SOAP 10/16/2016; Psalm 119:71-72

Today's reading: Malachi 3, 4; Psalm 148; Acts 5

S) "⁷¹ It is good for me that I was afflicted,
That I may learn Your statutes.
⁷² The law of Your mouth is better to me
Than thousands of gold and silver pieces."

Psalm 119:71-72 (NASB)
*This verse was highlighted before I kept these entries online, so I wrote a new entry

O) This is the end of the "Teth" portion of this psalm (because Psalm 119 has a sort of verse for each letter in the Hebrew alphabet, almost like an acrostic poem). Because these verses are sort of a conclusion for vv.65-70, working backward through them helps shed some light on the context. David concludes that the law of God is better than gold and silver to the extreme. Gold and silver, obviously being some of the most valuable things available for him to compare, he is essentially saying that God's law, His very words (because it says, "of Your mouth") is priceless, invaluable, irreplaceable. He wouldn't trade them for anything. With that attitude as a starting point, when reflecting on v.71, it's easier to see how he concluded that his afflictions were good. If the most valuable thing in the world to him is the law of God's mouth, then anything that brings him more awareness, more knowledge, a deeper understanding of that same thing, that law of God's mouth, anything to bring that more to light, that would also be valued by David. His ability to see his circumstances this way, though, was predicated on the value he placed on the law of God's mouth. If he didn't have such a high regard for God's words, then he probably would not have seen his affliction as anything so good, either.

A) The very direct application for me, is first for me to determine the value of God's words, the law of His mouth, in my life. That is really just a determination I have to make (and, I have been making it over the last several years). Values are always defined internally. If I had a baseball signed by my favorite player, and someone wanted to trade me a baseball signed by Babe Ruth, I might not want to do it because my favorite is still my favorite. Even though I could sell the Babe Ruth for more (because other people would value it more), that doesn't mean that I value it more. In the same way, I can make the determination that God's words, the law of His mouth, are indeed more valuable to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. That's the price I can set on it, by my own valuation. Once I'm there, once I've determined that knowing God's words is so valuable to me, then I will begin to see circumstances differently, especially afflictions. If financial stresses are causing me to dive into Scriptures for hope and trust in God, then my financial stress will be seen as a good thing - because I so value God's words. If relationship issues, difficulties with my kids, problems at work, failing health; if anything causes me to learn God's statues better, to learn what He has said more, then those afflictions will be seen as good, when I value the law of God's mouth so much. I'll be able to say it's a good thing I went through X, Y, and Z, because it brought me closer to God, and I understand Him better, having gone through that while leaning into Him. Because of this view, and seeing my afflictions as a discipline rather than a punishment, I should be warned that in a way that could be inviting God to allow afflictions in my life, though. I'll pray that I deliberately value God's words more, but at the same time, I'll expect afflictions may help me prove my prayers.

P) Father God, the law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces. I declare that, I confess it. Help me to live that out, and prove it by my actions and lifestyle. Let me hunger and thirst for Your words, each day. When I face afflictions, when I am tested in this, let those circumstances drive me into communion with You, Father God. Let me run to the refuge of Your words. Let me spend more and more time in the Scriptures, that I would know Your words better and better, and know You more and more. In every thing, on earth as it is in heaven, let Your will be done. Be glorified in my afflictions. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/10/2016; Revelation 15:3-4

Today's reading: Lamentations 3, 4, 5; Revelation 15

S) "³ And they *sang the song of Moses, the bond-servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying,

'Great and marvelous are Your works,
O Lord God, the Almighty;
Righteous and true are Your ways,
King of the nations!
⁴ 'Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy;
For all the nations will come and worship before You,
For Your righteous acts have been revealed.'"

Revelation 15:3-4 (NASB)

O) The singers in this passage are those who overcame the beast, his image, and the number of his name. That is to say, they were victorious over that tribulation. The details of that victory aren't really given. We know that not taking the number of the beast would certainly make grocery shopping difficult (see Revelation 13:16-17), but that could be some measure of symbolism. It could be something like a boycott, a social ostracism like the Jews saw in Germany. It could be quite literal, too. In either case, without a doubt they overcame the same way that the devil was defeated, by the blood of the lamb and the word of their testimony (see Revelation 12:11). Exactly what they overcame, or even when this victory song is taken up, is not why I highlighted this passage, though. In chapters 5 and 14, there are myriads singing new songs to God. That term "new song" is also used once in Isaiah, and several times in Psalms. Contemporarily, I hear that phrase used a lot. It seems a very popular thing to do, lately, to encourage a "new song" to God. But in this passage, we see something quite different from that. These who were victorious, they sing "the song of the Lamb" which appears to be the rest of v.3, and the beginning of v.4, but they also sing "the song of Moses," which is the end of v.4, the last two lines. This brings to light an important lesson that shouldn't be lost. New is not always better. We serve the Ancient of Days, and He has never changed. He has never needed to become new. Our worship of God must be true, and if it includes a new song, that is just fine. If it includes a song that is three thousand years old, as long as it is true worship, then that is also perfectly good worship.

A) There are times when I become obsessed with new. Materialism and capitalism are built around the concept that new is better. But, even with less tangible things, I can sometimes get tricked into thinking that new is better. A new method of doing something, a new tradition, a new worship song. That's really where this verse hit me. Sometimes, new worship songs can feel fresh and exciting. The unfamiliar lyrics can help draw my focus to God, really paying attention to what I'm singing, since I can't recite the words by rote. The new music can be exciting. However, I don't want worship to be about me. Traditional songs, hymns, even a Psalm taken straight from the Bible, these should be given as much value as any new song, so long as the lyrics are true and I am singing them to God in truth. I don't want to become bored with worship, just because it's "old" to me. In reality, I need to keep myself humble, and remember that worship is not about my feelings. Feeling the emotional connection between me and God, while I worship Him, is always nice. However, worship is not about me. I must remain humble and committed, devoted in my singing, to worship and praise Him because of who He is, not because of how I feel about the song. He deserves more than my good feelings.

