Today’s Reflection
PAUL SHOWS that we do not have to create occasions or special circumstances to share the gospel. We can share it anywhere. Some of the best evangelism we can offer comes from sharing how responding to the gospel directs our daily decisions. Paul did not go to jail so he could share the gospel with Roman guards, but, once there, he uses the occasion to witness.
—Max O. Vincent
Because of This I Rejoice: Reading Philippians During Lent
From page 47 of Because of This I Rejoice: Reading Philippians During Lent by Max O. Vincent. Copyright © 2018 by The Upper Room. All rights reserved. Used by permission of Upper Room Books. Learn more about or purchase this book.
Today’s Question
Does the gospel direct your daily decisions? Share your thoughts.
Today’s Scripture
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”
—Isaiah 52:7, NRSV
This Week: Rejoice in the Lord always. Submit your prayer to The Upper Room Living Prayer Center or share it in the comment section.
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Lectionary Readings
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10 Comments
I think so. My decisions are very much influenced by consultation with God through prayer. Many times I am silent in my daily deliberations, but I have been fortunate to be able to cultivate a growing way of thinking and being that involves a constant talking to and with God through my thoughts. Not always, my any means, but I’m getting better at it, and it helps. It also helps me to consider longer term perspectives – even an eternal perspective – rather than focusing only on the next moment.
This reading helps me recall part of the Great Thanksgiving:
“We bless you for our creation, preservation, and all the blessings of this life; but above all for your immeasurable love in the redemption of the world by our Lord Jesus Christ; for the means of grace, and for the hope of glory. And, we pray, give us such an awareness of your mercies, that with truly thankful hearts we may show forth your praise, not only with our lips, but in our lives, by giving up our selves to your service, and by walking before you in holiness and righteousness all our days; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory throughout all ages.” Amen.
Yes, it does, as best I can follow its teachings and take in its assurances. I strive so that my actions witness my faith.
Rusty, the prayers is beautiful. Thank you.
Prayers for Jill, Gloria, Larry, and Becky. Prayers for all UR friends.
Yes, we can share the gospel anywhere and anytime.
The gospel does direct my daily decisions when I see things from God’s perspective and most of the time, I need to get out of my comfort zone.
With God’s help, we all can do it!
Blessings!
Keeping Jill and her family in prayer.
May God’s presence be so close to each member of the family. May there be peace and may they be surrounded with God’s love.
I’m nit sure exactly how the gospel directs my daily actions, but I do believe that I am motivated, guided to help others.
Thankful for improved roads, being able to drive in the dark, and safe trips.
Prayers for Gloria and Joan as they face a tough time that potentially can result in eternal life. Yes, as humans we will miss them, but the One who loves us more than we can imagine has both of them in His hands. Prayers for Marcy and Anneliese that the help they need is available, coming, and will take good care of them. May Julie find comfort for her hands and foot, a resolution to her homelife problem. May Megan find a job. Thankful for Jill, Becky, and Mary’s care for their parents. Thankful for Connie’s posts and the healing both Andrea and Lowell are receiving. Prayers for Harrison, Kelsey, Grace and Betsy. A bundle of joy is a great blessing. Thankful for Rusty’s post, so glad to hear from him more often.
Blessings to the named and unnamed UR family. Thankful we are all precious in His sight. May God’s peace be with ll of you.
May we never take you and your faithful posts for granted.
Sharing the gospel through my interactions with those around me is my daily aspiration. It can be difficult; to love without judgement, to serve without worry. Reading the Gospels daily (my goal leading up to Easter) is helping me to appreciate Jesus and the journey he took to Calvary.
Heartfelt prayers for Jill and her family as they begin this new chapter in Gloria’s struggle with cancer. Praying for the medical personnel also as they support them at this time.
“Why art thou downcast oh my soul? Believe in God”
I guess it’s the weather, circumstances I cannot control. Knowing that others have these situations, too. God help us to stay close to Him as He stays close to us. I feel very ungrateful.
Thankful for:
Visions of Spring
A bouquet of flowers.
Love to you on this gloomy Chicago day. I asked my prayer group to focus on faith and doubt today because I needed to get a good dose of faith from them to set my heart right. Maybe it is this time of year plus the daily tests and temptations. Jesus loves you- and me- and all of us- this we know.
I am thankful for you, Connie. For your unceasing example of being thankful in all circumstances. But more so because I hear the voice of a kindred spisrit in your posts. I also am melancholy often due to circumstances beyond my control. Yet I know that other’s live with worse circumstances. I know that no one enjoys an individual who is gloomy all the time. I know that in order to reflect God to the world I need to shine light not hide in darkness.
Prayers for Jill, Gloria, Larry and Becky. May God reduce Gloria’s pain and may she feel His welcoming arms surrounding her and bringing her to Him.. May God support and strengthen the rest of the family as they support Gloria and each other.
Prayers for dear Marcy, may she be receiving needed medical care.
Prayers and blessings and warm hugs for each of the UR family members as I lift your worries and joys to the Lord.
Prayers for all here today- thankful for the blessing of eternal life and the love of Jesus –
Prayers especially for Jill and her family.
I’m also thankful that Rusty is back- I really appreciate his contributions- as well as all who contribute here. Everyone makes a difference. Love and blessings to all this day
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