Evening Scripture

Isaiah, Chapter 41

“Be silent before me, you islands! Let the nations renew their strength! Let them come forward and speak; let us meet together at the place of judgment. Who has stirred up one from the east, calling him in righteousness to his service? He hands nations over to him and subdues kings before him. He turns them to dust with his sword, to windblown chaff with his bow. He pursues them and moves on unscathed, by a path his feet have not traveled before.

Who has done this and carried it through, calling forth the generations from the beginning? I, the LORD — with the first of them and with the last — I am he.”

The islands have seen it and fear; the ends of the earth tremble. They approach and come forward; they help each other and say to their companions, “Be strong!”

The metalworker encourages the goldsmith, and the one who smooths with the hammer spurs on the one who strikes the anvil. One says of the welding, “It is good.” The other nails down the idol so it will not topple.

“But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. “All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.

Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you,” declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

 “See, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff. You will winnow them, the wind will pick them up, and a gale will blow them away. But you will rejoice in the LORD and glory in the Holy One of Israel.

“The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the LORD will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs.

I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, so that people may see and know, may consider and understand, that the hand of the LORD has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.

“Present your case,” says the LORD. “Set forth your arguments,” says Jacob’s King. “Tell us, you idols, what is going to happen. Tell us what the former things were, so that we may consider them and know their final outcome. Or declare to us the things to come, tell us what the future holds, so we may know that you are gods. Do something, whether good or bad, so that we will be dismayed and filled with fear.

But you are less than nothing and your works are utterly worthless; whoever chooses you is detestable. “I have stirred up one from the north, and he comes — one from the rising sun who calls on my name. He treads on rulers as if they were mortar, as if he were a potter treading the clay.

Who told of this from the beginning, so we could know, or beforehand, so we could say, ‘He was right’? No one told of this, no one foretold it, no one heard any words from you. I was the first to tell Zion, ‘Look, here they are!’ I gave to Jerusalem a messenger of good news.

I look but there is no one — no one among the gods to give counsel, no one to give answer when I ask them. See, they are all false! Their deeds amount to nothing; their images are but wind and confusion.

Evening Reflection

It’s easy to say “do not fear” when life is well, the bills are paid, and the medical results have come back negative. But what about when life is chaotic, the bills are overdue, and you’re sitting in the waiting room for what feels like forever?

As darkness settles in around us and fall gives birth to winter, our fears only seem to multiply. Maybe you’re replaying something that happened yesterday, the stress of uncertain things, or carrying a burden you’ve told no one about. And yet, God says, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” How do those words make you feel?

If you’re anything like me, I used to roll my eyes and ignore the words altogether. This verse sounds nice but feels impractical. Until I realized that God isn’t shaming us for being afraid; He’s offering His peace as a source of comfort.

Before He even told His people not to fear, He told them that He would be with them. He is their God, and we are His people. He would strengthen, support, help, and lift them. His command “not to fear” isn’t rooted in what happens next, but rather in His steady and ever-faithful presence.

When you think about your life, what feels uncertain or scary right now? What would change tonight if you believed you didn’t have to face these fears alone? What if instead of relying on your own strength, you asked God to carry you with His?

Isaiah 41 doesn’t say that we won’t face scary things this side of Heaven. But God’s Word does promise that He will be with us no matter what we face. His progression from I am with you, to I am your God and I will strengthen you, shows us that sometimes the answer to our fear isn’t watching it dissipate. It’s not an explanation or being brave. It’s reassurance that even in uncertainty, God is there, too.

The good news is that you and I don’t have to manufacture enough courage tonight. It’s okay to be scared. But we can rest in the One who promises to hold us even when we can’t hold ourselves. “Do not fear” isn’t a demanding “how-dare-you-be-scared” accusation. “Do not fear” is an invitation: “Let’s face this together.”

As you prepare for rest, ask yourself:

What fear do I need to ask the Lord to help me with? Talk to God about these fears. They may not be removed overnight, but His presence is always with you.

Evening Prayer

Dear Jesus,

Tonight, I want to acknowledge my fears instead of ignoring them. I bring you ______. Thank you for your promise of peace even when it feels far. Please give me strength for what I can’t change and comfort me even here. I love, praise, and thank you, Jesus.

Amen.

Agape, Amber

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
Isaiah, Chapter 41
&ldquo;Be silent before me, you islands! Let the nations renew their strength! Let them come forward and speak; let us meet together at the place of judgment. Who has stirred up one from the east, calling him in righteousness to his service? He hands nations over to him and subdues kings before him. He turns them to dust with his sword, to windblown chaff with his bow. He pursues them and moves on unscathed, by a path his feet have not traveled before.
Who has done this and carried it through, calling forth the generations from the beginning? I, the LORD &mdash; with the first of them and with the last &mdash; I am he.&rdquo;
The islands have seen it and fear; the ends of the earth tremble. They approach and come forward; they help each other and say to their companions, &ldquo;Be strong!&rdquo;
The metalworker encourages the goldsmith, and the one who smooths with the hammer spurs on the one who strikes the anvil. One says of the welding, &ldquo;It is good.&rdquo; The other nails down the idol so it will not topple.
&ldquo;But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, you descendants of Abraham my friend, I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, &lsquo;You are my servant&rsquo;; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. &ldquo;All who rage against you will surely be ashamed and disgraced; those who oppose you will be as nothing and perish.
Though you search for your enemies, you will not find them. Those who wage war against you will be as nothing at all. For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. Do not be afraid, you worm Jacob, little Israel, do not fear, for I myself will help you,&rdquo; declares the LORD, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.
&nbsp;&ldquo;See, I will make you into a threshing sledge, new and sharp, with many teeth. You will thresh the mountains and crush them, and reduce the hills to chaff. You will winnow them, the wind will pick them up, and a gale will blow them away. But you will rejoice in the LORD and glory in the Holy One of Israel.
&ldquo;The poor and needy search for water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. But I the LORD will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them. I will make rivers flow on barren heights, and springs within the valleys. I will turn the desert into pools of water, and the parched ground into springs.
I will put in the desert the cedar and the acacia, the myrtle and the olive. I will set junipers in the wasteland, the fir and the cypress together, so that people may see and know, may consider and understand, that the hand of the LORD has done this, that the Holy One of Israel has created it.
&ldquo;Present your case,&rdquo; says the LORD. &ldquo;Set forth your arguments,&rdquo; says Jacob&rsquo;s King. &ldquo;Tell us, you idols, what is going to happen. Tell us what the former things were, so that we may consider them and know their final outcome. Or declare to us the things to come, tell us what the future holds, so we may know that you are gods. Do something, whether good or bad, so that we will be dismayed and filled with fear.
But you are less than nothing and your works are utterly worthless; whoever chooses you is detestable. &ldquo;I have stirred up one from the north, and he comes &mdash; one from the rising sun who calls on my name. He treads on rulers as if they were mortar, as if he were a potter treading the clay.
Who told of this from the beginning, so we could know, or beforehand, so we could say, &lsquo;He was right&rsquo;? No one told of this, no one foretold it, no one heard any words from you. I was the first to tell Zion, &lsquo;Look, here they are!&rsquo; I gave to Jerusalem a messenger of good news.
I look but there is no one &mdash; no one among the gods to give counsel, no one to give answer when I ask them. See, they are all false! Their deeds amount to nothing; their images are but wind and confusion.
Evening Reflection
It&rsquo;s easy to say &ldquo;do not fear&rdquo; when life is well, the bills are paid, and the medical results have come back negative. But what about when life is chaotic, the bills are overdue, and you&rsquo;re sitting in the waiting room for what feels like forever?
As darkness settles in around us and fall gives birth to winter, our fears only seem to multiply. Maybe you&rsquo;re replaying something that happened yesterday, the stress of uncertain things, or carrying a burden you&rsquo;ve told no one about. And yet, God says, &ldquo;Do not fear, for I am with you.&rdquo; How do those words make you feel?
If you&rsquo;re anything like me, I used to roll my eyes and ignore the words altogether. This verse sounds nice but feels impractical. Until I realized that God isn&rsquo;t shaming us for being afraid; He&rsquo;s offering His peace as a source of comfort.
Before He even told His people not to fear, He told them that He would be with them. He is their God, and we are His people. He would strengthen, support, help, and lift them. His command &ldquo;not to fear&rdquo; isn&rsquo;t rooted in what happens next, but rather in His steady and ever-faithful presence.
When you think about your life, what feels uncertain or scary right now? What would change tonight if you believed you didn&rsquo;t have to face these fears alone? What if instead of relying on your own strength, you asked God to carry you with His?
<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/isaiah/41.html">Isaiah 41</a> doesn&rsquo;t say that we won&rsquo;t face scary things this side of Heaven. But God&rsquo;s Word does promise that He will be with us no matter what we face. His progression from I am with you, to I am your God and I will strengthen you, shows us that sometimes the answer to our fear isn&rsquo;t watching it dissipate. It&rsquo;s not an explanation or being brave. It&rsquo;s reassurance that even in uncertainty, God is there, too.
The good news is that you and I don&rsquo;t have to manufacture enough courage tonight. It&rsquo;s okay to be scared. But we can rest in the One who promises to hold us even when we can&rsquo;t hold ourselves. &ldquo;Do not fear&rdquo; isn&rsquo;t a demanding &ldquo;how-dare-you-be-scared&rdquo; accusation. &ldquo;Do not fear&rdquo; is an invitation: &ldquo;Let&rsquo;s face this together.&rdquo;
As you prepare for rest, ask yourself:
What fear do I need to ask the Lord to help me with? Talk to God about these fears. They may not be removed overnight, but His presence is always with you.
Evening Prayer
Dear Jesus,
Tonight, I want to acknowledge my fears instead of ignoring them. I bring you ______. Thank you for your promise of peace even when it feels far. Please give me strength for what I can&rsquo;t change and comfort me even here. I love, praise, and thank you, Jesus.
Amen.
Agape, Amber
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Hearing God Say, “Do Not Fear” (Isaiah 41)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/c23586d6-5db6-49e9-b60d-b4f000d7ce0e/transcript

