Discouragement or praise hymns?
by Peter Bean
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I am very discouraged, and I was pouring out my heart to the Lord (1 Samuel 1:15b).
Read 1 Samuel 1:1–20
It’s not popular to talk about our woes or to suggest we are discouraged or down in the dumps. Enter that into a conversation, and it is likely people will turn away. How sad!
When you read (and work with) the psalms, as I have been doing for more than three years, you learn that people were willing to take their gripes to their God. As American theologian Walter Brueggemann said, ‘Old Testament praise is not a practice of “praise hymns” that cover over the reality of life. Rather, there is a habit of truth-telling, to wonder where the loving mercy of God is.’ Again and again, the people ask, ‘Where are you, God?’
In these verses today, I can imagine Hannah speaking some truth-telling to the Lord. ‘Why have you not given me children? Where is your mercy, Lord? Have you forgotten me?’ She was so distressed that Eli, the priest, thought she had been drinking (verses 13 and 14).
But Hannah quickly made it clear that was not the case. Instead, she was pouring out her heart to the Lord. After their conversation, Eli wished her peace and that her request would be granted. She went away no longer sad (verse 18).
If you are discouraged, I want to encourage you to be brave. Take your concerns to the Lord. Take part in some truth-telling. God is big enough to take it. Pour out your heart; wait on the Lord. If you don’t know what to say, let your sighs be your prayer. Take comfort that the Spirit takes them to God (Romans 8:26–28). Or you might want to use a psalm; try Psalm 88, Psalm 86 or another one that works for you.
Let your thoughts or words of discouragement become praise hymns to the Lord.
Lord, when I am discouraged, help me come to you with words, thoughts and sighs. Let your Spirit plead for me. And then grant me peace as I wait for your mercy. Amen.
by Peter Bean
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
I want you to be wise in doing right and to stay innocent of any wrong (Romans 16:19b).
Read Romans 16:17–27
Ah, wisdom! The most wonderful of gifts (see 1 Kings 3:10ff), yet so elusive.
Having greeted the various people involved in the church (see yesterday’s devotion), Paul gives final greetings and asks them to be wise. Is he expecting too much? Who among us would claim to be wise? As we age, we hopefully gain more wisdom, but would any of us actually claim to be wise?
I wonder if these readers thought similarly. Okay, Paul, we appreciate your prayers and greetings. Now, just let us get on with the job. Why add this burden of having to be wise?!
Except, it is not a burden. Read the phrases from Romans surrounding this request:
- ‘… obedient in the Lord’ (verse 19a)
- ‘The God of peace …’ (verse 20)
- ‘The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you’ (verse 20)
- ‘… all glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ …’ (verse 27).
Perhaps wisdom is simply accepting Christ’s love for us: living in his grace and forgiveness and allowing his peace to permeate our lives. When we are surrounded by love, grace, forgiveness and peace, perhaps wisdom just flows. Not always, of course. We are human. But when it doesn’t, we are restored to a wise place. Living in God’s grace.
And so, a positive circle develops: grace, forgiveness, wisdom; grace, forgiveness, wisdom. Then, we are enabled to do the right things to stay innocent. And when we fail, we are restored to a place of righteousness, to a place of innocence.
Grace, forgiveness, wisdom. A good place to live.
God of wisdom, allow us to live in your grace and forgiveness, so we may be wise in all we do and say. Amen.
Spring has sprung. Flowers are displaying their colours; fruit is forming on the trees. There is new growth everywhere. Peter prays that as you observe this wonderful new life, may you revel in the new beginnings God offers you each day. As Peter continues to meander his way through the psalms, he invites you to read them anew, applying them to your lives. If you would like his paraphrase of any psalm (from 1 to 91), send your request to pbean087@gmail.com
Give my greetings to Priscilla and Aquila, my coworkers in the ministry of Christ Jesus (Romans 16:3).
Read Romans 16:1–16
What a powerful chapter Romans 16 is. What, at first, might seem like a boring list of names actually details the workings of the early church across the Roman Empire. (Many of the towns referenced throughout the New Testament epistles can still be found on a map today, especially in what is now modern-day Türkiye.)
Some of these people had been expelled from Rome; others travelled to and from the area. All were involved in the early Christian community in one way or another. When you read the descriptions, you will read about deacons, coworkers, believers and the Lord’s people. You will notice women and men, married couples and single people. You will hear Greek names, Roman names, Jewish names and Gentile names. All working together in the ministry of Jesus Christ! Thank you, Lord.