P) Father God, You are holy. You are mighty, sovereign, true, unchanging, full of lovingkindness, compassionate, patient, righteous, and perfect. Your judgments are final. Your wrath is unbearable. Your love is complete. Your wisdom is unsearchable. Your mercy is complete. You are eternal, ever-present, and all-powerful. You are personal. Who am I, that You would desire to relate to me? Who am I, that You would be pleased to know me? Thank You for the communion we have in Your Son. Thank You for the mercy I receive by the blood of Jesus Christ. Thank You for promises I have, for the blessing it is, for the love You have lavished on me, to call me Your child. You deserve all this worship and more. You deserve every part of my life devoted to You. Let my lips sing Your praises all the days of my life. Even to my very last breath, let me worship You in spirit and in truth. Father, I confess that my attitude in worship is not always what it should be. Too often, I get distracted by the music and the words, and thinking about the song for the sake of the song. I don't want that, Lord God. Help me to focus properly, to be mindful of why I worship. Help me to focus on who You are, what You've done, and who I am in Jesus Christ. Let me be intent with my thoughts, with my words, to focus on thanksgiving. I pray that You find a humble servant, when I worship You. Let me bow my heart before You, singing both new songs and old. Let my worship to You be found as a sweet aroma before You, a sweet gift from Your child. I pray that my worship is pleasing to You, whether it is traditional or contemporary, whether it is an old stand by or a new favorite. I just want my worship to be true and to please You. Great and marvelous are Your works, O Lord God, the Almighty; Righteous and true are Your ways, King of the nations! Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy; For all the nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed. I love You, Father God. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 08/30/2016; Revelation 4:8

Today's reading: Ezekiel 8, 9, 10, 11; Revelation 4

S) "⁸ And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say,

'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty, who was and who is and who is to come.'"

Revelation 4:8 (NASB)

O) There are a few things I notice with this passage. First of all, the four creatures (described in v.7) are all different forms, but share in notable traits. Only one of them should have wings (the one like a flying eagle), and yet all of them have six wings. I suppose also that only one of them should be able to talk (the one with the face like a man), but all four of them speak. Also, in two different ways, John describes that they are full of eyes, in front and behind (v.7) and around and within (v.8). Very different in their carnal or natural representations (lion, calf, man, eagle), but very much the same in their supernatural traits (wings, eyes, speech). Second, the existence of these four creatures seems to serve no other purpose, than the continual worship of God. They are not said to have any other purpose, and they are described as worshiping this way ceaselessly, day and night. Lastly, the actual words they speak of significant. They don't tell of His wisdom. They don't tell of His judgment or righteousness, mercy or love. They tell of His holiness, and of that holiness they describe two character traits that we, as His creations, can never actually share with Him. First, they tell of His power, which is unmatched and cannot be rivaled. He is the Almighty. His power is so complete, so utterly beyond us, so holy is He in His power, that no one even has power that was not given by Him. Second, they tell of His eternal, uncreated, and independently existent being.

A) My initial response to this, and the thing that should be the most constant, is my humility. I must recognize that the holiness of God, and His eternal, independent, and uncreated existence is a part of His being that I cannot really comprehend, I can only apprehend it. I must understand that He is holy in His power beyond anything I can fully grasp. There are many things about His holiness, that I am also commanded to be holy like Him. He is full of grace for His enemies, showing love to traitorous mankind, by sending His Son to die for them while they were still sinners. He is compassionate, taking up the cause of the widow, orphan, and alien, when they have no one else. He judges with righteousness. He is full of lovingkindness. In all of these kinds of traits, He is completely holy and different from humans, and yet we are called to be this way with Him when we are in Christ. However, in the holiness of His very existence, I cannot really share, as I am a created being. In the holiness of His power, I cannot really share, as any power I would ever wield, would only ever come from Him. This kind of holiness, in His power, and in His very existence, this holiness humbles me. That humility is my first application. The second thing is, and this is something a worship leader once pointed out to me years ago, is that I can share in a very special thing. These creatures, even now, must be saying this phrase in the heavenly place. While I am here, it can be a very special, very powerful act of worship, to share in their words for my God. To declare with them, that He is holy, holy, holy. That He is the Almighty, who was and is and who is to come.

P) Father, You are holy, holy, holy, Lord God, the Almighty. You are, and were, and are to come. Your holiness is even beyond what I can know. You are deserving of unceasing worship, and I desire to worship You more. Open my eyes and ears, Lord. Help me to be more aware of You, more aware of Your presence and power. Help me to be more mindful of You, to be more sensitive to Your Spirit. Just have Your way with me, God. That's my prayer today. I want to be holy as You are holy, to be set apart for Your purposes. Let Your will be done in my life, and on earth as it is in heaven. Be glorified in every way, by every tongue. You are holy, holy, holy, Lord God, Almighty. You are, and were, and are to come. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

SOAP 06/16/2016; Colossians 2:5

Today's reading: 1 Kings 17, 18, 19; Colossians 2

S) "⁵ For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ."

Colossians 2:5 (NASB)

O) As I mentioned in my entry about v.23 (SOAP 06/16/2016), Paul was writing this book, in part and especially this chapter, so that the church at Colossae would not be deceived with false teaching. Because of the serious dangers of false teaching, Paul didn't want anything to be misunderstood. Sometimes, when a person is speaking passionately, bluntly, and strictly about a very important topic, it is easy for their demeanor to sometimes be mistaken as anger. I think just about every parent can relate to that, if they are giving a stern talk to their child and the kid thinks the parent is angry. That seems to be the case with Paul sometimes (e.g., 2 Corinthians 2:1-4). In the verse above, he seems to be trying to disarm the Colossians, to reassure them that he is for them, not against them. He spent the first paragraph of this chapter, mostly assuring them of his affection for them. Just before the above verse, he sets a precedent for why he is about to go through this discourse, and with the verse above he sort of protracts that purpose out further. Paul knew that he couldn't remain with every church he planted, but he still felt very responsible for them (e.g., 2 Corinthians 11:28). False teachers were beginning to rise among the churches, and he felt responsible to protect them as best he could, even in his absence.

