Dave's Diary

Daily Reading: James 3:13 – 4:7

Lord Jesus, today Your Word stands before me as a mirror and, if I’m honest with myself, it brings me some sharp rebukes. When I look sincerely at the attitudes of my heart, when I listen to the sound of my own thoughts and words, and when I observe my own actions and inactions, Your Word and Your Spirit convict me of the presence of much that is displeasing to You. I confess that I am no stranger to pride, bitter envy and selfish ambition, to self-centred desires and motivations, to a spirit of “friendship” with the world and its fleeting pleasures. In the light of Your Word I recognise how often my wrong motives and self-centredness have contributed to disorder, petty squabbles and conflict. Lord, please forgive me for my self-centredness and sin.

By Your Holy Spirit within me, Lord, transform me from the inside out. Grant me wisdom, understanding and humility. Produce in me the beautiful fruit of purity, the love of peace, a heart of consideration for others, a spirit of submission to Your will, and an attitude of mercy, impartiality and sincerity in all my dealings with others. Make me a lover of peace and gentleness!

Today I choose to resist the temptations and tricks of evil, and to surrender wholeheartedly to You and to Your transforming work in me!

Lord, make me like Jesus! Make me gentle, make me just, make me like Jesus! Amen.