Thursday, August 1, 2024 - FAITH ALONE

 

"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)

Thursday, August 1, 2024 - Day 214 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 68,69; Romans 3)

FAITH ALONE

For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.   (Romans 3:28 ESV) 

Throughout the years, well meaning people have tried to convince me that I have to do something to earn salvation. While it is true that God demands perfect obedience, I am not able to even come close to meeting His Law. I need help!

The heart of Paul’s letter to the Romans is that we repentant sinners are justified 

by God’s grace alone, 

through faith alone, 

in Christ alone. 

You can take great comfort in this soul-saving and undeserved gift of God!

Not the labors of my hands, 

Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;

Could my zeal no respite know, 

Could my tears forever flow,

All for sin could not atone; 

Thou must save, and Thou alone.

(“Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me,” LSB #761, stanza 2)

.

Thank You, Lord God heavenly Father, for Your gracious plan for my salvation. Please use me to share Your good news that we are saved by faith alone. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, July 31, 2024 - SHOUT FOR JOY

"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)

Wednesday, July 31, 2024 - Day 213 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 65-67; Romans 2)

SHOUT FOR JOY 

Shout for joy to God, all the earth;

sing the glory of his name;

give to him glorious praise!

Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds!

So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to you.” (Psalm 66:1-3 ESV) 

The Psalmist encourages his readers to “shout for joy to God.” The reason for this joy is the awesome deeds of God. 

No Jesus, no joy. Know Jesus, know joy! Many people are looking for joy, peace and happiness without Jesus. But Jesus is the only One whose awesome deeds involve forgiveness of your sins and the promise of eternal life giving us real joy today and forever. 

1. Joyful, joyful we adore Thee,

    God of glory, Lord of love!

    Hearts unfold like flow'rs before Thee,

    Praising Thee, their sun above.

    Melt the clouds of sin and sadness,

    Drive the gloom of doubt away.

    Giver of immortal gladness,

    Fill us with the light of day.

2. All Thy works with joy surround Thee,

    Earth and heav'n reflect Thy rays,

    Stars and angels sing around Thee,

    Center of unbroken praise.

    Field and forest, vale and mountain,

    Flow'ry meadow, flashing sea,

    Chanting bird, and flowing fountain

    Call us to rejoice in Thee.

3. Thou art giving and forgiving,

    Ever blessing, ever blest,

    Well-spring of the joy of living,

    Ocean-depth of happy rest!

    Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

    Fountainhead of love divine:

    Joyful, we Thy heav'n inherit!

    Joyful, we by grace are Thine!

    (Lutheran Service Book #803)

Lord God, thank You for the joy of knowing Your mercy, forgiveness and promise of heaven! Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 - NOT ASHAMED OF JESUS

"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)

Tuesday, July 30, 2024 - Day 212 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 62-64; Romans 1)

NOT ASHAMED OF JESUS

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”   (Romans 1:16-17 ESV) 

The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing! For the Christian, the main thing is the Gospel, God’s powerful account of salvation won by Christ for sinners like you and me.  

It is all about saving faith. “The righteous shall live by faith.”

Those Christians around the world who are facing persecution, losing everything, some even dying, are truly not ashamed of Jesus. How about you?

   5. Ashamed of Jesus! yes, I may

When I’ve no guilt to wash away;

No tear to wipe, no good to crave,

No fears to quell, no soul to save.

   6. Till then - nor is my boasting vain - 

Till then I’ll boast a Savior slain,

And O may this my glory be,

That Christ not ashamed of me!

(“Jesus! and Shall It Ever Be,” The Lutheran Hymnal, CPH 1941, #246, stanzas 5-6)

Heavenly Father, I, too, boast my Savior slain for me and for all sinners. Lord Jesus, please keep close to You and so strong in my faith that You will never be ashamed of me. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, July 29, 2024 - DELIVER ME FROM MY ENEMIES

"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, July 29, 2024 - Day 211 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 59-61; Acts 28:16-31)

DELIVER ME FROM MY ENEMIES 

Deliver me from my enemies, O my God;

    protect me from those who rise up against me;

deliver me from those who work evil,

    and save me from bloodthirsty men.

(Psalm 59:1-2 ESV) 

David’s cry for deliverance from his enemies could well be the cry of persecuted Christians around the world today. While our religious freedom is under attack in our country, it cannot be compared to what Christians in Muslim countries face if they do not convert to Islam.

The hymn writer followed the example of David’s prayer in this manner:

  Preserve, O Lord, your Zion,

  Bought dearly with your blood;

  Protect what you have chosen

  Against the hellish flood.

