Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

thank you for new beginnings

O Lord, thank you for new beginnings.

You have just given us a moment where the earth stood still, where the nights were longest and the light just fleeting. Now each day is longer, brighter than the one before. We turn the page on our calendars, saying good riddance to baggage and hello to resolution.

This amazing gift, Lord, is embedded in our Universe. We thank you for new beginnings.

Each month, by your design, the moon is full then new again.

The seasons are marked by death and rebirth.

Each day, we go to sleep at night in darkness, confident that the morning will bring light, hope and the opportunity to start with a clean slate – worry free.

If we need even more reminders, we have the tides… high, low, high, low… twice each day each.

All by your design. You give us rebirth. Reawakening. Renewal. Thank you Lord.

You have made it impossible to not notice you Lord. The very fabric of our existence screams out your vow of redemption.

But if somehow our eyes and ears remain closed to the signs around us, you reached further and gave us the greatest gift of all, the everlasting sign of your promise and hope, your son Jesus.

Thank you Lord. We humbly and gratefully accept these gifts today. Today is a day to begin again.

Amen


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RUNNING THE RACE


With the new year just days away, my heart was drawn to this verse in Philippians 3:13-14 where Paul tells us how we should treat 2010.

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. 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."

May this be our prayer today, based on this Scripture.

Dear Lord, the longer I live, the more I respect Your servant Paul. He narrowed his focus to encompass only that which was eternal. Lord, teach me to live with a heavenly perspective and a heavenward goal. Even now, my desire is to say with Paul ~~ This one thing I do ~~ Teach me to leave behind peripheral distractions and to fix my eyes on the goal as I seek to run the race you have set before me.

There are failures, disappointments, health issues, and attitudes that I experienced in 2009 ~~ Today, I want to learn from them and then leave them behind, and fix my eyes on Jesus and press on to the goal of pleasing Him in 2010. Will you join me in this prayer?

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Lord, prop us up on our leaning side.




Every time I am asked to pray, I think of the old deacon who always prayed, "Lord, prop us up on our leanin' side." After hearing him pray that prayer many times, someone asked him why he prayed that prayer so fervently.

He answered, "Well sir, you see, it's like this. I got an old barn out back. It's been there a long time; it's withstood a lot of weather; it's gone through a lot of storms, and it's stood for many years.

It's still standing. But one day I noticed it was leaning to one side a bit.

So I went and got some pine poles and propped it up on its leaning side so it wouldn't fall.

Then I got to thinking about that and how much I was like that old barn. I've been around a long time.

I've withstood a lot of life's storms. I've withstood a lot of bad weather in life, I've withstood a lot of hard times, and I'm still standing too. But I find myself leaning to one side from time to time, so I like to ask the Lord to prop us up on our leaning side, 'cause I figure a lot of us get to leaning at times.

Sometimes we get to leaning toward anger, leaning toward bitterness, leaning toward hatred, leaning toward cussing, leaning toward a lot of things that we shouldn't . So we need to pray, 'Lord, prop us up on our leaning side, so we will stand straight and tall again, to glorify the Lord."

Amen

- Anonymous


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lost and found

But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found. (Luke 15:32)

Lord, can you forgive me?

This will sound like a movie you have seen over and over again, but I have sinned against heaven and against you. In my thoughts and actions. In what I have done and what I have failed to do. I am unworthy of your love.

Too many times, Lord, my eyes have been closed and my ears shut. I have put entertainment, ambition and spiritual apathy above your mission. It could be easy to stay away… pass through the wide gate… continue down the broad road.

But then I hear these words. Good news of great joy that will be for all people. And I understand that when you say all people, you still mean me. And I am humbled.

Lord please forgive me. I want to come home. Again.

Amen


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A DIARY OF PRIVATE PRAYER

Two books have been very helpful in my prayer life over the years. One is my Worship Bible which has prayers that help you put a passage or verse into a prayer. I love these as they are simple, and in everyday language.


On the other hand, the book that has touch me so very deeply in my prayer life is just the opposite. It's old English. It was published the year I was born, 1941 and the Diary of Private Prayer by John Baillie are profound in substance. Today I will share one of his daily prayers.

"O God, ever blessed, who hast given me the night for rest and the day for labour and service, grant that the refreshing sleep of the night now past may be turned to Thy greater glory in the life of the day now before me. Let it breed no slothfulness within me, but rather send me to more diligent action and more willing obedience.


Teach me, O God, so to use all the circumstances of my life today that they may bring forth in me the fruits of holiness rather than the fruits of sin.


Let me use disappointment as material for patience:
Let me use success as material for thankfulness:
Let me use suspense as material for perseverance:
Let me use danger as material for courage:
Let me use reproach as material for longsuffering:
Let me use praise as material for humility:
Let me use pleasure as material for temperance:
Let me use pains as material for endurance.


O Lord Jesus Christ, who for the joy that was set before Thee didst endure the Cross, despising the shame, and art now set down at the right hand of the throne of God, let me consider Thee who didst endure such contradiction of sinners against Thyself, lest I be wearied and faint in my mind.


Holy God, I would remember before Thee all my friends and those of my own household, beseeching Thee that in Thy great love Thou wouldst keep them also free from sin, controlling all their deeds and this day in accordance with Thy most perfect will.


Amen"

This wonderful little prayer book as morning and evening prayers for each day of the month. I have read and prayed them over and over, and somehow this old syle brings reverence to my soul.






Amen



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It may be time to slow down a bit.


Perhaps more than ever when we prepare for Christmas, it's easy to get caught up in the "busy-ness" of life. Buying and wrapping gifts, addressing and mailing cards, baking and packaging the cookies... All these things can create a "noise" that keeps us from recognizing our true priorities. So I pray:


Slow me down, Lord.
Sometimes I find myself going 100 miles an hour.

Too fast to see you.
Too fast to hear you.
Too fast to feel your touch.
Too fast to know your will for me.

Today, Lord, help me to step off the treadmill
And wait for you.

Amen


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Psalm 148 Imagery


Please take a few moments and pray through Psalm 148 as you watch this beautiful video from Laura at Changing Lenses for a Better View.


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We Give You Thanks

Today's prayer comes from Crownring..

Heavenly Father, here it is December 2009 and it seems our lives are as complicated as ever. We have been through many changes and experiences this year, many happy and some not so. We give you thanks and glory because You have not abandoned us and have walked with us through every difficult situation. We give You thanks and glory for every beautiful thing You created. We give you thanks for health and for helping us to bear our suffering when health seems only a wistful memory. We thank you for our loved ones, both here on earth and those who now dwell forever in Your presence. We thank You for the food you have provided and the hands that provided it. We thank You for shelter and clothing and ask that you remind us to be generous to those who have nothing. We thank You for your protection from evil and ask that You would protect our men and women in uniform, be they military or police and firemen. We humbly pray for our government officials, that they might seek Your wisdom and act according to Your Will. Father God, thank you for the holidays and the special opportunities we are given to honor Your Son's birth and share Your love with others. Help us to remember that Your Presence in our lives means far more than presents under the tree.

In the Name of Jesus we pray. Amen.


