READ Exodus 32
The Israelites sin by worshiping an idol-the golden calf.
 
INSIGHT
Sin does not mind rubbing shoulders with righteousness. Even while Moses is on Mount Sinai communing with God, the children of Israel are fashioning a golden idol to worship in His place. Fueled by shamelessness and a short memory, the Israelites rush headlong into one of the most remarkable displays of indiscretion in the Bible. Beware! Even when you are rubbing shoulders with righteousness, sin can trip you up. Even when you are basking in the light of Mount Sinai, evil may be lurking in the shadows. As Peter wrote, "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour" (1 Peter 5:8).
 
PRAYER
Offer praise to the Lord for His truth and light:
The Lord reigns! He is robed in majesty;
The Lord is robed, enveloped in strength.
The world is firmly established;
It cannot be shaken (Psalm 93:1).
 
As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this passage of confession to the Lord:
Remember, Lord, your compassion
And your faithful love,
For they have existed from antiquity.  
Do not remember the sins of my youth  
Or my acts of rebellion;  
In keeping with your faithful love,
Remember me because of your goodness, Lord
(Psalm 25:6-7).
 
As you confess your sins, voice your affirmation of God's Word:
You are my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
You are the strength of my life;
Of whom shall I be afraid? (Based on Psalm 27:1).
 
As you make your requests known to the Lord, pray for:

• The leading of the Lord in your life
• Christians worldwide who are persecuted for their faith
• The concerns of your heart

 
Offer this prayer of worship to God:
The God of all grace,
Who called you to his eternal glory in Christ,  
Will himself restore, establish, strengthen,
And support you after you have suffered a little while.   
To him be dominion forever. Amen (1 Peter 5:10-11).