Daily Prayers - February

[bluidkiti]

February 1

Teach me Your Way

Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; Unite my heart to fear your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and I will glorify your name forever more. Great is your mercy toward me, and You have delivered my soul from the depths of hell. All praise be to You, Oh God my Redeemer, today and forever. Amen.

*****

Lord, cleanse me from all impurities and put a new heart and a new spirit within me. Remove my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh that will be sensitive and compassionate to the needs of others. In Jesus’ name, help me to see others as you see them and to hear and answer their cries just as you would. Today, I will look for opportunities to bless others. Amen.

******

Lord, we come before you as we are. We ask you to take away from us all that makes us less than human. Strengthen us with the power of your Spirit that our attitude and outlook may develop, and our “way of looking” may become more like yours. Help us to remain positive - encouraging and appreciating one another, looking upon people in the same way that you do. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For Lifelong Zeal And Faithfulness”

Father, it is our lifelong desire to love You without reserve, to never be lacking in zeal, and to keep our spiritual fervor as we serve You. We devote ourselves to You only and want to do what is good and right in Your sight so that it may go well with us and we will bring You pleasure. We want to be careful that we do not forget You or fail to observe Your commands You have set forth in Your Word. Otherwise our hearts will grow proud and we will forget our first love. Keep us on the right path all the days of our life we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 1 John 3:1, NIV

Lord our God, we thank you that we may be your children and may be led by your hand. Give us patience and faith, especially when our way on earth seems difficult and life is full of grief and hardship. You are light. You show us the right path. You go before us in the self-denial and patience taught us by your Word. Protect us on all our ways. May your kingdom grow among us until it can be plainly seen that you, O God, are truly with us doing your work and bringing us joy, even though what we do seems fruitless. But your work endures. In your work we rejoice, and we want to give thanks to you every day. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please help me remember that I am not alone.

*****

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wonderful creation of four distinct seasons. Help us to trust in You whatever weather the seasons bring. Thank You for food, clothing, and shelter and may we always be ready to share of the abundance You give us to others in need. Where there are emergency conditions please help the helpers and first responders. May those who know You be ready to give an answer of the hope they have in Christ in all circumstances they face. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 2

Now to him who is able to keep us from stumbling and to present ourselves blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

*****

Heavenly Father, I humble myself before You, Your will not mine be done. I will mediate on your Word day and night. By the grace of God I will be an obedient doer of your Word, so my pathway will be prosperous and successful. I renew my mind to your Word, and pray that your Word will dominate my thoughts, words and actions. I submit to Truth so that I will not be seduced or deceived by the works of the devil. I am strong in you, Lord, and in the power of your might. Today, I choose Life and the Blessings of Deuteronomy 28. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

*****

And those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. Isaiah 35:10 NIV

Dear Father in heaven, we thank you that you lead us on all our paths. Together we praise your name. We plead with you, stay with us, especially when the world grows darker. Stay with us and send down your power. Send your power in answer to our prayers. For all people we pray, "Father in heaven, these are our brothers and sisters in spite of their failures and sins." Help them, O God. May they soon come to recognize who you are, what you do, and what you will still do, so that the whole world can be joyful and all people on earth may know the blessing of being your children. Amen.

*****

Lord, I pray that You give me godly wisdom each and every day. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!

*****

Lord Jesus, I want to be a light that leads others to you. Help me to be a witness for you and to proclaim boldly your message of love and salvation. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 3

For Those in Distress

I pray to you, Master, be our helper and defender. Rescue those of our number in distress; raise up the fallen; assist the needy; heal the sick; turn back those of your people who stray; feed the hungry; release our captives; revive the weak; encourage those who lose heart. Let all the nations realize that you are the only God, that Jesus Christ is your Child, and that we are your people and the sheep of your pasture. Amen.

from a prayer by Clement of Rome (@ 96 A.D.)

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Oh God Almighty, send me Your light and truth, to keep this day and all the days of my life. And may Your mighty hand protect me, and all my brothers and sisters who have joined me in prayer this day, blessing our homes and our lives. Amen.

*****

Father, I thank you for giving me a vision, a purpose and a plan. Give me your heart, your compassion for humanity. I offer my body as a living sacrifice to be your instrument of righteousness – that I might be a true representative of your Kingdom. It is my desire to fulfill my divine destiny, and be successful according to your will. I am here to serve you and love you in the beauty of holiness. Lead me in the way I should go, and with the Holy Spirit as my Helper, I will do great exploits for your Kingdom and others shall know that you are their Help, Redeemer and Salvation. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, "I asked for strength, that I might achieve; I was made weak, that I might learn humbly to obey." ... How often when we are weak we find ourselves forced to turn to You, to wait upon You. ... It is then in the quietness of one's "aloneness" that one senses Your presence, and Your comforting assurance and peace. ... It is then that one learns, as the Apostle Paul did,* that our weakness is Your opportunity to show Your strength, and that Your strength is indeed sufficient for our needs! ... Once we discover this, and seek to learn Your will, we have only to obey. ... Forgive me, Lord, for running ahead of You, and thinking that I can manage my life without You.

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

* (II Cor. 12:7-9)

© 1996 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord, there are times when we are so concerned about ourselves that we don’t think of others. We ask for the gift of your Spirit that we may grow in awareness of others:
- noticing when someone is unhappy,
- sensing when there’s something wrong for somebody,
- seeing when someone feels cut off or isolated,
- knowing when to say the right word,
- expressing thanks and compliments,
- being thoughtful when someone is ill,
- giving words of encouragement,
- helping someone to feel welcome,
- realizing when someone needs the opportunity to talk.
May we grow in sensitivity towards others. Amen.

*****

So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. Galatians 3:26-27, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, we may come to you, for you have counted us as your children. Our hearts long to come to you, our God and Savior. May your Word bless us and restore us. Give us courageous hearts to bear the distress of our times. Let a light arise in our days so that people care about your will. Then the need on earth shall come to an end, your name shall be honored, and your will be done. Lord God, you alone are our help. Be merciful to us. Stretch out your hand so that all people may turn to you and to your commandments, and your will may be done on earth. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 4

Prayer for the Morning

Good morning, dear Father; thank you for this day, Help me to follow you in every way. Let me speak as you speak, and do as you do; Let me help others, as you help them, too.

Help me to be honest, don't let me play games, Help me to grow, yet still stay the same. Help me not to be selfish, to give of my heart, my mind and my labor; Give all - not just part.

Help me to love others, my family, my friends, Bless all of my foes, help me make amends. Help me be kind, Father, where I am needed, let Me give warm attention, and see all needs are met.

Help keep me busy, to strive for the best, Help me not to be lazy, but find needed rest. Let me come to you, Father, throughout the day, Often to thank you, often to pray. Amen.

*****

For Guidance in Bringing Others to Christ

Oh Heavenly Father, who has promised to send us a Spirit to lead us, if we but listen and hear his presence in the bustle of life, I pray for your direction and guidance in becoming a disciple of your word. Teach me to spread your truth, to anyone I might see who might be able to hear it. Let me always reach out and show your love to the world through my every action. I pray, Holy Spirit, show me your path in this wayward world. Mold me by the model of your Son, and let me every day approach nearer to his perfect service. Let me, too, be a fisher of men. Show me, teach me, to help guide others to you, in both my words and my deeds. In the name of Christ, I pray, Amen.

*****

Finally, may I go forth filled with the joy and confidence of your Spirit; and may everything I do this day, in word or deed, be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. Amen.

*****

Father, you alone are my Strength, my Rock, my Fortress, my Deliverer and my Shield. Jesus, you are my peace. Your Word declares that my enemies will not triumphant over me. Because my ways are pleasing to you, Lord, you make my enemies to be at peace with me. Lord, you are my Shepherd who prepares a table of abundance for me in the presence of my enemies, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, "I asked for health, that I might do greater things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things." ... Sometimes it takes an infirmity to make me slow down enough to turn to You. When one is side-tracked, then one has the time to contemplate one's life and its direction. ... Help me, Lord, to see that my life has too often been like driving in the fast lane. I have sped along without looking at a map, so caught up in my own thoughts and everyday demands that I haven't had time to realize where I am headed. ... I wanted to do "greater things," but now You have let infirmity force me to take time-out. ... Inspire me, Lord, to use this time of recovery to see how I might serve You better. Help me to slow down and sort out the important from the merely self-serving. ... Show me how to make my life more meaningful, that others may be encouraged to know You. Thank You, Lord, for this lesson and for Your patience.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
© 1996 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

“A Prayer For Pressing On”

Father, You bless those who revere Your name and delight in Your commands. In the midst of inner turmoil or outer conflict I will not be shaken for my heart remains steadfast trusting in You and Your overall plan for my life. As I meditate on Your Word and stand firm in the midst of trials and testings I know that I will not be shaken. I want to remain firmly grounded as I overcome the daily obstacles that come my way. Help me to learn the valuable lessons along the way as I press on toward the goal for which You have called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Many prizes of earthly value are earned on this side, but the prize of greatest worth that offers eternal reward is heaven. I’m headed there and will leave all sorrow, sin, and sadness behind. That will be glory, be glory for me! Amen.

*****

Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory forever and ever amen. Establish Your kingdom government in all areas of our government and communities. Raise up leaders who are established in You in our governments, communities, and families. In Jesus' Name, we pray. Amen.

