Living a New Life, by Pastor Schultz based on Luke12:13–21.  

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: In Psalm 46:10, God reminds us to "Be still, and know that I am God." At times we are too eager to speak, whether it is in our prayer life or in our conversations with others. God reminds us especially to be silent before Him. As He said to Job, "Pay attention, Job, listen to Me. Keep silent and let Me speak...Keep silent and I will teach you wisdom." May you take the time this week to be silent before the Lord and listen to His Word of love, forgiveness, hope, and salvation.

Psalm 119

Romans 12:14-15

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: On this date, July 31, several Christian Churches, including our Lutheran Church, commemorates Joseph of Arimathea. We learn about him in all the Gospels (Matthew 27:57-61; Mark 15:42-47; Luke 23:50-54; and John 19:38-42). Although a "secret disciple" prior to Jesus' crucifixion, he boldly asked Pilate for Jesus' body and with Nicodemus, buried Jesus in Joseph's own tomb. His bold action and strong faith in the resurrection are certainly noteworthy. May you have that boldness and confidence in the face of difficult situations in your life, too.

 “Ever Faithful, Ever His,” by Pastor Chris Navurskis, based on Psalm 100:5.

“Ever Faithful, Ever His,” by Pastor Chris Navurskis, basedon Psalm 100:5.

Romans 12:12

A DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: When God is silent! That was the title of a devotion I read this month. God sometimes seems to be silent particularly in our prayer life. We wonder whether He hears or even cares about us. Job felt that way (Job 30:20) as did Habakkuk and Isaiah. Several psalms speak of God's silence, too. Jesus experienced God's silence from the cross, yet God is always present. His Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26) as He prays for us. Thomas Pollock's hymn stanza reminds us: "Though no Father seems to hear, Though no light our spirits cheer, May we know that God is near. Hear us, holy Jesus" (LSB 447:12).

"Who Is Coming to Dinner?” by Pastor Maschke, based onGenesis 18 and Luke 10.