Here is a challenge: How about you write your version of Romans 16? Give thanks for all those you know are involved, working together in the ministry of Jesus Christ. This might be people from your congregation. It may include people from the wider community who serve in various ways, even from other churches or service groups.
Make a list! But don’t just make a list. Describe what they do that nourishes, encourages, allows the organisation to operate, challenges others or shares the good news in so many ways. And then, share it with them (like Paul did). Or perhaps read it out during the announcements at church! And pray for each of these people, giving thanks, today or daily, until you have mentioned them all (or perhaps you could include it as part of the prayer time at church one Sunday).
What a powerful document that would be; what a powerful action for you to take. Giving thanks for all those involved in ministry together.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for my (our) coworkers in ministry, whatever form that takes. May they know they are appreciated. Bless their actions, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Spring has sprung. Flowers are displaying their colours; fruit is forming on the trees. There is new growth everywhere. Peter prays that as you observe this wonderful new life, may you revel in the new beginnings God offers you each day. As Peter continues to meander his way through the psalms, he invites you to read them anew, applying them to your lives. If you would like his paraphrase of any psalm (from 1 to 91), send your request to pbean087@gmail.com
Generosity leads to generosity
by Peter Bean
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
The believers in Macedonia and Achaia have eagerly taken up an offering for the poor among the believers in Jerusalem (Romans 15:26).
Read Romans 15:25–33
The Greeks in Macedonia (northern) and Achaia (southern) had heard the good news. This obviously changed their lives. No longer were they slaves to tradition or rules, but they had freedom in Christ. They recognised the generosity of this gift, brought to them by Paul. They wanted to celebrate. They wanted to share the good news. And so, they took action.
They eagerly took up an offering. They didn’t have to. They could have looked after themselves. They could have worshipped, prayed, encouraged and eaten together. In fact, they probably did all these things. But they knew what a gift they had received. They wanted to respond to the generosity of God’s grace in as many ways as they could. So, they eagerly took up an offering to help the poor in Jerusalem.
We are not told how the poor in Jerusalem responded to this. However, we can assume they would have been grateful, full of joy and, quite possibly, responded similarly.
How do you, how do I, respond to the generosity of God’s grace? We don’t have to respond with a gift of money. If you can, do so with enthusiasm. But responding in some way is a natural thing. We all like to receive gifts. But the gift of life? Wow! I want to respond by using the gifts God has given me. I hope you might respond similarly. Obviously, we all have different gifts. But imagine the wonderful community that would arise from our generous gifts given eagerly.
Perhaps a good response to God’s gift of grace is to identify your gift or gifts, and then, as eagerly as you can, use it to further God’s kingdom. It could be a gift of money, a word of support, an empathetic response, fighting for justice, looking after grandkids or volunteering somewhere. Whatever response you have, respond eagerly. And know that your generosity will lead to further generosity. And the sharing of God’s grace in word and deed.
Generous Giver, help us to be generous too. Inspire us with your Holy Spirit so that we may respond eagerly in using our gifts. Amen.
Spring has sprung. Flowers are displaying their colours; fruit is forming on the trees. There is new growth everywhere. Peter prays that as you observe this wonderful new life, may you revel in the new beginnings God offers you each day. As Peter continues to meander his way through the psalms, he invites you to read them anew, applying them to your lives. If you would like his paraphrase of any psalm (from 1 to 91), send your request to pbean087@gmail.com
by Peter Bean
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach (Luke 15:1).
Read Luke 15:1–10
This is an interesting introduction to the three ‘lost’ parables: sheep, coin and son. We usually focus on the recovery of the lost and the great rejoicing that follows. And that is good.
But have you ever considered these opening verses of Luke 15? Notorious sinners – or ‘men and women of doubtful reputation’ (The Message) – came to listen to Jesus. And he treats them like ‘old friends’ (verse two).
Somewhat scandalous, really! How often do you associate with notorious sinners and those of doubtful reputation and, what’s more, treat them like old friends? And if you do, what do others think of you? (And does it matter?!)
The introduction sets the scene for three stories about the lost and found. Perhaps these notorious sinners were already found! Maybe those of doubtful reputation are those whose sight has been restored and can now see clearly, as opposed to those who ‘see and yet do not see’. Perhaps having a doubtful reputation allows them to see themselves clearly in the following stories.
I suspect most of you reading this are not notorious sinners. Nor would you have pursued a doubtful reputation. Yet those are the ones who Jesus gets close to.