*****

Lord in heaven, please listen to all those who are praying to you now. Those who are sad and crying, those who have lost friends and family. Those who are alone and frightened. Help them to remember, that you are there and you are listening. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

*****

Look Upon Us, O Lord
St. Augustine
Look upon us, O Lord,
and let all the darkness of our souls
vanish before the beams of thy brightness.
Fill us with holy love,
and open to us the treasures of thy wisdom.
All our desire is known unto thee,
therefore perfect what thou hast begun,
and what thy Spirit has awakened us to ask in prayer.
We seek thy face,
turn thy face unto us and show us thy glory.
Then shall our longing be satisfied,
and our peace shall be perfect.

[bluidkiti]

February 5

An Old American Prayer for the Work Day

Almighty God, thank Thee for the job of this day. May I find gladness in all its toil and difficulty, its pleasure and success, and even in its failure and sorrow. I would look always away from myself, and behold the glory and the need of the world, that I may have the will and the strength to bring the gift of gladness to others; that with them I stand to bear the burden and heat of the day and offer Thee the praise of work well done. Amen. ~ Bishop Charles Lewis Slattery, 1903

*****

Oh Lord Jesus Christ, who said to your apostles, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you”; I pray that I and your whole church, the body of all faithful people, will know your peace, and live in harmony and unity, one with another, in accordance with your wishes. This I pray to you, who lives and reigns forever. Amen.

*****

Lord, I thank you for your steadfastness. You will never leave me nor forsake me. You are always with me. You sent the Holy Spirit to be my Comforter, Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Teacher and Guide. I resist fear; I will not be dismayed because you uphold me with your victorious right hand in the name of Jesus.

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PRAYER Rx --- February 5

Dear Lord, "I asked for riches, that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise." ... As I am forced to deal with the situation in which I find myself, I realize that I have often learned more in poverty, how to relate to more people in need, both physically and spiritually, than I would have if I only associated with wealthy friends. ... When I suffered unemployment, lack of funds, worry and illness, it was then that I realized that I needed Your help. I needed Your strength, Your encouragement, and the prayers of Christian friends. ... Through these setbacks, I learned to feel another's suffering and pain. ... Oh Lord, in my adversity, You have been my Rock. Help me to encourage others in their times of need, and to share what I have learned, that You are indeed sufficient in times of trouble!

In Jesus' name I pray.

Amen.

© 1999 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Heavenly Father, I pray that I may not let pride keep me down when it may be mine to be carried to the heights. With tenderness take me out of myself, that I may see how pride deceives, and destroys an humble spirit. Help me to master both stubbornness and pride. Amen.

*****

For Healing

Lord, You invite all who are burdened to come to You. Allow your healing hand to heal me. Touch my soul with Your compassion for others. Touch my heart with Your courage and infinite love for all. Touch my mind with Your wisdom, that my mouth may always proclaim Your praise. Teach me to reach out to You in my need, and help me to lead others to You by my example. Most loving Heart of Jesus, bring me health in body and spirit that I may serve You with all my strength. Touch gently this life which You have created, now and forever. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, I am thankful that You care about the practical matters in this life. Lord, I am asking for Your wisdom and guidance in our financial affairs, as well as all areas of our lives. Father, I ask You to be Lord over our finances. I am asking that You help my husband and I to put all of our financial affairs in divine order. I ask for a generous heart to give when You tell me to give, but I also ask for wisdom and grace to restrain from giving, when I should not give to certain individuals. You know my heart, please remove the wrong ideas I might have in the area of finances and let me have the mind of Christ in all of our financial dealings with others. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 6

Prayer to Do God’s Will

Oh Lord God, Father Almighty who created me and everything I see and enjoy, blessed and beautiful Jesus, love of my heart, bounteous Holy Spirit of God who is so kind as to be with me and comfort me whenever I ask, I thank you for all that I am and all that I have had in my life. Thy will be done, my God. I ask only that you let me know your will for me, for I am often confused or conflicted, and I seek your guidance. Knowing your will for me, let me be anxious for nothing. And I pray for the strength, the power and the energy, to accomplish your purpose. All glory be to you, one God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, who was before time and will be forever, Amen.

*****

Lord, I thank you for your steadfastness. You will never leave me nor forsake me. You are always with me. You sent the Holy Spirit to be my Comforter, Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Teacher and Guide. I resist fear; I will not be dismayed because you uphold me with your victorious right hand in the name of Jesus.

*****

Dear Lord, "I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men; I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God!" ... Oh Lord, we each need to be humbled at times, for it is easy, especially for those in positions of power, to have an excessive estimate of their own self-worth. ... Forgive me, Lord, in my own circumstance, if I get carried away and develop an exaggerated opinion of my authority. Help me, Lord, to keep a proper understanding of WHO YOU ARE, and who I am. ... Remind all who are in positions of leadership, whether in government, business, teaching or parenting, that we each have a duty to lead responsibly, and to set a good example for others to follow. ... Oh Lord, help me in reading this prayer to acknowledge Your sovereignty, Your superior knowledge, Your love and concern for me, and my need to seek Your guidance each day.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

© 1996 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord God, may I not only feel the need of thee when I am burdened with sorrow and care, but may I have need of thee in my pleasures and joys. I thank thee for thy gracious kindness, thy mercy and thy protection. Amen.

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“A Prayer For Endurance During Trials”

Father, we pray that You will help us to grow in Your grace and knowledge, that we will continue to mature in our Christian walk. Scripture, repeatedly, indicates that spiritual maturity is a result of enduring trials of various kinds. In the midst of these trials Your soft prompting or guidance through Scripture, through other believers, and through the circumstances we face can easily be ignored when self gets in the way. Today we make every effort to add to our faith those characteristics that will sustain and grow us in our Christian walk. In doing so we will be effective and productive in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, during times of ease but even more so during times of difficulty. Keep us faithful and keep us growing, in the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 7

Prayer for the Day (inspired by Jane Austen)

Give me grace Almighty Father, so to pray, as to deserve to be heard, to address you with my heart, as with my lips. You are everywhere present, from you no secret can be hidden. May the knowledge of this, teach me to fix my thoughts on you, with reverence and devotion, that I may not pray in vain.

May I now, and on each return of morning, consider how I will spend the day ahead; what thoughts will prevail in my mind? What words will I speak? Will my actions reflect your will, or my own? How far can I acquit myself of evil, and live in the goodness and beauty of my Lord Christ?

Will I think irreverently of you? Will I disobey your commandments? Will I neglect and make excuses for any known duty, or willingly given pain to any human being? Incline me to ask my heart these questions oh! God, throughout the day, to save me from deceiving myself by pride or vanity.

And give me always a thankful sense of the blessings in which I live, of the many comforts of my lot; that I may not deserve to lose them by discontent or indifference. Hear me almighty God, for his sake who has redeemed me, and taught me thus to pray. Amen.

*****

For Persistence

The little plans I tried to carry
Have failed
O' Dear God.
But, I will not sorrow
I will pause a little while
And try again tomorrow.
Amen.

~ Anushree Karnani

*****

God of love, Father of all, the darkness that covered the earth has given way to the bright dawn of your Word made flesh. Make me and all who confess your holy name people of this light. Make me faithful to your Word that I may bring your life to the waiting world. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Praying for Others

Lord, even though others misunderstand and talk about me, I will keep right on praying for them. Thank you for giving me the strength to love my enemies, to do good to those who hate me. I ask you to bless those who have hurt me, and pray for their happiness. For now is the time—you are bending down to hear! You are ready with a plentiful supply of love and kindness. Thank you for answering my prayer, for your loving kindness is wonderful; your mercy is so plentiful, so tender and so kind. Nothing – no activity, work, or relationship – has meaning without you as the center of my life. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, "I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life; I was given life, that I might enjoy all things!" ... Forgive us each, Lord, for too often concentrating on what we don't have, and taking for granted what we do have! ... Help me to resolve to start each day counting my blessings: (1) Any day I can get out of bed is a plus, and I thank You, Lord; (2) If I can't get out of bed, I thank You for a bed in which to rest; (3) I thank You for family and friends; (4) If I have neither family nor friends, I thank you for those who lend me a helping hand; (5) I thank You, Lord, for the beauties of nature around me -- sunrises, sunsets, mountains or plains, country or city parks, flowers and bird songs -- for beauty is often in the eye of the beholder, and help me to be sensitive to Your gift of creation; (6) Thank You for my daily work, and if I am seeking employment, help me not to be above taking temporary employment while seeking Your guidance. ... Oh Lord, help me, while waiting, to learn to enjoy the moment, and to praise You even then.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

© 1996 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13b-14, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, living source of all that is eternal in us, we come to you and plead with you to strengthen the gifts you have given us. Grant us the light of life in which we can walk in spite of the many burdens and uncertainties of our earthly life. Protect us from deception and disappointment. Strengthen our hope for your steadfast, firm, and eternal rule in us, in many others, and finally in all men. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for all you have done. Please guide me in this day as I face the unknown. Please help me make the best choices for the path that lies ahead.

[bluidkiti]

February 8

To Keep God in Mind This Day

Lord, let me begin this day in devout meditations, in joy unspeakable, and in blessing and praising You, who has given me such good hope and everlasting consolation.

Lift up my mind above all these little things below, which are apt to distract my thoughts; and keep it above, until my heart is fully resolved to seek You every day, in the path where Jesus has trod before me. Amen.

