First United Methodist Church, Wilson, OK

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. --1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Thought for the Day: I can improve my spiritual health by reading God's word and praying daily. The discipline and extra effort it takes to be happier with ourselves can apply to our spiritual health. It takes discipline to make the extra effort to maintain a close relationship with God. There are so many distractions in our world,... and sometimes it takes diligence to turn away from things like checking emails and social media and to settle into prayer and Bible reading, God wants us to rejoice, pray, and give thanks. If we make the effort to set aside time to do this daily, our reward can be a health spiritual connection with God. Prayer: Dear Lord, help us to quiet the distractions so that we can spend precious time with you. Amen.

The Lord says, "Do not fear, for I am with you." --Isaiah 43:5 Thought for the Day: God's presence helps us live with peace and confidence. We find great reassurance in our faith and in God's word and presence. It is good to know that whatever our fearful situations -- illness, loss of a job, financial struggles -- all are opportunities to remember God's love for us and to receive God's grace and courage to move forward in faith. Prayer: Help us, heavenly Father, to release fear and reclaim faith in the face of trouble, trusting that you will see us through. Amen.

The scripture today: Deuteronomy 28:1-14 The link for today's service is: https://youtu.be/OwQsUzE2ZbQ

"Pardon me, my lord," Gideon replied, "but if the Lord is with us, why has all this happened to us?" --Judges 6:13 Thought for the Day: God understands my frailty and my fears. God is with us. In times of doubt, we can feel free to be honest with God, knowing God understands. However, we can also bravely follow where God leads, trusting in spite of our fears. Prayer: Dear Father, sustain us when we question you and have doubts about situations we do not understand. Give us the faith and courage to follow you anyway. Amen.

Do to others as you would have them do to you. --Luke 6:31 Thought for the Day: Today I will look for an opportunity to speak God's peace to someone. How often do we notice the needs of our neighbors? How often do we respond to God's prompting to speak a word of kindness? If we are willing to listen, we may hear God's voice guiding us to speak a word that someone needs to hear. Prayer: Loving God, help us to listen for your prompting, and help us to speak words of kindness and peace to those around us. Amen.

Jesus said, "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." --Mark 11:24 Thought for the Day: Faith is the cornerstone of my prayers. Why are we surprised when our prayers are answered? Do not limit God's power! Prayer: Loving God, when we pray for guidance and help, fill us with trust as we seek your answer. Amen.