Tag Archives: God’s care

September 6
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“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.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, NIV)

The comfort and compassion available to us for use when helping others is as powerful, as resilient, and as timely as what we’ve received from God when we ourselves have been troubled. 

In fact, what we receive today fills our reservoir for service to others tomorrow.  God does, indeed, reach-down to bring us up; but God also employs His willing children to come alongside to bring us along. When we are faithful to reach-out, to reach-over, or to reach-back for others, it is not only our own power that strengthens our grip; it is the power of God through us!

Never hesitate to go where God has ordered; or to serve where God has placed you. We are His hands and His arms to those in distress.  – Luther

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August 26
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“Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord, you his servants; praise the name of the Lord. Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore. From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the Lord is to be praised.” (Psalm 113:1-3, NIV)

Today’s psalm reminds us that there is not a moment, nor a situation, within the day where God’s praise is out of place. 

To “praise,” as we often hear in today’s vernacular, is to give “props” (which is derived from “proper respect”) to someone.  When we praise the Lord, we are rendering the honor, glory, gratitude, respect, authority that He is due. 

In the course of a day, we can — as Oswald Chambers often wrote — be a “practical atheist.” We receive a blessing, but we act as if it is a random occurrence instead of a gift from God. We reflect on our successes, despite obstacles and resistance from others, and we conclude that it is due to our own intelligence, persistence, and creativity. 

Today, as you see the hand of God, give Him praise for His assistance.  As you see the work of God in others, give Him praise for His faithfulness. As you see the grace of God in difficult circumstances, give Him praise for His mercy. 

“Let the name of the Lord be praised, both now and forevermore.” – Luther

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December 14
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“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7, NIV)

There was anxiety in Peter’s time. War, disease, violence, political maneuvering, and the challenges of making a living created “Maalox moments” for everyone. 

We also live in anxious times. Then, as now, God invites you to “cast” (e. g. throw, discard, pitch) your anxieties on Him. He does not desire that you be anxious — even for a moment. Why? Because He cares for you.  – Luther

Remember: Daily Encouragement will be on break tomorrow (Sunday).  Have a great time in worship during this holy season.  Lord willing, see you again on Monday!

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