Meditation

[Living the day in the joy of knowing God.]

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Prayer of Supplication

Bow down Your ear, O Lord, hear me, for I am poor and needy. Without you, I have nothing. I pray that this day I will have food, and shelter, and be free of pain and fear. If it is not your will for me to suffer, Lord, I pray that I will not. And above all, cleanse my soul of sin, that I might someday be free of all pain and evil; for, whatever I may bear in this life, I have faith and hope in the life to come, through your goodness and mercy. In Christ's name, I pray, Amen.

*****

Glory to God whose power, working in us, can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine: Glory to God from generation to generation in the church and in the world, and in Christ Jesus for ever and ever. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, "I got nothing that I asked for, but everything I hoped for. Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered. I am, among all men, most richly blessed." ... I thank You, Lord, for the difference You have made in my life. Help me as a Christian, to be a person who can make this world a better place, because I have learned to seek Your will and be obedient to it.

In the name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

* Comment -- This poem became identified with Max Cleland, who closed many of his speeches with it. Cleland was appointed to head the Veteran's Administration in 1977. He was a Vietnam veteran who lost both of his legs and an arm as the result of a grenade explosion in Vietnam.

© 1999 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord, we ask you to open our eyes that we may value and appreciate all people, recognizing what we have in common rather than focusing on what our differences might be. Inspire us to distinguish between what is important and what is not, and open our minds and hearts that we may always be people of good will who bring life and joy to others. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please help me remember that you will always do what's best when I leave the choice with you.

*****

Help Me to Stay Sober

Dear God,
Thank you for this day. Help me to stay clean and sober, just for this day. Help me to recognize your hand in all things. Thank you for the blessings I understand and the ones I don't. Thank you for the miracles I see and the ones I don't. Thank you for your spirit who always abides in me. I ask that I may be with your spirit today. Cleanse my mind of all darkness and fill it with love and light. Let me be o.k. with this day no matter what it brings. Thank you for everything that's in my life and everything that's not.

[bluidkiti]

February 9

Call to Sunday Worship

O Lord, I beseech you mercifully to hear my prayers, and the prayers of all your people who call upon you; and grant that we may both perceive and know what things we ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to fulfill them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

*****

Prayer to Walk with Christ This Week

Dear Heavenly Father, I am learning to understand what your word says. Yet so often I simply hear it or read it and think about applying it, but get no further. I want to do it and intend to do it Lord, but it is gone from my mind so easily. I am deceiving myself if I simply hear it and do not make it a part of my life.

Please help me today, and throughout the coming week, to take one truth and apply it to my circumstances. Let your Holy Spirit nudge me and remind me throughout every day. I know that as I apply what your word says I will find freedom. Please show me what I need to focus on right where I walk today, Father. Help me to be intent on practicing what you reveal to me. I know there is blessing in doing things your way. I give you my will today and this week, to want to do what you show me. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

*****

I pray that I may be blessed every step of my path this day by the great God of light. May your sun shine upon me; as the moon moves the tide, may your Spirit move my emotions with every grace and magic; may my heart sing with the voice of your angels and my hearth be warm; and may this and every blessed day You have given me be filled with joy. Amen.

*****

Dear Heavenly Father, help me to realize that You have a purpose for me right where I am, whether happy or depressed, secure or frightened, well or ill, going forward or marking time. There is always something for me to learn, or something I can do for You, Lord. You can use me every day of my life! Show me how, Lord, show me how.

In Jesus' name I pray.

Amen.
© 1999 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord, you have enriched our lives in many ways, and we remember with thanksgiving all who have loved, cared for, and supported us over the years. Show us how best to use the time and talents you have given each of us, and lead us to grow in appreciation of the contribution that others make. May your Spirit empower us to work well with others and bring out the best in those with whom we share our lives. Amen.

*****

He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:1–2, RSV

Lord our God, we come into your presence, for you are our certainty, our refuge, especially in these times when so much is happening to grieve and trouble us. You are our God and our Savior today and for all time. You have always been our Savior and helper, and you will remain our Savior and helper forever. We praise you and glorify your name. Give a new spirit in our day, we pray, new help through the gospel brought by Jesus Christ. May your name be kept holy, your kingdom come, and your will be done on earth as in heaven. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please help me through today. Help me share your wisdom and glory with others so they may benefit from your love.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, I am grateful that You speak to us in many different ways. Thank you for using our elders to speak to us. Help me not only to hear what You are saying, but to also obey what You are saying. Lord, help me to also spend more time studying and meditating on Your Words in the Bible. I know that as I do this, I will have the answers to my problems. I also thank you for encouraging me in Your Word. Lord, bless my family and friends today and may they hear a Word from You. Speak to all of us so that we might be led by the Spirit of God today. I ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

Prayer of Thanks
Ralph Waldo Emerson
For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
Father in heaven,
We thank thee.

[bluidkiti]

February 10

O God and Father of all, whom the whole heavens adore: Let the whole earth also worship you, all nations obey you, all tongues confess and bless you, and men and women everywhere love you and serve you in peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, I pray, Amen.

*****

Dear Heavenly Father, help me to see the "nowness" of my Christian faith. The past is past, and put aside, and the future is in Your hands, Lord, but the "now" is up to me. This is where I either reflect You or not - in how I live today. ... Fill me with Your Spirit, enable me to be more than I am, that I may seize this precious time that will not come again, and live today to Your glory.

In Jesus' holy name I pray.

Amen.
© 2000 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord, lover of life, you know the depths of my innermost self, and you understand me. You protect me on every side, shielding me from all harm. When you put me together carefully in my mother’s womb, you knew all about me. I thank you for the wonder of myself and I stand in awe at all that you have made. Guide me in your ways. (from Psalm 138/9)

*****

In that day this song will be sung in the land of Judah: We have a strong city; God makes salvation its walls and ramparts...Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord himself, is the Rock eternal. Isaiah 26:1-4, NIV

Lord our God, help us find the path that we may walk with confidence because you are our Father. Banish all thoughts that try to depress us. Let your Spirit drive them away. May our hearts become quiet before you, because you, the Almighty, guide everything for man's good on earth. Everything will lead to thanksgiving, to your praise and glory. Be with us at all times, day and night. May our hearts always exult afresh, rejoicing in you, our God and our Savior. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, please help me today. I have many worries and sorrows. Take these from me and guide me as I face the unknown.

[bluidkiti]

February 11

To Help Others This Day

Heavenly Lord, I pray that this day, you will continue to bless me, that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. I pray for those that are lost and can’t find their way. I pray for those that are misjudged and misunderstood. I pray for those who don’t know you intimately. I pray that others will find your strength, so that they can love and help one another. I pray for those who don’t believe, that they may find you.

And when this world closes in on me, let me remember the example of my Lord and Savior: to slip away and find a quiet place to pray. Remind me, nudge me, let me remember to find you when I’m feel like I'm pushed beyond my limits. In Christ's name, I come to you, Amen.

Meditation

[Let me have words of encouragement for others.]

*****

As I travel through the rest of my day, may the God of hope fill me with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit I may abound in hope. Amen.

*****

Dear Heavenly Father, everyone has the same number of hours in a day. How I use mine will determine the person I become. ... Whether or not I take time to read Your Word and to listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit is a choice that I make daily. ... Help me to see that only by choosing Your way can I be transformed into the likeness of Jesus. ... Oh Lord, I want to choose life, and live it on Your terms.

In Your holy name I pray.

Amen.

© 2000 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Father, we pray that we may live cheerfully and patiently and positively both in sickness and in health. We bring before you all who are sick and all who care for them... Bring healing of one kind or another to those we know who are ill, afraid or worried. We think of those who suffer from constant sickness or weakness and those who never get well. Father, be with them all, and be with us. Amen

*****

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John 16:13, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, grant your Spirit to us, your children. May something from you be revealed on earth so that divine strength and divine truth, not what is only human, are with us in all we do. Keep courage alive in our hearts even when things look dark. May powers of peace and healing be revealed through us because you are near and your kingdom is all around us. You can do all things, also things beyond our understanding. With your help we do what we are able, but we cannot do what you do. We trust in you, and we believe that through your power and your Spirit you will take possession of our whole lives and the lives of the many who sigh in their hearts for absolute truth. Amen.

*****

In Time of Need

Heavenly Father, in my present need, help me to believe that you are aware of my anxiety and will do what is best for me. Give me the strength to trust you and put the present and future in your hands. Grant this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

*****

At the Start of Day
Psalms 118: 24
This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

[bluidkiti]

February 12

Prayer for the Morning

Oh Lord, most heavenly Father, Almighty and everlasting God, who has safely brought me to the beginning of this day; I give you thanks for my creation, preservation, and all the blessings of my life. Grant that this day I fall into no sin, neither run into any kind of danger; but that all my doings, being governed by your will, may be righteous in your sight. Through Christ our Lord, I pray. Amen.

*****

Chosen by God

LORD, your Word says that we are to be holy to you, because you are holy, and you have set us apart to be yours. LORD, thank you for choosing us as your treasured possession. You live in us, and walk among us. You are our GOD and we are your people – the sheep of your pasture. We are running over with thanksgiving because you are our Father, and we are your sons and daughters. We will keep our way pure by reading and living according to your Word in the name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

God our Father, open our eyes that we may sense the wonder and awe in the splendour of all your creation - from the stars that are large and far away, to people and the tiniest creatures near us each day. Help us to become more aware of how every living thing is special and to be treated well. Lead us to respect and value every person as unique and important, made in your image and likeness. We ask this prayer through Jesus, who became a human being because you love our world so much. Amen.