A) While reading the chapter with that context, and remembering how Paul sometimes referred to his churches and students as his spiritual or metaphorical kids (e.g., 1 Timothy 1:18, or 1 Corinthians 4:14), this verse jumped out at me as a dad. Even just two days ago, I was telling Ella that no teacher worth his salt, would ever feel bitter when his student passed him in knowledge and ability. That should be a teacher's greatest joy. In the same way, my kids could do nothing to make me more happy, than to be stronger, more knowledgeable, and better disciples of Christ than I am. In that way, the verse above becomes a prayer of mine, for my children. Every parent wishes their children would outlive them, and I am no exception. Because of that, or maybe, likely much before it (see Genesis 2:24), I will be absent from my kids. When that happens, I hope and pray, that even though I am absent in body, I would be with them in spirit, rejoicing to see their good discipline and the stability of their faith in Christ.

P) Father, it is purely by grace that I came to faith in You. The discipline I have is still Your grace at work in me, as I also place my faith and trust in You. Because of that, I know that all of my teaching, preparing, and example-setting will only bear fruit in the lives of my kids, when it is working in tandem with Your grace upon their hearts. So Father, I ask that You would work in them, that even though I might be absent from them in body, nevertheless I would be with them in spirit, rejoicing to see their good discipline and the stability of their faith in Christ. Give me the wisdom to teach and raise them well, and to trust that You will do the rest. May they be better disciples of Jesus Christ than I ever am. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 04/23/2016; Hosea 14:2

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 27; Psalm 141; 1 Chronicles 9; Matthew 10*

S) "² Take words with you and return to the Lord.
Say to Him, 'Take away all iniquity
And receive us graciously,
That we may present the fruit of our lips.'"

Hosea 14:2 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Hosea 14

O) We know that God is sensitive to lip-service, and He is not deceived by false words. But still, there is something powerful about vocalizing our confessions, whether it's confessions of sins or confessions of faith. This whole chapter is about the return of God's people to Himself. We know not everyone returned to Him, because to do so they had to accept Jesus as their awaited Messiah. Even now, whether Jew or Gentile, those who accept Jesus as the Christ, as God, are repenting of their sins and re-turning to God. With that turning, there is a confession that takes place, and it is all the more powerful when it's vocalized.

A) The Bible's not always clear about why certain actions are paired with our faith, but every time I have tested it myself, it bears out. When praying for people, laying hands on them always seems better. The Bible says to do it, but doesn't really explain why. God can (and has) obviously healed people without that step, but it's commanded that way nonetheless and it seems to be a more powerful expression. Vocalizing our prayers is the same way. The Bible is full of instruction to cry out, to speak, to give God words. I don't always understand it, but this verse is another reminder to do just that. Anytime I speak my prayers out loud, especially confessions of sin and confessions of faith, they are more impactful to my spirit. I need to use this verse as a reminder and encouragement to do just that.

P) Father, take away all iniquity, and receive me graciously, that I may present the fruit of my lips. You are holy. You are mighty. You are just. You are righteous. You are merciful. You are compassionate. You are full of lovingkindness. You are slow to anger. You are a good Father, God. I confess that I have sinned. I confess that, at the root of my sins, I have ignored You and elected myself to be god in my heart. Help me conquer my flesh. Please accept my praise and worship, the sacrifice of my prayers and songs to You. Please help me live my life according to the words I profess. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 04/17/2016; Hosea 6:3

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 19; 1 Chronicles 7; Psalm 59; Matthew 4*

S) "³ So let us know, let us press on to know the LORD.
His going forth is as certain as the dawn;
And He will come to us like the rain,
Like the spring rain watering the earth."

Hosea 6:3 (NASB)

*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Hosea 6

O) There are a few facets to this verse (and the chapter). On the surface, there is a right response to the prophet's words, in that they said they should return to their God. They said they should know Him, even that they should "press on," expressing a level of commitment and determination that is required to really follow God. They confess that God isn't going to change, recognizing His steady and true character. His ways are certain, reliable, and consistent, like the coming dawn. It will continue just as it has, whether we want it to or not. And, they recognize His goodness. With Him, there are blessings and providence. There is refreshing and cleansing, like the spring rain. Unfortunately, the very next verse exposes their insincerity. This was lip service to God.

A) What the people said was indeed all true. The application of this verse is really about adopting these words, only with sincerity. What I really like about this verse, pulled out of the other verses while remembering context, is that I can really pray it pretty directly. The preceding verses talked about returning to God, but I have determined to never leave Him again. This individual verse, though, is a confession of dedication, God's holiness, and His goodness.

P) Father, let me know, let me press on to know You.  Your going forth is as certain as the dawn; and come to me like the rain, like the spring rain watering the earth. Knowledge of You takes time, committed to Your word, committed to prayer. Dedicated through famine or feast, rains or drought, I will press on to know You. Throughout all of existence, You have never changed. You continue, in truth, even more consistently than the dawn. Knowing You, having a deep knowledge of You, is a blessing in itself. I also know that there are eternal promises, spiritual blessings, that You have for me, as I become more and more a disciple of Jesus Christ. Let me continue in that discipline, to be Your son. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 03/06/2016; Habakkuk 3:17-18

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 3, 4; Psalm 36; Mark 13*

S) "¹⁷ Though the fig tree should not blossom
And there be no fruit on the vines,
Though the yield of the olive should fail
And the fields produce no food,
Though the flock should be cut off from the fold
And there be no cattle in the stalls,
¹⁸ Yet I will exult in the Lord,
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation."

Habakkuk 3:17-18 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Habakkuk 3

O) Habakkuk knew that perilous times were coming. He knew there would be no blossoms, fruit, olives, produce, flock, or cattle. He knew it was coming. But, the reason he had peace about it, was rooted in the very fact that he knew this would happen at all. He knew, because God told him it would happen. In that telling, he could understand God's sovereignty. Despite all of the calamity that was coming, he was able to determine ahead of time, to exult in the LORD his God. He was able to rejoice, knowing that his God still held salvation in His hands.

