Devotional for November 9

We Walk, O Lord, in the Light of Your Presence

14 Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.
15 Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O Lord, in the light of thy countenance.
16 In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted.
17 For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted.
18 For the Lord is our defence; and the Holy One of Israel is our king. Psalm 89:14-18 (KJV)

Morning Exhortation

How quickly we forget His lovingkindness and His mercy that encompasses us about as a shield when we slack off in praising the Lord. The command to praise the Lord is altogether for our sakes as it adds nothing to the Lord. We are told to enter into His courts with thanksgiving and praise. Press on to obtain the mark of the full peace and rest of the children of God. It requires an effortless effort, a yielding of all self-proprietorship, and a belief based only on faith in God. Only believe. The royal way set before us is paved with belief and it must be walked by faith. Let not the difficulties of the way discourage you. Abundant provisions for all has already been provided, is being provided, and will also be provided in the future by our heavenly Father. Only believe. The pain that brings the gains often depends on how it is seen. When pain comes upon you from your own foolishness, accept it as discipline to be used to correct your course. Repent and wash your hands. When pain comes from the hand of other people, know that God only allows it because He will ultimately work it out for your good. Be encouraged. God often uses the trouble of this world as a refining fire to bring forth the genuineness of your faith so that it shines like pure gold. Trust God and you will see that it is easier to believe the revealed truth of the Holy Bible than it is not to believe it. We praise God because of who He is. Don’t just praise God when everything is going well. Faith is affirmed in speech and actions all the time. Praise God regardless of what you see and feel. All these precious promises aren’t true because they are in the Bible. They are already known to be true. Thus, they have been recorded in the Bible for our benefit. Only believe! He has promised to make you strong and firm in the faith. Praise is very appropriate even in the mist of every storm, because God is…completely faithful…yesterday, today, and forever.

Today’s Bible Reading

2 Kings 22; Hebrews 4

Joel 1; Psalm 140-141

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.