Scripture:
"so that, “ ‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!’ ”
Mark 4:12 NIV

Application:
If we truly give our lives to Christ, not holding back, and not harboring any ulterior motives (e.g., lusting for power, money, high esteem) we're privileged insiders. The words of Christ and His parables become clearer each time we ponder them. We find the Holy Spirit inspiring us to apply these teachings to our lives. Others see this in us. We train our hearts and minds to perceive and understand by studying God's Word.

Prayer:
We offer 100% of ourselves to You, Jesus. Amen.

Scripture:
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
Romans 3:23 NIV

Application:
Unforgiving people seek to show how others are undeserving of their forgiveness. They see the wrongdoers falling short of the qualifications for being forgiven. 
But that's using the measuring stick the wrong way. 
The measuring stick isn't placed on how the offender compares to our expectations of them, but how far short we fall from meeting God's expectations of us. 
And that's a long, long distance.

Prayer:
Father, please remind me to see how You've forgiven me whenever I judge others harshly. Amen.

Scripture:
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28 NKJV

Application:
When tragedy strikes, it's daring to even recite the words of Romans 8:28. Some people will think we're not absorbing the fullness of a tragedy. Some will think we're callous, clueless Christians. But some will ask us, "show us how to have hope in times like these."
That's when Jesus Christ goes to work. 
Begin by praying with them. Hold their hands. Ask the Lord to help them, to help us all, to deliver us from evil...to comfort us. We don't make all things work together for the good. Jesus does. Ask Him. 

Prayer:
Please make all things work together for the good, Lord Jesus, and please make all things better fast. Meanwhile, please give us peace and comfort, because we really need it. Amen.