"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Monday, October 30, 2023 - Day 303 - (Today’s Bible readings: Ezra 8:1-23; Psalm 114; 1 Peter 1:1-12)
WAIT PATIENTLY!
“Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door.” (James 5:7-9 ESV)
THIS COULD BE THE DAY! ARE YOU READY?
James is warning us to wait... patiently!
“Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.” Make sure you are ready for the Last Day and YOUR LAST DAY! How can you be ready?
● Talk to the Lord daily (prayer).
● Read His Word and develop the practice of daily devotions (like Portals of Prayer).
● Worship the Lord weekly so that He can come to You in His Word and Sacraments.
● Listen to Him.
● Follow Him.
● Trust Him.
Be still, my soul; the Lord is on your side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to your God to order and provide;
In ev’ry change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; your best, your heav’nly Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
(Be Still, My Soul, Lutheran Service Book, CPH. 2006, #752, stanza 1)
Heavenly Father, help me wait patiently for You to take me home. Until then, strengthen me with Your Word, Your presence and Your power, all through Jesus Christ, my Savior. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
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