“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). The lion doesn’t roar while stalking his prey, he uses stealth. I once I saw a large log silently float by in the middle of the river; most of its bulk was suspended silently below the surface. It struck me that even something as docile and inert as a fallen tree can be deadly in certain circumstances. As I offered a prayer for passing boaters the question came to mind: “How many seemingly harmless things float just below the surface in my life that I cannot see?” Lord God, Captain of My Soul, expose those things within me and around me that are harmful and clear them away. Remove from my heart every hidden peril and use me to bring safe passage and blessing others.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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