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most holy prayers

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will. Rom 8: 26-27


If you believe in the power of prayer, then the “who” and “what” we pray is significant.

So my prayer today is that the Lord will guide us to good prayers. Keep our hearts pure and our intentions worthy. Help us to see as you see, Lord.

When we sit quietly alone, meet with friends in small groups, or gather as a community – let us speak prayers that honor our Lord God. Let us use the power and promise of prayer to glorify His kingdom.

Amen


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Fill me with your life and light and love

A thought from a comment left at a blog by Sue..

I was "given" a little prayer that I pray before receiving Eucharist. But I've also found it helpful in many other instances. Perhaps it will help you when things seem dark and gray:

Lord Jesus, Son of God, empty me of all darkness, and fill me with your life and light and love.

Amen


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Prayer of Submission

Todays prayer is from Charles de Foucauld..

God, I abandon myself into your hands. Do with me whatever you will. Whatever you may do, I thank you. I am ready for all, I accept all. Let only your will be done in me, and in all your creatures.

Into your hands I commend my spirit. I offer it to you with all the love that is in my heart. For I love you, Lord, and so want to give myself, to surrender myself into your hands, without reserve and with boundless confidence.

Amen


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Human Rights Prayer

Today's prayer comes from Laura's blog..

We pray for those who have been exiled from their native land, refugees, who have been forced to leave behind their heritage and possessions, their families and their friends, and those who have had to begin life anew in a foreign culture and among strangers.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

We pray for those who are discriminated against on grounds of their race or sex, who offer the gifts of their presence, culture and personality, but find them despised or rejected.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

We pray for those who at this moment are being tortured in their bodies or in their minds because of the convictions they hold so dear, that their pain may be eased and that the peace of God may bring them release even in the midst of suffering.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

We pray for all rulers and those who hold positions of authrity in the state and in all the powerful institutions of our society that they may use their power for good and not for evil, that the rights of men and women may no longer be abused.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

We pray for all whose basic needs for food, shelter, clothing and healing are not met. Stir up the consciences of peoples and governments, to re-arrange the world's unjust systems; teach us all to live more simply, that others may simply live.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

We pray for the nations of the earth that you in your mercy will save them from their folly and humankind from its sin, that people will be set free from vindictiveness and fear, that forgiveness will replace revenge, that none shall be in bondage to another and none shall hold another country in contempt, and you alone will be worshipped all over the earth.

Lord, let justice run down like rivers.

Amen


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soar on wings like eagles

I have a few friends who suffer from chronic depression. Some of these friends are only teenagers… a time of life that is supposed to be carefree and happy.

Comfort, comfort my people,
says your God.


Please join me today in Isaiah 40 and pray to the Lord.

A voice of one calling:
"In the desert prepare
the way for the LORD;
make straight in the wilderness
a highway for our God.


Like John the Baptist before us, we each have a role to play in God’s plan.

Every valley shall be raised up,
every mountain and hill made low;
the rough ground shall become level,
the rugged places a plain.


And oh what a plan it is. Lord, today we ask you to guide our friends out of the valley of darkness and into the light. Reach out to those who are lost and show them the way.

Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The LORD is the everlasting God,
the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
and his understanding no one can fathom.


Lord, allow our friends to overcome fatigue with a renewed sense of hope and purpose. Breathe into them new life. Give them a sense of presence in this world.

He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.


Lord, we pray for those people in our lives who must fight depression every day—a fight that often becomes even more challenging in this holiday season.

They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint


Jesus, you promise to restore health and heal souls. Today, we ask you to be the wings for our dear friends, lift them high and hold them tight in your hands.

Amen


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STAY IN YOUR LANE

Proverbs 4:25-27


"Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil."


Dear Lord
We need to follow your instructions and in our lane. Father, I need to look straight ahead keeping my eyes on you. Any thing in the lanes to the left and right may look good, but I want to stay in YOUR lane. I will not swerve to the left or the right, but will follow close to you and not get sidetracked! You are my guide.
I love you, Amen


Amen



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A Soldier's Prayer


Father you blessed me by answering my prayers and protecting my son those two years when he served our country in Iraq.. I am so thankful to you for this. I ask you to protect those who are currently serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Help them to know you are there and as this video says help them to know that heaven is a prayer away.

Give our troops peace during this season when we celebrate your coming and the angels announcing the coming of the Prince of Peace. Help the men and women who serve in the military to know how much we all appreciate them. Give grace to their families and cause friends to gather around them during this holiday season.

Believing in the name and power of Jesus we pray with all of our hearts for your kingdom and peace to come all over the world.

Amen


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our forgotten prayers

The LORD is my strength and my song;
he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
my father's God, and I will exalt him.


World AIDS Day was observed this week.

To “observe” this event, I reflected on my earliest memories of AIDS. In NY in the early ‘80s, people would curse you out saying “Get AIDS Mother F******”. In 1993 I remember being on vacation with my family in Rehoboth Beach Delaware feeling a bit cautious because some of the men swimmers in our pool had lesions – I think that was around the time the movie Philadelphia was in the theatres.

And at some point in time, people just stopped talking about AIDS. With increased awareness and advances in treatment, the number of AIDS cases and deaths in the US declined sharply in the late 1990s. It was no longer in the news. The movie of the week moved onto new topics. You could say that I forgot about AIDS. I certainly can’t remember the last time I prayed about anyone impacted by this disease.

But here are some startling facts in 2009: Two-thirds of all peoples living with HIV are in Africa. More than 14 million African children have lost one or both parents to AIDS. My friends Rich and Heidi just came back from Nairobi where it is impossible to walk outside of the shadow of AIDS.

How could I ever forget to pray about those affected by AIDS?

Sometimes we stop praying for a certain cause, person or issue. We simply move on. But today, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your forgotten prayer. Has someone or something dropped off your radar in recent months or years? Today is a good day to pray.

My forgotten prayer is for those who have been touched by AIDS. O Lord, help us to care and support those who suffer from HIV and AIDS. Wipe away this illness from our earth. Bring comport, joy and peace to your people. May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. May the peoples praise you, 0 God; may all the peoples praise you.

Let me know what you are praying for today in the comments below so I can join you today.

Amen


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Faith in the Name of Jesus

Romans 3:21-24

"But now righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."

Dear Lord Jesus ~~ Thank you so much for righteousness, justification, redemption and atonement. We have all of these because of our faith in you name, Jesus Christ. I am not ashamed to be called by your name and to be bought by your precious blood, and given a home in heaven. You demonstrated your own love for us while we were sinners by dying for us and paying the price for our redemption. Thank you! May I honor you with my life. Amen


Amen



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Teach us to number our days aright..

Today's prayer comes from Victor Hoagland..

Lord, teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain wisdom of heart. -Psalm 90

Help us do today the things that matter, not to waste the time we have.

Yes, the moments we have are precious, Lord, see that we count them dear.

Teach us to number our days aright.

Fill us this day with your kindness, that we may be glad and rejoice all the days of our life.

Amen


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Monday Prayer

Lord, please shower upon me
Every day of this work week
Blessings of peace and serenity
And the things that I bespeak
So that when I start to wander
From the tasks I’m bound to face
I will take the time to ponder
If my actions are off-base.