Evening Scripture

Jude, Chapter 1

Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and a brother of James, to those who have been called, who are loved in God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.

Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to God’s holy people. For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.

Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling — these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.

In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses, did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, “The Lord rebuke you!” Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct — as irrational animals do — will destroy them.

Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion.

These people are blemishes at your love feasts, eating with you without the slightest qualm — shepherds who feed only themselves. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted — twice dead. They are wild waves of the sea, foaming up their shame; wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever.

Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: “See, the Lord is coming with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.” These people are grumblers and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires; they boast about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.

But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.

But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire; to others show mercy, mixed with fear — hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Evening Reflection

Jude offers one of the most amazing and comforting promises in all of Scripture. Yet when you read through the chapter, it does not begin there. You first read about ungodly people who have slipped in among the believers, and bring with them immorality, perversion, and denying Jesus Christ. 

Aside from that, we see the destruction of those who were delivered but later failed to believe. Jude talks further about those who are perverted, defiant, and scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires. Despite all of this, this chapter leaves us with an everlasting hope, and here it is:

To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy — to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen” (Jude 1:24-25).

The hope we find in Jude transcends anything and everything that is happening in our culture. It focuses our attention not on our ability to keep ourselves, but on Christ’s ability to do that. This is the essence of our salvation. We are saved by Christ and the finished work on the cross. However, we are also kept by Christ, and the one who saved us is the one who will preserve us. 

This truth makes all the difference in the world. When you grasp this truth, then you realize that your salvation comes by grace through faith, and it is kept by grace through faith. You don’t have to hope in yourself to bring about salvation; you must keep your hope in Christ. He is the one who keeps you and who will present you faultless before God’s throne. That is an everlasting promise that you can hold on to.

Evening Prayer

Lord,

Today I want to pray a prayer of rejoicing. I thank you for saving me by your grace and that it was not by my own works. I also thank you for keeping me by your grace, knowing that too is because of your promise and not my own works. Help me rest in the truth that you are the one who is holding and upholding me. You are the one who has saved me and that you are the one who will keep me. Teach me not how to strive harder, but to trust more. And help me understand that trusting always leads to your perfect rest.

I pray all this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
Jude, Chapter 1
Jude,&nbsp;a servant of Jesus Christ&nbsp;and a brother of James, to those who have been called,&nbsp;who are loved in God the Father and kept for&nbsp;Jesus Christ:&nbsp;Mercy, peace&nbsp;and love be yours in abundance.
Dear friends,&nbsp;although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share,&nbsp;I felt compelled to write and urge you to contend&nbsp;for the faith&nbsp;that was once for all entrusted to God&rsquo;s holy people. For certain individuals whose condemnation was written about&nbsp;long ago have secretly slipped in among you.&nbsp;They are ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.
Though you already know all this,&nbsp;I want to remind you&nbsp;that the Lord at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe. And the angels who did not keep their positions of authority but abandoned their proper dwelling &mdash; these he has kept in darkness, bound with everlasting chains for judgment on the great Day. In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah&nbsp;and the surrounding towns&nbsp;gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire.
In the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. But even the archangel Michael, when he was disputing with the devil about the body of Moses,&nbsp;did not himself dare to condemn him for slander but said, &ldquo;The Lord rebuke you!&rdquo; Yet these people slander whatever they do not understand, and the very things they do understand by instinct &mdash; as irrational animals do &mdash; will destroy them.
Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain;&nbsp;they have rushed for profit into Balaam&rsquo;s error;&nbsp;they have been destroyed in Korah&rsquo;s rebellion.
These people are blemishes at your love feasts,&nbsp;eating with you without the slightest qualm &mdash; shepherds who feed only themselves.&nbsp;They are clouds without rain,&nbsp;blown along by the wind;&nbsp;autumn trees, without fruit and uprooted &mdash; twice dead. They are wild waves of the sea,&nbsp;foaming up their shame;&nbsp;wandering stars, for whom blackest darkness has been reserved forever.
Enoch,&nbsp;the seventh from Adam, prophesied about them: &ldquo;See, the Lord is coming&nbsp;with thousands upon thousands of his holy ones to judge&nbsp;everyone, and to convict all of them of all the ungodly acts they have committed in their ungodliness, and of all the defiant words ungodly sinners have spoken against him.&rdquo; These people are grumblers&nbsp;and faultfinders; they follow their own evil desires;&nbsp;they boast&nbsp;about themselves and flatter others for their own advantage.
But, dear friends, remember what the apostles&nbsp;of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, &ldquo;In the last times&nbsp;there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.&rdquo; These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit.
But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up&nbsp;in your most holy faith&nbsp;and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God&rsquo;s love as you wait&nbsp;for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.
Be merciful to those who doubt; save others by snatching them from the fire;&nbsp;to others show mercy, mixed with fear &mdash; hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.
To him who is able&nbsp;to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault&nbsp;and with great joy &mdash; to the only God&nbsp;our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore!&nbsp;Amen.
Evening Reflection
Jude offers one of the most amazing and comforting promises in all of Scripture. Yet when you read through the chapter, it does not begin there. You first read about ungodly people who have slipped in among the believers, and bring with them immorality, perversion, and denying Jesus Christ.&nbsp;
Aside from that, we see the destruction of those who were delivered but later failed to believe. Jude talks further about those who are perverted, defiant, and scoffers who follow their own ungodly desires. Despite all of this, this chapter leaves us with an everlasting hope, and here it is:
To him who is able&nbsp;to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence&nbsp;without fault&nbsp;and with great joy &mdash;&nbsp;to the only God&nbsp;our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore!&nbsp;Amen&rdquo; (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/jude/passage/?q=jude+1:24-25">Jude 1:24-25</a>).
The hope we find in Jude transcends anything and everything that is happening in our culture. It focuses our attention not on our ability to keep ourselves, but on Christ&rsquo;s ability to do that. This is the essence of our salvation. We are saved by Christ and the finished work on the cross. However, we are also kept by Christ, and the one who saved us is the one who will preserve us.&nbsp;
This truth makes all the difference in the world. When you grasp this truth, then you realize that your salvation comes by grace through faith, and it is kept by grace through faith. You don&rsquo;t have to hope in yourself to bring about salvation; you must keep your hope in Christ. He is the one who keeps you and who will present you faultless before God&rsquo;s throne. That is an everlasting promise that you can hold on to.
Evening Prayer
Lord,
Today I want to pray a prayer of rejoicing. I thank you for saving me by your grace and that it was not by my own works. I also thank you for keeping me by your grace, knowing that too is because of your promise and not my own works. Help me rest in the truth that you are the one who is holding and upholding me. You are the one who has saved me and that you are the one who will keep me. Teach me not how to strive harder, but to trust more. And help me understand that trusting always leads to your perfect rest.
I pray all this in Jesus&rsquo; name.
Amen.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Resting in the Truth That Jesus Will Hold Onto Me (Jude 1)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/4c088869-a0df-4e2c-9c3f-b4f000d7ce0d/transcript

Evening Scripture

Proverbs, Chapter 16

To humans belong the plans of the heart,
but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.

