Today's Verse - Psalm 78:72

David shepherded them with integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.

—Psalm 78:72

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

One of the greatest honors and responsibilities a Christian leader can have is to be designated a pastor or shepherd in God's family. While only a few truly qualify biblically to be recognized as shepherds over God's flock (see Acts 20:17-28; 1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9), a shepherding concern for others is important for all of us seeking to bless and encourage each other (Ephesians 4:29; Hebrews 10:24). Let's demand that those we select as our spiritual leaders know how to shepherd with integrity and proven skill caring for the flock bought by Jesus' blood (Acts 20:28). And as they lead, let's support them through our efforts, prayers, and ministry involvement (Hebrews 13:7, 17, 24). Let's also pray that our spiritual shepherds will lead us "with integrity of heart" and "with skillful hands."

My Prayer...

O Great Shepherd, I fervently pray that you will raise up great leaders in your church who will shepherd your sheep with integrity and godly skill. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Today's Verse - Psalm 28:9

Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.

—Psalm 28:9

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Most of us are familiar with the very personal declaration about God as the great Shepherd in Psalm 23. This Psalm is a plea for God to shepherd us and carry us into His future for us. This short prayer is also a great reminder of how important it is for us to pray for God's presence in the lives of his children, wherever and whenever they are! This is one of the reasons we see the picture of heaven in the book of Revelation with those who have come out of the great tribulation holding on to this promise:  

"For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Revelation 7:17).  

Yes! God WILL be the great Shepherd of his people, both now and forever!

My Prayer...

Eternal Father, the great "I AM," please bless me as I seek to pass on faith to my children. Bless them and their generation, and lead them in your truth so they may pass on a vibrant and passionate faith to their children. May all of our generations find great joy in you as our Shepherd! In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Today's Verse - 2 Thessalonians 1:11

We constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling, and that by his power he may fulfill every good purpose of yours and every act prompted by your faith.

—2 Thessalonians 1:11

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Paul prays for God to be active in the lives of these new Christians in Thessalonica. He asks that God maximize the good they intend to accomplish and fully bless every good deed they do out of their commitment to their faith. What new believer needs to know that you are praying this prayer for them? Pray it for them and let them know you did! Let's also find ways to affirm and encourage other believers seeking to honor the Lord with their intentions and actions. In our divided and hyper-critical world, let's help each other know our efforts are appreciated and that we have brothers and sisters who lovingly and prayerfully support each other.

My Prayer...

Strong and mighty Father, please bless several new Christians on my heart today. Help them recognize your presence in their lives. Please maximize the good in every effort they make and every intention they have to honor you and bless your people. Protect them from the evil one. In Jesus' name, I ask for this blessing. Amen.