Carry The Word Summer Devotional

CARRY THE WORD A 28-DAY DEVOTIONAL OF SIMPLE PRAYER

HOW TO USE CARRY THE WORD Carry the Word is a 28-day invitation into simple prayer in the midst of everyday life. Each daily devotion includes a Scripture passage and brief reflection from a member of our church family. As you move through the devotional, use the simple prayer guide to help you pray through each day's Scripture and reflection. The devotional is designed to help you notice God’s presence in the places you already are.

Whether your day is shaped by suitcases, errands, sandboxes, or porch chairs, God is with you.

There is no timeline to these daily devotions other than the one you set. They are not dated, so that you may start them whenever you're ready to build this rhythm of prayer.

Alongside this devotional, we’ll offer three optional Carry the Word Community Gatherings—two online and one inperson dinner—to encourage one another as we share how God’s Word is shaping our everyday lives. These simple conversations offer encouragement and connection for anyone who wants to participate. More information about the Carry the Word Community Gatherings is available at www.viennapres.org/devotionals.

Thank you for joining us as we carry the Word together this summer.

In Christ, VPC Adult Discipleship Ministries All Scripture quotations are from the NRSVUE translation.

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

01

SCRIPTURE

They will call him Emmanuel, which means “God is with us”. —Matthew 1:23b

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I love this verse because of the truth in it: God is with us—at the beach, in the mountains, at the grocery store, in the hospital, at a ceremony, in the garden, at the gym, at work, and in every moment of life; when we are celebrating, crying, struggling, worshiping, wondering, partying, sleeping, frustrated, victorious —God is with us! —Emmy Parker

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

02

SCRIPTURE

O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens... When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are humans that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them? —Psalm 8:1, 3-4

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I do marvel at what God has created. Science may explain how things work, but it still brings me to the point of mystery. How was everything created from nothing, in just the right balance to sustain life on Earth? And what about us, and our incredible capabilities? It amazes me that He cares for us, and more than that: He desires a personal relationship with each of us. —Phil Covell

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

03

SCRIPTURE

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him, for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

—1 Samuel 16:7

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

WOW!!! When I first read this verse in 1 Samuel, I was blown away! It reminds me that the Lord truly knows our hearts. I pray God will help me see and love everyone, just as He does. It isn’t always easy, and at times I can be judgmental, but that isn’t God’s will for me. He loves us all with the same infinite measure.

—Robin Portman

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

04

SCRIPTURE

Whoever says, “I have come to know him,” but does not obey his commandments is a liar, and in such a person the truth does not exist; but whoever obeys his word, truly in this person the love of God has reached perfection. By this we know that we are in him: whoever says, “I abide in him,” ought to walk in the same way as he walked. —1 John 2:4-6

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This reminds me that the call to repentance and belief was only the first step, and that the hard but rewarding work of abiding in Christ is my daily task.

As I walk in the same way as Jesus, I am being transformed—developing the mind of Christ and bearing the fruit of the Spirit. —Gary Harrington

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

05

SCRIPTURE

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice!

Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. —Philippians 4:4-7

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This passage has held deep meaning for me over the years. It reminds me that a relationship with God— rooted in thanksgiving for all He has provided—will draw me closer to Him and bring relief from stress and worry. I can receive God’s peace (that surpasses human comprehension!). —Jennifer Hallett

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

06

SCRIPTURE

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. —Psalm 23:1-3a

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

In the last 6 months I have lost three very dear friends to cancer. Psalm 23 helps me to embrace that God’s presence is steady, healing, and near. In remembering these friends, I hold onto the truth that God is close, faithful in every season, and able to bring comfort that the world cannot give. In His presence, healing begins. —Lyle Kellman

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

07

SCRIPTURE

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. —Joshua 1:9

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

My favorite verse is Joshua 1:9. I keep a copy on my desk. It reminds me that, even through the toughest times I shouldn’t give up because God is with me always. —Greg Rahal