Lord, please embrace my spirit
When the traffic is a mess
Let the phone ring when I’m near it
So that matters are addressed
Carry me upon Your shoulders
When my boss is walking by
And remove life’s heavy boulders
Should the work week go awry.

Lord, please give my soul direction
In each meeting I attend
Let me work to my perfection
Or the best I can expend
So that when the week is finished
Nothing will have been ignored
But the freedom I’ve diminished
For Your sweet weekend reward.

© 2006 – Jill Eisnaugle’s Poetry Collection


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Giving Thanks for God's Loving Providence

Today's prayer comes from Scot McKnight at Jesus Creed..

O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature:

Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts;

Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 90

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all our days.. when we move homes you are there.. when we change jobs you are with us.

Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

Our lives are so temporal.. time goes by so fast.. a thousand years in your sight are but as yesterday when it is past.. help us know the season in which we live.

The grass fades and withers but you are eternal.. your promises are sure and faithful.. we trust in you Lord.

On the cross you settled sin forever.. you have washed away our sin.. your forgiveness is beyond understanding.. we are loved.

The years of our earthly life are finite.. they are often filled with hardship and pain.. but soon our earthly days will be over and we will be in your presence forever.

So teach us to number our days.. to discern the season we are in.. that we may get a heart of wisdom.

Return in power, O Lord! Please do not tarry.. come Lord Jesus.. have mercy on your servants!

Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love.. we long to rejoice and be glad all our days.. our desire is to be a joyful light to the world around us.

Help us to be content and thankful for as many days as we have.. for the many years we have been given on earth we give you thanks.

Let your work be shown to your servants and your glorious power to their children.

Let your favor Lord be upon us and establish the work of our hands upon us.. yes, establish the work of our hands that we might glorify your name!

Amen


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Prayer for Job Seekers

Today's prayer is from Sojourners..

We pray for those who are unemployed in these difficult economic times, those who feel most acutely the burden of getting by and providing for their families. We pray for your provision for them at this time. May those of us who have demonstrate your love through our generosity to them and your welcome through our hospitality to them.

Amen


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giving thanks for the light



In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men.

We swam last night under a star-lit night in what is called the luminous lagoon.

Our local friend Sean had promised that it would be unlike anything we had experienced before and his words held true. This particular lagoon is inhabited by millions of microorganisms called dinoflagellate, which glow whenever the water is disturbed.

Wading in the water, we saw that when you move arm, twitch a finger, kick a leg or simple wiggle a toe, each movement creates a bright glow. From total darkness, movement creates light.

So on this day of thanksgiving, I hope you can join me in the two prayers:

One, that we all can keep our eyes open today to witness the amazing world God has created for us… a world filled with awe, wonder and mystery.

And second, that we can all move beyond the waters of a luminous lagoon to create light right where we are right now – through our words, our deeds, our action and movement – and take away the darkness in someone’s life.

O heavenly Father, we give you praise.
Thank you O Lord for the peace, joy and mysteries of life.
Thank you O Lord for the Word that enables us to become children of the light.

Amen


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Isaiah 65:8
This is what the Lord says:
"As when juice is still found in a cluster of grapes and men say, 'Don't destroy it, there is yet some good in it,' so will I do in behalf of my servants; I will not destroy them all."


O Lord I thank you that you see green life flowing deep within the parched brown stems of our vineyards. You observe the remnant of sweetness and nourishment somewhere inside the neglected shriveled fruit of our lives.


You patiently prune us and prop us up. You faithfully feed us and nurture us, determined that the good seed You planted will bear fruit and will reach it's full potential in glory. How we thank You. Father, for Your infinite patience with us.


Lord, let me bear the fruit of the Spirit in my life today.


I love You, Amen

Amen






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He Must Increase

"He must increase, but I must decrease." -John 3:30

Father we ask you to increase your influence in our lives. Help us to factor you in to every decision. Help us to know your presence and love each day. And speak to us of ways that we can bless and help the people that you have put in our loves.

Amen


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Prayer for Freedom

Today's prayer is from Scot McKnight at Jesus Creed..

Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in your well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together under his most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Amen


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Prayer for Redemption

Today's prayer is from Sojourners..

You created us, O Maker of heaven and earth; you created us equal before you. And just as all of us have sinned and fallen short of your glory, so did you send your Son to die for all of us, that we and all of creation might be redeemed and restored to right relationship with you and with each other. Thank you for your grace that reaches out to all of us, sinners and redeemed before you.

Amen


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a little bit louder now...


Shout to the Lord!

Give praise for day break, and the promise of hope that comes each and every morning.

Shout to the Lord!

Give praise for that gentle hand upon our shoulder, the amazing gift of peace.

Should to the Lord!

Give praise for the rock beneath our feet, and the strength that only our almighty God offers.

Shout to the Lord!

Give praise for the warmth of friendship and the relationships that bless our lives.

Shout to the Lord!

Give praise for the wisdom and insight that always leads us to the light.

Shout to the Lord!

Give praise for God who is all-merciful, all-righteous and all-loving.

And when all else fails, simply shout to the Lord!

Amen


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Good Morning Prayer Warriors ~~

Martin Luther said "As it is the business of tailors to make clothes, and of the cobblers to mend shoes, so it is the business of Christians to pray"

Isaiah 46:9-10 "Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me. I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, an what is still to come. I say: My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please."

My prayer O Lord, when I remember Your faithfulness through the ages and through the pages of Your Word, when I consider Your countless acts of kindness to Your people and to me, I can truly say that there is none like You. You save us. You protect us. You provide for us. These are the things You are pleased to do, and You always do exactly as You please. So Lord Jesus, I surrender myself to the sovereignty of Your will, so that I might live in the pleasure of Your will." Lord, may my life today, bring you pleasure. I love You, Amen.

"There is none like You, O God
Your glory fills the heavens.
There is none like You O God;
Your love enfolds. Your virtue flows
All that I need is in Your hands.
There is none like You"
(Debbie Cissna (1998)

Amen



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Thanksgiving: Prayer's Foundation

Last week I shared a few Thanksgiving Rules over at my other blog. One of those rules speaks to the idea that we should always offer thanks when we pray. Thanksgiving is the foundation of prayer.. when we pray we should come to the Father with a thankful heart.. when we do our prayer will be different because our attitude will be different. So let me offer a prayer in that spirit.

Father I am thankful for your presence in my life.. I am grateful that you live in me and feel with me in joy and in sadness. Thank you so much for my friends and my family.. they bless and encourage me.. I ask you to bless them. Thank you for doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers.. give them wisdom as they balance the needs of their patients with their own needs. Thank you Lord for life.. help us to honor you as we live it.

Amen


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samuel, saul, you and me

You don’t need me to tell you that we live in a broken world. That very fact has brought you here today… joining millions of people around the world to lift up our prayers to an amazing, loving God.

