Today's Verse - Proverbs 3:31-32

Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways, for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence.

—Proverbs 3:31-32

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

God does not like bullies, oppressors, or exploiters. Those who control by intimidation and violence are a detestable abomination to the LORD. We are not to idolize, praise, or reward those who have risen to power by exploiting and belittling others and threatening violence.

My Prayer...

Father and Sovereign LORD, please break the power of the oppressors who persecute and abuse people. Bring us leaders who display your character and bring your grace with holiness and power. In the name of Jesus, my sacrificial yet mighty Savior, I pray. Amen.

Today's Verse - Mark 12:30-31

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these."

—Mark 12:30-31

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Sometimes the most important things are not hard to understand. However, we must not treat these clear commands as simple. They challenge us to honor God with all we have, are, and dream. God wants us to love him with every fiber of our being and also to love those around us. All of his demands on our character boil down to honoring these two great principles that transcend law and bring the character of God to hearts. It all comes down to loving God and others with love that has hands and feet - it's something we not only feel, but we actively and sacrificially live in our daily lives.

My Prayer...

Almighty God, my heavenly Father, I love you. I love you for your plan to send your Messiah as a descendant of Abraham and David. I love you for your unfailing love. I love you for your listening grace that hears my humble prayers. I love you for sending Jesus and for starting your church. I love you, Almighty God, for your steadfast presence and love in my life. Now I ask the Holy Spirit to show my love for you by loving my neighbors. I love you, dear God, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Today's Verse - Proverbs 14:29

A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly.

—Proverbs 14:29

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Responding to aggravation, threat, insult, irritation, and difficulty requires patience - great patience. Responding hastily out of anger is foolish. A hasty, unfiltered response seldom produces our desired long-term effect. This quick-tempered kind of response nearly always compounds the problems that need to be addressed. Patiently dealing with frustrating and painful situations shows our understanding and is nearly always more fruitful in the long run. Plus, the patient and wise approach can prevent the unnecessary loss of friendships, integrity, and respect.

Video Commentary...

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My Prayer...

Father, I ask for patience and self-control. I know these virtues are part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit's presence in my life. I am inviting the Holy Spirit to have more impact on my heart as I look to how Jesus handled difficult situations in his life and ministry. Please give me the understanding and wisdom to keep my mouth shut until I have had an opportunity to pray and think about the issues and people involved, and only answer then. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.