All a person’s ways seem pure to them,
but motives are weighed by the Lord.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
and he will establish your plans.

The Lord works out everything to its proper end—
even the wicked for a day of disaster.

The Lord detests all the proud of heart.
Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.

Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for;
through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.

When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone’s way,
he causes their enemies to make peace with them.

Better a little with righteousness
than much gain with injustice.

In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the Lord establishes their steps.

The lips of a king speak as an oracle,
and his mouth does not betray justice.

Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord;
all the weights in the bag are of his making.

Kings detest wrongdoing,
for a throne is established through righteousness.

Kings take pleasure in honest lips;
they value the one who speaks what is right.

A king’s wrath is a messenger of death,
but the wise will appease it.

When a king’s face brightens, it means life;
his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.

How much better to get wisdom than gold,
to get insight rather than silver!

The highway of the upright avoids evil;
those who guard their ways preserve their lives.

Pride goes before destruction,
a haughty spirit before a fall.

Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed
than to share plunder with the proud.

Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers,
and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.

The wise in heart are called discerning,
and gracious words promote instruction.

Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent,
but folly brings punishment to fools.

The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent,
and their lips promote instruction.

Gracious words are a honeycomb,
sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

There is a way that appears to be right,
but in the end it leads to death.

The appetite of laborers works for them;
their hunger drives them on.

A scoundrel plots evil,
and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.

A perverse person stirs up conflict,
and a gossip separates close friends.

A violent person entices their neighbor
and leads them down a path that is not good.

Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity;
whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.

Gray hair is a crown of splendor;
it is attained in the way of righteousness.

Better a patient person than a warrior,
one with self-control than one who takes a city.

The lot is cast into the lap,
but its every decision is from the Lord.

Evening Reflection

Life often throws us curveballs. Just when we think we’ve got something figured out, inevitably things change. Our kids grow up, jobs change, our bodies shift, our community evolves, or a need arises. These are the exact moments that we are called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, because we know he will make our path straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).

One notable moment in which we all had to collectively cling to God was in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic turned our lives upside down and swept across the globe. I remember walking miles around my neighborhood, praying and reciting verses to myself as a way of reminding myself that God would not leave us, even as the whole world began to panic. I had to practice Proverbs 16:3 and commit everything to the Lord, trusting him to establish my plans.

Since that season, life has provided many more opportunities to cling to the Lord when the future felt hazy and scary. We have added three kids to our family through foster care and adoption. As we walked through uncertainty and the roller coaster that is foster care, I often had to remind my soul to lean on the Lord when I wanted to freak out. When my body was struggling with illness, I had to rely on God’s Spirit for peace, even when pain was my constant companion. In the seasons of conflict and strife with my husband, I had to ask God to show me how to change, forgive, and love him with God’s love again.

The future often feels scary, but when we practice trusting God, we know that we will be okay. It is our reliance on Jesus that carries us from one season to the next. Without Him, the future is bleak, but as believers, we have access to eternal hope that changes everything.

Remember Proverbs 16:9, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.” Our future is the Lord's! He is the one establishing our steps. We can trust Him. 

Evening Prayer

Father,

I thank you that you are trustworthy. I can rely on your word and promises when I can’t see the way forward. I can lean on the power of your Holy Spirit when I am unsure how to move ahead. I commit my ways to you, knowing that you alone establish my steps. Go before me and make a way! I need you, Jesus. You are my firm foundation in a chaotic world.

Amen.

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
Proverbs, Chapter 16
To humans belong the plans of the heart, but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.
All a person&rsquo;s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.
The Lord works out everything to its proper end&mdash; even the wicked for a day of disaster.
The Lord detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished.
Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.
When the Lord takes pleasure in anyone&rsquo;s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice.
In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.
The lips of a king speak as an oracle, and his mouth does not betray justice.
Honest scales and balances belong to the Lord; all the weights in the bag are of his making.
Kings detest wrongdoing, for a throne is established through righteousness.
Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value the one who speaks what is right.
A king&rsquo;s wrath is a messenger of death, but the wise will appease it.
When a king&rsquo;s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!
The highway of the upright avoids evil; those who guard their ways preserve their lives.
Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.
Better to be lowly in spirit along with the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud.
Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.
The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.
Prudence is a fountain of life to the prudent, but folly brings punishment to fools.
The hearts of the wise make their mouths prudent, and their lips promote instruction.
Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.
There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.
The appetite of laborers works for them; their hunger drives them on.
A scoundrel plots evil, and on their lips it is like a scorching fire.
A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.
A violent person entices their neighbor and leads them down a path that is not good.
Whoever winks with their eye is plotting perversity; whoever purses their lips is bent on evil.
Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.
Evening Reflection
Life often throws us curveballs. Just when we think we&rsquo;ve got something figured out, inevitably things change. Our kids grow up, jobs change, our bodies shift, our community evolves, or a need arises. These are the exact moments that we are called to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding, because we know he will make our path straight (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/proverbs/passage/?q=proverbs+3:5-6">Proverbs 3:5-6</a>).
One notable moment in which we all had to collectively cling to God was in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic turned our lives upside down and swept across the globe. I remember walking miles around my neighborhood, praying and reciting verses to myself as a way of reminding myself that God would not leave us, even as the whole world began to panic. I had to practice <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/proverbs/16-3.html">Proverbs 16:3</a> and commit everything to the Lord, trusting him to establish my plans.
Since that season, life has provided many more opportunities to cling to the Lord when the future felt hazy and scary. We have added three kids to our family through foster care and adoption. As we walked through uncertainty and the roller coaster that is foster care, I often had to remind my soul to lean on the Lord when I wanted to freak out. When my body was struggling with illness, I had to rely on God&rsquo;s Spirit for peace, even when pain was my constant companion. In the seasons of conflict and strife with my husband, I had to ask God to show me how to change, forgive, and love him with God&rsquo;s love again.
The future often feels scary, but when we practice trusting God, we know that we will be okay. It is our reliance on Jesus that carries us from one season to the next. Without Him, the future is bleak, but as believers, we have access to eternal hope that changes everything.
Remember <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/proverbs/16-9.html">Proverbs 16:9</a>, &ldquo;In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.&rdquo; Our future is the Lord's! He is the one establishing our steps. We can trust Him.&nbsp;
Evening Prayer
Father,
I thank you that you are trustworthy. I can rely on your word and promises when I can&rsquo;t see the way forward. I can lean on the power of your Holy Spirit when I am unsure how to move ahead. I commit my ways to you, knowing that you alone establish my steps. Go before me and make a way! I need you, Jesus. You are my firm foundation in a chaotic world.
Amen.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
&nbsp;
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Trusting God When I Don’t Know What’s Next (Proverbs 16)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/cc0391bc-08ad-4d6e-9395-b4f000d7ce0d/transcript

Peace in the Middle of Trouble

Evening Scripture

John, Chapter 16

“All this I have told you so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.

I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, but now I am going to him who sent me. None of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ Rather, you are filled with grief because I have said these things. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.

When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin, because people do not believe in me; about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer; and about judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.

I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.”

Jesus went on to say, “In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.”

At this, some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?” They kept asking, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We don’t understand what he is saying.”

Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.

A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”

Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God.”

“Do you now believe?” Jesus replied. “A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

b

Certainly, there are times for all of us when it is hard to feel Jesus’ presence. That feeling may be even stronger in times of trouble. Of course, Jesus promised us we’d have trouble in this world, didn’t he (John 16:33)? But in the same verse he also told us we can take heart because he has overcome the world.

We can only imagine how the disciples felt when Jesus told them he would be leaving them. But as was his way, he followed that with the promise that he was not leaving them alone, that their grief would turn to joy. 