While we are definitely called to offer our prayers before God, I wonder today how many times I have been called upon by my Lord to answer someone’s prayer… a call that I simply chose to ignore. The stranded driver I saw disappear in my rear view mirror. The phone call I was too busy to make. The time I was so obsessed with my own life that I simply failed to respond. I can’t lie to you: I felt the “nudge”. But I chose not to listen. And when the nudge became too obvious to miss, I simply chose not to obey.

Last month, Kansas Bob reminded us that there are times when we are called upon to be angels. But these prayers are only answered when you and I listen and obey.

My prayer today is that we as Christ followers will have the confidence and fortitude to answer the prayers we are called upon to answer. My prayer today is that we – the readers and visitors of this site – hone our ability to listen and our desire to obey.

I am reminded of Samuel, who as a young boy heard the whisper, and with the help of his mentor, he trained himself to hear God’s voice.

The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, "Samuel! Samuel!" Then Samuel said, "Speak, for your servant is listening."

Later in the book of Samuel, there is a time when Saul is given clear instructions. More than a whisper, he hears in clearly spoken words: this is what God wants you to do. But Saul instead follows his own well-intentioned plan. He chose not to obey.

Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices
as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD ?
To obey is better than sacrifice,
and to heed is better than the fat of rams.
For rebellion is like the sin of divination,
and arrogance like the evil of idolatry.

My prayer today is that we all respond when we hear the whisper. That we all get past the temptation of divination and arrogance and simply obey. Lord – let us not only pray, please use us today to answer the prayers of others. Give is the confidence and fortitude to serve as your angels. Help us to listen. Mold our hearts so we obey.

Amen


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You are the Vine

Dear Jesus ~

In your Word you tell me You are the Vine and I am the branch. Oh Lord, many other "vines" contend for my allegiance. But they promise what they cannot deliver. "Remain in me" says my job, "and you will find true success." "Make us top priority, "says my family" and you will find unmatched love." "Stick with me," says my religious tradition, "and you will enjoy the deepest spiritual experiences." "Plug into status or riches or pleasure" says this world "and you will find yourself." But all these "vines" dear Lord, even those created for our good cannot compete with YOU! You alone are the true vine. In you alone do I find my rightful place in the world. Through Your strength alone will my brief life count for eternity. So I choose, by Your grace to remain in You, to make my home in You forever. I love you Jesus, Amen.
(John 15 - Worship Bible)


"Let us all become a true and fruitful branch on the vine Jesus, by accepting Him in our lives as it pleases Him to come: as the Truth to be told; as the Life to be lived; as the Light to be lighted; as the Love to be loved; as the Way to be walked; As the Joy to be given; as the Peace to be spread; as the Sacrifice to be offered, in our families and within our neighborhoods." ~~Mother Teresa of Calcutta ~ (1910-1997)

"Vine of heaven, Thy love supplies
his blest cup of sacrifice
Tis Thy wounds our healing give;
To Thy cross we look and live
Thou our life! O let us be
Rooted, grafted, built on Thee
Josiah Concer (1824)

God bless you today, as you pray and reflect on being a branch in the One and Only True Vine.

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Praying Psalm 89

Lord, I will sing of your steadfast love forever.. with my mouth I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.

Let the heavens praise your wonders, O Lord.. for who in the skies can be compared to you Lord? Who among the angels is like you?

You are awesome and mighty.. your power is matchless.. you are more powerful than the raging of the sea.. when the waves rise, you still them.

The heavens are yours; the earth also is yours; the world and all that is in it, you have created them.. you are Lord of all.

Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.. steadfast love and faithfulness go before you.. you are worthy of our trust.

Blessed are the people who walk in the light of your face Lord.. who exult in your name all the day and rejoice in your righteousness.

Your faithfulness and steadfast love is with us.. they sustain us in difficult times.. your are present in our lives and comfort us in hardship.

Because of your great love we are not cast off and rejected.. you have promised to never leave us.. and we are filled with joy.

Remember us today Lord.. fill us afresh with your Spirit.. cause us to walk as your children.. and help us to be like Jesus.

Blessed are you Lord forever!

Amen and Amen.


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our loss, your peace

This week I have been struck by the abundance of loss.

Someone in my family had their pocketbook and briefcase stolen. She lost her money, papers and credit cards… but most of all she lost her sense of comfort and security.

A good friend who has been out of work for some time thought he had a job lined up, only to find that it was gone.

A man I know in Maine was preparing to marry his life-long love, only to see that right taken away at the ballot box on Tuesday.

Just this afternoon, a man shot and killed eleven people in Texas. The loss felt by these families is only now beginning to hit.

I am sure we all have been touched by loss… we all know people who are grieving tonight. Will you pray with me?

Jesus… your promise of peace is perhaps your greatest gift. There are people in my life—and many more in the world—who need your peace tonight more than ever… people who may be crushed by the sense of loss without you. May they feel the physical presence of your hand upon the shoulder, the unexplained warmth in their soul that reassures them that you are with them… that everything is as it should be… the peace of the Lord Jesus Christ.

I pray with confidence tonight and with no reservation. For your promise is clear and your love unwavering.

We come before you today comforted by the Psalms…

The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

… reassured by the prophets….

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom. He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

… emboldened by your own words….

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

For this, we pray.

Amen.


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Blogoversary Invitation

One year ago today I sat in a hospital room watching my wife Ann receive a chemotherapy treatment. Feeling a bit prayerful I started a new blog and called it Daily Prayer. Now 52 weeks and 187 posts later I find that I no longer post there every day. I still regularly pray but don't always feel like writing about what I pray.

So I thought that I would invite you to write a prayer or devotional thought on prayer to be posted there with a link back to your blog. I would also be open to making it a group authored site if anyone would commit to posting once a week. If you are interested please email me and let me know how you would like to be involved.


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Praying Psalm 88

O Lord, God of my salvation.. I cry out day and night before you. Let my prayer come before you.. incline your ear to my cry!

My life is troubled with remorse and my mind wanders to past times as my life draws nearer to death.. I am a man who is in need of strength.

Yet this I recall and I have hope.. you have rescued me from darkness.. you have shown me the light of your love.. I no longer walk in darkness.. I walk as your son.

You overwhelm me with waves of your goodness Lord.. I can see your hand in my life providentially guiding me and helping me to become a better man.

Though all abandon me.. you remain faithful.. though life is sad sometimes.. I still find joy in you.. you cause my heart to sing.. and my soul to soar.

Every day I will call upon you, O Lord.. each morning I will spread out my hands to you in worship - you are worthy Lord Jesus!

You work wonders God.. and I praise you! I will declare your steadfast love until I die.. you are faithful.. your mercy is great!

I, O Lord, cry to you.. this morning my prayer comes before you. O Lord, you have embraced my soul and shown your face to me in kindness.

You are good Lord.. you have filled me with hope and not despair.. because of your love I will embrace the day.. because of your grace I will overcome.

Faith, hope and love surround me like still waters all day long.. they water my soul and feed my heart with good things.

You are worthy to be praised. I will rejoice in in you my Lord, my God and my Strength.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 87

On Christ the solid rock we stand.. in Jesus name we pray.. there is no other rock and no other name that endures.. Jesus is Lord.

Our citizenship is in heaven.. we are your children Lord.. open our eyes to the beauty of your city that we may live as faithful citizens.

