Devotional for September 4

Everlasting Remembrance

4 Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.
5 A good man sheweth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.
6 Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.
7 He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord.
8 His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.
9 He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.
10 The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish. Psalm 112:4-10 (KJV)

The Morning Exhortation

Procrastination is like a tranquilizer dart of self-deception for the soul. The Holy Bible is the map showing the way to the straight gate and the narrow path that leads to the everlasting celestial city. Think you can do it later? We are not guaranteed to even finish out the day. If it is worth doing, you should step to it right now and get it done. Take the next step while you can. Do not say to yourself that when things are different you will go and serve the Lord. It is precisely because you can’t make things different that you need to turn wholeheartedly to the Lord right now. Seek first the Kingdom of God. Count the costs. A total surrender of all to our Lord Jesus Christ is required. Place your life on the altar, take your hands off, and take none of the self-life back again. Do this and the fire will come. Depend on God to provide you with the will and the ability to get done all that He has prepared for you to do. Reverently acknowledge the Lord and draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. 

Question

What is the cure for weariness and vexation of spirit?

Answer

Getting tired and weary is a part of the infirmity of our flesh (Scripture). For this reason, God gives His beloved sleep (Scripture). Vexation of spirit is striving to grasp the wind through thick clouds of uncertainly all around (Scripture). Many worldly remedies abound: Sleeping pills, music, movies, vacations, games, food, alcohol, various drugs, making money and more (Scripture). There is but one tried and true way to end weariness and vexation of spirit found in the biblical record, and that is prayer (Scripture). Bring everything to God with a contrite heart, seeking to hide nothing (Scriptue).

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

Grant, O merciful God, that your Church, being gathered together in unity by your Holy Spirit, may show forth your power among all people, to the glory of your Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.