“Father, we draw near to you with a clear conscience because our hearts are sprinkled with the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. Because of His sacrificial death we can approach Your throne with full assurance and have audience with a holy God. We can bring nothing artificial nor can we cover up that which is within our hearts because You see everything. So we draw near to You with sincere hearts, fully assured, that You also draw near to us. Amen.”
“Instead, they were longing for a better country — a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.”
“Jesus, You are a friend that sticks closer than a brother. We thank You also for our brothers and sisters in the faith who are often closer than our blood relations because we are joined together as a family of believers sharing common experiences and spiritual goals. So many times we find strength and encouragement from those who bear our burdens, lend a hand, and hold us accountable for our attitudes and actions. Thank You for loving, supportive, and reliable friends who draw us to our true source of hope and strength, especially in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.”
Father, the accolades, merits, relationships and physical treasures I’ve accumulated in this life are but rubbish when compared to the all surpassing gift of knowing You, receiving Your forgiveness, and experiencing Your redemptive love. Because I am risen with Christ I want to place my affections on things above rather than things on this earth where I am so easily distracted from that which really matters and draws me closer to Your throne. To know You, Father, is to know unfathomable peace and joy beyond measure. I thank You through Christ Jesus my Lord. Amen.
“Moses then said to Aaron, “This is what the LORD spoke of when he said: “‘Among those who approach me I will show myself holy; in the sight of all the people I will be honored.'” Aaron remained silent.”
“I prayed to the LORD my God and confessed: “Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments.”
“I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.”
“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.”