Bible Passage for the Week
Proverbs 28:21-28
1 Timothy 2
Acts 5:1-16
Psalm 3
Verse to Memorize
Romans 5:1
Westminster Shorter Catechism
Q. 37. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death?
A. The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.
Who to pray for
Church: Salt Church
Pastor John Michael Clark
Ministry: Daniel Courney
Missionary to Nepal
Civil Magistrate: The President Elect
Notes for Parents:
Proverbs 28:21-28
Verse 23: He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor Than he who flatters with the tongue.
Verse 26 He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But he who walks wisely will be delivered.
When your pastors and elders warn you of sin or even the shadow of temptation, do not dismiss them. Their concern, even if imperfectly expressed, is born from love and a desire for your spiritual welfare. Yes, they are fallible. They may err in their approach, but be clear on this—if they love you enough to deliver hard truths, they are a gift from God for your protection. Approach their counsel with humility, submitting to their authority as shepherds and checking your heart for pride. Embrace a healthy self-doubt. Be ready to listen and, above all, to receive instruction.
If, after prayerful reflection, you still hold a different perspective, do not grow bitter or dismissive. Respect them. Show gratitude for their dedication. Identify the areas where their wisdom can still sharpen you, and let Scripture anchor your convictions. Walk with a clear conscience, but remember: with the freedom to make decisions comes the weight of accountability before God.
Rejecting your pastors’ counsel is a serious matter. If you ignore their warning and disaster follows, you bear guilt not only for the sin you fall into but for the prideful rejection of wisdom. I write this because I have seen the tragic fruits of ignored counsel—men and women who blamed pastors for speaking too harshly, yet suffered for refusing guidance meant to save them.
Understand this: nothing pains a pastor more than seeing one of the flock head toward destruction, deaf to warnings. We see it coming—the heartache, suffering, and, without repentance, the inevitable judgment.
Psalm 3
Verse 3: I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustains me.
You know the saying, "I slept like a baby"? Whoever came up with that phrase clearly never had a 4-month-old who wakes up every hour. Some babies seem to think nighttime is the perfect time to stay wide awake. You try to tiptoe out of the room, and they hear even the softest creak of the floorboards, and just like that—wide awake, staring right at you. I’ve often thought that saying must come from seeing babies fall asleep in carriers, knocked out no matter where they are—everywhere except their own bed at night.
But have you ever known someone who can sleep through anything? Babies screaming, dogs barking, storms raging—they’re out cold, like a baby in that carrier. Or maybe that’s you. Yet even the soundest sleeper has nights when sleep doesn’t come, nights haunted by worry and thoughts that circle endlessly. Like this past week before the election, I had a restless night, wrestling with what was outside my control. But here’s the thing: worrying all night doesn’t change a thing. Jesus was direct when He said that worry won’t add a single hour to your life; if anything, it’ll take some away.
David penned this Psalm when he was surrounded by enemies, mocked by those who sneered that God wouldn’t deliver him. And what did he do in response? He lay down and slept. David trusted that the Lord was his shield, that God alone would keep him safe.
Now, let’s not misunderstand this verse. This doesn’t mean we should approach life’s battles half-asleep or with lazy indifference. Instead, it calls for the kind of confidence in God that lets us rest when it’s time to rest, knowing He’s in control. There’s a time to work hard, and there’s a time to let go and rest, trusting that God watches over us.
So, place your trust in the Lord. Sleep like a baby being carried in the arms of Christ.
Example Prayer for Weekly Prayer Concerns
Almighty God, we come before You in reverence and awe, praising Your holy name and giving thanks for Your abundant blessings in creation and providence. You are the Maker of heaven and earth, and by Your hand, all things hold together. Every good gift and every perfect blessing comes from You, and we are grateful for Your steadfast love that never ceases, Your mercies that are new every morning. Lord, we confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed. We acknowledge our failings, and we repent, placing our faith solely in Christ, our Redeemer. Cleanse us, O Lord, by His blood, and renew our hearts by Your Spirit that we may walk in obedience to Your commands.
Father, we lift up to You the expectant mothers in our midst: Emily Leupp, Christina Puryear, Vivian Tocci, Courtney Parkes, Caitlin Govanus, and Isabelle Hargiss. We pray that You would place Your hand of protection and strength upon each of these women. Guard their health and the health of their unborn children, and fill them with peace and joy as they await the arrival of new life. May they find confidence in You, trusting that You knit together each child in the womb according to Your perfect design. We pray that these children would grow to know You, to love You, and to glorify Your name.
