhat of an instruction for Christians, including myself, on how to live and think about living our lives on earth. I think it is important to take a moment and remember the sequence that God has established for us.

First we are saved, not by doing the right things and living the right lives. Jesus says in John 3:17,18, “God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him.”

The Holy Spirit gives us the ability to believe. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:3, “no one can say Jesus is Lord, except by the Holy Spirit.”

Then, because we believe, we live the Christian life God desires. John writes in 1 John 2:3, “and we can be sure that we know him if we obey his commandments.”

Finally, as active Christians we share our faith with others so they might receive the Holy Spirit and believe. Jesus says in Matthew 28:19, “Therefore go and make disciples of all the nations,”

Dear Lord, help us keep this order in mind. It starts with your love for us that saves us, and follows with our love for you that leads us to live the life you want us to. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jesus shows his exasperation with the disciple’s on a number of occasions in the Bible.

In Matthew 16:8-10, Jesus said, “You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread? Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?”

I think we all can read this as Jesus speaking to us, saying, “Do you still not understand? You see my power and miracles that I have done, but you still worry about your simple problems. Have faith.”

Dear Lord, We worry about the unknowns and insecurities in our lives, not quite sure you will be there when we need you. Help us have faith so that we will understand and have confidence in your promise to be there always. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

It would be easy to worry right now, with the events going on around us. When we succumb to worry, we can worry about anything and everything, losing good things, bad things happening, what people think, that people don’t care, etc.

But worry doesn’t prevent problems in the future, it steals the joy from today.

When we worry, we are living today the psychological pain and discomfort of future problems that will probably never occur.

Jesus said in Luke 12:25-26, “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?”

Trust God to care for you. Jesus continues in verse 31, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.”

Dear Lord, our human nature makes us fear and worry about current events and the uncertain future. Help us overcome these fears, and focus on you and trust in your care. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Throughout the history of the Church, God has placed leaders in our Churches, Bible studies, Sunday schools, and other Christian organizations to teach, manage, and grow the community of believers. This all started with the 12 disciples, but continues on today.

Our pastors, most of whom have completed as much formal education as Doctors and Lawyers, learn multiple languages, and submit their lives to God’s call, in order to teach and lead us. Most could have been leaders in business or government, university professors, or professionals if they had chosen.

Paul tells us in Hebrews 13:7 “Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith.”

Dear Lord, help us remember our church leaders in our prayers. Help us show our gratitude for their commitment and dedication to serving you by ministering to us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

The President of the United States has called for a National Day of Prayer today. How appropriate this is amidst the health and financial challenges and uncertainties we are facing.

Paul writes in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” NET

Simply put, Pray for what you want, be thankful for what you get, and receive the unexplainable peace of trusting God.

Dear Lord, thank you for hearing our prayers and giving us what we need. Give us the peace that can only come from trusting you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.