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

08

SCRIPTURE

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. —1 John 4:7-8

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Whenever I get overwhelmed with the mysteries of our faith or am faced with a morally challenging question, it’s nice to come back to this section of 1 John and remind myself that our faith is simple, even if it’s not always easy: God is love, God loves us, and we are called to love God and share God’s love with one another. —Matt Thrasher

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

09

SCRIPTURE

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. —Micah 6:8

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

In this one verse, I see so much of the message of the Old Testament prophets, pointing ahead to Christ’s teaching. Micah 6:8 summarizes God’s will for us. It reminds me that I’m called to be a doer of the word, not just a hearer. Walking with God guides me to justice, mercy, and humility—to action and love.

—Bruce Dickson

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

10

SCRIPTURE

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we may walk in them. —Ephesians 2:8-10

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Since childhood, verses 8–9 have been my go-to summary of the gospel. I don’t have to wonder if I’m “good enough” or if I’ve done enough to earn God’s favor (I can’t). My salvation is an unmerited gift of God's grace! As an adult, verse 10 has taken on deeper meaning as well: God has purpose in our salvation—there is "good work" that each of us have been specifically created to do. —Chuck Fields

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

11

SCRIPTURE

“Give your servant, therefore, an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil, for who can govern this great people of yours?” It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. —1 Kings 3:9-10

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Whether managing projects at work, volunteering in the community, or guiding my family, I am constantly reminded of my need for a discerning heart. This verse comforts and convicts me because it shows that what pleases God isn't our perfection, but our desire for His wisdom. —Sharon Cheng

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

12

SCRIPTURE

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. —John 15:5

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This verse has always encouraged me not to try to do everything in my own strength. It's a reminder that Jesus is the source of all that is good and fruitful in my life. —Wendy Chlan

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

13

SCRIPTURE

Answer me when I call, O God of my right! You gave me room when I was in distress. Be gracious to me, and hear my prayer. —Psalm 4:1

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I find this especially comforting during stressful times. It reminds me that God has intervened before and may choose to intervene again. —Chris Dorn

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

14

SCRIPTURE

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.

—John 14:27

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

When I look at the world around me, I sometimes feel how little true peace there is. This verse reminds me that Jesus offers a different kind of peace—one I can only find by looking to Him. —Ted Davies

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

15

SCRIPTURE

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. —Psalm 46:1

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Less than two months after my 8 year old son died from cancer, I gave birth to my fourth child. The epidural failed so I found myself consumed by pain.

This scripture appeared deep within me, and 30 years later these words remain a treasured lifeline.

—Leanne Omland

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

16

SCRIPTURE

So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For our slight, momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure. —2 Corinthians 4:16-17

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I came across my favorite verse not long after losing my left leg to peripheral vascular disease in 2013— making me a bilateral amputee, having lost my right leg in 2005. The verse filled me with encouragement to continue living, despite the losses, for the eternal glory to come. I even imagined that God put this verse in place with me in mind. —Michael Bronson

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

17

SCRIPTURE

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

—Jeremiah 29:11

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This is one of my favorite Bible verses because it serves as a reminder that God has a perfect plan for me and that my life is in his hands. Personally, I often find myself in seasons of stress regarding what my future will hold, however, when I read this verse I am reminded to live in the present and allow God to guide me down the path he has paved for me.

—Caroline Burns

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER SCRIPTURE

DAY

18

So I went down to the potter’s house, and there he was working at his wheel. The vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter’s hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as seemed good to him. Then the word of the Lord came to me: Can I not do with you, O house of Israel, just as this potter has done? says the Lord. Just like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.

—Jeremiah 18:3-6

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

As I reflect on this, I’m reminded that God shapes me for his good purposes throughout my life. Sometimes I lose sight of this. I am his clay and he will shape me, rework me, and mold me. My purpose is to stay close to God and allow him to do something wonderful.

