Word of Encouragement (11/11/2022)

Pastor James
November 11, 2022

Here is another evening prayer of John Baillie’s to close out this week:

“O MERCIFUL Father, you look on the weaknesses of your human children more in pity than in anger, and more in love than in pity. Help me now in your holy presence to examine the secrets of my heart.

Have I done anything today to fulfill the purpose for which you brought me into the world?

Have I accepted the opportunities of service that in your wisdom you have put before me?

Have I performed the duties of the day without leaving any undone?

Give me grace to answer honestly, Lord.

Have I done anything today to damage the Christian ideal of true humanity?

Have I been lazy in body or listless in spirit?

Have I overindulged my bodily appetites?

Have I kept my imagination pure and healthy?

Have I been scrupulously honorable in all my dealings?

Have I been transparently sincere in all I have claimed to be, to feel, or to do?

Give me grace to answer honestly, Lord.

Have I tried today to see myself as others see me?

Have I made more excuses for myself than I have been willing to make for others?

Have I been a peacemaker in my own home, or have I stirred up trouble?

Have I, while professing noble convictions for great causes, failed even in common charity and courtesy toward those nearest to me?

Give me grace to answer honestly, Lord.

“Lord, it is only your infinite love, demonstrated to us in Jesus Christ, which has the power to destroy the empire of evil in my heart. Grant that with each day that passes I may more and more be delivered from the sins that keep tempting me. Amen.”