*****

Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you; but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:20, RSV

Dear Father in heaven, we thank you with all our hearts for showing your power in us and for overcoming so much that is hostile and that threatens to harm our life. We thank you for the countless wonders you do for our sake. We rejoice and thank you most of all for allowing us to know that you are writing our names in heaven. Where our names are, there we are too. Where our Lord Jesus Christ is, there we want to be too, and our words and our actions should come from him. Keep us faithful in this, and let us serve you with gladness on every path we tread. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for today. Please give me wisdom and guidance to help those who are in need. Please grant me the patience and understanding to deal with those who are less forgiving, for they are the ones who need help the most.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving me the Bible so I can understand Your ways. I also appreciate You giving me the understanding of the verses I read and study. Help me to live my live in accordance with Your Word. Please warn me Lord, when I am straying so that I can stay right on course with You. Help me to be disciplined to read and study the Bible daily. I need this discipline in my prayer life too. Please guide me as I read and guide my prayers so that I might pray the things that are on Your heart. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 13

Prayer of Thanks for God's Creation

O Lord God of Israel and God of the nations, you are the only God in heaven above or the earth below. I walk before you with all my heart. I bless your name in the morning when I rise and in the evening when I sleep, and all the day when your creation fills my eye. Bless me to remember you this day. When I see and hear the thousand miracles of your creation, let me see them anew, recalling that you have made them, and no other; that I may live in your presence among the common miracles I take for granted. Through Christ I pray, Amen.

Meditation

[I walk before God.]

*****

May I go in peace, with God and with his other children, and may we love one another as Christ taught us. May I follow the example of good men of old, and may God comfort and help me and all who believe in Him, both in this world and in the world which is to come. Amen.

*****

Health

In the name of Jesus I purpose to serve the LORD my God, and your blessing is on my food and water. You promised to take sickness from the midst of me. I am flooded with new life and vitality — spirit, soul and body. Depression that opposes soundness of mind has to leave me. Spiritual weakness and inferiority has no place in me. I prosper and am in health even as my soul prospers in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, I need mountaintop experiences - quiet times with You. I need Your inspiration and the in-filling of Your Holy Spirit to give me faith, confidence, strength, inner peace, joy and spiritual power! ... But Lord, my work for You has to be done in the valleys of life - in the "hum-drumness" of my daily chores, doesn't it? Help me to remember my mountaintops as You call me to hoe in Your vineyard, and to keep my joy so that others may see You in me.

In Jesus' name I pray.

Amen.
© 2003 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Almighty God, if I am uncertain, and tremble at the crossroads in doubt of the right way, may I wait and be led by thee, and follow on, even if the way be dark and rough. May I be faithful and have thy presence as thou promised at the end. Amen.

*****

God our Father, the Bible reminds us that your love for each of us is great and that you are faithful for ever, never letting us down or forgetting your promises to us. Inspire us to value friendship and loyalty, that we may be faithful to those who love and trust us. We pray that we may live in such a way that we may make others feel welcome and secure. Show us how to look upon other people in the same generous way that you look upon each of us. Extend our horizons that we may understand better those who are far from us. Amen.

*****

Take all that shall be brought upon thee: and in thy sorrow endure, and in thy humiliation keep patience. For gold and silver are tried in the fire, but acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation. Ecclesiasticus 2:4-5, DRA

Lord our God, we thank you for helping us again and again. Praised be your name for all you do for us and for all your help in many dangers and hardships! We trust you completely and have faith in you through Jesus Christ, the Savior. He reveals your grace everywhere, in every hardship, giving us the courage and freedom to look toward your kingdom. Help us remain courageous when we have to face suffering, for we want to be your disciples in Jesus Christ, the Crucified One. He has made suffering holy, that our suffering too may bear fruit for you in time and in eternity. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, thank you for this day. Please help me find joy so I may be able to share this joy with others.

[bluidkiti]

February 14

May the grace of Christ our Savior, and the Father's boundless love, with the Holy Spirit's favor, rest upon me, and all of us, from above. Thus may we abide in union, with each other and the Lord, and possess, in sweet communion, joys which earth cannot afford.

*****

Father, we read in the Bible that the best way to describe you is to use the word “Love”. Your love for mankind is so great that you sent Jesus, your Son, to live as one of us. We pray that we may appreciate and value one another. God of love, lead us to grow in love. Amen.

*****

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:1-5, NIV

Lord our God, keep us in the grace that is ours through Jesus Christ. Uphold others also in this grace. Reveal yourself everywhere to those who trust in you and who await your kingdom. May your blessing be on our household. We thank you for helping us, and with your help we want to be faithful to you. Then when hardships come, we can be certain of your presence. We know and trust you. We know and trust the Savior, and we know and trust the Holy Spirit, in whom we can have community and be strengthened to serve your glory. Amen.

*****

Heavenly father, we thank you for your great love that even when we do things contrary to your will, you always have mercy on us. When we are not faithful, you remain faithful, when we are not loving, you still love us. When we sin against you, you are always forgiving and cleansing us with your precious blood. Lord, help us to do your will and open our spiritual ears to always listen to your voice as we make all our plans and decisions in Jesus Mighty name…Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 15

For Each New Morning

For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food,
For love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.
I thank thee.
Amen.

*****

From a poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson)
For Increase in Wisdom

Dear God, I pray that I may proceed with boldness in the few things I know as a certainty, especially that my eternal salvation can come only from Christ Jesus; that He is my Lord and Savior; and that through my repentance of sin and my faith in Him, I will be saved. May I never shrink from your Great Commission, oh Lord, to share the Gospel with the world, so that those with ears to hear it might join me in salvation; for this is your express command to me, and to all Christians.

But also, I pray that my mind might be open and that I may always have an attitude of seeking and learning, for I realize that on many matters I might be wrong and not know it; or there may be wisdom that I do not even realize exists, awaiting discovery, as I live and grow in my walk with you. Give me grace through your Holy Spirit always to seek wisdom, to admit where I have been mistaken, even in attitudes I have held my entire life. Make me fresh every day in your word, Holy God; and let the light of your wisdom shine throughout the world, that we all might grow in our knowledge and love of you, throughout our lives. Amen.

Meditation

[May I be open to new wisdom and change of mind.]

*****

Now to Him who has given me grace in accordance with His gospel, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for many ages past, but now revealed and made known by the command of the eternal God, so that all mankind might find the obedience that comes from faith; to the only God, the God of wisdom and truth, be glory forever through His only son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

*****

Gracious Father, I pray that thou wilt control my impulses, and protect me from false interpretations. May I have wisdom, and search for the high and holy ways. Help me to be patient for thy purposes, and may my relations to life be triumphant in thy standards. Amen.

*****

God our Father, there are many difficulties and challenges in life, and we see or experience more of them each day we live. Give us the power of your Holy Spirit that we may have courage and determination, and may live in such a way that we encourage one another. Enable us to transform whatever is negative, and remain positive in attitude throughout our lives. Lighten our darkness and keep us safe. Amen.

*****

For this is what the high and exalted One says - he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite. Isaiah 57:15, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, we thank you that even in need and misery we may feel and know that you are with the weak, for you are mighty in helping your children. You give the weak strength to serve you in spite of all their faults and weaknesses. Make us glad at heart for everything we are allowed to do and experience, because it serves you, your glory, and your kingdom until the day when others also are given eyes to see. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 16

For a Heart Open to God's Word

God, as you gave us the sun to lighten our days, so you have given us your Word to lighten our minds and our souls. I pray that you will pour out on me your Spirit as I pray today, that my heart and mind may be opened to your Word, and that I may learn and accept your will for my life.

Shine within my heart, loving God, the pure light of your divine knowledge; open the eyes of my mind and the ears of my heart to receive your Word, this day and always, Amen.

*****

For Husbands

Father, thank you for husbands who take responsibility for their families just as Christ does for the church. We pray that they will hunger and thirst after righteousness, and be satisfied. They will have no need to be domineering, but cherishing. Each husband will go all out in his love for his wife, exactly as Christ did for the church – a love marked by giving not getting. Their children will be honored everywhere for they have a special heritage. Wealth and riches shall be in their houses and their generosity will never run dry. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

*****

For Wives

Father, thank you for godly wives who are beautiful inside, in their hearts, with the lasting charm of a gentle and quiet spirit that is so precious to you. We pray that they will seek first the Kingdom of God and his righteousness, and not worry about missing out on anything you’ve provided. Give them wisdom and spiritual understanding as they support their husbands in ways that show their support for Christ. Help each one be a blessing and receive blessings as she fits in with her husband’s plans. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord Jesus, You have said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, ..." meaning those who realize that they cannot do it alone. ... Help me to realize that I need You in my life each day; I need Your wisdom, and I need to know that Your love is constant and that Your grace is sufficient to sustain me. ... As I prepare for uncertain times ahead, help me to yield to Your sovereignty, to trust Your faithfulness, and to desire to serve You as I seek Your will for my life.

In Your holy name I pray. Amen.

