Did I really say that? O Lord, how often I speak without thinking and how tempting it is to give in to gossip, criticism and negativity. Prevent me from speaking hastily, insensitively or imprudently.
Disobedience, gossip, envy, pride, anger, greed, deceit, hatred, selfishness, jealousy, and the list goes on. Which sin, O Lord, is crouching at my door, just waiting for an opportunity to gain a foothold in my life? Father, let your Holy Spirit guard and guide me as I struggle to triumph over it.
Because we have been blessed with a free will, we have the freedom to choose between good or bad, right or wrong, obedience or rebellion. It’s wise to remember, however, that exercising free will is exactly what got Adam and Eve into trouble. Just because we are able to do something doesn’t mean we necessarily should do it! Lord, guide us in the decisions we make today.
Which is worse in God’s eyes? Doing the right thing, but for the wrong reason, or mistakenly doing the wrong thing, but for the right reason? Lord, help us remember that why we do things is just as important as what we actually do.
Forgive us, Lord, when we turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to the needs of others. Keep us mindful that we sin not only by taking action but also by failing to take it; not only by speaking but also by failing to speak up. Don’t allow us to ignore what should be noticed. Keep nudging us, Lord, when we fail to do what is right.
People see our actions, but God knows our motives. People hear our words, but God knows our hearts.
