Daily Prayer for August 2, 2021

Prayer: Father, life can be very discouraging at times, especially as we seek to pilgrim faithfully through this world and life that you have ordained. We know that you guide each step and breath by your divine providence and that all things you order for us are tailor-made to strengthen our endurance and move us to persevere, leading to our arrival at our heavenly rest. Yet, we confess, there are times when the command to "count it all joy when you meet various trials" can be very hard. We face opposition on many sides. Friends suddenly disappear, and a sense of betrayal sets in. Our health crumbles, and our minds are plagued with worry and anxiety. We know you govern these things, and we long to respond as we are told: to trust you and place our hope in you because you are working to conform us to the Savior. Please help us and grant to us what you command, for we long to respond to these dark providences in a way that glorifies you. Through Christ our Lord, we pray. Amen. 

Scripture Meditation: James 1:1-4; Rom. 8:28; 1 Pet. 5:7