And no, I am not suggesting you go out and commit some notorious sin. But perhaps each of us is called to examine our own lives a little more closely. Maybe as we examine who we are, the way we act and think, we can put aside our judgement of others and stand before the mirror Jesus provides.
Seeing oneself as a sinner (even if not notorious) and recognising one’s reputation is not all it’s cracked up to be might allow us to read these ‘lost’ stories differently, revelling in the generosity and the grace of the one who finds us anew every day.
Gracious Friend, accept us as we are. Find us in our lostness. Restore our sight. Bless us with your grace and forgiveness. Amen.
Spring has sprung. Flowers are displaying their colours; fruit is forming on the trees. There is new growth everywhere. Peter prays that as you observe this wonderful new life, may you revel in the new beginnings God offers you each day. As Peter continues to meander his way through the psalms, he invites you to read them anew, applying them to your lives. If you would like his paraphrase of any psalm (from 1 to 91), send your request to pbean087@gmail.com
A heart laid bare
by Jane Mueller
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Create in me a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit within me (Psalm 51:10).
Read Psalm 51:1–10
David knew the weight of failure. After committing adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrating the death of her husband, David could have hidden in denial or defended his actions. Instead, he turned to God with a heart shattered by guilt and longing for mercy. Psalm 51 is rich in emotion and spiritual depth. It’s David’s raw, vulnerable cry – not just for pardon, but for renewal.
‘Have mercy on me, O God,’ David begins, appealing not to his worthiness, but to God’s steadfast and unfailing love, great compassion and abundant mercy. This is the beating heart of repentance – not fear of punishment, but trust in a merciful God who longs to restore.
David doesn’t gloss over or downplay his sin. He names it, owns it and understands its depth. ‘Against you, you alone, have I sinned.’ His confession is full, honest and humble. He knows that God desires more than apologies. God desires truth in the inmost being. David sees that his broken actions flow from a broken heart, and what he needs is not only forgiveness but transformation.
‘Create in me a pure heart, O God,’ he pleads. Not just cleanse me but recreate me. His prayer moves from remorse to hope and from guilt to grace. He believes in a God who can bring beauty from ashes and who delights not in perfection, but in contrite hearts made new.
This psalm calls us to a bold and honest surrender. It reminds us that God is not put off by our failures. Instead, he meets us in them. When we come to him with open hearts and truthful words, he doesn’t shame us; he restores us. There is no sin too dark and no heart too broken for the mercy of God. His love doesn’t just cover our past; it creates a new future.
Come as you are and let him make you new.
Lord, have mercy on me. Cleanse me. Wash me whiter than snow. Recreate me. Restore my joy by your unfailing love. Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.
Let spring speak
by Jane Mueller
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
For I will not be so bold as to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me (Romans 15:18a).
Read Romans 15:14–24
The Apostle Paul had every reason to boast. His life was full of achievement – he travelled widely, built communities and poured himself into helping others grow. He mentored young leaders, wrote letters that shaped the early church and endured persecution for the sake of the gospel. Yet, he writes, ‘I will not be so bold as to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me.’ He steps back and gives credit not to himself, but to Christ working through him.
In a world that often tells us to prove our worth through success, status or self-promotion, Paul’s words cut through with quiet humility. He doesn’t deny the value of his efforts, but he shifts the spotlight. He speaks with gratitude, not pride.
Paul’s example invites us to look beyond ourselves – not just upward to Christ, but outward to the world around us.
As spring breaks through the chill of winter, creation itself seems to echo that humility. Martin Luther wrote, ‘Our Lord has written the promise of the resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime.’ New life emerges quietly, with early blossoms, delicate leaves and green shoots pushing through cold soil. Spring doesn’t declare its achievements or seek applause. It simply unfolds in all its radiance, pointing to something greater. Similarly, often the most meaningful parts of our lives aren’t the ones we announce or display. They are the quiet, grace-filled moments that shape us from the inside out.
Take a moment today to notice the good that has flowed through you – not just what you’ve achieved, but what grace has made possible. A kind word offered at the right time. A relationship healed. A decision that brought peace. These moments don’t need to be loud to be powerful.
Boasting only in Christ isn’t about denying our gifts. It’s about recognising the deeper source behind them. It’s about humility and gratitude, and pointing to the goodness that flows through us, not just from us.
