So We Proceed in the Proper Posture-A Prayer

 

This morning's prayer is inspired in part 

by today's Daily Bread Devotion scripture reading;

James 4:7-17

and in part by mediating on the Beatitudes

while we struggle in this noisy world to

be meek and strong!

The Beatitudes

Matt.5:3-12

He said:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek,

for they will inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they will see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called children of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, 

persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 

12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, 

for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

In the face of creature conflict, Lord, remind us of our place

Make us strong yet make us meek; season the words we speak with grace

Grant us wealth of wisdom only Holy Scriptures can provide

So, in the heat of the battle Your name will be glorified

As we walk and talk together help us weather what we must

Let tethers of utmost kindness bind the wounds of dust-to-dust

Keep us from becoming bitter when life throws a brutal curve

Lest we forget, through You, Father, we have more than we deserve

Blessed are the poor in spirit, the merciful and the meek

Lord forgive us when we stumble and don’t turn the other cheek

When rather than being humble we want to retaliate

With word-weapons not befitting we who walk in love, not hate

Help us Lord, to thirst and hunger after righteousness so we

Do not trouble our spirits with wants of futility

Lead us beside quiet waters where this world does not applaud

Help your sons and daughters to be still and know that you are God

Amen

© Janet Martin

Psalm 46:10

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; 

I will be exalted among the nations,

 I will be exalted in the earth.”