© 1996 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord Jesus, as you touched the eyes of the blind man, touch us so that our eyes may be opened so that we can “really see” the many wonderful things around us and in our own lives. Amen.

*****

We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:12, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, open the door for us, we pray. Grant that we may come to you in spirit. Grant that in you we may find peace and courage for our whole lives. Lead us always by your Spirit. Help us to find your will on earth and grant us access to your heavenly powers, for alone we can do nothing. Strengthen our faith so that we can always serve you. Bless your Word in us. May our hearts be opened, for we are your children, O Lord our God, through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

*****

Father, as we come to You in prayer today we are thankful for a new day and the reminder of Your very being. So often in life we are lost when we are in need of making decisions regarding physical directions, emotional direction, or inner healing. We try and find our way, only to be even more lost than before. Will You quicken our heart today to think about Your powerful words that bring healing to every part of our being. It is only in You that we will find the needed direction in all areas of our lives. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 17

Prayer of Submission

Dear Lord, I give you my hands to do your work; I give you my feet to go your way; I give you my eyes to see as you see; I give you my tongue to speak your words; I give you my mind that you may think in me; I give you my spirit that you may pray in me. Above all, I give you my heart that you may love in me. I give you my whole self, Lord, that you may grow in me, so that it is you who lives, works and prays in me. Amen.

*****

As a little child, let me abide in you all this day, oh Christ, so that when you appear I may have confidence and not shrink from you in shame at your coming. For I know that you are righteous, and I am sure that I will be made righteous only by my life in you. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for today. Please be grant me the wisdom to help those who are in need. Give me the wisdom so I may help guide them in their journey.

*****

Strength for Today

LORD, you are my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in you, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to you. Thank you for arming me with strength and making my way perfect. In the name of Jesus I can face challenges with wisdom, understanding, intelligence and supernatural ability because your Word dwells in me richly. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

*****

A Holy Temple

Romans 12:1-2 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?query=Romans+12:1-2&t=NAS&sr=1)

Dear Father, dweller of my temple,

Please give me the mind of Christ and make my body a temple of the spirit of holiness which is his.

Make me holy through and through. May my whole spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless by your power until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I trust you to do this because you are the one who has called me, and you are faithful. Your word says that you will do it!

By the authority of Jesus and in his name I ask for this growth in grace. Amen.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you that You have guided me this far, and I trust You to continue to show me the right path to take and the right things I should do. I am asking for Your wisdom and counsel in all that I do. You are all wise and I can trust Your advice in all of my affairs. I need You, Lord, in every area of my life. Lord, give me the strength I need daily, as I work and serve You. I also ask that You touch my family and friends and all of my loved ones. Lord, also touch each one who reads this prayer that they may feel Your love and strength in their life today. Bless all of those that You have placed in my life. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

*****

Help Me to Stay Sober

Dear God, Thank you for this day. Help me to stay clean and sober, just for this day. Help me to recognize your hand in all things. Thank you for the blessings I understand and the ones I don't. Thank you for the miracles I see and the ones I don't. Thank you for your spirit who always abides in me. I ask that I may be with your spirit today. Cleanse my mind of all darkness and fill it with love and light. Let me be o.k. with this day no matter what it brings. Thank you for everything that's in my life and everything that's not.

[bluidkiti]

February 18

Oh God who has made me, oh God who keeps me, oh God who will be my Lord through all eternity, shine down Your blessings and wisdom upon me like the sun upon a field; and may I keep You in the forefront of my every thought and deed, throughout this day, and evermore. Amen.

*****

Benefits

Thank you, Father, for the wonderful benefits you have provided through the completed work of Jesus at Calvary: forgiveness, healing, and redemption. Thank you for crowning me with loving-kindness and tender mercies. I am strong and overcoming because you give me divine strength and ability. Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads me with benefits – day after day you carry me along. By your grace I will soar through my daily responsibilities as an eagle in the name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

God our Father, give us the power of your Spirit that we may see and love in others what you see and love in them. We want to see the positive in people and bring out the best in each other. It’s easy to say that, but not always easy to live it out, and so we ask you to help and inspire us to live as you would like us to live this day. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please give me the wisdom and patience to deal with others that may not be as understanding as they should be.

*****

For Joy in God's Creation

O Heavenly Father, who has filled the world with beauty; Open my eyes to behold your gracious hand in all your works; that rejoicing in your whole creation, I may learn to serve you with gladness, faithfully managing your bounty; for the sake of him by whom all things were made, your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

*****

For a Positive Attitude Today

Lord, as I offer you all that is ordinary and everyday in my life, I ask you to give me the power of your Spirit that I may transform each day by living with a positive attitude, looking for the best in people and situations. Inspire me to live in your presence every day so that I may have a full share of the hope only your Spirit can bring; lead me do the ordinary things of life in an extraordinary way, to your glory. Amen.

*****

Oh God, hold me in the palm of your hand. I pray that you will mold me into what you want me to be. May I joyfully fill the role you have given to me and feel your peace deep in my soul, today and always, Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 19

Martin Luther's Prayer for Morning

I give thanks to you, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ your dear Son, that you have protected me through the night from all danger and harm. I ask you to preserve and keep me, this day also, from all sin and evil, that in all my thoughts, words, and deeds I may serve and please you. Into your hands I commend my body and soul and all that is mine. Let your holy angels have charge of me, that the wicked one have no power over me. Amen.

Meditation

[Let us close our eyes for a minute and meditate on how God preserves us from evil.]

*****

Prayer for One's Home

Peace, unto this house, I pray,
Keep terror and despair away;
Shield it from evil and let sin
Never find lodging room within.
May never in these walls be heard
The hateful or accusing word.

Grant that its warm and mellow light
May be to all a beacon bright,
A flaming symbol that shall stir
The beating pulse of him or her
Who finds this door and seems to say,
“Here end the trials of the day.“

Hold us together, gentle Lord,
Who sit about this humble board;
May we be spared the cruel fate
Of those whom hatreds separate;
Here let love bind us fast, that we
May know the joys of unity.

Lord, this humble house we'd keep
Sweet with play and calm with sleep.
Help us so that we may give
Beauty to the lives we live.
Let Thy love and let Thy grace
Shine upon our dwelling place.
Amen.
by Edgar Guest

*****

Finally, let me go forth in thanks for the victory I have been given through our Lord Jesus Christ. May I be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, and always remembering that in the Lord our labor is not in vain. Amen.

*****

Life and Health

Father, I make my schedule around the reading and study of your Word – I meditate and keep your thoughts ever in mind; letting them penetrate deep within my heart. Your Word means real life for me, and radiant health. Your word dwells in me richly, and I avoid careless banter, white lies, and gossip. Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to be my Helper and Teacher. In the name of Jesus I release all the cares of this life upon you, for you care for me and provide for me abundantly. Amen.

*****

God our Father, I thank you today for those people whom I will never know who make my life better for what they offer - those far away, and those very near. More and more may I come to appreciate and respect everyone who is a part of my life. Amen.

*****

Value of Interdependence

Romans 12:3-8 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?query=Romans+12:3-8&t=NAS&sr=1)

Dear Father, who wills our interdependence,

Having gifts that differ, let us use them appropriately according to your will.
If prophesy, in proportion to one's faith. If service, diligently serving. If teaching, instructively teaching. If exhortation, strongly motivating encouragement. If giving, with liberal and generous contributions. If giving aid, with zeal. If acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
Great Giver, give your gifts to your people through your people. But let us always give you the glory! Praise to you, our Lord.
It is in the name of Jesus, who shares all spiritual blessings with us, we ask for a growing love among all your people. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For A Faithful Finish”

Father, all the goals and strategies that I set for my life culminate in the blessing of knowing that as I press on I will eventually hear You say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary….I will give the right to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.” You grant the eternal prize for remaining steadfast and faithful in my walk on earth. Others in this world may earn titles and win prizes for worthy earthly pursuits, but the greatest prize that I will ever obtain is my entrance into heaven where I will see you face to face. And amazingly it was not because I earned it but because of Your merciful pardon of my sin. May my outlook be bright today as I fix my heart not on what is seen but on that which is unseen. I run toward the finishing line which will only be visible as I cross over to heaven. I thank You for Jesus who made it possible and it is in His name that I pray. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please give me the wisdom to understand that I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one person.

*****

Thus we have come to know and believe the love which God has for us. God is love; he who dwells in love is dwelling in God, and God in him. 1 John 4:16, NEB

Lord our God, we come to you as poor, heavily burdened people who often do not know where to turn. But we have trust in you, for you are love. Your love penetrates deep into our lives, righting what is wrong and making amends for our blundering. And so we are joyful and await your grace and your help on all our ways. Bless us, and help us find what is right in every situation, to your praise and your honor. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 20

What a Great Morning

Holy God, thank you for giving me another morning! I am lucky to be alive on your beautiful planet, so full of marvelous things and the beautiful plants and animals and all the people you have created in your image. Fill me with your Holy Spirit, now and all day long, until I go to sleep, because I want to live with you every minute of this day.

The time and opportunities I have right now will never return, so help me make the best of it, Lord. And let me remember this one thing: You know what you are doing, whether I can see it or not; so I will try to remember today that you are in charge, that you put me here for a reason and that, by your grace, things will turn out with your triumph and the Kingdom of Heaven, for all those who live by your grace. All praise to you forever, Amen.

