DAILY PRAYER (BY SPURGEON)
We come and lay ourselves at your feet, obeying your call, “Come to me, all you who labor and I will give you rest.” Let us experience the sweet rest that comes from responding to your call. May some come to you for the first time today, while others who have been coming for many years continue to come, building their eternal hopes upon you, the living stone chosen by God.
Lord, now that we draw near to you on right terms, we ask that our love for you may increase. Your name is music to our ears, and there are times when your love fills us so deeply that we would gladly sacrifice everything for your glory. We willingly suffer for you if it would lift you higher. But we confess that we do not always feel this intense love. At times, our love wanes, and we become dependent on feelings. Grant us a love that endures even when your presence is not felt, a love that clings to you in both light and darkness. We want to love you wholeheartedly, regardless of our circumstances.
Amen.
VERSE OF THE DAY (COMMENTARY BY SPURGEON)
“Therefore, submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” (James 4:7–8)
When the devil seeks to incite rebellion within you, resist him steadfastly. Do not give him any ground. Resist the devil. Heed these commands and put it into practice. Draw close to God through Jesus Christ, and you will find that he comes to your aid in every hour of need.
RECOMMENDED RESOURCE
God’s Care for Parents of LGBT-Identifying Children*
Suffering parents of sinful children (which is ALL parents) can confidently pray to God through Christ, who gives mercy and grace to help in times of need. As parents, the mercy and truth of Jesus Christ is essential to sustain us through every trial we face.
Whatever we face as parents, we always need to pray.
And, what incredible mercy, God always hears our prayers!
One challenge that countless parents are facing today is a child adopting an LGBT identity. Many Christians aren’t equipped to think biblically about this, and so parents are tempted to despair.
But we do not need to despair when we worship a God who hears prayers.
A great resource to help you navigate your child’s adopting an LGBT identity is Shattered Dreams, New Hopes — a FREE Bible study curriculum from Harvest USA.
This study will remind you of the comfort of God and the mercy to be found in Jesus.
Here’s what to look forward to…
- Use this study in a group, one-on-one, or on your own
- Understand biblically (not just psychologically/culturally) why your child has adopted this identity
- Find compassion as you navigate this difficult season
- Discover practical guidance for moving toward your child with grace and truth (without driving them away)
- Remember the hope of Christ, powerfully working, even in the darkest of days
If you are struggling with your child’s LGBT identity, don’t struggle alone! Remember the mercy of God with Shattered Dreams, New Hope.