Gracious God, help me let go of the need to prove myself. Remind me that the good in my life isn’t mine alone – it’s a gift from you. Work through me in quiet, surprising ways. Shape me into someone who reflects your goodness so clearly that others catch a glimpse of you, not me. Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.
by Jane Mueller
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope … (Romans 15:13).
Read Romans 15:1–13
On 11 September 2001, the world held its breath. Coordinated terrorist attacks in the United States saw four commercial planes hijacked. Two struck the World Trade Centre in New York City, one hit the Pentagon near Washington, DC, and the fourth crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after passengers intervened. Nearly 3,000 people were killed. Broadcast live across the globe, it was the deadliest terrorist attack in history. The images were unforgettable: collapsing towers, dust-covered survivors, stunned silence.
Though it happened in the USA, the grief was not confined by geography. It shook people the world over. It pressed into our churches, conversations and hearts. In classrooms, chapels and loungerooms, we wrestled with the weight of what had happened. It was a defining moment in global history.
The world changed. Airport security intensified – liquid restrictions were introduced, and body scanners became normal. Global surveillance increased. Counter-terrorism became a central focus of international policy. Immigration laws tightened.
Fear surged. Suspicion of others – especially those who looked or believed differently – grew. Strangers became threats. Compassion wrestled with anger. Grief and outrage sat side by side as many struggled with the tension of both heartbreak and fury. The ripple effects of that single day still can be felt across political, social and cultural lines.
Yet, in the midst of the uncertainty, people gathered. Candles were lit. Prayers were spoken. The human heart still ached for peace, light, meaning and hope.
In moments like this, what does it mean to be the church?
Paul doesn’t suggest a passive response – he prescribes a radical one.
- ‘Bear with the weak’ (verse one).
- ‘Build each other up’ (verse two).
- ‘Live in harmony’ (verse five).
- ‘Welcome one another as Christ welcomed you’ (verse seven).
These aren’t suggestions for peaceful times. They are commands for when the world falls apart.
When fear rises, we don’t retreat. We rise. We lead with love. We open our arms wider. Christ’s people don’t echo the panic of the world; we rest in the enduring. In Christ, we are strong, courageous and grounded in grace.
And when the world feels uncertain, we stand on hope. Not optimism, but defiant, unshakeable confidence in God. Paul says, ‘May the God of hope fill you.’ Not with fear. Not with revenge. But with joy. Peace. Hope.
That’s the kind of hope the world still needs – and the hope God freely gives.
God of unshakeable hope, ignite in us a fierce trust in you. When the world trembles, make us strong. When others divide, make us reconcilers. When fear speaks loudly, let your love speak louder. As we remember the events of 9/11, all these years on, we grieve the loss, lament the brokenness, and pray for peace in a world still aching for healing. Fill us with joy and a bold faith, so that we might shine with your hope in every dark place. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.
by Jane Mueller
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
Let us then pursue what makes for peace and mutual upbuilding (Romans 14:19).
Read Romans 14:13–23
We live in a time when differences can quickly divide us – whether it’s how we vote, what we eat, how we care for our health, how we educate our children, or how we interpret social justice issues. Social media amplifies these differences and can turn even minor disagreements into battlegrounds. But Paul reminds us that the way of Jesus is different.
In his letter to the Romans, Paul addresses ‘disputable matters’ – those grey areas in which faithful Christians may hold different views. In the early church, it was about food laws and special days. Today, it might be about worship style, political opinions, climate action, or how we engage with technology and culture. Paul’s message still rings true: don’t let these issues become stumbling blocks.
Instead of judging or trying to convince others that our way is best, we’re called to pursue peace and mutual encouragement. Our love for one another should outweigh our need to be right. This means laying aside our preferences for the sake of another’s peace. After all, love doesn’t break – it builds. The true markers of God’s kingdom aren’t found in opinions, but in integrity, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Love means sometimes staying silent when we want to argue. It means choosing relationship over being right. It means remembering that the person who disagrees with us is someone Christ died for.
In a polarised world, what if the church became known for its radical love? What if we were the people who made space for difference without division?
What ‘disputable matters’ would you like to let go of, in support of love coming to life?
Lord, in a world quick to divide, teach me to choose the path of peace. Help me to build others up, even when we don’t see eye to eye. Help me to love others more than I love being right. Let me be known not by how strongly I argue my views, but by how fiercely and deeply I love. Amen.
Jane is a former Lutheran school principal and now serves as Governance Leadership Director for Lutheran Education SA, NT & WA. Jane has a keen interest in psychology, enjoys hiking and loves learning about and trying new things.