The scripture for today, September 8 (9/8), is Daniel 9:8 as found in the Old Testament of the Bible:
“O Lord, we and our kings, our princes, and our fathers are covered with shame because we have sinned against you.”
Daniel is praying for his countrymen. Have you prayed for your countrymen and government lately? I Timothy 2:1 & 2 says “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for everyone ~ for kings and all those in authority.” At the time Paul wrote this, Nero Caesar, who led the persecution of tens of thousands of Christians, torturing many to death, was the king over the Roman Empire. Paul prayed for him.
All your life, have you done nothing but complain about your government? Isn’t it time to stop complaining and start praying? It is hard to pray for someone and they stay your enemy.
Then, pray for your countrymen. Pray for forgiveness for what your country is doing wrong. Pray with thanksgiving for what your country is doing right. All countries—regardless of how great or small—have both. Humbly ask on behalf of your countrymen for forgiveness of whatever shames them, comfort for whatever losses they feel, and gratitude for everything that is right. Be proud of whatever country you live in. Do not leave. Stay and help it be even better. Be patriotic.
“The Lord said to him, ‘I have heard the prayer and plea you have made before me; I have consecrated this temple, which you have built, by putting my Name there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.’ “
The scripture for today, July 11 (7/11), is Matthew 7:11 as found in the New Testament of the Bible.
“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.”
“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
“Rejoice evermore.”
“Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don’t you put it on its stand?”
“ ‘Why do you bring charges against me? You have all rebelled against me,’ declares the Lord.”
“And she said to him, ‘As surely as you live, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the Lord. I prayed for this child and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him.’ “