Like the disciples, our journey of faith will often include troubling times and difficult situations. Yet, the promises of Jesus reassure us that we can – we will – find peace in him, even through the storms of life. His calm and peace will guard our hearts and our minds and help see us through the turmoil.

Yes, it is easy to feel overwhelmed during our most difficult times. Lost, even. But the word of God always encourages us to seek our comfort in him. In him we can find reassurance that we are loved and not forgotten, and that regardless of the storms of life, our faith in him will calm the storms and bring us peace.

Remember that fear never accomplished anything. Courage did. Faith did. Let faith – not fear – be your default response.

Prayer will serve as our lifeline to peace in the middle of our trouble. In open, heartfelt communication with the Lord, he helps us release all of our anxieties and worries into his very capable hands. Prayer gives us the strength and courage to confront our worries and fears, finding peace and assurance. We will discover that we can trust the Lord with whatever troubles us. We can lean into his outcomes, knowing that he has a perfect plan for us. 

Trusting God and his plan gives us a firm foundation and allows peace to reign in our hearts.

Evening Prayer

Father,

Thank you for being there for me, even if I don’t always feel you. Help me, Father. Give me strength to feel your presence. Help me to trust you with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding. Help me to cast all of my anxiety on you and feel your peace. Please, Father, make it well with my soul.

Amen

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

Peace in the Middle of Trouble
Evening Scripture
John, Chapter 16
&ldquo;All this&nbsp;I have told you so that you will not fall away. They will put you out of the synagogue;&nbsp;in fact, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will think they are offering a service to God. They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.
I have told you this, so that when their time comes you will remember&nbsp;that I warned you about them. I did not tell you this from the beginning because I was with you, but now I am going to him who sent me.&nbsp;None of you asks me, &lsquo;Where are you going?&rsquo; Rather, you are filled with grief&nbsp;because I have said these things. But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate&nbsp;will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.
When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: about sin,&nbsp;because people do not believe in me; about righteousness,&nbsp;because I am going to the Father,&nbsp;where you can see me no longer; and about judgment, because the prince of this world&nbsp;now stands condemned.
I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth.&nbsp;He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will glorify me because it is from me that he will receive what he will make known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine.&nbsp;That is why I said the Spirit will receive from me what he will make known to you.&rdquo;
Jesus went on to say,&nbsp;&ldquo;In a little while&nbsp;you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me.&rdquo;
At this, some of his disciples said to one another, &ldquo;What does he mean by saying,&nbsp;&lsquo;In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,&rsquo;&nbsp;and&nbsp;&lsquo;Because I am going to the Father&rsquo;?&rdquo; They kept asking, &ldquo;What does he mean by&nbsp;&lsquo;a little while&rsquo;? We don&rsquo;t understand what he is saying.&rdquo;
Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them,&nbsp;&ldquo;Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, &lsquo;In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me&rsquo;? Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn&nbsp;while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
A woman giving birth to a child has pain&nbsp;because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world. So with you: Now is your time of grief,&nbsp;but I will see you again&nbsp;and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy. In that day&nbsp;you will no longer ask me anything. Very truly I tell you, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive,&nbsp;and your joy will be complete.
Though I have been speaking figuratively,&nbsp;a time is coming&nbsp;when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father. In that day you will ask in my name.&nbsp;I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me&nbsp;and have believed that I came from God. I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.&rdquo;
Then Jesus&rsquo; disciples said, &ldquo;Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe&nbsp;that you came from God.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Do you now believe?&rdquo; Jesus replied. &ldquo;A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.&nbsp;In this world you will have trouble.&nbsp;But take heart! I have overcome&nbsp;the world.&rdquo;
b
Certainly, there are times for all of us when it is hard to feel Jesus&rsquo; presence. That feeling may be even stronger in times of trouble. Of course, Jesus promised us we&rsquo;d have trouble in this world, didn&rsquo;t he (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/john/16-33.html">John 16:33</a>)? But in the same verse he also told us we can take heart because he has overcome the world.
We can only imagine how the disciples felt when Jesus told them he would be leaving them. But as was his way, he followed that with the promise that he was not leaving them alone, that their grief would turn to joy.&nbsp;
Like the disciples, our journey of faith will often include troubling times and difficult situations. Yet, the promises of Jesus reassure us that we can &ndash; we will &ndash; find peace in him, even through the storms of life. His calm and peace will guard our hearts and our minds and help see us through the turmoil.
Yes, it is easy to feel overwhelmed during our most difficult times. Lost, even. But the word of God always encourages us to seek our comfort in him. In him we can find reassurance that we are loved and not forgotten, and that regardless of the storms of life, our faith in him will calm the storms and bring us peace.
Remember that fear never accomplished anything. Courage did. Faith did. Let faith &ndash; not fear &ndash; be your default response.
Prayer will serve as our lifeline to peace in the middle of our trouble. In open, heartfelt communication with the Lord, he helps us release all of our anxieties and worries into his very capable hands. Prayer gives us the strength and courage to confront our worries and fears, finding peace and assurance. We will discover that we can trust the Lord with whatever troubles us. We can lean into his outcomes, knowing that he has a perfect plan for us.&nbsp;
Trusting God and his plan gives us a firm foundation and allows peace to reign in our hearts.
Evening Prayer
Father,
Thank you for being there for me, even if I don&rsquo;t always feel you. Help me, Father. Give me strength to feel your presence. Help me to trust you with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding. Help me to cast all of my anxiety on you and feel your peace. Please, Father, make it well with my soul.
Amen
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
&nbsp;
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

Peace in the Middle of Trouble (John 16)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/ecc4c1ce-5115-4f27-b159-b4f000d7ce0b/transcript

Evening Scripture

2 Corinthians, Chapter 1 

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the church of God in Corinth, together with all his holy people throughout Achaia: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.

If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.

We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.

He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.

Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God’s grace. For we do not write you anything you cannot read or understand. And I hope that, as you have understood us in part, you will come to understand fully that you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.

Because I was confident of this, I wanted to visit you first so that you might benefit twice. I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia and to come back to you from Macedonia, and then to have you send me on my way to Judea.

Was I fickle when I intended to do this? Or do I make my plans in a worldly manner so that in the same breath I say both “Yes, yes” and “No, no”? But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us — by me and Silas and Timothy — was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.”

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

I call God as my witness — and I stake my life on it — that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.

Evening Reflection

When we are in the midst of life’s trials, it’s hard to fathom that one day we will be able to help others through theirs. 2 Corinthians 1 emphasizes how God not only comforts us, but he also works through us to bring comfort to those who are hurting.

As followers of Christ, we have the Holy Spirit here with us. He guides us on the right path and comforts us in times of trouble. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthian church, referred to God as “the source of all comfort.” What a blessing to know that God, our ultimate source, will comfort us even when we walk through the darkest valley (Psalm 23:4).

But Paul’s message didn’t stop there. He went on to say that God had an even greater plan in mind — to equip his children to pass on the love and comfort we have received. 

Maybe you’ve met someone facing the same battle you once faced. How did God bring you through that difficult season? Is there some way you can offer the same comfort God gave you?

Tonight, as we read 2 Corinthians 1, let’s thank the Lord for sending the Holy Spirit to live within us. Then, let’s pray about who we can reach out to in their troubles. Comfort is something we shouldn’t keep to ourselves. Instead, we can choose to pass it on.

Evening Prayer

Dear God,

Thank you for being the source of my comfort. When I am facing life’s most difficult circumstances, I have your Holy Spirit here with me to comfort and guide me. But the comfort you give isn’t just for me. You desire that I share it with others.

