Amos 4:12 – Therefore this I will do to you, O Israel; because I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel!

Lord Jesus, keep me from being slow to learn the lessons of love you want to teach me. When in mercy you send discipline and rebuke, help me to hear it and to quickly turn back. Keep from excuse making and from rationalizing, even justifying myself. Send your Spirit on me so that my first reaction is, “Lord, you are right; I’m sorry.” Break my heart with your Word so that I receive your rebuke. Heal my heart with your Word so that I am refreshed and restored to serve you again. Exalt me by your Son so that I can lift up my head with joy and confidence, a joy and confidence that comes from you alone. Amen.