A) For myself, God has never told me about any specific calamities that were coming. However, Jesus made it plain that this world would bring me trouble, but I don't have to fear because He has overcome the world. I can make the same determination that Habakkuk did, because I know the same God he knows. Our God does not change. He was sovereign then, and He is sovereign now. Even if I die in calamity, I know that I live in Christ. Even if I die among injustices, I know that His justice will come. In the face of every adversity, I can determine right now, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.

P) Father, You are good regardless of my circumstances. Other things, on which people put their hope, these things invariably disappoint because they are completely dependent on circumstance. You are not, though. You are holy. You are not dependent on anything or anyone. Your power is incomparable and Your sovereignty is undeniable. So, whether it is on earth or in heaven, I know that I am saved because You promised I am saved. Let me forever be found in Christ Jesus, the source of my every hope, peace, and joy. Let me walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, that I will accomplish Your will. And, whatever I face, let Your praise be on my lips to my very last earthly breath. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/16/2015; Psalm 141:2

Today's reading: 1 Peter 1, 2, 3, 4, 5*

S) "² May my prayer be ^[a]counted as incense before You;
The lifting up of my hands as the evening offering."

Psalm 141:2 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 141

O) This is a song of deliverance, with David asking God to hear him and save him from evil men, but also from himself. I left the footnote for the word "counted," because the literal translation is the word "fixed," which actually seems to make more sense, too. Incense was supposed to be continually burning in the temple. So, David was saying that he needed help that his prayers would be continually before God, like the incense is. And, the lifting of his hands like the evening offering, again, seems to be a note about regularity of worship. The evening offering was given daily, without exception. David seemed to be noting that he wanted a life of continual prayer and daily worship to God.

A) While raising my hands in worship is not uncommon, I must admit it is not daily. While I pray everyday, even a few times everyday, I certainly know that it is not constant or "without ceasing" (see 1 Thessalonians 5:17). But, the example David gives me is actually a step further than setting a goal of continual prayer and daily worship. David gave an example of asking God for help in this. So, in addition to being instructive, this verse is also just a prayer that I can repeat. This is exactly the same thing I can ask God.

P) Father, may my prayer be fixed as incense before You; the lifting up of my hands as the evening offering. I want to pray more to You. More than when I study the Bible, or eat a meal, or tuck my kids into bed. I want to be praying at through every stressful situation, and in every blessed moment, and every point in between. I want to worship You, in spirit and in truth, more often than Sunday mornings. I want to have a life of worship, of daily humility that acknowledges Your holiness and might, and Your sovereignty and mercy. In humble confession, let me lift my hands in worship everyday. Be glorified, as I continue to grow in maturity in my relationship with You. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/14/2015; Psalm 140:8

Today's reading: Hebrews 12, 13; Jude 1*

S) "⁸ Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked;
Do not promote his evil device, that they not be exalted. Selah."

Psalm 140:8 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 140

O) There are many (almost certainly most) psalms, that ask for God to destroy the wicked. Many times, this is specific to a particular enemy that the people were facing at that time (whether it's a psalm of David, facing a warring neighbor, or the exiles facing eradication, etc.). Even in this psalm, the verses that follow the one above are asking God to vindicate His people. Whenever we read verses that ask for that kind of destruction, we must remember the context is different. Nowhere in the New Testament, do we find examples of God's people seeking the destruction of their enemies. Jesus preached quite the opposite. But, in the verse above, we see a glimpse of a better way. While it is not okay to seek the annihilation of our enemies now, we should absolutely pray that their desires are not granted. Certainly, this is in line with God's will, because He does not wish for any to perish, but for all to come to repentance. Receiving what their evil hearts desire would only prolong, encourage, and exalt that wickedness. Furthermore, when that wickedness is carried to its final conclusion, that would mean the destruction of those who practice those evil devices. That should not be my desire (as it is not truly God's either). So, praying that the wicked are not granted their evil desires, would be an act of grace to them, and possibly a first step toward God.

A) Certainly, this should be the prayer of my heart in confrontation with enemies (of the gospel, of peace, of righteousness, etc.). When I was living a selfish life, I was a hedonist for all intents and purposes. If I was allowed every evil desire of my wicked heart at that time, it would have meant my certain destruction. It would have been terrible for me. The heart of a good father desires good things for his children. He does not simply give his children whatever they desire. If they desire something evil, a good dad will not give it to them. This is the heart behind this prayer. I am asking God, in His grace, to treat evil people as His children. This is not always the case. We can see many examples in Scripture (even in the New Testament) of God allowing people to have their sinful desires, to their destruction. So, for me to love my enemies, and certainly anyone I love who is not an enemy of mine, but still an enemy of God (who is rightly still called my enemy, then), it would be absolutely right for me to adopt this prayer for them.

P) Father, in Your grace, You did not grant me the evil desires I had. That was partly how You drew me back into a right relationship with You. Father God, I ask that You also do not grant the desires of the wicked whom I love. Do not promote their evil devices, that they will not be exalted. Frustrate their evil plans, that they would realize the futility of wickedness. Let them be drawn instead, to the goodness of Your light. Be glorified in my life, that they might see my life as an example of Your grace and mercy, love, peace, and joy. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/13/2015; Psalm 134:3

Today's reading: Hebrews 9, 10, 11*

S) "³ May the Lord bless you from Zion,
He who made heaven and earth."

Psalm 134:3 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 134

O) This is a very short Psalm, that opens with an encouragement to the ministers at the temple, that they should bless the LORD in worship (vv.1-2). Then, this closes with a prayer, that God would bless those who minister at the temple. Particularly, this psalm mentions those who serve at night. Anyone with a family, who has ever worked a graveyard shift, understands that the hours worked, that alone is difficult, regardless of the actual requirements of the job. This verse is a blessing for those who have the most difficult shift at the temple, if you will.

A) There are a lot of ways that I serve God. Perhaps the most direct way, is when I am serving others. With that in mind, I do not consider the things I do to serve Him, to be all together that difficult. However, I know that there are much, much more difficult ways to serve God, and that people are doing them right now (and will be tonight). This verse is a reminder to pray for those servants of God.