  Be always our defender

  When dangers gather round;

  When all the earth is crumbling,

  Safe may your Church be found.

   (“Preserve Your Word, O Savior,” LSB #658, stanza 3)

Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, thank You for being my Deliverer from sin, death and the power of the devil. Please preserve Your Church and deliver my brothers and sisters in Christ from the dangers that are gathering around them. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, July 28, 2024 - LORD HAVE MERCY

\"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)

Sunday, July 28, 2024 - Day 210 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 56-58; Acts 28:1-15)

LORD HAVE MERCY

Be merciful to me, O God, be merciful to me, for in you my soul takes refuge; in the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, till the storms of destruction pass by. (Psalm 57:1 ESV)

What is mercy? Mercy is God’s undeserved blessing showered upon repentant sinners. Peter described God’s mercy this way:

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you.”  (1 Peter 1:3-4 ESV)

Believers in Christ have been given what we do not deserve, hope. We deserve to be hopeless, to have nothing to look forward to other than eternal damnation in hell. But, God the Father has been merciful to us.

● He sent Jesus to take our place and suffer the punishment we deserve.

● Jesus paid off your debt of sin.

● And now you have that living hope.

● Eternal life in heaven is yours for sure!

● Until then, God promises to lead and direct your life.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your mercy shown me in Jesus, my Savior. Please use me to share Your mercy with others. Amen. 

“See” at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, July 27, 2024 - WE DESPERATELY NEED HELP

"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)

Saturday, July 27, 2024 - Day 209 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 53-55; Acts 27:26-44)

WE DESPERATELY NEED HELP

They have all fallen away;

    together they have become corrupt;

there is none who does good,

    not even one. (Psalm 53:3 ESV) 

Decades ago this question took me by surprise. “What do you call a sin?” The questioner didn’t believe that she was a sinner. Perhaps she was comparing herself to others. Whatever methods we may employ to minimize our sins, we can do nothing to minimize our passage for today. “There is none that does good, not even one.”

We desperately need help, which is precisely why Jesus came down to earth in the first place.

But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)

Each one of us desperately needs help. We desperately need Jesus, our precious Savior!

   1. O Savior, Precious savior, 

       Whom yet unseen we love;

O name of might and favor, 

All other names above;

We worship Thee; we praise Thee; 

To Thee alone we sing;

We praise Thee and confess Thee, 

Our holy Lord and King.

(Lutheran Service Book #527)

Thank You, Lord Jesus, for being the Savior of this sinner. Remind me daily of how important it is to repent and believe. Amen. 

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, July 26, 2024 - THE HEART OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

"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)

Friday, July 26, 2024 - Day 208 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 50-52; Acts 27:1-25)

THE HEART OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

    and renew a right spirit within me.

Cast me not away from your presence,

    and take not your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,

    and uphold me with a willing spirit. (Psalm 51:10-12 ESV) 

The heart of the Christian faith is the gift of complete forgiveness showered freely upon all who repent and see God’s mercy.

John writes of God’s merciful promise this way: 

“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9 ESV) This cleansing means that we are guaranteed eternal life in heaven.

On Sunday morning, right after you confess your sins, you hear these soul-freeing words spoken on God’s behalf by your pastor:

Upon this your confession, I, as a called and ordained servant of the Word, announce the grace of God unto you, and in the stead and by the command of my Lord Jesus Christ, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 

   1. Jesus sinners doth receive;

Oh, may all this saying ponder

Who in sin's delusions live

And from God and heaven wander!

Here is hope for all who grieve--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

   2. We deserve but grief and shame,

Yet His words, rich grace revealing,

Pardon, peace, and life proclaim.

Here their ills have perfect healing

Who with humble hearts believe--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

   3. Sheep that from the fold did stray

No true shepherd e'er forsaketh:

Weary souls that lost their way

Christ, the Shepherd, gently taketh

In His arms that they may live--

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

   4. Come, ye sinners, one and all,

Come, accept His invitation;

Come, obey His gracious call,

Come and take His free salvation!

Firmly in these words believe:

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

   5. I, a sinner, come to Thee

With a penitent confession;

Savior, mercy show to me

Grant for all my sins remission.

Let these words my soul relieve:

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

    6. Oh, how blest it is to know;

Were as scarlet my transgression,

It shall be as white as snow

By Thy blood and bitter Passion:

For these words I now believe:

Jesus sinners doth receive. 

