Devotional for August 12

Who Can Ascend the Hill of the Lord?  

24 The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.
2 For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.
3 Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.
5 He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah Psalm 24:1-6 (KJV)

The Morning Exhortation

Darkness and light are like fear and faith in that when one comes the other must go. Blessed are those who have not seen a burning bush, nor a light brighter than the noonday sun, and still believe. It isn’t falling off the wagon that causes all the havoc, it’s the not getting back on after falling off. “Oh well, blown my diet anyway…another slice of pizza isn’t going to matter.” Or, “Had a couple of drinks already, one more won’t hurt.” Or, “Missed a couple of workouts this week, might as well just wait and start up again next week.” Such harmful rationalizations suggested by the inner tempter are endless. Falling doesn’t have to lead to disaster, as long as you remember that you don’t climb out of a pit by digging the hole deeper. The conscience must be keep both tender and clear in order for the goodness of the Lord to lead us to repentance. If not, the conscience is easily hardened against any sin we allow or permit by hiding, covering, or excusing it. When the Spirit moves the conscience to reprove you, be quick to call on the name of Jesus Christ for mercy rather than go on wallowing in the filth and condemnation of those who slide deeper and deeper toward the bottomless pit. Ask the Lord to cleanse your heart, your mind, and your hands. Such a request is pleasing to the Lord and He is always faithful and willing to do all that He has promised. We can be confident that such a prayer uttered sincerely will be granted.

Question

What is a good technique for learning to lead public prayer?

Answer

First: Acknowledge the infinite greatness of Almighty God (Scripture). Second; Petition the Lord by using the word of God pertaining to the specific needed grace (Scripture). Third: Give thanks for the expected blessing (Scripture).

The Prayer Appointed for This Week from the Book of Common Prayer

O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: Increase and multiply upon all your faithful people your mercy; that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we lose not the things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.