THANKFUL

Thursday, September 17, 2020

Good morning, Jesus.

Lord, it’s such a subtle trap that causes many Christ-followers to stumble. You warned us how easily “acting religious,” can replace our personal relationship with You. In the past, I’ve stood guilty of this vanity. The enemy strokes our egos with lies how our good behaviors and outstanding moral stances make us a cut above others. We may have an imperfection or two, but we’re still pretty good. We’ve forgotten the truth of Romans 3:23. Before we realized it, our virtue-signaling, “acting good” without grace, to show others how holy we are when compared to “sinners,” replaced our need for Christ in our lives. Forgive me, Lord, Keep me from being so religious that I never forget what Your incredible grace did for me. May I never take lightly where I was and where You have brought me. May I never lose how to love You, and please give me the grace to love and forgive others, just as You did for me.

Again, we ask today for Your protection, provision and mercy for our friends affected by the wildfires in the western states. We remember our friends in the south facing the floods from the now tamed Hurricane Sally. Thank You, Lord, for being merciful to all. Protect all first responders, emergency personnel, police, firefighters, medical workers, all who put their lives on the line to serve others. Forgive our sins, heal our people as we turn back to You, Lord God.

Remembering Your grace, Lord God. Amen.