02/09 Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
• God is both a shelter and a source of strength.
• His presence is immediate and reliable in hardship.
• Refuge implies protection; strength implies empowerment.
• Troubles remind us of His sustaining power.
• Trust in God brings unshakable comfort.
Morning Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with hearts lifted in gratitude and humility, acknowledging Your sovereignty over all nations and peoples. You are the One who establishes kings and rulers, and today, we intercede for the leaders of the United States, Israel, Jerusalem, Japan, and China. Guide them in wisdom, righteousness, and truth. May they seek You in all decisions and be instruments of peace and justice.
Lord, our hearts are heavy for the lost—those wandering in darkness without the hope of Christ. Let Your Spirit move across this world, breaking chains and drawing souls to the light of Your salvation. Use us, Lord, as Your hands and feet, that we may be vessels of love, truth, and grace to those who are searching.
We lift up this day before You. Whatever it holds—challenges, joys, difficulties, or unexpected turns—help us to face it with courage, faith, and the assurance that You are in control. Mold us to be more like Christ in our words, actions, and thoughts. Let every conversation, every task, and every moment be an offering of worship to You.
We pray for the work You have given us—fundraising and friend-raising. Open doors, soften hearts, and provide what is needed. May every resource be multiplied for Your glory and every connection be one that honors You.
Bless our families, protect them, and keep them steadfast in faith. Strengthen our relationships, deepen our love, and help us reflect Your kindness in our homes.
We especially lift up our leader, as he navigates the challenges and chaos of leadership. Give him clarity, wisdom, and endurance. Surround him with godly counsel, refresh his spirit, and anoint his work for Your purposes.
Thank You, Lord, for this new day, for Your mercies that are new every morning, and for the privilege of walking with You. May we serve You well today.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Morning Reflection: A Poem for the Day
The sky stretches open,
whispering the call of the new day.
The weight of the world does not wait,
neither do the voices, the demands,
the struggles pressing at the edges of our hearts.
Yet here, in the quiet moment before the rush,
we remember—
You are already ahead of us.
Every burden we will carry,
every word we will speak,
every face we will encounter—
none are unseen by You.
Today will not be easy.
There will be decisions that test us,
problems that seem impossible,
chaos that pulls at the fabric of peace.
But You are near.
In the uncertainty, You are wisdom.
In the struggle, You are strength.
In the noise, You are the still, small voice
reminding us to trust.
So, we rise.
Not alone, not empty, not defeated—
but chosen, equipped, and called.
Let this day be Yours.
Use us, shape us, lead us.
May we walk with faith,
speak with love,
and stand firm in grace.
Amen.
