Today's Readings: New Testament -
Mark 14:1-11
Revelation 12
Old Testament -
Job 35
Micah 4-5
Click on Text Links to Read Online
Focus Verses: Revelation 12:10
10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.
Insight:
There is so much in life that poses a threat to my wellbeing and causes me to be weary. Beyond the practical difficulties of my circumstances and problems, these things are part of a spiritual battle for my heart and mind.
Response and Action:
I recognize that there is a spiritual dimension to the challenges and struggles I face. According to the Scriptures, all of creation is part of a cosmic battle God is waging to redeem and save. I will look to the Lord for strength, trusting in his mighty power. I will put on the full armor of God in order to stand my ground against the forces and schemes that threaten to defeat me. I believe in the salvation, power, and authority of Christ. I believe that he can save me and bring me safely to himself.
Save me, O God, when my heart is fainting. Lead me away from temptation and deliver me from evil. Protect me from discouragement and encourage me, by your Spirit, through your word, your people, your promises, and all that is beautiful and true. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, feed my spirit, stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Help me to trust and acknowledge you in all my ways. Be my rock and helper in every storm and trial. Amen.
Spiritual Formation Verses: Ephesians 6:10-13
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Resources:
The Throne, the Lamb & the Dragon: A Reader's Guide to the Book of Revelation
by Paul Spilsbury
