Devotion for Friday, April 26, 2024

“But as for you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that your fasting will not be noticed by people but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you” (Matthew 6:17-18).

When you were a child, did you every cry out, “Look at me?”  We are often led to seek the approval of others.  Do not call attention to yourself but go about your day in ordinary fashion.  The Lord will lead.  Come to the Lord and learn how to pray without ceasing.  In every circumstance and at all times the Lord is with you.  God sees and knows all things, even the depths of your heart.

Lord God, You watch the generations pass before You.  You know the end from the beginning.  In You alone do we breathe and have our being.  The pride of this world leads us to think we have raised ourselves up on our own.  You remind us that You are the Creator and we have been created by You.  Help all of us who walk by faith to humbly recognize that we are in Your eternal presence.

Lord Jesus, You have taught me to pray.  Your word tells me to pray without ceasing.  You are constantly with me and will never leave, nor forsake me.  Lead me this day to live in an ordinary way but be in constant communication with You through prayer.  Lead me on the upward journey of becoming more like You each day You give me in this age.  With You there are no secrets, only the hope You give me through the salvation You have provided.  Amen.