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.
— Psalm 127:1
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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

Who built your house?
Illustration of Psalm 127:1
Unless the LORD builds the house it's builders labor in vain. - Psalm 127:1
Precious Memories, Graduation, and Lisa
Article by Larry Davies
What do you think about at graduation? Graduation brings a time for a father to reflect on his daughter's love for making friends, even among four legged creatures.

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.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Friday, July 1, 2005

What Jesus Did!
A daily guide from the gospels that challenges readers to live for Jesus.
'Discounted Love' (Jn. 11:36-37)
"The people who were standing nearby [saw Jesus weep and] said, "See how much he loved [Lazarus]!" But some said, "This man healed a blind man...."
God's Holy Fire
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
'The Chosen One of God' (Jn. 1:33-34)
"[John the Baptizer continued,] "I didn't know [Jesus] was the one, but when God sent me to baptize with water, he told me, 'The one on whom you see the Spirit....."
Spiritual Warfare
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
'God Rescues the Godly and Punishes the Wicked'
"Yes, Lot was a righteous man who was tormented in his soul by the wickedness he saw and heard day after day. So you see, the Lord knows how to rescue...."
A Year with Jesus
A devotional to help reclaim Jesus as the daily Lord of our lives.
'Beyond Magic: Supernatural!'
"Dear Beloved, On the night I was betrayed, I shared in what you call The Last Supper. I gathered with My closest disciples around a table to share..."

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.

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