We proclaim your name and your faithfulness God.. both in and out of the city.. to those who love you and to those who have strayed from your paths.

And of your kingdom it shall be said that it is invisible, eternal and filled with your Spirit.. all who live there are filled with love.. help us to live there Lord.

You O Lord will establish us.. you will finish the work that you have begun in us.. we are filled with thanks that you are using events in our lives for good.. you are making us like your Son.

All my springs are in you Lord.. everything that gives me life comes from your hand.. you are great and greatly to be praised.

Amen


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Life as a Prayer

Instead of merely saying a prayer..
perhaps our lives can be prayerful expressions to God.

Instead of merely giving a heavenly thanks..
perhaps our lives will be filled with thankfulness.

Instead of merely asking for divine forgiveness..
perhaps our lives can be lived from forgiving hearts.

Instead of merely singing songs of worship..
perhaps our lives will be transformed in living worship.

Instead of merely interceding for others..
perhaps our lives can be poured out in service to them.

Instead of merely petitioning God for grace..
perhaps our lives will be display glorious graciousness.

Instead of merely loving God in a prayer..
perhaps our lives can be rooted in love for God and others.

Instead of merely praying..
perhaps we will live life as a prayer.

© Kansas Bob


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Praying Psalm 86

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I need to know you are here today.. breathe life into my soul.

I trust in you.. you are my God.

Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day.. gladden my soul and send encouragement to me.

To you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.

You, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you.

Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace.

In this day of my trouble I call upon you.. I trust you to answer me.

There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours.

One day all the nations you have made shall come and worship before you, O Lord, and shall glorify your name.

You are great and do wondrous things.. you alone are God.

Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear and love your name.

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.

Great is your steadfast love toward me; you have delivered my soul from the depths of darkness.

O God, insolent men have risen up.. a band of ruthless men seek to take life.. they do not set you before them.

You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.. have mercy on your creation.

Turn to me and be gracious to me; give your strength to me and save me from myself.

Show me a sign of your favor Lord.. manifest your grace to me.. help me and comfort me today.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 85

Lord we remember your goodness and how you forgive us.. thank you for being who you are.. thank you for your heavenly fatherhood.

Restore unity in your people Lord.. help us O God of our salvation to be a healthy body that brings healing to the nations.

In grace you have restored us.. in mercy you have picked us up.. in love you remember our sins no more.

Your love is steadfast Lord.. you are not an angry father.. we rejoice in the cross of Jesus and revel in your salvation.

Open the eyes and ears of our hearts Lord that we may know life from your perspective.. help us to know you.

You have spoken peace to your people.. to your saints.. help us to be steadfast and not turn back to folly.

Surely your salvation is near to those who have come to the end of themselves.. to those who have seen the folly of their ways.

Cause your glory to rule our land Lord.. help your people to rise up in love and serve our neighbors in our nation.

Because of Jesus steadfast love and faithfulness have met.. in Him righteousness and peace kiss each other.

In you Lord faithfulness springs up from the ground.. righteousness looks down from the sky.

You Lord will give what is good.. Your kingdom will yield its increase.. righteousness will go before you and you will lead us in life.

Praise Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 84

How lovely is your presence, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs for you and desires to feel your presence.. my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God.

The sparrow finds a home.. the swallow a nest.. even so I am at home in your presence Lord.. my hearts soars when I feel you close.

Blessed are those who dwell in your presence.. ever singing your praise!

Blessed are those whose strength is in you.. whose heart has found a path to heaven.. who's souls are drenched with God.

Blessed are they that go from strength to strength.. who experience your compassionate touch and receive grace for another day.

O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of our inheritance!

You are our shield, O God.. you have anointed us with your Spirit.. we sense your presence in our heart.

A day in your presence is better than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a servant in your kingdom than live from fleshly desires.

You LORD are God.. you give me light and protection.. you give me all I need.. no good thing do you withhold from your children.

O LORD of hosts.. blessed is the one who trusts in you!

Amen

If you would like to read my other prayerful interpretations from the psalms please click here. These are not word for word prayers but paraphrased thoughts from the psalms.


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To Love Things Heavenly

Grant us, Lord, not to be anxious about earthly things, but to love things heavenly; and even now, while we are placed among things that are passing away, to hold fast to those that shall endure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

HT: Jesus Creed


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Praying Psalm 83

O God, do not keep silence.. do not hold your peace or be still, O God! We need your presence.

When the enemies of our souls make an uproar.. speak peace to the storm and help us to know that we are safe.

When those enemies lay crafty plans against us.. turn their plans into your plans and cause us to triumph in your name.

When those enemies say “Come, let us wipe them out as a people".. cause us to call to you in worship and let you fight the battle.

We remember that you are greater than the enemies of our souls.. you are the lover of our souls.. we will rest in you.

You have brought us through great trials in past days Lord and you will continue to shepherd us through times of trouble.

You are our Creator.. you formed us and made us who we are.. you have given us new hearts to trust and love you.. we praise you.

Let those who fight against you come to their senses and feel your presence.. fill their hearts with love for you and those around them.

Let all of the earth rejoice in the resurrection of your Son and experience your love for them today.

You are worthy to be adored.. you have given your all for us.. we worship you.. we give ourseleves afresh to you today.

You alone, whose name is the Lord, are the Most High over all the earth.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 82

Your wisdom is above all others Lord.. you are all knowing.. you are competent to judge all.. blessed is your name.

Mankind judges unjustly and often shows partiality to the wicked? Forgive us Lord and give us compassionate and discerning hearts.

Please give justice to the weak and the fatherless.. you are an advocate for the afflicted and the destitute.. your mercies never fail.

We ask you to rescue the weak and the needy.. deliver them Lord from the hand of the wicked and encourage them in their time of need.

Reveal yourself dear Lord to those who have neither knowledge nor understanding and walk about in darkness.

We ask you to shake the foundations of the earth and awaken all flesh to seek you and to become like your Son.

Cause us to be wise Lord.. teach us to listen to the still small voice of your Spirit.

Arise, O God, judge the earth.. we place our trust in your loving hands.. you are good and your mercy endures forever!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 81

We sing aloud to you Lord.. you are our strength.. we shout for joy to you.. the God of our inheritance!

With our voices in harmony with the tambourine, guitars and trumpets we will make a sweet melody of worship.

We rejoice in the scriptures and revel in knowing that you are the One who did miracles then and also today!

We rejoice that you are the One who bears our burdens and ministers to us when we are weak and distressed.

In distress we call out to you Lord.. asking for deliverance we pray with confidence because you love us.

We rejoice that you answer prayer.. in the secret place we will find you.. when all else fails you will never fail us.

We ask for help when we are tested Lord.. when trials come we ask you for wisdom.. we ask for help to be faithful and to persevere.

You alone are God.. there is no other.. blessed be your name.. we will be still and know you are God.

We rejoice that you have given us new hearts.. soft hearts.. hearts that long to know you more.. strengthen our hearts Lord.

Give us an ear to hear you Lord.. help us to hear your voice and to walk in your ways.. you are worthy of our devotion Lord.