Help me understand your plan for providing comfort to those who are in need. Show me the people in my life who are hurting, Lord. Help me know how to pass on comfort so that they can have peace in the middle of their struggle. I give you praise, honor, and glory.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
2 Corinthians, Chapter 1&nbsp;
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the church of God in Corinth, together with all his holy people throughout Achaia: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.
If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead.
He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us again. On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many.
Now this is our boast: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, with integrity and godly sincerity. We have done so, relying not on worldly wisdom but on God&rsquo;s grace. For we do not write you anything you cannot read or understand. And I hope that, as you have understood us in part, you will come to understand fully that you can boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of the Lord Jesus.
Because I was confident of this, I wanted to visit you first so that you might benefit twice. I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia and to come back to you from Macedonia, and then to have you send me on my way to Judea.
Was I fickle when I intended to do this? Or do I make my plans in a worldly manner so that in the same breath I say both &ldquo;Yes, yes&rdquo; and &ldquo;No, no&rdquo;? But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; and &ldquo;No.&rdquo; For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us &mdash; by me and Silas and Timothy &mdash; was not &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; and &ldquo;No,&rdquo; but in him it has always been &ldquo;Yes.&rdquo;
For no matter how many promises God has made, they are &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; in Christ. And so through him the &ldquo;Amen&rdquo; is spoken by us to the glory of God. Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.
I call God as my witness &mdash; and I stake my life on it &mdash; that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, because it is by faith you stand firm.
Evening Reflection
When we are in the midst of life&rsquo;s trials, it&rsquo;s hard to fathom that one day we will be able to help others through theirs. <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/2-corinthians/1.html">2 Corinthians 1</a> emphasizes how God not only comforts us, but he also works through us to bring comfort to those who are hurting.
As followers of Christ, we have the Holy Spirit here with us. He guides us on the right path and comforts us in times of trouble. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthian church, referred to God as &ldquo;the source of all comfort.&rdquo; What a blessing to know that God, our ultimate source, will comfort us even when we walk through the darkest valley (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/23-4.html">Psalm 23:4</a>).
But Paul&rsquo;s message didn&rsquo;t stop there. He went on to say that God had an even greater plan in mind &mdash; to equip his children to pass on the love and comfort we have received.&nbsp;
Maybe you&rsquo;ve met someone facing the same battle you once faced. How did God bring you through that difficult season? Is there some way you can offer the same comfort God gave you?
Tonight, as we read <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/2-corinthians/1.html">2 Corinthians 1</a>, let&rsquo;s thank the Lord for sending the Holy Spirit to live within us. Then, let&rsquo;s pray about who we can reach out to in their troubles. Comfort is something we shouldn&rsquo;t keep to ourselves. Instead, we can choose to pass it on.
Evening Prayer
Dear God,
Thank you for being the source of my comfort. When I am facing life&rsquo;s most difficult circumstances, I have your Holy Spirit here with me to comfort and guide me. But the comfort you give isn&rsquo;t just for me. You desire that I share it with others.
Help me understand your plan for providing comfort to those who are in need. Show me the people in my life who are hurting, Lord. Help me know how to pass on comfort so that they can have peace in the middle of their struggle. I give you praise, honor, and glory.
In Jesus&rsquo; name,
Amen.
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
&nbsp;
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Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Comforted So I Can Comfort Others (2 Corinthians 1)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/5598c458-4cf3-4e83-948f-b4ef00caed35/transcript

Evening Scripture

Psalm, Chapter 147

Praise the Lord. 

How good it is to sing praises to our God,
how pleasant and fitting to praise him!

The Lord builds up Jerusalem;
he gathers the exiles of Israel.

He heals the brokenhearted
and binds up their wounds.

He determines the number of the stars
and calls them each by name.

Great is our Lord and mighty in power;
his understanding has no limit.

The Lord sustains the humble
but casts the wicked to the ground.

Sing to the Lord with grateful praise;
make music to our God on the harp.

He covers the sky with clouds;
he supplies the earth with rain
and makes grass grow on the hills.

He provides food for the cattle
and for the young ravens when they call.

His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his delight in the legs of the warrior;
the Lord delights in those who fear him,
who put their hope in his unfailing love.

Extol the Lord, Jerusalem;
praise your God, Zion.

He strengthens the bars of your gates
and blesses your people within you.

He grants peace to your borders
and satisfies you with the finest of wheat.

He sends his command to the earth;
his word runs swiftly.

He spreads the snow like wool
and scatters the frost like ashes.

He hurls down his hail like pebbles.
Who can withstand his icy blast?

He sends his word and melts them;
he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow.

He has revealed his word to Jacob,
his laws and decrees to Israel.

He has done this for no other nation;
they do not know his laws. 

Praise the Lord.

Evening Reflection

To be heartbroken is a tough place to be. Regardless of the cause, the challenge is that often, we must continue living through the pain of being brokenhearted. In some church circles, you can’t even admit your brokenness because, after all, you are blessed and highly favored, so how could your heart ever be broken? Thankfully, this Psalm reminds us of God’s love and care for those who are broken.

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3).

Someone who is brokenhearted has been crushed, shattered, or wounded deeply. This is not a temporary situation but one that lingers. This state of brokenness can often leave you feeling hopeless.

That’s why the healing God brings to those who are brokenhearted is so amazing. What I love about the imagery in this verse is that he doesn’t just heal from a distance, he binds up your wounds. This means he carefully pays attention to the details of your situation, and, like a caregiver, he gently wraps and treats your wounds.

This should give you confidence to know that you can bring all your brokenness to the Lord. You don’t have to hide it, carry it, or pretend you are strong. Instead, you can come to the one who will not just bandage your wounds but will bring healing to every broken place.

God does not just see your broken heart; more importantly, he knows how to put it back together again. So whatever your situation, you can trust God with your brokenness and discover that his tender and loving care can heal even the deepest hurt.

Evening Prayer

Lord,

I am hurting. I have cried many tears and sometimes feel as if my situation is beyond repair. Today, I bring you my broken heart that feels shattered into a thousand pieces. I ask that you begin the healing process in my heart. I confess, I don’t know where to begin, so I leave even that at your feet. Walk with me through this situation and help me find healing in your presence. 

Father, I also ask that you change my perspective of my situation so that the places where I was broken become the places of my greatest strength and greatest testimony. Lastly, help me be honest with you and trust you enough to let you into those hurting places, knowing that you can heal them.   

I pray all this in Jesus’ name,

Amen.

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
Psalm, Chapter 147
Praise the Lord.&nbsp;
How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
The&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel.
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.
Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.
The Lord sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground.
Sing to the&nbsp;Lord&nbsp;with grateful praise; make music to our God on the harp.
He covers the sky with clouds; he supplies the earth with rain and makes grass grow on the hills.
He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call.
His pleasure is not in the strength&nbsp;of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.
Extol the&nbsp;Lord, Jerusalem; praise your God, Zion.
He strengthens the bars of your gates and blesses your people within you.
He grants peace to your borders and satisfies you with the finest of wheat.
He sends his command&nbsp;to the earth; his word runs swiftly.
He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes.
He hurls down his hail like pebbles. Who can withstand his icy blast?
He sends his word and melts them; he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow.
He has revealed his word&nbsp;to Jacob, his laws and decrees to Israel.
He has done this for no other nation; they do not know his laws.&nbsp;
Praise the&nbsp;Lord.
Evening Reflection
To be heartbroken is a tough place to be. Regardless of the cause, the challenge is that often, we must continue living through the pain of being brokenhearted. In some church circles, you can&rsquo;t even admit your brokenness because, after all, you are blessed and highly favored, so how could your heart ever be broken? Thankfully, this Psalm reminds us of God&rsquo;s love and care for those who are broken.
<blockquote>
&ldquo;He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds&rdquo; (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/147-3.html">Psalm 147:3</a>).
</blockquote>
Someone who is brokenhearted has been crushed, shattered, or wounded deeply. This is not a temporary situation but one that lingers. This state of brokenness can often leave you feeling hopeless.
That&rsquo;s why the healing God brings to those who are brokenhearted is so amazing. What I love about the imagery in this verse is that he doesn&rsquo;t just heal from a distance, he binds up your wounds. This means he carefully pays attention to the details of your situation, and, like a caregiver, he gently wraps and treats your wounds.
This should give you confidence to know that you can bring all your brokenness to the Lord. You don&rsquo;t have to hide it, carry it, or pretend you are strong. Instead, you can come to the one who will not just bandage your wounds but will bring healing to every broken place.
God does not just see your broken heart; more importantly, he knows how to put it back together again. So whatever your situation, you can trust God with your brokenness and discover that his tender and loving care can heal even the deepest hurt.
Evening Prayer
Lord,
I am hurting. I have cried many tears and sometimes feel as if my situation is beyond repair. Today, I bring you my broken heart that feels shattered into a thousand pieces. I ask that you begin the healing process in my heart. I confess, I don&rsquo;t know where to begin, so I leave even that at your feet. Walk with me through this situation and help me find healing in your presence.&nbsp;
Father, I also ask that you change my perspective of my situation so that the places where I was broken become the places of my greatest strength and greatest testimony. Lastly, help me be honest with you and trust you enough to let you into those hurting places, knowing that you can heal them. &nbsp;&nbsp;
I pray all this in Jesus&rsquo; name,
Amen.
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Bringing My Brokenness to the God Who Heals (Psalm 147)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/bc084103-984b-44ed-8713-b4e900fa3b29/transcript

Evening Scripture

1 Kings, Chapter 19

Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, “May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.” Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep.

