Friday - The Letter of James (Ephesians 5:1-2 & 15-17)

Welcome to Daily Prayer.

This week we've looked at the nature and fruit of true wisdom.

Today we look at the example of the Lord, and the call to make the most of every opportunity.

As we begin our time together, let's take a few deep breaths and quiet ourselves before the Lord.

Lord, we're here to be with you, to be close with you. Teach us, Lord, to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may rejoice and be glad all of our days.

Lord, I rejoice that today is full of opportunity. You've given us breath and new mercy today. You are at work, and you're good, and you have invited us to extend your goodness into the world.

We humble ourselves before you. We lay down all our burdens, and we turn to you. Oh Lord, inspire us to see and act on the wisdom of your Word.

A Scripture reading from Ephesians 5:1–2, 15–18:

"1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Don’t get drunk on wine which leads to debauchery instead, be filled with the Spirit."

A prayer of adoration:

Lord Jesus, I thank you for loving us and giving yourself for us. Thank you for showing us what love looks like. We rejoice in your love for us. You've redeemed us. Your whole life is an example for us to follow: your humility, your patience, your love, your courage, your faithfulness.

You have given us your Spirit so that we can do your will. Fill us afresh that we would overflow with hope and act wisely for the honor of your name.

A prayer of confession:

Lord, I confess that I'm often not careful with the way that I live. I'm not watchful with my words, I'm not careful with my actions. I coast. I have not been abiding in your love or relying on your Spirit. I'm often in a hurry, but I'm not in a hurry to watch for what's really going on around me. Lord, my top priority has not been to walk in love.

I confess that I have not taken seriously that the days are evil and that your kingdom is being opposed all around me. Forgive me for my foolishness. I forget that I'm not a neutral party. I'm either advancing the kingdom of light or the kingdom of darkness with my words and actions.

I repent and surrender to you today. Guide me and empower me, Holy Spirit.

A prayer of petition and intercession:

Father, fill us with your Spirit. Give us eyes to see the opportunities around us. We know your Word tells us you have good works prepared for us. We want to be on the lookout for what you're doing.

Would you keep us and deliver us from evil? Lord, help us to recognize that we're in a battle. Give us grace to walk in love, to resist temptation, to resist the enemy, and to embrace your way of life. Oh Lord, give us wisdom to know how to listen, to serve, and to love.

A moment of reflection:

Lord, you're always at work around us. Will you show me a person or situation where you're inviting me to make the most of the opportunity?

Let's spend a few moments reflecting again on this passage of scripture.

"1 Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children 2 and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Don’t get drunk on wine which leads to debauchery instead, be filled with the Spirit."

This week our scripture memory verse has been James 3:13. So let's say it together one more time.

James 3:13

"Who is wise and understanding among you? 

Let them show it by their good life, 

by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.”

A closing prayer:

Lord, we want to be full of faith and full of wisdom, so we humble ourselves and acknowledge our need for you. Apart from you, we can do nothing. Fill us up, Lord.

In the name of Jesus,

amen.