Lord, we pray for John Michael Clark, the pastor of Salt Church in Heartfield, Virginia. Thank You for the work You are doing through this church plant. We ask that You would continue to grow and strengthen Salt Church, equipping John Michael and his team to minister faithfully to Your people. Bless his ministry, The Family Captain, as he seeks to encourage and lead men in their families to honor You. Grant him wisdom, courage, and perseverance, and may the men he disciples rise up to be strong leaders in their homes, reflecting Christ’s love and authority.
Father, we lift up Daniel Courney, a missionary to Nepal and beyond. Thank You for his boldness in preaching the gospel in difficult places, for his dedication in planting churches, and for his compassionate heart in leading an orphanage. Protect him as he travels, grant him discernment in his ministry, and give him wisdom to lead well. May his efforts bear much fruit for Your kingdom, and may the orphans he cares for come to know You as their Heavenly Father. We also pray for his wife, that You would strengthen her in her role and bless her work as they labor together for Your glory.
Lord, Your Word commands us to pray for those in authority, so we lift up President Elect Donald Trump and Vice President Elect JD Vance before You. Grant them wisdom and discernment as they prepare to lead, and may they come to recognize Your Lordship over all nations. We ask that Your Holy Spirit would convict them of sin and lead them to repentance and faith in Christ. Help them govern with integrity and justice, aligning their decisions with Your righteous standards. May they seek the welfare of our nation not according to human wisdom but according to Your Word, that Your name might be glorified.
O Lord, pour out Your grace upon the families in our church. Strengthen them in faith, love, and obedience. May our households be a testimony to Your truth and a light in this dark world. And Father, we pray for the nations. Turn the hearts of people everywhere to repentance, that they might see the glory of Christ and submit to His reign. Use Your church to proclaim the gospel boldly, that every knee would bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen
Church History Lesson: Leo the Great (Bishop of Rome, 440-461)
Introduction to Leo the Great
Today, we look back at the life and legacy of Leo I, often called "Leo the Great." Leo served as the Bishop of Rome during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. The capital of the Empire had been moved to Constantinople, and Rome was no longer the political center it once was. Yet, Leo rose as a spiritual leader in this chaotic era, influencing both the Church and society. He was a man of action, tasked with practical roles like organizing grain distribution and even overseeing the city's fire department. But Leo is remembered for much more—he played a key role in preserving the city of Rome and strengthening the faith of the Church.
Leo's Heroic Actions and Negotiations
One of the remarkable events in Leo’s life was his negotiation with Attila the Hun in 452. When Attila invaded Italy, Leo met with him, and against all odds, persuaded him to withdraw without devastating Rome. Just three years later, Leo faced another threat when the Vandal king Gaiseric attacked Rome. While the city was sacked, Leo successfully negotiated to prevent its complete destruction. These actions solidified his reputation, not only as a spiritual leader but as a courageous protector of his people.
Leo’s Role in Defending Christian Doctrine
Beyond his role in the city, Leo had a profound impact on Christian theology. During his time, the Church faced disagreements about how to understand the mystery of Christ—how Jesus could be fully God and fully man. In 449, Leo wrote a letter to Bishop Flavian of Constantinople, known as the Tome of Leo. In it, he affirmed the truth that Christ has two natures—divine and human—in one Person. This letter became central to the Council of Chalcedon in 451, which adopted Leo’s teaching as sound doctrine. The Council’s declaration became a foundational statement for Christians, helping them to understand the nature of Christ and His work of salvation.
Legacy and Theological Impact
Leo’s influence shaped both church governance and Christian doctrine. Although later bishops will use his courageous actions to blur the distinction between church and civil government, all Christians can be grateful for his defense of the truth that "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself" (2 Corinthians 5:19). Leo’s unwavering commitment to Christ’s divinity and humanity helped the Church proclaim the gospel clearly, ensuring that believers could trust in Christ as both God and Savior.
A Quote from Leo the Great
In one of his sermons, Leo explained the unity and dignity of all Christians in Christ, saying:
"Although the universal Church of God is constituted of distinct orders of members, still, in spite of the many parts of its holy body, the Church subsists as an integral whole, just as the Apostle says: we are all one in Christ... For all, regenerated in Christ, are made kings by the sign of the cross; they are consecrated priests by the oil of the Holy Spirit."
Leo taught that all believers are part of a royal priesthood, offering themselves to God with pure hearts and devoted lives. This idea aligns with 1 Peter 2:9, which says, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
Proverbs 28:21-28
1 Timothy 2
Acts 5:1-16
Psalm 3
Verse to Memorize
Romans 5:1
Westminster Shorter Catechism
Q. 37. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death?
A. The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness, and do immediately pass into glory; and their bodies, being still united to Christ, do rest in their graves till the resurrection.