We rejoice in your provision for us Lord.. at the cross you provided salvation.. everything we need is in you. Hallelujah!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 80

Give ear to our prayer Lord.. hear our cry dear heavenly Shepherd.. you who are enthroned above the angels.. please shine on us.

We are in need of you Lord.. we need your help.. we need your salvation.. we need your presence.. without you we are weak.

Restore us to you O Lord of hosts.. let your face shine on us that we may be delivered!

We give thanks to you O Lord God of hosts because you have heard your people's prayers.. you are near to them who weep and hurt.. you are full of compassion.

Restore us to you O Lord of hosts.. let your face shine on us that we may be delivered!

We remember your past works in our lives.. we are comforted knowing that you were with us in our trials.. and we rejoice in your presence today.

We do not understand the troubles that we are experiencing.. we cannot grasp your workings in us with our heads.

Help us to trust you Lord with all of our hearts.. teach us to live from our hearts.. to hear your voice and to love even in our pain.

Let our hands be your hands Lord.. make us strong for yourself.. increase our faith.. give us boldness in these troubling times.. glorify your name in us.

We shall not turn back from you.. you have given us life.. you have the words of life.. we will call upon your name.. we will hope in you!

Restore us to you O Lord of hosts.. let your face shine on us that we may be delivered!

Praise you Lord Jesus Christ!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 79

Let your kingdom come O God.. manifest your presence on the earth and convict the world of sin. Come Holy Spirit.

Many are our trespasses Lord.. we are in need of you.. cause us to see you.. help us to repent.. forgive us our sins.

Help us, your people, to be salt and light in the world.. cause us to be united under your banner of love.. change us and change the world for your glory.

We ask you to bring unity to the body of Christ.. we humble ourselves and repent for the times that we have sown discord amongst your family.

Thank you Lord for forgiveness.. thank you that you do not remember our former iniquities.. your compassion has come to us and we are glad.

Our sins have brought us very low but you have helped Lord.. for the glory of your name you have delivered us and cleansed us from our sins.

For your name's sake embolden us to live lives pleasing to you.. empower us to love with unconditional love.. give us your heart for people.

Let the groans of prisoners come before you Lord.. according to your great power have mercy on those who pray on death row.

We your people are the sheep of your pasture.. we will give thanks to you forever.. from generation to generation we will praise you.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 78

Teach me Lord and fill my heart with your understanding.. help me to know you and to know wisdom.. I need your presence.

Teach me to set my hope in you Lord and not forget your works in my life.. thank you for writing your word on my heart.. and for giving me a soft heart.

Teach me to always remember your ways.. help me to be faithful to the scriptures.. cause them to guide me always.

Teach me to walk in purity Lord.. guard my heart against immoral and faithless thoughts.. forgive me and cleanse me.

Teach me about your love Lord.. bless me to know how to love.. enable me to walk in the Spirit.. to let your love flow from my heart.

Teach me to rely on your provision Father.. with my heart I will trust you.. I entrust my future to you.. you are sovereign.. I hope in you.

Teach me to know that you are my rock and that all stability comes from you.. there is no foundation but yours Lord.. in you I have stability.

Teach me the ways of compassion Lord and of a steadfast heart.. cause mercy to spring from my soul when a desire to judge waxes bold.

Teach me to lean on you Lord.. remove all rebelliousness from me.. help me to flow with you and to not provoke you.. you are Lord.

Teach me to be humble Lord.. to remember what I have read in the bible.. help me to learn from the lives of others.

Teach me to follow the Great Shepherd as an innocent lamb.. help me to have the faith of a child and the trust of a young one.. I commit myself afresh to you.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 77

I cry aloud to you Lord.. I will not couch my words.. I will speak openly and plainly to you.. and you will hear me.

Both in times of trouble and times of ease I will seek you Lord.. when my soul has no comfort and also when it is in peace I will pray.

I will remember you Lord.. both in moaning and in travail I will pray.. in rejoicing I will come to you.. you are ever with me.

You sustain me Lord.. you minister to every part of my body.. even when I am so troubled that I cannot speak.. you hear my silent prayer.

I consider the days of old.. the years long ago.. and I see the sweetness of your presence in my life.. you are and have been faithful to me.

Your steadfast love is forever.. it will never cease.. your promises are sure.. your graciousness rules eternity.. your compassion overrules anger.. you are good!

I will remember your loving deeds O Lord.. I will consider the miraculous acts that you have done in the scriptures.

Yes, I will remember your wonders.. I will ponder all your work and meditate on your mighty deeds.. you are the Almighty One!

Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like you God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the nations.

You have redeemed your people.. in every place on earth and to every man, woman and child.. the gift of redemption is there.

You rule all of your creation Lord.. you rule the seas.. the rain.. lightning and thunder.. all of the elements bow to your will.

You have led and you will lead your people as a shepherd leads his flock.. you are the Good Shepherd!

All praise to you Lord Jesus Christ!!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 76

In Jesus God is known.. his name is great in all the earth.. He is alive and ever lives in heaven making powerful intercession.

The glory of the mountains and the splendor of the oceans pale in comparison to Jesus.. His name is beautiful and to be praised.

The Son of God reigns in heaven.. His dominion has no end.. from eternity past to eternity future He is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

No one can stand before Him.. all peoples are unclean in His presence.. it is only by His blood that mankind can stand before His throne.

You have established righteousness O Lord.. your judgment is right all together.. your Son's blood bought our salvation.. we are forgiven because of His obedience.

We will humble ourselves in your presence dear Lord.. we can boast of nothing save the cross.. we have nothing to give you except ourselves.

One day all flesh will acknowledge your kingship.. one day every knee will bow to you.. have mercy on all flesh and draw us to you now.

Praise to you Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 75

I give thanks to you, O God.. I give thanks for you are near.. you have promised to never leave. You have done great things!

My hope is in you Lord.. my trust is in your justice.. though life seems unfair for the moment you have marked a day to judge all flesh.. you are righteous Father.

Though the earth totters and all is in turmoil.. you O Lord are a solid foundation.. you will keep me safe under your wings.. nothing shall harm me.

All who boast do so in foolishness.. all who brag about all they have accomplished are fools.. better that they boast in you Lord. You have done great things!

Exaltation comes not from the earth dear Lord.. for you humiliate the proud but you exalt the humble. You are righteous in your judgment Lord!

I will magnify your name O humble King.. in meekness you came.. with mercy you walked the earth.. your example is forever.. praise you Lord Jesus.

Come Holy Spirit.. fill us afresh.. empower us to walk in humility.. help us to be people of the cross.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 74

You are faithful Lord.. you are with us in good times and bad.. thank you for always being there when we pray.

Remember your promises Lord.. arise in strength.. rescue those who have no hope.. show yourself strong to the weak and downcast.

You have defeated all enemies of righteousness.. evil has not stood.. even death has bowed before you.. you are greatly to be praised.

You have given spiritual gifts to your people.. we are called your body.. you have equipped us with everything we need.

Open our eyes Lord.. help us to see how you have defeated the enemy of our souls.. help us not to wallow in our pain.. help us to arise and see our lives with your eyes.

