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Praying the Scriptures
Sunday Morning Prayer
January 18, 2026
“My brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of any kind, consider it nothing but joy … Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” — James1:2, 12
Gracious and Holy God,
As I wake to this crisp January Sunday here in Deming, the high desert air is still and sharp with the winter chill. The sun is just beginning to hint at its arrival over the Florida Mountains, casting a soft light on the frost that clings to the scrub brush and the dormant earth. In this quiet solitude, before I head out to gather with my brothers and sisters for worship, I feel the weight of the week behind me and the trials that sometimes make faith feel like a struggle against the wind. Yet, in this stark and open landscape, I am reminded that even in the seeming stillness of winter, You are deeply at work beneath the surface, preparing the way for life where I cannot yet see it.
As the light begins to break fully across the horizon, dispelling the lingering shadows, I ask for the grace to find true joy even when my faith is tested. I acknowledge that my own strength is often frail, wavering in the face of uncertainty, but I trust that Your power is made perfect in my weakness. As we enter this holy week dedicated to the unity of Your Church, help me to see that the endurance You are cultivating within me—and within Your whole body of believers—is precious and necessary. Let my trust in You be the anchor that holds firm, knowing that every challenge is a refining fire meant to draw us closer to one another and deeper into Your heart.
Send me forth now to the sanctuary with a spirit of humility and eager expectation, ready to worship and to serve. Grant me the quiet confidence to believe that You are bringing growth and profound change even from the smallest acts of faithfulness and the humblest of prayers. May I walk through this day with a steadfast hope, looking toward the promise of life You have prepared for those who love You. Let my words and actions this morning reflect the unity we seek, bridging gaps with love and standing firm in the assurance that You are faithful to complete the good work You have started in us.
Amen.
May the God of all grace strengthen your hearts in unity, that you may endure every trial with joy and walk together in the light of His steadfast love.
The Bible passages come from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyrighted © 1989, 1993 by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America and are used by permission. All rights reserved. Praying the Scriptures is penned daily by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
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