—David Steiner

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

19

SCRIPTURE

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. —Hebrews 11:1

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This scripture speaks to me about the importance of examining my hopes and dreams through the lens of Scripture and the Holy Spirit, and seeking to align what I hope for with Christ’s will. It also reminds me that I am called to walk by faith—believing in God rather than demanding proof—because faith bridges the gap between what I can comprehend and a relationship with Him. —Andrew McLauchlin

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

20

SCRIPTURE

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

—Proverbs 3:5-6

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I memorized this verse in elementary school, but ever since then, I have been learning what it means! The more I loosen my grip and surrender to God's ways and timing, the more peace I experience, no matter the circumstances.

—Beth Webster

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

21

SCRIPTURE

When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. —Psalm 56:3

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

As a child, my grandmother's encouragement to trust God through Psalm 56:3 helped me overcome a fear of a dark basement. Now that I am grown, this verse continues to provide strength in greater life challenges, reinforcing the truth that God can be trusted to lead the way and that there is truly nothing to fear. —Currie Renwick

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

22

SCRIPTURE

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

—Isaiah 41:10

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I have always found comfort in this passage during my journey with cancer. It reminds me that no matter what I am dealing with, God is there with me.

—David Peno

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

23

SCRIPTURE

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. —Psalm 23:4

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I love this verse because it reminds me that no matter what struggles I may be going through, God is always with me. It’s a great reminder that God is always on our side and will help us through whatever troubles we may come across. —Anna Balberchak

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

24

SCRIPTURE

The LORD, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will renew you in His love; He will exult over you with loud singing. —Zephaniah 3:17

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This short passage reminds me that God is always with me, and that His power is for my good. It delights Him to love me, and He joyfully expresses that love through singing. Plenty of places in the Bible include God’s commands that we worship through singing, and Revelation describes eternal singing, but this is the only passage in the Bible that describes God Himself singing! It draws me towards worship— to joining in that song with Him. —Bill Carter

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER SCRIPTURE

DAY

25

Then I saw between the throne and the four living creatures and among the elders a Lamb standing as if it had been slaughtered… He went and took the scroll from the right hand of the one who was seated on the throne. When he had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell before the Lamb, each holding a harp and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.

—Revelation 5:6-8 FROM OUR COMMUNITY

I always felt a little confused by the idea of God wanting us to worship Him. How could a loving, perfect and humble God mandate worship? This passage finally explained it to me. No one is forcing the elders and creatures to bow down. Bowing down is their natural response to God’s perfect plan, to Jesus’s sacrifice. What else can I do but fall down when I realize how much He loves us?

—Lee Scott

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER SCRIPTURE

DAY

26

Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, assuming human likeness. And being found in appearance as a human, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross. —Philippians 2:5-8

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

The most important commandments Jesus gives us are to love God and love others. These verses from Paul show me what love is supposed to look like— setting aside myself and whatever status I think I have for the sake of others. Christ is my example. As I grow in that kind of humility, I move toward more of who I am meant to be in Him. —Jonathan Lochhaas

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER

DAY

27

SCRIPTURE

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

—Numbers 6:24-26

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Ten years ago, to console my infant grandson Stanley —as I held him, pacing back and forth—I whispered this blessing again and again. God’s grace and His peace. To this day, praying this prayer and speaking this blessing over others by name reaches me even at my worst and seems to change everything.

—Chuck Allen

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

CARRY THE WORD 28 DAYS OF SIMPLE PRAYER SCRIPTURE

DAY

28

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose..... For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

—Romans 8:28, 38-39

FROM OUR COMMUNITY

This is my “life verse” from Scripture. It reminds me, time and again, that no matter the circumstances I face, our Lord’s love for His chosen ones—and my loving response—is all that is truly needed in life.

—John Hall

PREPARE Take a few deep breaths and become still before God. Release any pressure to accomplish something during this time.

READ Read the Scripture slowly two or three times. Notice what stands out to you.

REFLECT Why does that word or phrase catch your attention?

How might it connect to your life today?

RESPOND Talk honestly with God about what you noticed, felt, or wondered as you read.

REST Sit quietly with God for a moment. Let his Word settle into your heart as you listen for what he might be saying to you.

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