(The Lutheran Hymnal #324)

Thank You, Lord, for hearing my cry for mercy and for seeing my sincere confession. Your complete forgiveness of all of my sins is the greatest gift You could ever give. Please use me to share this treasure with others. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, July 25, 2024 - CONVINCED AND CONFIDENT

"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)

Thursday, July 25, 2024 - Day 207 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 47-49; Acts 26)

CONVINCED AND CONFIDENT

 

And as he was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words.  (Acts 26:24-25 ESV)  

Paul has just told Governor Festus and King Agrippa “that the Christ must suffer and that, by being the first to rise from the dead, he would proclaim light both to our people and to the Gentiles.” To which Festus replies, “Paul, you are out of your mind.”

There are those today who still call us Christians “crazy.” We are not out of our minds. We know the truth of new life in Jesus for all who repent and believe. We are not crazy. We are convinced, just like Paul:

“But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.” (2 Timothy 1:12 ESV)

The hymn writer talked about Christians being confident and confident with these words:

   1. Jesus lives! The victory’s won!  

Death no longer can appall me;

Jesus lives! Death’s reign is done!  

From the grave Christ will recall me.

Brighter scenes will then commence; 

This shall be my confidence.

   2. Jesus lives! To him the throne 

There above all things is given.

I shall go where He is gone, 

Live and reign with Him in heaven.

God is faithful; doubtings, hence! 

This shall be my confidence.

   3. Jesus lives! For me He died, 

Hence will I, to Jesus living,

Pure in heart and act abide, 

Praise to Him and glory giving.

All I need God will dispense; 

This shall be my confidence.

   4. Jesus lives! And I am sure 

Neither life nor death shall sever

Me from Him. I shall endure 

In His love, through death, forever.

God will be my sure defense; 

This shall be my confidence.

    5. Jesus lives! And now is death 

But the gate of life immortal;

This shall calm my trembling breath 

When I pass its gloomy portal.

Faith shall cry, as fails each sense: 

Jesus is my confidence!

(Jesus Lives!  The Victory’s Won   LSB490)

Lord, please give me the courage to boldly proclaim the truth of the Gospel. May my life show that I am convinced of Your salvation for all who repent and believe. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 - A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD

"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)

Wednesday, July 24, 2024 - Day 206 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 44-46; Acts 25 )

A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD

 

1 God is our refuge and strength,

    a very present help in trouble.

2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,

    though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam,

    though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,

    the holy habitation of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved;

    God will help her when morning dawns.

6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter;

    he utters his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord,

    how he has brought desolations on the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

    he breaks the bow and shatters the spear;

    he burns the chariots with fire.

10 “Be still, and know that I am God.

    I will be exalted among the nations,

    I will be exalted in the earth!”

11 The Lord of hosts is with us;

    the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah  (Psalm 46 ESV)  

Lord God, thank You for being my mighty fortress and my trusty shield and weapon. Please continue to protect this penitent sinner. In Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 - THIRSTING FOR GOD

"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)

Tuesday, July 23, 2024 - Day 205 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 41-43; Acts 24)

THIRSTING FOR GOD

 

As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.  (Psalm 42:1-2 ESV)  

  

What a wonderful gift God gave David! The repentant and forgiven sinner was given a deep desire to be as close to His Savior as possible. 

Do you have a deep desire to be as close as possible to God? 

● Read and meditate on His Word. 

● Worship Him faithfully each week. 

● Remember that God loves you with a love than never ends.

This is precisely what David is getting at in Psalm 63:

1 O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;

    my soul thirsts for you;

my flesh faints for you,

    as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

2 So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,

    beholding your power and glory.

3 Because your steadfast love is better than life,

    my lips will praise you.

   1.  I am Jesus' little lamb, 

Ever glad at heart I am;

For my Shepherd gently guides me, 

Knows my need and well provides me,

Loves me ev'ry day the same, 

Even calls me by my name. 

   2   Day by day, at home, away, 

Jesus is my staff and stay. 

When I hunger, Jesus feeds me, 

Into pleasant pastures leads me;

     When I thirst, He bids me go 

     Where the quiet waters flow. 

(“I Am Jesus' Little Lamb,” LSB 740)

Lord, thank You for my salvation. Like David, may I thirst for Your presence in my life. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Monday, July 22, 2024 - GOD WILL NOT ABANDON YOU

"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, July 22, 2024 - Day 204 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 38-40; Acts 23:12-35 )

GOD WILL NOT ABANDON YOU

 

Do not forsake me, O Lord! O my God, be not far from me! Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation! (Psalm 38:21-22 ESV) 

In the Acts 23:12-35 reading for today, we see how God kept His promise not to abandon one of His own, the apostle Paul.

