Today's Verse - Proverbs 10:29

The way of the LORD is a refuge for the righteous, but it is the ruin of those who do evil.

—Proverbs 10:29

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Answer honestly! What is your source of security, hope, and protection? The way of the LORD is a refuge, a strength, and a place of security! Let's make sure we live our lives knowing that God's commands and demands for our righteousness are for our protection as well as his glory. Let's use obedience to God as our refuge and recognize that to ignore the call and word of the LORD is to invite ruin.

My Prayer...

Please, dear LORD, use the Holy Spirit to help me more perfectly find your will and have the courage to build my life around it. I don't want to follow false voices, nor do I want to be tempted away from your truth and righteousness. May your will not only be my delight, but also my refuge. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Proverbs 3:1-2

My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.

—Proverbs 3:1-2

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Those who are older are not as respected in Western cultures today as they once were, or as the elders are in some other cultures. The Bible repeatedly reminds us of our NEED to honor those who are godly and who have gone before us. Whether the father behind this passage is the physical father of the person receiving the instruction or he was the teacher of this student seeking wisdom, either way, the principle is the same. We have much to learn and much to gain from heeding the voices of those who have served God for many years through many trials and opportunities, and have proven themselves wise and faithful.

Video Commentary...

ToGather Worship Guide | More ToGather Videos

My Prayer...

Loving God and Almighty Father, thank you for those wise people in my life who have shared your wisdom and their experience with me. Please help them know how much I appreciate their investment of love and guidance in me, and please use me to do the same for those who come after me. In Jesus' name, I pray, and I especially thank you for those who have shared their wisdom with me. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.

Today's Verse - Acts 13:3

So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

—Acts 13:3

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

While fasting is not widely practiced in many churches today, it was a vital part of the early Christian church. Let's ensure that we prepare for significant events in ministry and mission to the world with prayer and fasting, whether sponsored by our congregations or not. As we prepare to embark on God's work in the world and our mission to the world, our preparation should include times of prayer and fasting. A mission without the Holy Spirit, prayer, and fasting is an undervalued mission and an underpowered effort.

My Prayer...

O LORD, I know you love all people. Please bless those on mission to cultures other than their own, seeking to lovingly share your Gospel with those who are lost. Bless their efforts with success, protect them from the evil one, and guide them in the direction they need to go to find searching and receptive hearts. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.