Meditation

[Let us close our eyes for a minute and meditate on God being in charge.]

*****

For the Clergy and All Who Minister in Christ’s Name

Almighty God, the giver of all good gifts, in your divine providence you have appointed various orders in your Church: Give your grace, I humbly pray, to all who are called to any office and ministry for your people; and so fill them with the truth of your doctrine and clothe them with holiness of life, that they may faithfully serve before you, to the glory of your great Name and for the benefit of the church of all faithful people, now and until the end of days. Amen.

*****

Holy God, I pray to be filled with your Holy Spirit for the rest of this day. Let me go forth, walking with your Spirit in my heart, that I may be filled with the joy and energy and praise for your entire creation, thankful in the many gifts you have given me, and showing forth your light in my every word and deed. This I pray in Christ's name, Amen.

*****

Jesus is Lord

Jesus, you are my LORD. You are my light and my salvation, I shall not be afraid. You are my sufficiency, my Redeemer, Provider, Sanctifier, Protector, Healer and Victory! You are El Shaddai. You are more than enough for every challenge I face, for every decision I must make, for the questions I need answered, for the adjustments I need to make. You are everything to me, my Lord and Savior. I trust you – lean and rely on you. LORD, you are good; my refuge and counsel are in you. Amen.

*****

God our Father, we pray that we may grow in such a way as to be welcoming to other people, and generous in every way to those people we don’t agree with. Lead us to appreciate others in the same way that we would like to be appreciated. Never let us look down on others, or consider anyone to be less than ourselves. Show us how to be open-minded and able to learn from each other so that, together, we may grow as the people you invite us to be. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For Seed Planters”

Father, help us to remain faithful in planting Your seed of salvation to those who have not yet bowed their knee, to those who have not yet confessed with their tongue that Jesus Christ is Lord. Whenever we open our mouths, may words be given to us so that we will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel to those who have not yet heard. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

*****

My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in. Proverbs 3:11-12, NIV

Lord our God, we thank you that in spite of all the evil, we may look toward the good and toward a change for the better. For your love, your Spirit of love, can be with us. In spite of all that has gone wrong, we can change. Through genuine faith we can become worthy in your sight. Everything can turn to the good. The nations can become glad, rejoicing in life because you are working among them to help them change. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, Please grant me peace so I can face the day with a clear mind and calm heart.

*****

Prayer for Friends

You have created us to live in community,
O God of love;
bless our friends who provide us
with the grace and love of an extended family.
Endow them with the riches of your blessings:
good health, sight, and mobility,
that they may enjoy the wonders of your creation
and share their delight with others.
Bless them with keen minds and compassionate hearts
that they may create a better life for all.
Guard them from injustice, oppression, and evil
that they may know freedom and hope lifelong.
In their waking and in their sleeping,
in their laughter and in their tears,
surround them with your love
until the end of their days;
and so bring them to eternal life in peace.
Through Jesus Christ, our Savior.
Amen.

- Vienna Cobb Anderson

*****

Dear Father, I am blessed today to be one of Your children. I appreciate Your handiwork in all that You have created. I stand in awe that You made it all for mankind so that they might enjoy it and be blessed in it. Thank you for the beauty of the mountains, the glorious sunsets and the blue skies with those patches of little white clouds on a nice day. Thank you that I have eyes to see all of Your great artistic work in the creation of the earth. Lord, forgive me when I am tempted to complain about anything. I really have nothing to complain about when I have the Creator of the whole universe as my Father and friend. May I be a good friend to You and serve You faithfully every day of my life. Use me today to bless and help others. I ask this in Your Son's name. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For Praising The Lord”

Father, from the time we awaken to the time we lie down we declare that You are worthy to be praised! Your name is exalted far above the earth, Your worth much greater than any jewels. Help us not to be people who use the same tongue for cursing and praises. Instead we engage our mind, surrender our hearts and employ our tongue to praise You, our Lord and Father. Be glorified in our lives so that we bring praise and glory to You this day and each day. Amen.

*****

Give Us Grateful Hearts
Give us grateful hearts, O Father,
for all thy mercies, and
make us mindful of the needs of others;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 21

Prayer of St. Jerome

Lord, thou hast given us thy Word for a light to shine upon our path; grant us so to meditate on that Word, and to follow its teaching, that we may find in it the light that shines more and more until the perfect day; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

*****

Prayer of Resolve

I bind myself to you this day, oh Christ, in your truth and in your sacrifice. I give to you my anxiety and my fear, my depression and my doubt, for you have promised to take them if we only ask; and I take upon myself your burden, for it is light and your way is gentle. May I keep this in my heart and mind all this day. Amen.

*****

Spiritual Armor

In the name of Jesus, I arm myself with the full armor of God; armor, which God has supplied for me…the helmet of salvation…loins girded with truth…feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace…the shield of faith…and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. With God’s armor on, I am able to stand up against all the strategies, deceits and fiery darts of the devil. I am more than a conqueror through him who loves me. Amen.

*****

Living in Harmony

Romans 12:16-21 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?query=Romans+12:16-21&t=NAS&sr=1)

Dear Father, God of the lowly,

Help me live in harmony with others - without haughtiness, without conceit, willing to associate with the lowly.

Help me to repay no one evil for evil, but to take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.

As far as it depends on me, let me live peaceably with everyone.

Let me seek no revenge for myself, but leave it to your wrath, O God. Help me, Father, not to be overcome with evil, but to overcome evil with good.

In the name and authority of Jesus I boldly come, asking these things according to his will. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, thank you for this day. Give me the wisdom to know that even if I am on the right path I won't go anywhere if I don't move.

*****

Dear Father, I bless Your wonderful name! Thank you that You have been merciful and patient with me, as I have failed You many times, and yet, You heard my prayers of repentance and have kept me in Your favor. I love you, Lord. Help me to continue in Your way, even when it is hard at times. I know the devil's way is harder. When we have You, we can overcome anything. Lord, bless Your people today and forgive us all. Keep us from the wicked one and let us remember that the Greater One lives in us, so we are never to fear the enemy. Thank you for giving us all overcoming faith. I ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 22

Prayer for the Morning

I call upon you, O Lord. In the morning you hear me; in the morning I offer you my prayer, watching and waiting.

I lift my heart to you, O Lord, to be strengthened for this day. Be with me in all I do, my God; guide me in all my ways.

I will carry some burdens today; some trials will be mine. So I wait for your help, Lord, lest I stumble and fall.

I will do my work, Father, the work begun by your Son. He lives in me and I in him; may his work today be done. Amen.

Meditation

[May the work of Jesus Christ be done in me today.]

*****

For Those in Financial Difficulty

Lord God, I remember and pray for all those suffering severe financial problems; the unemployed, the homeless, the bankrupt, the hungry, and those in desperate fear of such problems; people who are deep in debt, not to be able to pay bills, who are losing or have lost possessions to foreclosure, or who have to watch their dependents go without things they need. I open my heart to them. I pray that your Holy Spirit will be with them, that they find comfort in utter trust and faith in you, and that their anxieties be alleviated by certainty of your love. And if it is your will, I pray that they can find a way out of their difficulties, into financial stability.

And finally, I pray that I not close my eyes to them; and that I not judge those in pain, however they might have acted; but instead, that I might love them as your have loved me, despite my faults. And if it is your will, that I might do what I can to ease their pain. In the name of Christ, who loved us so perfectly, I pray, Amen.

*****

Oh Heavenly Father, in whom I live and move and have my being, I humbly pray you so to guide and govern me by your Holy Spirit, that in all the joys, occupations, and cares of this day I may never forget you, but remember that I am ever walking in your sight. In Christ's name, I pray, Amen.

*****

My Father, may my daily work not be the means of separating me from thee, but may I have thee for my companion through my work. Forbid that I should ever submit to despair from weakness of body, but that I may be blest and grow strong as my spirit lives in thee. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For Persecuted Christians”

Father, You are my light and my salvation so why should I be afraid? You protect me from danger so why should I be nervous? When evil people seek to destroy me; when my enemies attack me, they will stumble and fall at Your command. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will be steadfast. Even if they attack me, I remain confident that You are watching over me. My heart’s desire is to be in Your presence where I praise You by meditating on Your truths. I find comfort in Your merciful provisions. In the day of trouble You will keep me safe. You will hide me in the shelter of Your tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then I will hold my head high, above my enemies who surround me. Through it all I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord. Help me to wait for You, Lord, to be strong and take heart, as I wait for You. I will see Your mighty hand of provision here on this side or I will view You in all Your majesty on the other side where You reign supreme. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for always hearing my prayers. I ask only that you grant me wisdom to follow your will so I do not head down the wrong path.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, how grateful I am that You have made such wonderful things for us to feast on, at Your table. It is so wonderful to understand Your Word and to know the presence of the Holy Spirit. I do need Your help in building and setting in order the things in my life. Give me Your wisdom for the task. I also need Your love and Your strength to carry out those things, that You have spoken to me to do. Lord, I want to be a blessing today, as I labor in Your Kingdom. Help me to represent You well, and to be good and kind to all of those in my house and office, and all that I meet, as well. Thank you for Your love and watch care over me and all of my family and loved ones. Bless Your people all over the world. I ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 23

Sunday Prayer of Praise to God's Glory

Heavenly God, you are the King eternal, immortal and invisible. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God; the same yesterday, today, and forever.

