[EZMONEY]

For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.



SEE CARTOON BELOW



Strength for our lives



Ever have a morning like Garfield? There are times when we just want to stay in bed –when we don’t know how we will get the motivation or strength needed to deal with the struggles and temptations the day will bring.



Mathew 26:41 "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."



It is comforting to know that Jesus struggled with temptation too.



The Devil tempted Christ in the wilderness and our Savior overcame the devil by confronting Him with Holy Scripture and with prayer. He prayed so that His Father would strengthen Him. He prayed during His time in the desert, and He prayed in the garden before His execution.



Jesus taught us an important lesson about the importance of prayer during those times that he was weak and tired and was tempted to give up.



Our strength comes from God, and we are always in
desperate need of the strength He gives us



This Lenten season, as we prepare ourselves for the death and resurrection of Jesus, we should spend time in prayer so that God can restore our strength.



We will always face temptations and struggles, even Jesus Himself was not immune to them. But through His connection with the Father, He over came temptation. Ultimately, He defeated the sting of sin, death, and the devil on the cross. And because of what He has done, He promises that through faith, we too will emerge victorious through Him.



God strengthens us:



Through Word and Sacrament when we gather in His name.



When we spend time reading the Bible at home.



When we take time to pray.



What a privilege it is to pray!
What important earthly leader takes even a moment to really listen to us?
Yet, the God of the entire universe invites us to speak with Him every moment of every day! Take advantage of His great hospitality and generosity!



This Lenten season, let us begin to spend some extra time in prayer, and God promises that He will give us the strength we need when we need it. We do not have to be like Garfield hiding in bed – No, God will lift us up out of bed strengthened, prepared, ready and eager to enjoy life and all that it has to offer.



For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.



AMEN

Lenten Devotions from Lutheran Hour Ministries