Who to pray for
Church: Salt Church
Pastor John Michael Clark
Ministry: Daniel Courney
Missionary to Nepal
Civil Magistrate: The President Elect
Notes for Parents:
Proverbs 28:21-28
Verse 23: He who rebukes a man will afterward find more favor Than he who flatters with the tongue.
Verse 26 He who trusts in his own heart is a fool, But he who walks wisely will be delivered.
When your pastors and elders warn you of sin or even the shadow of temptation, do not dismiss them. Their concern, even if imperfectly expressed, is born from love and a desire for your spiritual welfare. Yes, they are fallible. They may err in their approach, but be clear on this—if they love you enough to deliver hard truths, they are a gift from God for your protection. Approach their counsel with humility, submitting to their authority as shepherds and checking your heart for pride. Embrace a healthy self-doubt. Be ready to listen and, above all, to receive instruction.
If, after prayerful reflection, you still hold a different perspective, do not grow bitter or dismissive. Respect them. Show gratitude for their dedication. Identify the areas where their wisdom can still sharpen you, and let Scripture anchor your convictions. Walk with a clear conscience, but remember: with the freedom to make decisions comes the weight of accountability before God.
Rejecting your pastors’ counsel is a serious matter. If you ignore their warning and disaster follows, you bear guilt not only for the sin you fall into but for the prideful rejection of wisdom. I write this because I have seen the tragic fruits of ignored counsel—men and women who blamed pastors for speaking too harshly, yet suffered for refusing guidance meant to save them.
Understand this: nothing pains a pastor more than seeing one of the flock head toward destruction, deaf to warnings. We see it coming—the heartache, suffering, and, without repentance, the inevitable judgment.
Psalm 3
Verse 3: I lay down and slept; I awoke, for the Lord sustains me.
You know the saying, "I slept like a baby"? Whoever came up with that phrase clearly never had a 4-month-old who wakes up every hour. Some babies seem to think nighttime is the perfect time to stay wide awake. You try to tiptoe out of the room, and they hear even the softest creak of the floorboards, and just like that—wide awake, staring right at you. I’ve often thought that saying must come from seeing babies fall asleep in carriers, knocked out no matter where they are—everywhere except their own bed at night.
But have you ever known someone who can sleep through anything? Babies screaming, dogs barking, storms raging—they’re out cold, like a baby in that carrier. Or maybe that’s you. Yet even the soundest sleeper has nights when sleep doesn’t come, nights haunted by worry and thoughts that circle endlessly. Like this past week before the election, I had a restless night, wrestling with what was outside my control. But here’s the thing: worrying all night doesn’t change a thing. Jesus was direct when He said that worry won’t add a single hour to your life; if anything, it’ll take some away.
David penned this Psalm when he was surrounded by enemies, mocked by those who sneered that God wouldn’t deliver him. And what did he do in response? He lay down and slept. David trusted that the Lord was his shield, that God alone would keep him safe.
Now, let’s not misunderstand this verse. This doesn’t mean we should approach life’s battles half-asleep or with lazy indifference. Instead, it calls for the kind of confidence in God that lets us rest when it’s time to rest, knowing He’s in control. There’s a time to work hard, and there’s a time to let go and rest, trusting that God watches over us.
So, place your trust in the Lord. Sleep like a baby being carried in the arms of Christ.
Example Prayer for Weekly Prayer Concerns
Almighty God, we come before You in reverence and awe, praising Your holy name and giving thanks for Your abundant blessings in creation and providence. You are the Maker of heaven and earth, and by Your hand, all things hold together. Every good gift and every perfect blessing comes from You, and we are grateful for Your steadfast love that never ceases, Your mercies that are new every morning. Lord, we confess that we have sinned against You in thought, word, and deed. We acknowledge our failings, and we repent, placing our faith solely in Christ, our Redeemer. Cleanse us, O Lord, by His blood, and renew our hearts by Your Spirit that we may walk in obedience to Your commands.
Father, we lift up to You the expectant mothers in our midst: Emily Leupp, Christina Puryear, Vivian Tocci, Courtney Parkes, Caitlin Govanus, and Isabelle Hargiss. We pray that You would place Your hand of protection and strength upon each of these women. Guard their health and the health of their unborn children, and fill them with peace and joy as they await the arrival of new life. May they find confidence in You, trusting that You knit together each child in the womb according to Your perfect design. We pray that these children would grow to know You, to love You, and to glorify Your name.