In times long past did you lay the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands: Yet they will perish, but you will endure; yes, all of them will grow old like a garment, as a coat you will change them, and they will be changed; but you are the same, and your years will have no end.

You alone are God, and do not change; and because of this, we may hope to be preserved. Are you not from eternity, O Lord our God, our Holy One? The everlasting God, even the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, who does not faint nor grow weary? There is no searching out your understanding, mighty Lord, but by our praise we may glorify your Holy Name, now and all our lives. Amen.

*****

Confession

Have mercy on me, Oh Lord, for I am a humble and miserable sinner. [At this point, pause to remember specific sins you have committed during the week and speak or think them.] I renounce all of these sins, heavenly Father, and repent of them, and I promise to make every effort not to repeat them.

Have mercy on me, pardon me for these offences and any I might have omitted from forgetfulness or ignorance; in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, I pray for forgiveness. And I pray that your Holy Spirit may dwell with me today and throughout the coming week, to comfort me, to give me strength against temptation, and to guide me into the path of righteousness. Amen.

*****

Prayer for Peace

Grant, O God, that your holy and life-giving Spirit may so move every human heart, that barriers which divide us may crumble, suspicions disappear and hatreds cease; that our divisions being healed, we may live together in justice and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

*****

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted me as a living member of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have blessed me with the grace of forgiveness through the sacrifice He made for me and for all people. Send me now into the world in peace, and grant me strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

*****

God of Israel, I pray that you would bless me and bless me indeed, and enlarge my territory, that your hand would be with me, and that you would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain! In the name of Jesus, I ask and I shall receive, I seek and I shall find, I knock and the door shall be opened. In my life be glorified. Amen.

*****

Lord God, I pray that I may not neglect the help and happiness that I may give with compassion and love. Make me strong in all the senses that answer to the call of humanity. Help me to guide and protect little children, and to care for the comforts of the old. Amen.

*****

Lord Jesus, I ask you to enter my life in a new way this day that I may grow in stature and wisdom and grace as the person you call me to be. Inspire me to follow you more closely and help me to live in such a way that I encourage others and bring life to them. No one is small in your eyes; let no one be small in mine. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for today. Please guide me to say the right things when sharing your word with others.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving me the Bible, so that I can learn and grow in wisdom, by studying Your Words. I do appreciate it when You correct me. Thank You for giving me a teachable spirit. Lord, also give me discernment as to when I need to open my mouth and speak the truth to someone, and when I need to be silent and just pray. Lord, give me the holy boldness, to speak up when You tell me someone needs a Word or a prayer. I do want to let my light shine so that others might know that You are real, and that You are a loving God. I give You my life afresh today, strengthen me to be what You want me to be. I ask this in Your son Jesus' name. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 24

For a Steady Mind While at Prayer

O Lord, take from me idleness of spirit, which destroys time; and vanity of thought, which hinders Your presence and distracts my attention to prayer. And if, while in prayer, I turn away from You in my thoughts, help me to return to my purpose; so that I might not avert my heart from You, during the few precious moments I dedicate to talking with You.

And grant me this day, dear Lord, that You may never be completely out of my thoughts. Let me carry you as a voice to guide my every step as I slip down the path of this precious day, that I might always remember Your will, and lighten the world around me. Help me to make every moment of my day, every word from my mouth, a prayer, that I might live in Your presence. Amen.

Meditation

[Make every word from my mouth a prayer.]

*****

All through this day, O Lord, by the power of your quickening Spirit, let me touch the lives of others for good, whether through the word I speak, the prayer I speak, or the life I live. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, remind me that man can never travel far enough in space to go beyond the boundaries of Your love. ... Even though I cannot see the wind, I can believe it's there because of its effects. ... Just so, I can believe in You because I see Your love and concern in all that You have provided for us in Your creation. ... Help me, Lord, to reflect Your love so that others may desire to know You too, for I often feel inadequate.

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

© 1999 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

I thank you, Lord, for knowing me better than I know myself. I thank you for letting me know myself better than others know me. Make me, I ask you then, better than they suppose I am, and forgive me for what they do not know.

*****

Dear Lord, please help me to remember that it is not what I say, but what I do that speaks the loudest.

*****

“A Prayer For An Attitude Of Rejoicing”

Father, we’re told to do everything without complaining, so that we shine like stars in the universe. We know that people are drawn to light where brightness is present and warmth is extended. Help our conversation to be full of grace, tenderness, light, and truth so that we will positively affect those around us. May we be as a sweet aroma to You and those whom we meet on our life’s journey. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

[bluidkiti]

February 25

God of mercy, swift to help: as my lips pour forth your praise, fill my heart with the peace you give to those who wait for your salvation in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

*****

Lord God, help me to lay my life in the rocks of thy foundation, and not in moving sands which are tossed from shore to shore. May I cling to the rock that was cleft for me and trust for thy care. Amen.

*****

Spirit of Generosity

Romans 13:9 (http://www.biblestudytools.com/search/?query=Romans+13:9&t=NAS&sr=1)

Dear Father, generous giver,

Love sees needs and shares resources. How lacking I am in this regard. Please forgive me and make me better. Give a spirit of generosity not only to me, but also to my spouse, my children, and my whole extended family - also to my spiritual family, your church. Help all of us to be giving people, because you are a giving God. Move us to serve a needy world.

I praise you and thank you for all your mercies. You are so bountiful in your gifts. I love you, good and gracious God. I love your Son. I love your Spirit. I love your people. I love the lost. My prayer is to love you and them more.

In the name of Jesus and with the Spirit's help, I ask these things. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please grant me the wisdom to lead by one example at a time.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for today and all that you do. I love you Lord with all my heart. Please help me show this love to others as I go about the day.

[bluidkiti]

February 26

Prayer for Guidance

Lord, teach me to number my days aright, that I may gain wisdom of heart. Help me do today the things that matter, not to waste the time I have.

The moments I have are precious, Lord, see that I count them dear. Teach me to number my days aright. Fill me this day with your kindness, that I may be glad and rejoice all the days of my life. Through Christ I pray, Amen.

*****

Because Of You

Because you picked me up, when I struggled to get through.
Because you healed my heart, when it was thrown and shattered.
Because you gave me hope, when it seemed so out of reach.
Because you filled me with peace, when chaos flowed through my veins.
Because you showed me the light, when there was only darkness.
Because you gave me comfort, when my voice cried out in pain.
Because you reassured me, when the doubts screamed in my head.
Because you kept me going, when there seemed nowhere to go.
Because you sustained me with strength, when weakness became all I knew.

Because you came and stayed, when everyone else turned around and left.
Because you gave me a purpose, when life seemed so pointless.
Because you restored my happiness, when life seemed to snatch it away.
Because you filled this emptiness, when the void echoed with loneliness.
Because you helped me let it all go, when I gripped the tightest to hold on.
Because you showed me the beauty of life, when the world showed me nothing but hate and corruption.
Because you gave me a better life, when the old one fought to come back.
Because I am nothing without you, nothing but a hopeless being.
Because only You could tear down my wall of pride, and instead build it back up with love and humbleness.

Because of all this, I give you my life Lord.
I will put all my fears and failures in Your hands, my worries that consume me, my pain that destroys me.
You were always there, even when I rejected You.
Because of all You are, my life, oh God, is yours.
Amen.

~ Jacqueline Burciaga

*****

Dedication to Faith in Christ

The Almighty Lord, who is a strong tower to all those who put their trust in him, to whom all things in heaven, in earth, and under the earth, do bow and obey; Be now and evermore my defense; and make me know and feel, that there is no other Name under heaven given to man, in whom, and through whom, I may receive health and salvation, but only the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord Jesus, forgive me for hurrying through life, often too busy to take time to "know" You, to really listen to the Holy Spirit's leading. Help me to get my priorities straight, then everything else will fall into place, won't it?

In Your holy name I pray.

Amen.
© 2000 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord, be the foundation on which I build my life. May my door be wide enough that I may be welcoming, inviting others to grow. May my door be narrow enough to keep out what is not good. May I build no walls that keep anyone out, but build your Kingdom together with all whom you give me as my brothers and sisters - valuing all who are a part of my life. May I live in such a way that those “who trespass against” me - who hurt me - may know my forgiveness and generosity - as I know yours. Surround me with your love and shield me from all harm. Amen.

*****

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1–2, NIV

Lord God Almighty, Lord our God, our refuge for ever and ever, bless us as we gather in your presence and turn to you. May we be your children, who can simply believe and stand firm in our lives and in our calling. We thank you for giving us your grace and constant help. In your grace we can be joyful, praising and honoring you. You are our Father. You never forsake us. May your name be praised by us all. May your name be praised above and in the whole world so that all people may acknowledge you and receive what they need from you. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, please grant me the wisdom to understand that failing at something is just another opportunity to start again. Please help me to never give up.

[bluidkiti]

February 27

For a Cheerful Disposition in All I Do Today

Holy God, who has filled me with the joy of your grace and salvation, assist me this day that I may do all things I am called to do without grumbling or disputing. I call on your Spirit to assist me, that I may be blameless and innocent, a child of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation.

Let me follow holy Christ and all his saints: Let me shine as a light, a beacon in a world where darkness seeks to overcome us in every thing and at every moment. And help me to hold fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ's return I may be proud that I did not strive in vain.

