Pride deceives us into thinking we can “do life” on our own—that we’re capable, independent, unstoppable, and self-reliant. We think we don’t need God every hour, that we don’t need his help, grace, mercy, courage, and hope. So, surely, we don’t need to pray.

But a humble heart submits itself to God in prayer because it knows it can do nothing without him.

When God called Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah’s response was not to go to God in prayer. Instead, he fled, his heart furiously and arrogantly silent (Jonah 1:3). When God humbled him in the belly of a great fish, Jonah finally cried out in prayer (2:1).

God here’s your prayers.

In 1 Samuel 12:22, we find this promise of God: “For the sake of his great name the LORD will not reject his people, because the LORD was pleased to make you his own.” God desires companionship, fellowship, and communion with those who will reciprocate his expressions of friendship.

Dear Lord
We remember today, the pain and suffering of the cross, and all that Jesus was willing to endure, so we could be set free. He paid the price, such a great sacrifice, to offer us the gift of eternal life.
Help us never to take for granted this huge gift of love on our behalf. Help us to be reminded of the cost of it all. Forgive us for being too busy, or distracted by other things, for not fully recognizing what you freely given, what you have done for us.
Thank you Lord that by your wounds we are healed. Thank you that because of your huge sacrifice we can live free. Thank you that sin and death have been conquered, and that your Power is everlasting.
Thank you that we can say with great hope, “It is finished…” For we know what’s still to come. And death has lost its sting. We praise you for you are making all things new.

Amen
Jesus is Lord

God’s Spirit 

If you are a believer, do you understand the importance of the Holy Spirit in your life? He is the one who enables you to live the Christian life. He is your Helper, your Teacher, and your Guide.

Application: Spend some time in Scripture reading about the role of the Holy Spirit in a Christian’s life. Suggested passages: John 14:26; John 16:1-15.