Devotional for October 30

Storm Be Still

23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24 These see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep.
25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28 Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
31 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
32 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. Psalm 107:23-32 (KJV)

Morning Exhortation

Free time is better than money. You can spend it chasing entertainment and pleasure, or you can invest it in education and the practice of discipline. The former costs and the latter pays. The compounding interest of the choice reveals the folly or the wisdom of each choice with the passing of time. No one should be working all the time, but consider the importance, the privilege, and the benefits of discipline. Saturating the mind with the word of God and prayer are chief among disciplines. Righteousness is bestowed on us through the merits of Jesus Christ alone. The fruits of a godly lifestyle though, require our willingness to practice the disciplines (God appointed means of grace) that increase our love for God. Be faithful. Know that we are called to this. To walk in the Spirit, we must be in agreement with the Word in all things. And the Holy Spirit will guide and enable all who choose to hold on tightly to the narrow path that leads to life. We do not prevail by struggling against the Word. We prevail in this life by agreeing with the Word, conforming to it, and being transformed by it. Blessings flow from our efforts performed in willing cooperation with the Spirit.

Today’s Bible Reading

2 Kings 11-12; 2 Timothy 2

Hosea 3-4; Psalm 119:121-144

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

Almighty and merciful God, it is only by your gift that your faithful people offer you true and laudable service: Grant that I may run without stumbling to obtain your heavenly promises; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.