Weekly Devotional: April 7
Empty Vessel
By Martin Luther
Look, Lord,
on an empty vessel that needs to be filled.
In faith I am weak – strengthen me.
In love I am cold – warm me and make me passionate
so that my love may go out to my neighbor.
I doubt and am unable to trust you completely.
Lord, strengthen my faith and trust in you.
You are all the treasure I possess.
I am poor, you are rich,
and you came to have mercy on the poor.
I am a sinner, you are goodness.
From you I can receive goodness,
but I can give you nothing.
Therefore I shall stay with you.
Scripture
Matthew 6:28-34
“And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”
Practice
Are there areas you’re feeling lack? Take a sheet of paper and draw a line vertically down the center. Write LACK on the top line of the left side of the paper. On this same space in the right side, right PROVISION. Next make a list. Where are you feeling lack? Google scripture verses about how God provides for that lack on the right side.
Journal Reflection
In what areas do you feel like you are not enough? Write your own short prayer asking God to fill you in those areas.
Prayer
God, there are times I feel like I am not enough. There are areas that I feel lack. There are moments that these feelings produce anxiety in me. Would you remind me that you are a good Father who loves me and provides for me. Help me to trust in your love, your care, your goodness, and your provision.