I pray this not for my own glory, but in all humility before you, to whom be all glory and honor, Amen.

Meditation

[Let me shine as a beacon in a world where darkness seeks to overcome us]

*****

Prayer for Those Who Have Turned Away

Grant, O Lord, peace, love and speedy reconciliation to your people whom You have redeemed with your precious blood. Make your presence known to those who have turned away from You and do not seek You, so that none of them may be lost, but all may be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth, so that everyone, in true love and harmony, O long-suffering Lord, may praise your all holy Name. Amen.

*****

Dedication (from St. Teresa of Avila)

May it please you, my good Lord, that there may come a day when I can repay a little of my great debt to you. O Jesus, strengthen my soul, you who are good above all good; and since you have inclined my soul in this way, show me how I may act for you, whatever it may cost, O Lord. Here is my life, my honor and my will; I have given them all to you and they are yours: use me to do whatever you want. Amen.

*****

Dear Heavenly Father, some can pray short prayers and see results. Remind me that they may have spent hours in Your Word and in quiet meditation, awaiting Your guidance. They are "prayed up." When a crisis comes they KNOW how to pray in Your will because they KNOW You. ... Oh Lord, help me to see that I need to spend time in Your Word daily. Help me, lest I give You cause to say, "I never knew you."

In Jesus' name we pray

Amen.

© 1999 by D. L. Hammond, Permission to copy granted for noncommercial use.

*****

Lord God, I pray that I may not neglect my soul in trying to fathom immortal life. If I may be hesitating between comfort and work, remind me of the greatness of the place which I started to reach. May I not grow weary of climbing and falter on the stair. Breathe upon me thy inspiration and love, that I may continue in faith all the way. Amen.

*****

Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown. Revelation 2:10, NIV

Lord our God, we come into your presence. Hear our prayers, we entreat you. Let your will be done among us; let your will be done for each one of us individually, and for our time. Let everything go according to your will, even if the way leads through tribulation, fear, and need. For in the end your goal will be reached. In the end you will fulfill your purpose, and your kingdom will come. Your kingdom will come to the honor of your name and for the redemption of all people still suffering on earth. Let your Word bring us blessing. May we go forward joyfully in the patience of Jesus Christ until times change, until a new day dawns and we are allowed to see your glory and your peace. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, thank you for this day. Help me as I face the unknown for I am afraid and fear I may get lost.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, You truly are the "Pearl of Great Price." I am so glad that I found You. There is nothing in this world that compares to Your beauty! Lord, even the times in my life that have been the most difficult, I have never doubted Your love for me, as You have always been there. I have not always understood certain things that have happened, but I really do not have to understand everything. I trust that You know what is best for me, and I know as I yield to You, You will show me how to overcome all the troubling things that confront me. Show me how to overcome the attacks of the enemy. Thank you that You deliver Your righteous people. Bless and strengthen Your people every where. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, thank you for this day. I ask that my weaknesses do not lead others to stray. Please give me the wisdom to make the right choices and lead by example.

[bluidkiti]

February 28

Prayer for the Morning

Blessed are you, O Lord my God, King of the universe, who removes sleep from my eyes, that I may see the returning light of the your day. I thank you for all that you have done while I was asleep, watching over me and all your children while we slept unaware, and I pray that my thoughts and acts this day may show forth my love and thanks for you and all you have done for me.

Help me through your Holy Spirit, that I may remember what you have taught me in the Bible and it may show forth in my every deed. Let me not wander into the hands of sin, nor into the hands of pride or perversity, nor into the hands of temptation, nor into the hands of shame, but steer my inclinations towards goodness and charity this morning and all the day. In the name of Christ I pray. Amen.

Meditation

[Steer my inclinations towards goodness.]

*****

Prayer for Strength

Holy Lord God, I truly want to carry your truth into the world as you have commanded us to do, and to live every moment of my life in your Holy Spirit. But sometimes I feel weak and discouraged, like it is too much for me.

Let me always remember your words, that we should put on your armor and be strong, not in our own power, but in the strength of your might. Help me to stop calling on my own power and learn to call upon the power of your Spirit, that dwells always within me and loves me, and waits only to be called. For I am weak, but your strength know no limit, and it is mine to have in your service. Embolden and empower me to fight evil wherever I may find it, and to tell the world of your grace in Christ Jesus. Amen.

*****

May the God of hope fill me and all of us with the joy and peace that comes from believing, so that we may abound in hope, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

*****

Almighty God, look upon me with pity; so often I have obeyed the thoughts that have been misleading and profitless. Make me more careful of what I think and say, and may I learn from my mistakes the forbidden paths. Help me to keep my mind in unity with thy will. Amen.

*****

For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth. Psalm 57:10-11, NIV

Dear Father in heaven, we thank you that you have always been gracious to us, revealing your great goodness and power in ages past and in the present. In this revelation we live, O Lord our God. You are the almighty One, who works wonders on earth and who rules the heavens so that we can be blest and helped on our earthly paths. Let your goodness and your justice be revealed throughout all the world. Arise, O Lord our God. Let your light shine in us who believe in you. Let your light shine into the whole world. Let your name be glorified. You are indeed our Father, both in heaven and on earth. You give our lives security now and in eternity. Amen.

*****

Dear Father, thank you for hearing my prayer. Please help me today for I am full or worry and dread. Help me know that you will be here with me when I need guidance the most.

*****

Dear heavenly Father, thank you that I am able to work. Lord, You know that I get weary at times, but each time I call on You for strength, I am able to complete my daily tasks. Lord, I pray for love and kindness to come to the work places of the world. Lord, let there be just practices in the market place. May we all work so as to please You and bring glory to Your name. Help us to also find our place in Your Kingdom, so that we might help by bringing in the harvest of souls that need Jesus. Let us pray and give to send others, or go ourselves. Empower each of Your children to do their part to see that people come to Christ. Let us work while it is day. I ask this in Your name. Amen.

*****

Dear Lord, our time on earth is short. Please help me realize that it is not the amount of time, but the quality of the time I spend that counts.

[bluidkiti]

February 29

Dear heavenly Father, I love you today and am grateful for all of Your goodness to me. Please forgive me when I have not spoken kindly of others. Help me to guard my mouth from speaking any kind of evil. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your site. Lord, I cancel all words that I have spoken that have not agreed with the Word of God. I also cancel all evil words that have been spoken against me, my family or my ministry. Lord, please forgive those who would speak amiss against us. May Your people everywhere be careful to guard their tongues. Help us all to speak Your words and to be gracious and kind to one another. I ask this in the Holy name of Jesus. Amen.

*****

“A Prayer For Having Our Treasure In Heaven”

Father, the longer we live the more we realize that treasures we store up here on earth grow old, get broken, need fixed, turn rusty and are often lost along the way. But when we gather treasures of the heart such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and many other such fruit, they are treasures that are most useful in our spiritual treasure chest here on earth. And their virtuous character transfers with us to the other side. Help us not to seek after treasures that expire but rather treasures that have lasting eternal value, for where our treasure is there our heart is also. We want to keep our focus upward so that our heart’s longings are there as well. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.

*****

George Washington's Monday Morning Prayer

O eternal and everlasting God, I presume to present myself this morning before thy Divine majesty, beseeching thee to accept of my humble and hearty thanks, that it hath pleased thy great goodness to keep and preserve me the night past from all the dangers poor mortals are subject to, and has given me sweet and pleasant sleep, whereby I find my body refreshed and comforted for performing the duties of this day, in which I beseech thee to defend me from all perils of body and soul.

Direct my thoughts, words and work. Wash away my sins in the immaculate blood of the lamb, and purge my heart by thy Holy Spirit, from the dross of my natural corruption, that I may with more freedom of mind and liberty of will serve thee, the ever lasting God, in righteousness and holiness this day, and all the days of my life. In the name of Holy Christ, I pray, Amen.

~ From the Prayer Journal of George Washington

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A Lenten Prayer

Almighty God, whose blessed Son was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan; Come quickly to help me, who is assaulted by many temptations; and, as you know the weaknesses of myself and all people, let all of your servants find you mighty to save; in Jesus name I pray, Amen.

*****

To Witness Boldly

Dear Heavenly Father, I lower my head before you and confess that I have too often forgotten that I am your child. Too often, I carry on my life as if you do not exist, falling far short of being a bold witness to You. For this, I ask your forgiveness, and I pray that you will give me strength, courage, a clear mind and an open heart when you call upon me to witness to your mighty love. Remind me always to strive to be who You would have me be, no matter where I am, or what I am doing, or who I am with. Make me into your lantern, precious Lord, and let your light shine through me so bright that all can see it. Amen.

*****

Meditation

[What parts of the Bible does my mind find reasons to reject?]

Benediction

Now all glory to God, who is able to keep me from falling away and will bring me with great joy into his glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to him who alone is God, our Savior through Jesus Christ our Lord. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are his before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time, Amen.

*****

Lord God, help me to realize the influence of the individual life. And as I would care for my own, may I seek to do for others; and may I not criticize, but help all who are trying to make the world better. Amen.

*****

Righteous Father, please help me to know Jesus better, to be formed more perfectly into his image, and to live with his character. Please, dear God, I want to be like Christ in my character and conduct. I want to be a genuine disciple and become more and more like my great Teacher everyday. It is in his name, Jesus Christ, that I pray. Amen.