'Gathering His Courage' — Mark 15:42-43

If we love Jesus and remember his suffering and humiliation on the cross, we too can gather our courage and stand up for him — even when there is much to lose and there appears to be nothing to gain. However, we need to remember that there is always something to be gained because God can do great things from our faithfulness even in the smallest things.

Daily Prayers

. Dear God, "I believe, but help my unbelief." Please mature and empower my faith so that my life will be a steadfast and consistent testimony to your presence and grace. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

. Holy and Righteous Father, forgive my foolishness and silliness. I find myself getting so worked up over meaningless things and forgetting to keep my focus on the matters and people that are important to you. May all I do today, and every day, be done as a conscious decision to honor you and bring you respect. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

. Father, thank you for declaring me righteous by the atoning death of Jesus. Please transform me more and more each day to be righteous in all I say, think, and do. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

. Dear God, please forgive me for the times I doubted your selection of leaders. Please give me, along with my congregation, the ability to discern who your leaders are in our midst. Please give them the courage to lead unselfishly and faithfully. In Jesus' name. Amen.

. Almighty God and Creator of the universe, I praise your creative genius revealed through the incredible variety found in your creation. Please be with us, your human children, as we seek to be faithful stewards of this wonderful gift. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen

. Father, please bless the group of Christians with whom I regularly meet — or used to meet before COVID19. Bless them through my words, attitude, and influence as we walk beside each other and encourage each other to honor you – whether in person or meeting virtually. Stir me to bless and encourage others during this time of separation and isolation. Thank you for giving me people with whom I can share my journey home to you and use me to find creative ways to bless them and stir them on to Christ-like living. In your name, Lord Jesus, I pray. Amen.

[Message No: 7937]