Paul’s nephew reports a plot to kidnap Paul, and the tribune, Claudius Lysias, hustles him safely out of town.

The Lord will not abandon / forsake you either. He has a plan for your life too. 

1. O God, forsake me not! 

    Your gracious presence lend me; 

    Lord, lead Your helpless child;

    Your Holy Spirit send me

    That I my course may run.

    O be my light, my lot, 

    My staff, my rock, my shield--

    O God, forsake me not!

2. O God, forsake me not!

    Take not Your Spirit from me;

    Do not permit the might

    Of sin to overcome me.

    Increase my feeble faith,

    Which You alone have wrought.

    O be my strength and pow'r--

    O God, forsake me not!

3. O God, forsake me not!

    Lord, hear my supplication! 

    In ev'ry evil hour 

    Help me resist temptation;

    And when the prince of hell

    My conscience seeks to blot,

    Be then not far from me--

    O God, forsake me not!

4. O God, forsake me not!

    Lord, I am Yours forever.

    O keep me strong in faith

    That I may leave You never.

    Grant me a blessed end

    When my good fight is fought;

    Help me in life and death--

    O God, forsake me not!

    (“O God, Forsake Me Not,” LSB #731)

Lord, please do not forsake me. Help me to stay close to You today through faith in Jesus. In His saving name.  Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Sunday, July 21, 2024 - TRUST AND WAIT

"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)

Sunday, July 21, 2024 - Day 203 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 36,37; Acts 23:1-11)

TRUST AND WAIT 

“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act... Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” (Psalm 37:5&7 ESV)  

Not many people are good at waiting. Yet this is exactly what the Lord calls His people to do. So, instead of complaining about our circumstances, and even questioning God, we get to quietly and faithfully wait for Him.

I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, 

Never let me fall.

I am trusting Thee forever 

And for all.

(Lutheran Service Book #729 stanza 6)

Lord Jesus, I do trust You. Help me to patiently wait for You and Your will for my life. Amen. 

“See” you at the Communion rail this morning!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Saturday, July 10, 2024 - DELIVERANCE

"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)

Saturday, July 20, 2024 - Day 202 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 34,35; Acts 22)

DELIVERANCE

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. (Psalm 34:18-19 ESV)  

Have you ever been brokenhearted, crushed, and afflicted? If so, what did you do about it? The hymn writer gives us a clear and powerful answer.

  Have we trials and temptations?  

  Is there trouble anywhere?

  We should never be discouraged, 

  Take it to the Lord in prayer.

  Can we find a Friend so faithful   Who will all our sorrows share?

  Jesus knows our every weakness - 

  Take it to the Lord in prayer.

(Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #770 stanza 2)

The Lord is as near to you as a prayer. Brokenhearted, crushed, afflicted, Jesus will deliver you in His time. So, pray!

  Are we weak and heavy laden, 

  Cumbered with a load of care?

  Precious Savior, still our Refuge - 

  Take it to the Lord in prayer.

  Do thy friends despise, forsake thee?  

  Take it to the Lord in prayer;

  In His arms He'll take and shield thee, 

  Thou wilt find a solace there.

   (Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #770 stanza 3)

Lord Jesus, thank You for being my deliverer. Please hear my prayer for mercy, pardon and peace. Yes, may I find eternal solace in You. Amen. 

“See” you in church tomorrow!

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Friday, July 19, 2024 - GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

"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)

Friday, July 19, 2024 - Day 201 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 31-33; Acts 21:15-40)

GOD’S PERFECT TIMING

“My times are in your hand.” (Psalm 31:15 ESV)  

Time, like an ever-rolling stream,

Soon bears us all away;

We fly forgotten as a dream

Dies at the op'ning day.

(“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 5)

While the hymn stanza portrays a sober view of time, our verse for today clearly comforts us with the assurance that our time is in God’s almighty hand. The comfort comes from knowing that God’s timing is always perfect.

“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” (Galatians 4:4-5 ESV)  

When you take a careful look at your life, you will become aware of what I see in my life, namely, that 

   ● God puts us in the right place 

   ● at the right time 

   ● for His right purpose.

   6. O God, our help in ages past,

Our hope for years to come,

Be Thou our guard while life shall last

And our eternal home!