You are our eternal King.. always working salvation in the midst of the earth.. we praise you Heavenly Father.

Your power is ever evident.. in creation you separated the sea from the land by your might.. you have wonderfully designed all things.

You have provided springs and brooks for the thirsty.. yet what you end no man can revive.. the sun, moon and stars are all yours to command.. all of nature obeys you.

You have fixed all the boundaries of the earth.. you have made summer and winter.. nothing is too difficult for you.

Though people scoff.. though foolishness prevails.. though many mock your name and utter it in cursing.. even so you are patient with them and reveal your beauty to them.

Thank you Lord that you are an advocate for the poor.. you are a promise keeping God who remembers the plight of the downtrodden and the needy.

Arise O God.. defend your cause.. bring salvation to the earth.. cause all of creation to praise your name and worship at your feet.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 73

Truly you are good dear Lord.. your mercies are new this morning.. great is your faithfulness.. I praise you.

Purify my heart Lord.. keep my feet from stumbling and make my steps sure.. cleanse me of envy, arrogance and wickedness.

Help me to see life from your perspective Lord.. open up my eyes to the true riches of life.. give me a humble heart and drive pride far from me.

Forgive me for speaking foolish and hurtful words.. cause my mouth to speak nothing but good things.. guard my speech from foolish words and divisive chatter.. give me the desire to encourage and lift others up.

Infuse the earth with the knowledge of the Most High.. cause the wicked to understand your goodness.. bring them to repentance dear Lord.

You have given meaning to my life Lord.. all else ends in vanity.. nothing else can make my heart clean.. you are the only one Lord.. your blood is sufficient.

I remember that time when my soul was embittered.. when I was troubled in heart.. when I was brutish and ignorant.. when I was like a beast toward you.

Nevertheless you saved me from a dark future.. you have kept me continually with you.. you hold my right hand.. you guide me with your counsel.. and after death you will receive me to be with you forever.

Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but you God are the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

It has been good to be near you Lord.. you have been a blessing of refuge to me.. I will tell of all your sweet works in my life.. there is no one like you.

Glory be to you Lord Jesus!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 72

Reveal your justice to me Lord.. open the eyes of my heart to righteous discernment.. come Holy Spirit and shower gifts of wisdom and discernment on us.

Open my eyes to those around me who are hurting.. give me a heart for the poor Lord Jesus and the spirit of an intercessor.. conquer selfishness in me Lord.

Cause leaders to arise in our nation that fear you.. help them to lead with righteousness causing our nation to be a blessing to the earth.

May your influence and dominion be from sea to sea Lord causing your glory to arise and cover all of the earth. Flood the world with your goodness Lord and bring all people to repentance.

May all kings.. all presidents.. all leaders.. every congress fall down before you.. and may every nation serve you and your purposes dear Lord.

For who is like you Lord? You deliver the needy when they call.. the poor and those who have no helper.. you have compassion on the weak and the needy.

There is no god like you O God! You save the lives of the needy.. from oppression and violence you redeem their life.. precious is their life in your sight O Holy One.

You live forever Lord.. eternity is your realm.. you have created all things.. you own it all.. it is yours to do with as you please.

Cause me to be a wise manager of your resources Lord.. lead me in ways that would help those who are in need.. fill my heart with compassion for the broken and those needing help.

Help me to understand that abundance is yours and that wealth is not to be hoarded.. help me to understand your benevolent ways.. and to be a generous person.

Your name endures forever Lord.. your fame continues longer than the sun.. there is no one like you.. you are an awesome God!

May all peoples bless you Lord.. may all nations magnify your name.

Blessed are you Lord.. you alone do wondrous things. Blessed be your glorious name forever.. may the whole earth be filled with your glory!

Amen and Amen!


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Praying Psalm 71

In you, O Lord, do I take refuge.. you are a mighty fortress.. on the cross I was delivered from shame.

In your righteousness you have delivered me and rescued me from the enemies of my soul.. I cry out to you today.. hear my prayer and deliver me from evil!

You are a rock of refuge to which I continually come.. on the cross you have saved me.. you are my rock and my fortress.

Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of wickedness.. from the grasp of injustice and cruelty.. you are my righteousness.

For a long time you, O Lord, have been my hope and my trust. Upon you my heart has leaned for many many years.. you have watched over me from my mother's womb.

My praise is continually of you Lord!

Help me to be a reflection of your grace Lord.. you are my strong refuge. My mouth is filled with your praise and with your honor all day.

You will not not cast me off in the time of old age.. neither will you forsake me when my strength is spent.. you have promised to be with me forever.

You have not forsaken me.. though life is sometimes hard you are there encouraging me and giving me hope.. you are the God of all hope!

I will hope continually and will praise you yet more and more. My mouth will tell of your righteous acts, of your deeds of salvation all the day, for their number is past my knowledge.

I will remember your mighty deeds.. I will remind myself that righteousness is yours alone.

O God, from my youth you have taught me.. I will proclaim your wondrous deeds until the day I die.. you are worthy to be praised Lord!

Your righteousness, O God, reaches the high heavens. You who have done great things, O God, who is like you?

You who have been with me in many troubles and calamities.. you will revive me again.. from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again. I will be with you forever!

I praise you with my whole being.. with my voice I sing of your goodness and in your faithfulness, O my God, I rejoice!

My tongue will speak of your righteous help all the day long.. you have been my best friend.. your presence is very very precious to me.

Praise you Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Amen


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Making Mention of You in my Prayers

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; (Romans 1:9)

I thank my God always, making mention of you in my prayers, (Philemon 1:4)


Much is made amongst religious folks about spending "much" time in prayer. Isn't it interesting how Paul says that he merely mentions these folks as he prays. Possibly it isn't all about spending hours in prayer but simply bringing a person and their need before the Lord.

Sometimes I just whisper the name of a friend or loved one to the Lord in prayer.. He knows their needs.. He wants us to care enough to pray.. even if it is only saying their name in His presence. The point is to actually pray.

Lord, I am thinking about those who I regularly pray for. Help me to be faithful to ceaselessly bring these before you making mention of them and their needs to you. Asking for grace we pray in your name.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 70

Deliver us O Lord.. do not delay.. make haste to help us.. we are in need of you.. we boldly come to you in prayer.

Help those who live in shame and confusion.. minister to those who need you most.. and draw them to yourself.

May all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you! May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”

We come to you in humility.. we are poor and needy.. hasten to help us, O God!

You are our help and our deliverer.. O Lord, do not delay!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 69

Rescue me, O God! For the waters of life seem to have come up to my neck. I feel like I am sinking in deep mire where there is no foothold.. I am in over my head in deep waters.. and trials like a flood seem to sweep over me.

I am weary from crying out.. my spirit is parched from prayer. My heart grows dim as I wait for you Lord. Come in power Lord.

At every turn the enemies of my soul seem to oppose me seeking to destroy me.. they bombard me with guilt of my past sins.. O God, you know my folly; the wrongs I have done are not hidden from you. Cleanse me Lord.

Help me to be a blessing to those I meet today Lord.. cause my life to encourage others.. speak and act through me Lord.. and glorify your name in me.

