Daily ScriptureLet the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer. (Psalm 19:14) Daily ReflectionThese words are often prayed by a minister immediately before preaching in church. Sometimes changing them very slightly and praying, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of all our hearts be acceptable in your sight……” Let what I say and the thoughts that we have be acceptable to you God. It’s a good way of drawing everyone together as we try to work out and apply how to live life as God would wish.It’s also not a bad prayer to start each day. Would you change the way you live today, or would you change the things you say today, if you knew that God would examine every word and thought first? As you begin the day, ask God that his love for all his creation might guide your thinking and your speaking. Revd David
Daily ScriptureI will meditate on your commandments and contemplate your ways. My delight shall be in your statutes and I will not forget your word. O do good to your servant that I may live, and so shall I keep your word. Open my eyes, that I may see the wonders of your law. I am a stranger upon earth; hide not your commandments from me. (Psalm 119:15-19)Daily Reflection At first glance, it might seem very strange that the psalmist is rejoicing in commandments (from God) that must be kept…..especially if you are someone who bridles at being told what to do! However, when rules are in place things are so much better. A game of football with no rules would quickly descend into arguments and a fight, and no one would enjoy the football! God’s laws are good. God’s laws give us freedom to be the best people we can be - all that He wants us to be – and live the best lives we can. God’s laws seek to stop us from doing things that harm us, or other people, or our relationships. God’s guidelines help us follow the right path in life…..irrespective of whether you believe God exists or not!Revd David
Daily Scripture:In the morning, Lord, you will hear my voice; early in the morning I make my appeal to you, and look up. (Psalm 5, v 3)Daily Reflection:If you are anything like me, the first thing you need in the morning is a strong cup of coffee. But not this Psalmist - the first thing he does is to spend time with God. There is something incredibly grounding about giving the first moments of your day to God. Take time over it, don't rush ahead into the day. So often, we are swept up into busyness and action, but God dearly longs for us to be still with Him. It is in the quiet moments with Him that the Holy Spirit has room to move in our hearts and minds, to prepare us for the day ahead. As you go about your day today, remember to look up. Take your focus off your situation, and know that the Creator of the universe looks on you with love and grace. There is nothing that He doesn't know about, and nothing that He can't make right. Vicki Young
