Today's Verse: Psalm 127:1

Friday, July 1, 2005

Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.
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Thoughts on Today's Verse...

"It's all up to me!"
That's the prevailing mindset for high achievers in our world. But this assumption is wrong. Our efforts to build and be a part of something great and lasting are ultimately in vain if the Lord doesn't bless them and empower them. They may flourish for a time under our intense efforts, but if the plans and the construction of great things are not from the Lord, they won't stand the test of time. However, when we partner with the Lord and seek him and his kingdom first, he is "able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us" (Ephesians 3:20).

My Prayer...

Almighty God and Eternal Father, please forgive me for trying to make everything happen by my own efforts and relentless work. You can do far more to advance my work for your kingdom than all my worry and fretfulness could ever accomplish. Please take the lead in every aspect of my life and ministry; defeat me in efforts not in harmony with your will, and please empower those efforts to bring you glory and draw others to your grace. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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2 Related Resources by Heartlight

Illustration

Illustration of Psalm 127:1 — Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain.

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About This Devotional

Today's Verse is a free daily devotional that includes a Bible verse, thought and prayer.

The Thoughts and Prayer on Today's Verse are written by Phil Ware.

All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.