All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.

The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. There he went into a cave and spent the night.

And the word of the Lord came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.”

The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.

Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”

He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.”

The Lord said to him, “Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel — all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”

So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. “Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye,” he said, “and then I will come with you.”

“Go back,” Elijah replied. “What have I done to you?”

So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.

Evening Reflection

In 1 Kings 19:11-13, we read about how Elijah experienced wind, an earthquake, and a fire. He expected to hear God in the loud, powerful wind, in the great earthquake, or in the consuming fire. Surprisingly, when God actually shows up and speaks to Elijah, it’s through a gentle whisper.

We are often like Elijah, looking for God to speak to us in a loud and humbling way. But more often He speaks the truth we need into our hearts in those ordinary quiet moments of everyday living. We need to stay alert and keep our hearts open to the Lord’s voice.

The most profound moments of confirmation from the Lord have come for me when I’ve been driving alone in the car, lying down to rest, in dreams, or in quiet moments of worship. These little whispers have anchored me when I’ve felt the call to step forward in faith. Look for God moments in the midst of your routine.

Elijah’s encounter reminds us that we all have unseen moments God calls us to give over to worship Him. Corporate worship is beautiful, but most of our relationship with Jesus is walked out as we serve in our homes and work; it's a personal relationship that we are called to steward. God can talk to us in a crowded church service, and He can also speak to us when we are alone at home cleaning the dishes. His presence is always with us.

As we start and end our day, we can bring what we have to the Lord. We can ask God to guide us through the power of His Holy Spirit. God invites us to do everything for Him, not for man! Be intentional about pursuing and preparing your heart to meet God in life’s quiet moments.

Evening Prayer

Father,

I thank you that you speak to me with a kind and gentle voice. You communicate with me in the quiet, and I love to hear your voice. Continue to guide me. Meet me as I go about my everyday routine. I need your guidance, love, and presence in my life. Allow your guiding Spirit to be my anchor as I step out in faith to serve you. I love you.

Amen.

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
1 Kings, Chapter 19
Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, &ldquo;May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.&rdquo; Elijah was afraid&nbsp;and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day&rsquo;s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. &ldquo;I have had enough, Lord,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.&rdquo; Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep.
All at once an angel touched him and said, &ldquo;Get up and eat.&rdquo; He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.
The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, &ldquo;Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.&rdquo; So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. There he went into a cave and spent the night.
And the word of the Lord came to him: &ldquo;What are you doing here, Elijah?&rdquo;
He replied, &ldquo;I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.&rdquo;
The Lord said, &ldquo;Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.&rdquo;
Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Then a voice said to him, &ldquo;What are you doing here, Elijah?&rdquo;
He replied, &ldquo;I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.&rdquo;
The Lord said to him, &ldquo;Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet. Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel &mdash; all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.&rdquo;
So Elijah went from there and found Elisha son of Shaphat. He was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen, and he himself was driving the twelfth pair. Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him. Elisha then left his oxen and ran after Elijah. &ldquo;Let me kiss my father and mother goodbye,&rdquo; he said, &ldquo;and then I will come with you.&rdquo;
&ldquo;Go back,&rdquo; Elijah replied. &ldquo;What have I done to you?&rdquo;
So Elisha left him and went back. He took his yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. He burned the plowing equipment to cook the meat and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he set out to follow Elijah and became his servant.
Evening Reflection
In <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-kings/passage/?q=1%20kings+19:11-13">1 Kings 19:11-13</a>, we read about how Elijah experienced wind, an earthquake, and a fire. He expected to hear God in the loud, powerful wind, in the great earthquake, or in the consuming fire. Surprisingly, when God actually shows up and speaks to Elijah, it&rsquo;s through a gentle whisper.
We are often like Elijah, looking for God to speak to us in a loud and humbling way. But more often He speaks the truth we need into our hearts in those ordinary quiet moments of everyday living. We need to stay alert and keep our hearts open to the Lord&rsquo;s voice.
The most profound moments of confirmation from the Lord have come for me when I&rsquo;ve been driving alone in the car, lying down to rest, in dreams, or in quiet moments of worship. These little whispers have anchored me when I&rsquo;ve felt the call to step forward in faith. Look for God moments in the midst of your routine.
Elijah&rsquo;s encounter reminds us that we all have unseen moments God calls us to give over to worship Him. Corporate worship is beautiful, but most of our relationship with Jesus is walked out as we serve in our homes and work; it's a personal relationship that we are called to steward. God can talk to us in a crowded church service, and He can also speak to us when we are alone at home cleaning the dishes. His presence is always with us.
As we start and end our day, we can bring what we have to the Lord. We can ask God to guide us through the power of His Holy Spirit. God invites us to do everything for Him, not for man! Be intentional about pursuing and preparing your heart to meet God in life&rsquo;s quiet moments.
Evening Prayer
Father,
I thank you that you speak to me with a kind and gentle voice. You communicate with me in the quiet, and I love to hear your voice. Continue to guide me. Meet me as I go about my everyday routine. I need your guidance, love, and presence in my life. Allow your guiding Spirit to be my anchor as I step out in faith to serve you. I love you.
Amen.
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Meeting God in the Quiet Moments (1 Kings 19)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/3eaf8231-5cee-4cb5-a469-b4e900fa3b27/transcript

Evening Scripture

Psalm, Chapter 51

“Have mercy on me, O God,
because of your unfailing love.

Because of your great compassion,
blot out the stain of my sins.

Wash me clean from my guilt.
Purify me from my sin.

For I recognize my rebellion;
it haunts me day and night.

Against you, and you alone, have I sinned;
I have done what is evil in your sight.

You will be proved right in what you say,
and your judgment against me is just.

For I was born a sinner—
yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.

But you desire honesty from the womb,
teaching me wisdom even there.

Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean;
wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Oh, give me back my joy again;
you have broken me—
now let me rejoice.

Don’t keep looking at my sins.
Remove the stain of my guilt.

Create in me a clean heart, O God.
Renew a loyal spirit within me.

Do not banish me from your presence,
and don’t take your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of your salvation,
and make me willing to obey you.

Then I will teach your ways to rebels,
and they will return to you.

Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves;
then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness.

Unseal my lips, O Lord,
that my mouth may praise you.

You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one.
You do not want a burnt offering.

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit.
You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.

Look with favor on Zion and help her;
rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit—
with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings.
Then bulls will again be sacrificed on your altar.

Evening Reflection

Reflecting on the day can often bring regret over the ways we fell short. When we think about words we said or things we did that didn’t show godly character, we may wish we could rewind and start over. Psalm 51 offers hope for those days when we feel like we’ve messed up.

The psalmist David sought forgiveness for a wrong he had committed. Rather than passing blame on to someone else or making excuses, David turned to God with both repentance and respect.

David recognized how he had rebelled against God. We all fall short at times. Romans 3:23 tells us, “For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” But when we come to God with our transgression and talk to him with honesty, we open the door to receiving God’s grace and forgiveness. 

David also acknowledged God’s power to purify him. He knew only God can wash away our sin. And when our Almighty God “removes the stain of guilt,” our joy will be restored. 

David asked for forgiveness. And no matter what the offense, we can do the same. God wants us to bring our mess-ups to him. We are his handiwork — God’s beautiful creation whom he loves and cherishes. Through every confession, we allow God to work in us to mold us into the person he created us to be.

So often, our shame over wrongdoing can pull us into a pit of despair. But God does not want us to condemn ourselves. He wants us to run to him. We know that as we seek his forgiveness, God will never “reject a broken and repentant heart” (Psalm 51:17).

Evening Prayer

Dear God,

I am carrying guilt and regret for the ways I’ve messed up, and I am crying out to you to ask for forgiveness. I repent of my sins, Lord. Forgive me and cleanse my heart. Help me release shame over my wrongdoing. You alone have the power to remove the guilt of my sin and restore my joy.