(“Our God, Our Help in Ages Past,” Lutheran Service Book, CPH 2006, #733 stanza 6)

Almighty God, thank You for Your perfect timing in my life, starting with my Baptism. In Your perfect time, grant me the gift of heaven for Jesus’ sake. Until that time, may I use my time for You and Your purposes. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Thursday, July 18, 2024 - LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

 

"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)

Thursday, July 18, 2024 - Day 200 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 28-30; Acts 21:1-14)

LOOK FORWARD TO JOY

Weeping may tarry for the night but joy comes with the morning. (Psalm 30:5b ESV)  

The Psalmist gives hope to anyone lost in life’s long night of weeping. Disappointment, disillusionment, despair, and disasters of life come to all of us at some time, resulting in weeping. But the morning also comes with its joy.

“And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.”  (Nehemiah 8:4b)

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.” (Psalm 51:12)

“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”  Romans 8:18)

All the earth with joy is sounding:

Christ has risen from the dead!

He, the greater Jonah bounding

From the grave, His three-day bed,

Wins the prize:

Death's demise -

Songs of triumph fill the skies!

(“All the Earth With Joy Is Sounding,” Lutheran Service Book #462)

Lord Jesus, my Savior, thank You for being the joy of my life. Help me always remember this, especially when I find myself focusing on life’s long night of weeping. In Jesus’ saving name. Amen. 

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

"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)

Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - Day 199 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 25-27; Acts 20:17-38)

WHOM SHALL I FEAR?

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1 ESV) 

You check the latest news and discover that, once again, it is not good. There is so much going on that could make us fearful about the future. Where will terrorists strike next time? What will the doctor say? Will I loose my job of keep it? 

King David was not a stranger to fearful times. Yet he knew that the only answer for security and peace is the Lord. God shines the light of His love and His gift of salvation into the lives of His people. The Lord is our stronghold, our defense, and the One who drives all fear away.

Surely, it is God who saves me;

I will trust in him and not be afraid.

For the Lord is my stronghold

and my sure defense,

and he will be my Savior.

(“The First Song of Isaiah,” 1982)

Link to Youtube recording of The First Song of Isaiah

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bcjzhZwOIE

Lord, thank You for showing us the way of salvation in Jesus, my Savior. While world and national events may be fearful, assure me of Your presence and Your peace. As ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 - GOD WILL NOT FORSAKE YOU!

 

"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)

Tuesday, July 16, 2024 - Day 198 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Psalm 22-24; Acts 20:1-16)

GOD WILL NOT FORSAKE YOU! 

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? 2 O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest... 16 For dogs encompass me; a company of evildoers encircles me; they have pierced my hands and feet— 17 I can count all my bones— they stare and gloat over me; 18 they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. 19 But you, O Lord, do not be far off! O you my help, come quickly to my aid... 22 I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you. (Psalm 22:1-22 ESV) 

“Facing great opposition, the psalmist initially feels that God has forsaken him and is ignoring his prayers. After remembering God’s faithfulness and deliverance, he believes God will deliver him, and commits himself to telling that message to others. We, too, may feel alone and forsaken by God. Today we deserve to be forsaken by God because of our sinfulness. But, as the psalmist foretells, God Himself came to be our Redeemer. While many human beings have shared these feelings, the psalm finds its greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ... He was truly forsaken by His Father and died alone so that we could be reconciled to our God. We are never alone because our crucified, resurrected Savior is with us.” (Lutheran Study Bible, CPH 2009, page 865) 

1. O God, forsake me not! 

    Your gracious presence lend me; 

    Lord, lead Your helpless child;

    Your Holy Spirit send me

    That I my course may run.

    O be my light, my lot, 

    My staff, my rock, my shield--

    O God, forsake me not!

2. O God, forsake me not!

    Take not Your Spirit from me;

    Do not permit the might

    Of sin to overcome me.

    Increase my feeble faith,

    Which You alone have wrought.

    O be my strength and pow'r--

    O God, forsake me not!

3. O God, forsake me not!

    Lord, hear my supplication! 

    In ev'ry evil hour 

    Help me resist temptation;

    And when the prince of hell

    My conscience seeks to blot,

    Be then not far from me--

    O God, forsake me not!

4. O God, forsake me not!

    Lord, I am Yours forever.

    O keep me strong in faith

    That I may leave You never.

    Grant me a blessed end

    When my good fight is fought;

    Help me in life and death--

    O God, forsake me not!

    (Lutheran Service Book #731)

Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayer for deliverance by sending Jesus to experience the forsakenness of hell in my stead. Help me to remember this at those times when I feel all alone. Grant me the comfort of knowing that You will never leave me nor forsake me. As ever, THY WILL BE DONE. Amen.

Pastor David Paape

Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year. 

http://www.wholesomewords.org/family/bibleread/truth.pdf