P) Father, please bless Your servants, who tirelessly seek to serve You by serving others. Please bless those, especially those, who serve You at the most difficult times, all through the night. I know there are nurses, who want to share Your love and comfort to suffering patients, all through a graveyard shift, while they have families that miss them at home in beds. I know that there are pastors, who will receive phone calls and texts in the middle of the night, who will respond to emergencies and prayer requests, despite having already spent a whole day ministering to others. Please bless these servants, God. Bless them with the strength of Zion, that holy mountain that stood in immovable strength. Be glorified through these tireless servants, and bless them according to Your name. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 12/04/2015; Ephesians 3:20-21

Today's reading: Ephesians 1, 2, 3, 4

S) "²⁰ Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, ²¹ to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen."

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NASB)

O) There is a surface-level point to these closing verses, which is that God is mighty behind comprehension. From there, it is obvious in this passage, that God is doing... something... for us, and based on that, Paul is praising God (and commanding praise). But, as we dig a little deeper, the real treasure of this passage is fully understanding what God is doing. When the verse says, "all that we ask or think," there is a temptation to believe Paul is leaving this undefined, as if this is a blank check that God has handed us, and we may fill in any amount we want, and He'll exceed our asking. In the sense that God is exceedingly good, I suppose that is correct, but the real issue is what are we buying with that blank check. The clue within this passage is the phrase, "the power that works within us," and when read in context with v.16 and 19. Specifically, they say, "strengthened... in the inner man," and "know the love of Christ... filled up to all the fullness of God." So, this passage is not about material gains (although God could exceedingly bless a person). It is not about physical healing (although we will all be raised in glorified bodies, eventually). It is not about really about God exceeding our expectations in our prayer requests, unless that prayer request is to become more like God in the likeness of His character. This passage is an encouragement to about spiritual growth and maturity.

A) First, I cannot let myself take this passage out of context, because I hear people use the first half of v.20 a lot, as encouragement for whatever prayer request they have. While God's character is still exceedingly good, I don't want to be tempted into thinking this verse is promising some kind of prosperity that it is not. Beyond that caution, though, this passage is a great encouragement to me, as I am certainly seeking spiritual growth and maturity. I desire to know the fullness of the love of Christ. I desire to be strengthened in my inner man. These are eternal qualities. These give me hope in the face of adversity. These give me advantage in the face of temptation. These bring me into a closer, stronger relationship with Jesus.

P) Father, there is no strength I would rather have increased, than inner strength. This wretched, corrupted flesh is destined for fire. There is no knowledge I would rather have increased, more than my knowledge of Your love for me, God. Everything else I could know will become useless when You bring new creation to the universe. Help me to remember this passage in its context every time I hear a reference to it, even if the person talking was taking it out of context. Let me be encouraged to pursue spiritual discipline, and growth, above all else. Be glorified as I mature by Your grace. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 11/16/2015; Psalm 92:4

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 3, 4, 5, 6*

S) "⁴ For You, O Lord, have made me glad by what You have done,
I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands."

Psalm 92:4 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 92

O) Generally speaking, this Psalm is praising God for His goodness, warning against wickedness, and encouraging righteousness. The verse above focuses on God's good work, not that is yet to be done, but what He has already completed. This is to remember what God has already done, and to rejoice for what He has already accomplished. This is not praise based on what God might do in the future. This gladness is not based on anything more, than the goodness of what the LORD finished.

A) The context is different for me, but the practice is the same. My hope in God is sure, because it is not hoping for what He might do, but hoping in what He has already done. My hope of salvation, and my hope for eternity with God, is based on what has already been finished with the gospel. To be clear, God is not done with me, but the gospel is written. The New Covenant is complete, and nothing better could ever come. God can do amazing things in my life, like healing sickness, providing money to pay bills, or restoring relationships; nothing will ever compare to what He has already done. In fact, it is even accurate to say, that God cannot increase His grace to me, by doing anything more than authoring the gospel work. In light of the cross, I never need more cause to praise Him.

P) Father, I have every reason to praise You eternally. For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done, I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands. Help me to fix my mind on the gospel. If You never change anything else about my temporal existence, You have already secured my eternal life, and there is nothing that can compare with that. I am so thankful for blessings like my wonderful marriage, great kids, solid career, and on and on, but none of that means anything without the gospel at work in my life. But, praise belongs to You, because I am made secure in Christ Jesus, and by Your grace I have faith in Christ as my Lord. This is the hope I have in the gospel, God, but I am easily distracted. Help me to remember, whenever I ask for anything in prayer, that the most important need I had, my eternal need for salvation, has already been granted. Everything else can fall away, and I still have joy at the work of Your hands. Be glorified in my thanksgiving. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 11/09/2015; Psalm 86:11

Today's reading: Job 34; 1 Corinthians 4, 5, 6*

S) "¹¹ Teach me Your way, O Lord;
I will walk in Your truth;
Unite my heart to fear Your name."

Psalm 86:11 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 86

O) This is a prayer of David, seeking the LORD for help, and affirming his trust in God alone. In this particular verse, David asked for God to teach him, which was a fairly common thing for David to ask. In his life, there would not have been a lot of men who could teach the king, either because of status or because of trustworthiness. David sought the truth of God from the source, through prayer. Last, there is a fairly peculiar line. There are many verses, even in the Psalms, that deal with the ideal of fearing (i.e., revering) God. However, David used the word, "unite" when referring to the stature of his heart. This has a connotation of a divided heart on the subject. This is really the way most people are, when trying to serve God. This is the same concept Jesus meant, when He said you cannot serve two masters (see Matthew 6:24), James brought up with a double-minded man (see James 1:8), and Paul described, about not doing what he wants to do (see Romans 7:15-16).

A) This is very real to me, especially in the context of fearing God. In my flesh, I am very disrespectful of authority. In fact, it is one of the most clear marks to me, that God is at work in my heart, that I respect authority as I now do. However, it still takes efforts for me to fear the Lord. There are ways that fearing God comes plainly, but obviously every time I sin, I am choosing not to fear Him. Even beyond that, my thoughts of the LORD are not necessarily what someone would call reverential. In the part of myself that chooses, I choose to fear the LORD. In the part of me that is my personality, I might say, that part does not easily fear Him. So, this prayer fits me perfectly, because I want God to unite those two elements of my heart, to fear His name.

