Father, we ask that you help us understand your word through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and open our hearts and minds so that we may understand and incorporate your word into our daily lives. Father, we thank you for your peace and comfort. Your wisdom and forgiveness. Your provision and healing. You are our rock and salvation. We cling to you through your word and the presence of the holy spirit. Father, please help us to see your blessings in our lives and give us a spirit of gratitude to you and for you…in Jesus’ name, we pray.

– Amen

“But I say to you, love your enemies. Pray for those who hurt you. If you do this, you will be true children of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:44-44)

“If someone in your group does something wrong, you who are spiritual should go to that person and gently help make him right again. But be careful, because you might be tempted to sin, too. By helping each other with your troubles, you truly obey the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is important when he really is not, he is only following himself. (Galatians 6:1-3)

“This is how we know what real love is: Jesus gave his life for us. So we should give our lives for our brothers and sisters. Suppose someone has enough to live and sees a brother or sister in need, but does not help. Then God’s love is not living in that person. My children, we should love people not only with words and talk but by our actions and true caring” (1 John 3:16-18)