Lord, we pray for John Michael Clark, the pastor of Salt Church in Heartfield, Virginia. Thank You for the work You are doing through this church plant. We ask that You would continue to grow and strengthen Salt Church, equipping John Michael and his team to minister faithfully to Your people. Bless his ministry, The Family Captain, as he seeks to encourage and lead men in their families to honor You. Grant him wisdom, courage, and perseverance, and may the men he disciples rise up to be strong leaders in their homes, reflecting Christ’s love and authority.
Father, we lift up Daniel Courney, a missionary to Nepal and beyond. Thank You for his boldness in preaching the gospel in difficult places, for his dedication in planting churches, and for his compassionate heart in leading an orphanage. Protect him as he travels, grant him discernment in his ministry, and give him wisdom to lead well. May his efforts bear much fruit for Your kingdom, and may the orphans he cares for come to know You as their Heavenly Father. We also pray for his wife, that You would strengthen her in her role and bless her work as they labor together for Your glory.
Lord, Your Word commands us to pray for those in authority, so we lift up President Elect Donald Trump and Vice President Elect JD Vance before You. Grant them wisdom and discernment as they prepare to lead, and may they come to recognize Your Lordship over all nations. We ask that Your Holy Spirit would convict them of sin and lead them to repentance and faith in Christ. Help them govern with integrity and justice, aligning their decisions with Your righteous standards. May they seek the welfare of our nation not according to human wisdom but according to Your Word, that Your name might be glorified.
O Lord, pour out Your grace upon the families in our church. Strengthen them in faith, love, and obedience. May our households be a testimony to Your truth and a light in this dark world. And Father, we pray for the nations. Turn the hearts of people everywhere to repentance, that they might see the glory of Christ and submit to His reign. Use Your church to proclaim the gospel boldly, that every knee would bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen
Church History Lesson: Leo the Great (Bishop of Rome, 440-461)
Introduction to Leo the Great
Today, we look back at the life and legacy of Leo I, often called "Leo the Great." Leo served as the Bishop of Rome during a time of great turmoil in the Roman Empire. The capital of the Empire had been moved to Constantinople, and Rome was no longer the political center it once was. Yet, Leo rose as a spiritual leader in this chaotic era, influencing both the Church and society. He was a man of action, tasked with practical roles like organizing grain distribution and even overseeing the city's fire department. But Leo is remembered for much more—he played a key role in preserving the city of Rome and strengthening the faith of the Church.
Leo's Heroic Actions and Negotiations
One of the remarkable events in Leo’s life was his negotiation with Attila the Hun in 452. When Attila invaded Italy, Leo met with him, and against all odds, persuaded him to withdraw without devastating Rome. Just three years later, Leo faced another threat when the Vandal king Gaiseric attacked Rome. While the city was sacked, Leo successfully negotiated to prevent its complete destruction. These actions solidified his reputation, not only as a spiritual leader but as a courageous protector of his people.
Leo’s Role in Defending Christian Doctrine
Beyond his role in the city, Leo had a profound impact on Christian theology. During his time, the Church faced disagreements about how to understand the mystery of Christ—how Jesus could be fully God and fully man. In 449, Leo wrote a letter to Bishop Flavian of Constantinople, known as the Tome of Leo. In it, he affirmed the truth that Christ has two natures—divine and human—in one Person. This letter became central to the Council of Chalcedon in 451, which adopted Leo’s teaching as sound doctrine. The Council’s declaration became a foundational statement for Christians, helping them to understand the nature of Christ and His work of salvation.
Legacy and Theological Impact
Leo’s influence shaped both church governance and Christian doctrine. Although later bishops will use his courageous actions to blur the distinction between church and civil government, all Christians can be grateful for his defense of the truth that "God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself" (2 Corinthians 5:19). Leo’s unwavering commitment to Christ’s divinity and humanity helped the Church proclaim the gospel clearly, ensuring that believers could trust in Christ as both God and Savior.
A Quote from Leo the Great
In one of his sermons, Leo explained the unity and dignity of all Christians in Christ, saying:
"Although the universal Church of God is constituted of distinct orders of members, still, in spite of the many parts of its holy body, the Church subsists as an integral whole, just as the Apostle says: we are all one in Christ... For all, regenerated in Christ, are made kings by the sign of the cross; they are consecrated priests by the oil of the Holy Spirit."
Leo taught that all believers are part of a royal priesthood, offering themselves to God with pure hearts and devoted lives. This idea aligns with 1 Peter 2:9, which says, "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."