P) Father, teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. You are holy, righteous, and mighty. I am guilty, helpless, and broken. In Christ, You have already redeemed me, and I know His righteousness was given to me. I also see, that my sanctification is still in progress, God. So, please continue to teach me, that I will walk in Your truth, and unite my personality with my will, to fear Your holy name. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 11/01/2015; Psalm 83:18

Today's reading: Psalm 121; Mark 9, 10*

S) "¹⁸ That they may know that You alone, whose name is the Lord,
Are the Most High over all the earth."

Psalm 83:18 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 83

O) This is a song of deliverance, asking God to destroy His enemies and the enemies of His people. There were people seeking to destroy God's people. They were boastful and conspiring with other people to come against Israel (maybe this was written during the time of Esther?). So, the singer asked God to answer this threat with destructive finality. This is fairly common among the Psalms. However, getting all the way to the final few verses, we see something somewhat unique. In v.16, there is mention of the people being destroyed seeking God. In the verse above, we this recognition, this acknowledgment of the LORD repeated. In the events when God moved at large, on behalf of His people as a nation, it was not at all uncommon for the opposition to realize their mistake on a grand level. Pharaoh acknowledged the LORD after the plagues. Nebuchadnezzar recognized the LORD with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. Darius recognized the LORD a short while later, with Daniel being saved from the lions. In the context of the Old Covenant at this time, the mercy of God was reserved for the people called by His name. However, the glory of God was to be revealed to all of mankind. What this meant, was that God's glory could be revealed in His lovingkindness and compassion toward His children, but to the rest of the world, the most common way for His glory to be revealed, was through His wrath, and through His mighty and outstretched arm on behalf of His nation, against other nations.

A) Reading through the Psalms can be a great encouragement, but sometimes it's hard to reconcile our merciful God, with prayers asking Him to destroy nations. But, the verse above really reveals the purpose behind songs written this way, at that time. The ultimate goal of my life should be that my Lord is lifted high. Jesus Christ is my God. The Most High should be exalted above all. That should be my goal. In the Old Testament, there was little room for any other way, but His justice to be poured out upon gentiles. However, with the New Covenant, the whole world can be reconciled to God through the spilled blood of Jesus Christ. Now, when I have enemies, I pray for them to be redeemed, not destroyed. Now that there is propitiation for their sins as well, they can be brought to a place of praising God themselves, when they can recognize the Lordship of Christ Jesus, not because of His righteous judgment, but because of His abounding grace and mercy to them, as well as to me, as well as to every repentant person. While the beginning of this Psalm might start a similar way if I was singing it now, the middle would surely be much different. However, in the end, the last lines would remain exactly as they are above.

P) Father God, do not remain quiet. Do not be silent, O God, and do not be still. Even now, LORD, I have family that is desperate to know there is supernatural help. They are in need beyond anything this world could provide. Father, please move in their lives, that they may know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth. Let Your face shine upon them, to save them. Open their eyes and ears, to see that it is You alone, who grants life, and You give it abundantly. Only let Your will be done, Father God. I trust in You. Let me be obedient to Your will. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/30/2015; Psalm 80:19

Today's reading: Job 21; Mark 5, 6*

S) "¹⁹ O Lord God of hosts, restore us;
Cause Your face to shine upon us, and we will be saved."

Psalm 80:19 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 80

O) O God, restore us;
O God of hosts, restore us;
O Lord God of hosts, restore us;
These lines are the beginnings of vv. 3, 7, and 19. The second half of the lines are all identical, that they would be saved, if only He would cause His face to shine upon them. The verse above is the final verse of the Psalm. So, throughout the prose there is a build up of urgency, even in the repeated addressing of God. He is the only hope of His people. He is God, holy and righteous. He is God of hosts, mighty and sovereign. He is the Lord God, personal and loving. The imploring did not relent. The pursuit gained speed. The prayer ended on the final hope, that the holy, mighty, loving God would turn to them with salvation.

A) First, there are the truths about God's character, that I must continue to affirm. This is central to fearing the LORD, remaining humble, and living a life of worship. God is holy and righteous, the ultimate and perfect Judge, and He is Creator. The God of hosts is mighty, powerful, and sovereign; able to do as He pleases. He gives and takes according to His good plan. He establishes and destroys nations. He directs kings and is master of all His creation. The LORD God has a name, it is Jehovah. He is personal, loving, and relational. He sought me. He knows my name, the length of my days. He knows my wife and children, and our destinies. He knows every hair on my head, and cares about the things that concern me, because Yahweh is my Father God. When I remember all of these complexities of the LORD my God, His character that He revealed throughout history, and indelibly translated through the Holy Bible, then I will remember how important it is that He caused His face to shine upon me. In Christ Jesus, I have favor with the LORD God of hosts. He already has restored me through Christ Jesus. He already has saved me. Still, I must continue to seek Him, to find Him, so that I am aware of His face, which shines upon me, when I am found in Christ.

P) Father, LORD God of hosts, ancient, infinite, and uncreated You are. LORD God of hosts, mighty, powerful, and sovereign You are. LORD God of hosts, intimate, compassionate, and loving You are. There are times when my needs are pressing me. There are times when the pressures of this world mount, and my breaking point feels close, and the urgency to find You threatens to drive me mad. And then there are times like now. Right now, I am in a calm plain. I am in a peaceful pasture. You are still my Shepherd, regardless of whether I am running to find Your presence, or at rest at Your feet. I thank You for times of peace, but I pray that I remember who You are, deeply remember, when those struggles come. I have been in those storms, I know the trial that presents itself against me, when hard times come. You are so majestic and incomprehensible, but all at once familiar and comforting. In Your holiness, I want to know You more, and better. Open my eyes and ears, to know Your will, to follow You closely. In easy times and hard times, I pray that I am focused on You, and on who You are, and that I find Your face is shining on me all of my days. Let Your will prevail above all else. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/26/2015; Psalm 72:1-2

Today's reading: Job 17; Acts 24, 25, 26*

S) "¹ Give the king Your judgments, O God,
And Your righteousness to the king’s son.
² May he judge Your people with righteousness
And Your afflicted with justice."

