Prayer: Our God, you are good and kind, a god of mercy and grace, holy in all your dealings with the children of men. Due to our sin, calamity and evil come upon us as we gaze out and see the effects of sin on our world. As you make us see hard things, we are quickly reminded that you have set up a banner for those who fear you. Father, we confess that we struggle to understand what you do in this world. We know that sin has wrecked all that you have made, and we know that sin has so corrupted the hearts and minds of men that they willingly choose that which is evil. Through it, you continue to remind your church of your eternal love and favor for them. No, you do not spare us from evil, but you hold us fast in your hand throughout and see to it that we arrive safely in the land you are preparing for us. Who is it that leads us? It is you, our Rock and Redeemer. Who is it that will never forget us? It is you, the eternal God, who favors his children through the work of the eternal Son. Therefore, our Father, we can rest confidently and securely in your eternal hands, knowing that you ordain all things and bring them to pass for the good of your people. Please help us to remember that though hard days are the lot of your people in this life, a day is coming when we will be eternally blessed in your presence. These things we pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture Meditation: Psa. 60