Thank you for your mercy. You never give up on me, and for that I am grateful. Tomorrow is a new day, and I choose to learn from my mistakes and face the morning with a renewed heart.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen.

Evening Scripture
Psalm, Chapter 51
&ldquo;Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.
Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.
For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.
Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight.
You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just.
For I was born a sinner&mdash; yes, from the moment my mother conceived me.
But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there.
Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me&mdash; now let me rejoice.
Don&rsquo;t keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt.
Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me.
Do not banish me from your presence, and don&rsquo;t take your Holy Spirit from me.
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.
Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you.
Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness.
Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you.
You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering.
The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God.
Look with favor on Zion and help her; rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will be pleased with sacrifices offered in the right spirit&mdash; with burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings. Then bulls will again be sacrificed on your altar.
Evening Reflection
Reflecting on the day can often bring regret over the ways we fell short. When we think about words we said or things we did that didn&rsquo;t show godly character, we may wish we could rewind and start over. <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/51.html">Psalm 51</a> offers hope for those days when we feel like we&rsquo;ve messed up.
The psalmist David sought forgiveness for a wrong he had committed. Rather than passing blame on to someone else or making excuses, David turned to God with both repentance and respect.
David recognized how he had rebelled against God. We all fall short at times. <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/romans/3-23.html">Romans 3:23</a> tells us, &ldquo;For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God&rsquo;s glorious standard.&rdquo; But when we come to God with our transgression and talk to him with honesty, we open the door to receiving God&rsquo;s grace and forgiveness.&nbsp;
David also acknowledged God&rsquo;s power to purify him. He knew only God can wash away our sin. And when our Almighty God &ldquo;removes the stain of guilt,&rdquo; our joy will be restored.&nbsp;
David asked for forgiveness. And no matter what the offense, we can do the same. God wants us to bring our mess-ups to him. We are his handiwork &mdash; God&rsquo;s beautiful creation whom he loves and cherishes. Through every confession, we allow God to work in us to mold us into the person he created us to be.
So often, our shame over wrongdoing can pull us into a pit of despair. But God does not want us to condemn ourselves. He wants us to run to him. We know that as we seek his forgiveness, God will never &ldquo;reject a broken and repentant heart&rdquo; (<a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/psalms/51-17.html">Psalm 51:17</a>).
Evening Prayer
Dear God,
I am carrying guilt and regret for the ways I&rsquo;ve messed up, and I am crying out to you to ask for forgiveness. I repent of my sins, Lord. Forgive me and cleanse my heart. Help me release shame over my wrongdoing. You alone have the power to remove the guilt of my sin and restore my joy.
Thank you for your mercy. You never give up on me, and for that I am grateful. Tomorrow is a new day, and I choose to learn from my mistakes and face the morning with a renewed heart.
In Jesus&rsquo; name I pray,
Amen.

Returning to God after I’ve Fallen Short (Psalm 51)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/e15ef03a-eec9-4843-aad8-b4e900fa3b25/transcript

Evening Scripture

1 Peter, Chapter 4

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin. As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do — living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.

The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.

Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? And,

“If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,
what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.

Evening Reflection

Everyday life presents us with myriads of choices. Some of these choices may seem easy to make. What will I wear today? What will I have for breakfast? Which item will I tackle first from my to-do list? These choices can be easy to make because, ultimately, they have little impact on the grand arc of our lives. After all, if I have scrambled eggs in the morning instead of pancakes, my day doesn’t change all that much.

But then there are the choices that come upon us that have an impact on the deep things of life; they pertain to the very way that we live our lives, and our faith. Will we search after the things of God? Or will we chase after our own delights and comforts? 

The world around us likes to tell us that comfort is king – and that the things we find pleasing, no matter what they are, are worthy of pursuit. But Scripture reminds us of the destructiveness of such living. 1 Peter 4 speaks about orgies, drunkenness, debauchery, and lust. Now, we may not find those things as prevalent in our lives, but underneath these things is a life that pursues personal pleasure and comfort beyond all else. And that is not how we are to live as followers of Jesus.

As disciples, we are to choose to direct our life toward God’s will and purpose for our lives. We are to live in a way that is attentive to his life, and responsive to the Spirit’s movement. We are to live as Christ himself lived, in obedience to the God the Father. 

As you move toward the end of the day, take stock of the day past and ask yourself these questions: Where did I embrace God’s will today? Where did I miss God’s will today? Where could I have embraced God’s will more? 

Evening Prayer

Heavenly Father,

I thank you that you love me so much that you have a will and a purpose for my life. Your desires for me prove how special I am in your sight, and how deeply you wish me to live in the grace of your Kingdom.

O God, give me a heart of discernment. Help me to choose the right way, the holy path. Give me ears to hear your voice as you direct my life, in ministry, in service, and in praise. What is more, in those times when I choose comfort instead of conformity to your will, O Lord show me mercy. 

This I pray in Jesus Christ’s name.

Amen.

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

 

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
1 Peter, Chapter 4
Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body,&nbsp;arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.&nbsp;As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires,&nbsp;but rather for the will of God.
For you have spent enough time in the past&nbsp;doing what pagans choose to do &mdash; living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry.&nbsp;They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you.&nbsp;But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.&nbsp;For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead,&nbsp;so that they might be judged according to human standards in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.
The end of all things is near.&nbsp;Therefore be alert and of sober mind&nbsp;so that you may pray.&nbsp;Above all, love each other deeply,&nbsp;because love covers over a multitude of sins.&nbsp;Offer hospitality&nbsp;to one another without grumbling.&nbsp;Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others,&nbsp;as faithful&nbsp;stewards of God&rsquo;s grace in its various forms.
If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God.&nbsp;If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides,&nbsp;so that in all things God may be praised&nbsp;through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you&nbsp;to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.&nbsp;But rejoice&nbsp;inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ,&nbsp;so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.&nbsp;If you are insulted because of the name of Christ,&nbsp;you are blessed,&nbsp;for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler.&nbsp;However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.&nbsp;For it is time for judgment to begin with God&rsquo;s household;&nbsp;and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?&nbsp;And,
&ldquo;If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?&rdquo;
So then, those who suffer according to God&rsquo;s will&nbsp;should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
Evening Reflection
Everyday life presents us with myriads of choices. Some of these choices may seem easy to make. What will I wear today? What will I have for breakfast? Which item will I tackle first from my to-do list? These choices can be easy to make because, ultimately, they have little impact on the grand arc of our lives. After all, if I have scrambled eggs in the morning instead of pancakes, my day doesn&rsquo;t change all that much.
But then there are the choices that come upon us that have an impact on the deep things of life; they pertain to the very way that we live our lives, and our faith. Will we search after the things of God? Or will we chase after our own delights and comforts?&nbsp;
The world around us likes to tell us that comfort is king &ndash; and that the things we find pleasing, no matter what they are, are worthy of pursuit. But Scripture reminds us of the destructiveness of such living. <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-peter/4.html">1 Peter 4</a> speaks about orgies, drunkenness, debauchery, and lust. Now, we may not find those things as prevalent in our lives, but underneath these things is a life that pursues personal pleasure and comfort beyond all else. And that is not how we are to live as followers of Jesus.
As disciples, we are to choose to direct our life toward God&rsquo;s will and purpose for our lives. We are to live in a way that is attentive to his life, and responsive to the Spirit&rsquo;s movement. We are to live as Christ himself lived, in obedience to the God the Father.&nbsp;
As you move toward the end of the day, take stock of the day past and ask yourself these questions: Where did I embrace God&rsquo;s will today? Where did I miss God&rsquo;s will today? Where could I have embraced God&rsquo;s will more?&nbsp;
Evening Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I thank you that you love me so much that you have a will and a purpose for my life. Your desires for me prove how special I am in your sight, and how deeply you wish me to live in the grace of your Kingdom.
O God, give me a heart of discernment. Help me to choose the right way, the holy path. Give me ears to hear your voice as you direct my life, in ministry, in service, and in praise. What is more, in those times when I choose comfort instead of conformity to your will, O Lord show me mercy.&nbsp;
This I pray in Jesus Christ&rsquo;s name.
Amen.
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
&nbsp;
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Choosing God’s Will over Comfort (1 Peter 4)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/80aab3ef-a761-430b-8e6e-b4e900fa3b24/transcript

Evening Scripture

Isaiah, Chapter 35

The desert and the parched land will be glad;
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.

Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.

The glory of Lebanon will be given to it,
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon;
they will see the glory of the Lord,
the splendor of our God.

Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts,
“Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you.”

Then will the eyes of the blind be opened
and the ears of the deaf unstopped.

Then will the lame leap like a deer,
and the mute tongue shout for joy.

Water will gush forth in the wilderness
and streams in the desert.

The burning sand will become a pool,
the thirsty ground bubbling springs.

In the haunts where jackals once lay,
grass and reeds and papyrus will grow.

And a highway will be there;
it will be called the Way of Holiness;
it will be for those who walk on that Way.

The unclean will not journey on it;
wicked fools will not go about on it.

No lion will be there,
nor any ravenous beast;
they will not be found there.

But only the redeemed will walk there,
and those the Lord has rescued will return.

They will enter Zion with singing;
everlasting joy will crown their heads.

Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.

Evening Reflection

While there is great joy in following Jesus, following Christ does not exempt us from exhaustion. Walking in righteousness and holiness is difficult, and sometimes it can feel like a constant battle against the culture, Satan, and your own fleshly nature. Sometimes it can exhaust you to the point where you don’t feel like putting on your armor or fighting the good fight of faith. If you are in this place, you are not alone; this can happen to all of us.  

When faced with being weak and weary, that is the time to recognize that part of your strength comes from your hope in what God has promised to do. In Isaiah 35, we see how his promises work in us. God’s promise becomes the source of strength for those with feeble hands, weak knees, and fearful hearts.

By shifting your focus to a God who will come to save and to rescue, your hands become stronger, your knees straighten and your heart becomes courageous. This speaks to the amazing hope that is birthed by holding on to God’s promises.

These verses in Isaiah identify three areas you can place your hope.
The hope of deliverance that God will come and save you.
The hope of restoration, that he will heal and renew what is broken.
The hope of everlasting joy, where he replaces yesterday’s sorrows with the joy of his presence.

As you consider your journey, just know there will be moments where you feel weak or weary. However, you don’t have to stay in that place. Your hope in God allows you to look beyond what you are experiencing and focus on what God has promised for you ahead. Focusing on your future hope can give you all the strength you need to find strength in your present circumstances.

Evening Prayer

Lord,

I am tired. My strength is weak. I am weary and I feel like I have nothing left to offer. I pray in this moment that you will help me find strength in the truth of your promises, knowing that you will never go back on your word. Let my confidence soar and renew my strength by the hope of your word. Remind me that this season is temporary and that today’s weariness is part of the journey but not the end of the story.

Thank you for your promises, which give me hope, and your joy, which gives me strength. Help me to rest knowing that you will always walk with me, even when I have nothing left.

I pray all this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

 

Want More?

Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide.

Click to Listen to Signs of Life: UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was—and is—an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.

UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org

Evening Scripture
Isaiah, Chapter 35
The desert&nbsp;and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God.
Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, &ldquo;Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.&rdquo;
Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped.
Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy.
Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.
The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs.
In the haunts where jackals once lay, grass and reeds and papyrus will grow.
And a highway&nbsp;will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way.
The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it.
No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there.
But only the redeemed will walk there, and those the Lord has rescued will return.
They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads.
Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Evening Reflection
While there is great joy in following Jesus, following Christ does not exempt us from exhaustion. Walking in righteousness and holiness is difficult, and sometimes it can feel like a constant battle against the culture, Satan, and your own fleshly nature. Sometimes it can exhaust you to the point where you don&rsquo;t feel like putting on your armor or fighting the good fight of faith. If you are in this place, you are not alone; this can happen to all of us. &nbsp;
When faced with being weak and weary, that is the time to recognize that part of your strength comes from your hope in what God has promised to do. In <a href="https://www.biblestudytools.com/isaiah/35.html">Isaiah 35</a>, we see how his promises work in us. God&rsquo;s promise becomes the source of strength for those with feeble hands, weak knees, and fearful hearts.
By shifting your focus to a God who will come to save and to rescue, your hands become stronger, your knees straighten and your heart becomes courageous. This speaks to the amazing hope that is birthed by holding on to God&rsquo;s promises.
These verses in Isaiah identify three areas you can place your hope.
<ul>
<li>The hope of deliverance that God will come and save you.</li>
<li>The hope of restoration, that he will heal and renew what is broken.</li>
<li>The hope of everlasting joy, where he replaces yesterday&rsquo;s sorrows with the joy of his presence.</li>
</ul>
As you consider your journey, just know there will be moments where you feel weak or weary. However, you don&rsquo;t have to stay in that place. Your hope in God allows you to look beyond what you are experiencing and focus on what God has promised for you ahead. Focusing on your future hope can give you all the strength you need to find strength in your present circumstances.
Evening Prayer
Lord,
I am tired. My strength is weak. I am weary and I feel like I have nothing left to offer. I pray in this moment that you will help me find strength in the truth of your promises, knowing that you will never go back on your word. Let my confidence soar and renew my strength by the hope of your word. Remind me that this season is temporary and that today&rsquo;s weariness is part of the journey but not the end of the story.
Thank you for your promises, which give me hope, and your joy, which gives me strength. Help me to rest knowing that you will always walk with me, even when I have nothing left.
I pray all this in Jesus&rsquo; name.
Amen.
&nbsp;
Want More?
Sign up for our free newsletter, The Good Word, for weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement delivered right to your inbox. Join our community today: <a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;
Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION&reg;. NIV&reg;. Copyright &copy; 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by <a href="https://www.biblica.com/">Biblica</a>. All rights reserved worldwide.
Click to Listen to Signs of Life: <a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>
Join us this Fall for Season One of "Signs of Life," an original podcast from UM News. The journey begins in Atlanta, hearing how a book from an icon of the Civil Rights movement is bringing relationship and understanding to two congregations seeking to bridge divides. Then to Belfast, learning about the Northern Ireland Peace Process and the Methodist connection that was&mdash;and is&mdash;an essential part of healing and peacemaking. Finally, at the Global Young Peoples Convocation in Dublin, explore the world of translation and interpretation through diversity, language and culture.
<a href="https://www.umnews.org/en/news/um-news-podcast-season-one">UM News Podcast Season One | UMNews.org</a>

Finding Strength When I Feel Weak and Weary (Isaiah 35)

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/5e27a451-e6e6-4c51-aa03-a7370003783c/clips/18ec1b05-1a30-4646-bc64-b4e900fa3b26/transcript

Your Nightly Scripture — 365-Day Bible Reading Plan for Peaceful Sleep is a calming, Scripture-centered devotional podcast designed to help you end each day with God’s Word. Brought to you by BibleStudyTools.com, this 5-day-a-week Bible reading plan features carefully selected passages from across the Bible, paired with slow, reflective devotionals and gentle evening prayers.

Perfect for bedtime listening, each episode is read at a peaceful pace with natural pauses to create a quiet, meditative experience that helps you rest, reflect, and draw closer to God. From Psalms and Proverbs to the Gospels and beyond, this year-long journey includes special Easter and Christmas readings, guiding you through the story of Scripture with hope, peace, and spiritual renewal.

Want more prayers and practical spiritual tips each week? We're excited to introduce The Good Word, a new way to receive weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement right in your inbox. Join our community today: https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/ 

Your Nightly Scripture &mdash; 365-Day Bible Reading Plan for Peaceful Sleep is a calming, Scripture-centered devotional podcast designed to help you end each day with God&rsquo;s Word. Brought to you by BibleStudyTools.com, this 5-day-a-week Bible reading plan features carefully selected passages from across the Bible, paired with slow, reflective devotionals and gentle evening prayers.
Perfect for bedtime listening, each episode is read at a peaceful pace with natural pauses to create a quiet, meditative experience that helps you rest, reflect, and draw closer to God. From Psalms and Proverbs to the Gospels and beyond, this year-long journey includes special Easter and Christmas readings, guiding you through the story of Scripture with hope, peace, and spiritual renewal.
Want more prayers and practical spiritual tips each week? We're excited to introduce The Good Word, a new way to receive weekly biblical wisdom and encouragement right in your inbox. Join our community today:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/">https://www.lifeaudio.com/thegoodword/</a>&nbsp;

Your Nightly Scripture

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