Psalm 72:1-2 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 72

O) This is a psalm of Solomon, and based on the last line of the chapter, it seems reasonable that he wrote this shortly after ascending the throne of Israel. The whole song is poetically giving characteristics of a good king, and they are almost summarized in these first two verses. Solomon, right from the start, realized that the office of king was over his head, and he would need the help of the LORD if he was ever to reign well. So, we see consistency in v.1, with Solomon's first prayers to God when he asked for wisdom to rule justly. He seemed to understand (at least initially) that being king was about serving God's people. He was king, but God was God. These people weren't his subjects, but God's children.

A) This is the same mentality I should have as a husband and dad. My wife and kids are not my subjects, living in my home to serve me. They do not exist for my pleasure and satisfaction. On the contrary, they are God's children, and I am their steward. I am keeping them safe, protected, nourished, and healthy until the LORD claims them back from me. Until that happens, it is part of my office that I would administer justice, judge them righteously, protect, serve, lead, and love them.

P) Father, You are infinite in wisdom and righteousness. I desire to resemble You, to reflect Your character. It is my hope that, when my wife and children look at me, it reflects well on their heavenly Father. So Lord, I ask for You to give their dad Your judgments, O God, and Your righteousness to my children and wife. May I judge Your people with righteousness and Your humble servants with justice. Let me follow You closely, Lord. Let them be following You, as they follow me following You. Help me to disciple my children. Help me to edify my wife. Be glorified in how I lead my family, and let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/22/2015; Psalm 68:19

Today's reading: Job 11, 12; Acts 15, 16*

S) "¹⁹ Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden,
The God who is our salvation. Selah."

Psalm 68:19 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 68

O) The concept of a burden means a lot to a people who have come out of slavery. When the Israelites were coming out of Egypt, we read that God told them He was delivering them from the burdens of the Egyptians (see Exodus 6:6-7). Only a short time later, in Exodus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, we see Moses had a difficult time being a judge, and he likened it to a burden that was too hard for him. In Job 7:20, he likens his own sins to a self-imposed burden. In a similar way, in Psalm 38:4, David also likened his iniquities to a burden too heavy for himself. But here, we see that David, who was in the middle of a much larger psalm, contextually speaking, makes the point that God, who is our salvation, bears our burden daily. When Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would break the yoke of burden from the people, we can see that it wasn't meant as a reference to slavery to other nations, because Jesus didn't establish a kingdom of flesh and blood, but a spiritual Kingdom. So, the breaking of the yoke was about spiritual burdens, and also a reference to the slavery of sin. When Jesus tells us to come, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and to take up His burden, I think it is as much about burdens of life, as it is a reference to laying down our sins, and taking up His righteousness. Jesus bore the burden of our sins, when He carried the cross to Golgotha, and allowed Himself to be hanged on it.

A) Everyday, the Lord of my Salvation bears the burden of my sins, in His eternal sacrifice on the cross. Not that Jesus must be continually crucified, He took the penalty once for all, but that my sins need His atonement every single day. Certainly, God is my Comforter. Since I laid my life down for Christ, and the Holy Spirit came upon me, I have relied on His comfort and refuge countless times. He has carried by burdens of grief, of uncertainty, and even of physical needs. However, He has also carried my burden of shame. This verse is a reminder of what David knew very well, and what I need to remember each day. The Lord saved me from myself. My God who is my salvation, bears the burdens of my weakness, my brokenness, my sins, each day. The Lord daily saves me from myself.

P) Father, blessed be Your name. You bear my burdens daily, my God who is my salvation. I am humbled by this grace. Be glorified in my weakness, and my need for my Savior. Let me be unashamed that I need the gospel every day, to change me from who I was, to the man You are calling me to be. Let Your will be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/17/2015; Psalm 64:2-4

Today's reading: Job 1, 2; Acts 6, 7*

S) "² Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers,
From the tumult of those who do iniquity,
³ Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.
They aimed bitter speech as their arrow,
⁴ To shoot from concealment at the blameless;
Suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear."

Psalm 64:2-4 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 64

O) David had many, very real enemies. He had military enemies and physical warfare. He also had political enemies, both within and without his own kingdom. All the while, his practice was to voice his concerns directly to God, through song. He understood that no one was going to help him more than God would. In this passage, it seems he is referring to those political opponents who were attacking him with words (possibly things like false accusations). Normally, to speak against a king would carry a swift and severe punishment, but apparently David did not execute such commands. Whether he refused, or was unable, I do not know. Whatever the reason, it is clear that his opponents did not fear voicing their cutting remarks.

A) There was a time and place, that speaking against Christ and the church, carried a very swift and severe punishment. That pendulum swung too far, in many ways, as Christians persecuted and even killed people, wrongly in the name of Christ. Sometimes, I think it is partly because of that bloody history, that the culture today seems so vehemently against Christianity. So now, while I am not in a similar position to David, I am seeing a similar opponent. As a Christian, I expect oppositions. The world will hate me because they hate Christ. They will have cutting words against blameless behavior, and shoot at me without fear. In all of that possible tumult, I will react like David. I will remember that only God can save from such a foe, but He is indeed mighty to save! I have no fear, because just as Christ said, He has overcome the world. I will pray, maybe not always with the poetry of David's words, but I will pray that God will deliver me from such evildoers. Even if I am not delivered in this world, I will be delivered in the next.

P) Father, You are righteous and holy. You are my Savior, and there is no other to deliver me. Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers, from the tumult of those who do iniquity, who have sharpened their tongue like a sword. They aimed bitter speech as their arrow, to shoot from concealment at the blameless; suddenly they shoot at me, and do not fear. But You are a righteous judge. You are a mighty fortress. In You, I will dwell safely, until I am brought into Your glory for eternity. Be glorified in my life. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 10/13/2015; Psalm 61:2-3

Today's reading: Nehemiah 9, 10; Acts 2*

S) "² From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
³ For You have been a refuge for me,
A tower of strength against the enemy."

