June 20, 2007

When life gets hard, Lord, I sometimes wish the hurt would end or that I could run away from it. Pressure doesn't feel good, and I simply want to escape. But even when I feel a lot of pain, remind me that none of it is out of Your control. Though I may not understand pain's purpose, You have allowed this into my life to create something good.
When I face hardship, help me through it -- then restore me to life. Instead of leaving me in the valley, bring me up the mountainside so I can see Your plan anew. Amen.
(From "Light for My Path - Prayers & Promises")

1 The LORD is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
3 He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD
Forever.
Psalm 23 New King James Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading):
Deuteronomy 13:1-11 – 2 Corinthians 7:2-16 - Luke 17:20-37