Psalm 61:2-3 (NASB)
*because there are already entries for each of these chapters, I also read Psalm 61

O) David began this prayer, by acknowledging who God has already been to him. He was well aware, that God's hand had been upon him throughout his life, preserving him. Even before he was ever anointed as king, as a shepherd in the wild, God was his only protection. Certainly, once we was anointed and he knew God had placed a call on his life, that changed his perspective, but his life of faith and trust was not only about that anointing. After all, his predecessor had been anointed, too. But, as is common in many of his psalms, in this one he remained humble, by acknowledging that God is greater than he, and by recalling his previous needs being met in God.

A) The reality is, the more I practically place my trust in God, the easier it gets to trust Him. The degree to which I have already known God to be my refuge, and my tower of strength against my enemy, the easier it is to trust Him immediately, to meet all of my needs. As important as it is, that God has always shown grace to me, it will do me no practical good moving forward (in terms of how I trust Him), if I am ignoring His history in my life. This is what testimony and witness are all about. I must remind myself of what God has done, perhaps even more often, than I must share it with others.

P) Father, You have been exceedingly good to Your servant, throughout my life. Even from the womb, You have preserved me. Throughout my childhood, You seem to have kept me from various harm, and through my young adulthood, Your grace is even more clear. As I became an adult, I foolishly tried to be sovereign in my life, and I learned the hard way that I was unfit to be king over my own kingdom. Even in that, the grace of Your discipline is evident. Over and over, You have been faithful to preserve me. Whatever the future holds, I fully trust that You will keep me. From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For You have been a refuge for me, a tower of strength against the enemy. Be glorified in my life, and let me praise Your name forever. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

SOAP 09/22/2015; Daniel 9:3-5

Today's reading: Daniel 9, 10; Psalm 123; Luke 5

S) "³ So I gave my attention to the Lord God to seek Him by prayer and supplications, with fasting, sackcloth and ashes. ⁴ I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed and said, 'Alas, O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps His covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments, ⁵ we have sinned, committed iniquity, acted wickedly and rebelled, even turning aside from Your commandments and ordinances.'"

Daniel 9:3-5 (NASB)

O) Daniel was well aware of the words Jeremiah had spoken, that their exile would last seventy years. But, when he looked around, he must have been disheartened by how he saw his countrymen, his fellow exiles. Reading his prayer, we can almost hear his desperation. These are not the words of a man who is confident about his contemporaries. He knew they were sent away justifiably. He knew they deserved the judgment they received, and it grieved him. It's pretty easy to see his concern for the future of his nation. And so, rather than despair, this righteous man sets about to the same response he has built into his very character. His life has been filled with the practice of prayer, and when his future was dismal, he knew what to do. Once again he sought his God in prayer. Not only did he make his supplication plain, but he addressed the root causes of his distress, namely the guilt of sin. It's noteworthy, that he didn't say, "their sin" but he also claimed it. He confessed it as "we have sinned," because he understood two important principles. First, that he was not without guilt. By comparison, maybe he was better off… but God does not grade on a curve. He knew he had committed sins. Also, he understood that God would judge the house of Israel, God's people, all together. That isn't to say he would be directly punished for the sins of other people, but it means that he would feel their pain. He would feel the loss of them. This was an expression of unity and commitment from Daniel on behalf of God's people.

A) The first thing to ask, is if I was in Daniel's shoes, but in my time, who would the "we" be? Daniel prayed on behalf of God's nation, God's people. In the present day world, in my life, that is not the United States. But it's also not the nation of Israel. God's people, His Kingdom, is the Church. The worldwide body of Christians. So, the next question for me to answer, is whether or not there is mass-guilt within Christianity. I jump to that, because  I certainly know I am guilty of sins I have committed, as an individual. For that, I have forgiveness and mercy, in my repentance. In confessing my own sins, I am gaining healing and growth. But, if I am also seeing the unity I have with other Christians, people who profess the name of Jesus Christ as Lord, then I should also be concerned for judgment theyight be inviting by their actions. Right now, the clear answer to me, is the way so many Christians in this country have accepted homosexuality. That the culture, or the government, would embrace it as normative, should be no surprise and of little concern. Christianity was always counter-cultural, and on a great many topics it really still is. But, for some of the Church in the U.S., to ignore what the LORD has clearly said, what Jesus directly affirmed, to ignore this is flirting with the wrath of God. The other thing that came to mind, was the secret sin of fornacation. From pornography to affairs, from fantasizing to online rendezvous, to sexting, the sin manifests in every conceivable way. Both of these issues have a common theme. The enemy would love nothing more, than to tear down the marriages of the people of God. The reason is pretty simple, because biblical marriage is such a clear, beautiful, powerful image of the gospel. So, if he can destroy the plan (redefining marriage) or destroy the product (tear apart existing marriages), then he can destroy one of the best representations of God's love, and our relationship to our Savior, that is available to humanity. So, this is the aim of my prayers for God's people. This is where our sin seems to remain, and it hurts the body of Christ. Anything that hurts the body of Christ, hurts me. In repentance, there is mercy, but if God's people are not repenting of their sins, and God's discipline is coming, their pain will be my pain as well.

P) Father, You have a plan for holiness. You are holy and You call us to be holy. You have a plan for healthy marriage, that it would glorify You. Marriage should be a representation of Christ with His church, but I can see where we have marred what should have been a spotless union. Many of Your people, the church, have defiled holy matrimony. I have been guilty, myself, failing to remain righteous, falling to lust. I confess that we have sinned. I have sinned. I repent, Father God. Let the Holy Spirit be stirred among Your people, that they would be drawn to repentance as well. The church in the United States has disregarded Your plan for marriage. I know that You discipline those whom You love, and that sin cannot go unpunished. If there is no repentance, then I know that Your kingdom cannot be received. Lord, be merciful to Your church. Let us uniformly return to Your holy definition of marriage, as only between one man and one woman. Protect the marriages that exist, according to Your will. Heal broken and hurting people, struggling to remain in their marriages. Use me in this, Lord. Let me act in obedience, to share the beauty of the gospel through my marriage. Use me to bring healing and hope and health, through Jesus Christ. Let Your will be done in Your church, foremost, and in the world. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.