Help my passion to be for you and your kingdom.. help me to know how to pray my way through today and to hear your voice as I go.

My prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time and in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.

Deliver me from sinking in the mire of sadness; let me be delivered from the enemies of my soul and from the deep waters of despair. Let not the flood of trials sweep over me, or let depression swallow me up, or the pit of temptation engulf me.

Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good; according to your abundant mercy, turn to me. Hide not your face from your servant; for I am in distress; make haste to answer me. Draw near to my soul, redeem me; ransom me from spiritual enemies!

You know my failures, my shame and my dishonor; these foes are all known to you. Failures have broken my heart, so that I am in despair. I looked for encouragement, but there was none among men, and for comforters, but I found none.

Turn my failures inside out dear Lord.. bring success out of failures.. light out of darkness.. and victory from despair.. work all these things for good that I may be conformed into the image of your son.

Give me love to be a blessing to the unlovely.. give me grace to be a blessing to the ungracious.. help me to bring goodness to those who are trapped in wickedness.

Turn my affliction and pain inside out.. bring goodness out of that which the enemy has devised for evil.. let your salvation, O God, raise me up!

I will praise your name O God with a song.. I will magnify you with thanksgiving. I know this will please you Lord more than doing religious acts.

For you Lord hear the needy and you do not despise your own people who are prisoners. Let heaven and earth praise you, the seas and everything that moves in them.

You will save those who are yours.. you will build up those who are downcast.. you will restore what was broken and bind up broken hearts.

You are great Lord and greatly to be praised!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 68

Arise O God and scatter your enemies.. subdue spiritual wickedness in high places.. let all evil be driven far away.

We will be glad.. we will exult before you and be jubilant with joy! We will sing praises to your name lifting up a song to your name.

Who is like you Lord? You are the Father of the fatherless and protector of widows.. you are a Friend to the lonely and imprisoned.

History is replete with your redemption.. of how you performed miracles of healing and provision for those you love.. in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy.

You are a great warrior Lord.. fighting with the sword of your word you come in power to defeat the enemies of our souls.. praise you Lord!

No enemy can stand before you Lord.. your followers are without number.. you live in your people and cause them to be victorious.

Blessed be the Lord who daily bears us up. God is our salvation.

Our God is a God of salvation, and to God, the Lord, belongs deliverance from death. He will strike the heads of his enemies.

We bless you God together.. you are the fountain of life!

O peoples of the earth, sing to God.. sing praises to the Lord. Ascribe power to God whose majesty is over all the earth and whose power is without limit.

Awesome are you God.. you are the one who gives power and strength to your people.

Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 67

Thank you Lord for being gracious to me.. I am so grateful for the many ways that you bless me.

May your face ever shine upon me.. may your will continue to be revealed to me.. may your Spirit flow from me to everyone I meet.

Let all peoples praise you, O God.. let all peoples praise you!

Let the nations be glad and sing for joy.. for you judge all people with equity.. and you make yourself known to all nations.

Let all peoples praise you, O God.. let all peoples praise you!

Thank you Lord.. you have caused the earth to yield its increase.. you have brought undeserved blessings.. let all the ends of the earth fear you!

Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty.. who was and is and is to come.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 66

I am shouting with joy for you have made me glad O Lord.. you have done great things.. all glory belongs to your name.. praise you Father!

Your deeds are awesome.. your power is great.. you have subdued the enemies of my soul.. you have conquered evil.. death has been defeated!

All of creation worships you.. and sings praises to you.. all the nations will one day bow to your name.. all will one day acknowledge your rule.

I am in awe when I consider the works of your hands.. and even more in awe when I consider the cross of our salvation.. wondrous are your works O Lord!

You are sovereign Lord.. wickedness will not last forever.. one day all evil will be judged and no longer influence your creation - Alleluia!

Bless you Lord.. with myriads of angels I join in the anthem of the ages.. holy, holy, Lord God Almighty.. who was and is and is to come!

Blessed be the name of the Lord God Almighty!

You have kept my soul among the living.. you keep my feet from slipping.. when I am tested you are there to give me wisdom.. and you comfort me if I fail.

Like silver I will be refined.. by trials I will be strengthened.. no weapon will harm my soul.. you are conforming me into the image of Jesus!

I offer myself to you Lord.. let your kingdom come in my heart.. let your will be done in my life.. cause me to be a sweet aroma in your nostrils.

When I consider my ways and how prone I am to pride.. I come to you in fear Lord.. cleanse me from pride.. forgive me and help me to walk in humility.

I cry out to you with my mouth.. I am in need of your presence.. you are worthy to be praised.. I am so desperate for your Spirit!

Thank you for hearing me when I pray.. your faithfulness breaks me.. who am I that you should give ear to me?

Blessed are you Lord.. you have not rejected my prayer.. nor have you left me.. your steadfast love is eternal!

Praise Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 65

Praise you O covenant God.. let my worship arise to you.. to whom all glory is due.. to you Lord.. full of compassion and grace.

Thank you for hearing me when I pray.. for forgiving me and making my soul whole.. for the blessings of fellowship I am grateful.

In amazing acts of power and righteousness you have filled the earth.. your wonder is on display in all of nature.

By strength you have established the mountains.. by your word you have stilled the roaring of the seas and the tumult of the nations.

All in the earth are in awe at your signs.. how even the most normal of sunrise and sunset are amazing to behold.. you are glorious in power Lord.

You care for the earth.. bring rains in season so that crops flourish and vegetation grows.. the eath mirrors your beauty Lord.. and is an example of your provision for humanity.

Thank you for all of the ways that you love the earth.. how you care for your creation.. and how you love me.

Amen


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Praying Psalm 64

Hear my voice O God.. as I pray please preserve my life.. deliver me from the dread of the enemy.. hide me.. hold me in your arms.

Though the enemy of my soul seeks my destruction.. though all of life seems to be against me.. I will trust in your plan dear Lord.. I will hold onto your goodness.

For what is evil that it should come against one of your own.. and who is the enemy that he should touch me.. he is but a created being.. you are enthroned forever.. your reign is unmatched.. you will govern in righteousness.

Alleluia Lord of Hosts.. Come Holy Spirit!

You have come into my inward mind.. you have spoken to the deep part of me.. you have given me a new heart.. what can any created thing do to me?

Man's ways are not just.. justice rests with you alone.. I appeal to your justice Lord.. defend me from unjust acts of wickedness Lord.

Your power is forever Lord.. there is nothing too difficult for you.. all of the universe is subject to your word.. speak life to my flesh today Lord.. raise me up.. I need your touch today.

Cause all flesh to bow to you Lord.. open up the eyes of all peoples.. help them to know of your great love.. bring all men to their knees.. humble all hearts.. let every soul bow to your goodness.

You are awesome Father! You are worthy Jesus! You are powerful Holy Spirit!

Let the redeemed rejoice in you Lord! Let the forgiven take refuge in you! Let all the upright in heart exult! For we serve an awesome God.. you are pure goodness, mercy and love.. let the redeemed praise you!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 63

O God, you are my God.. earnestly I seek you.. my soul thirsts for you.. my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.

Reveal yourself to me Lord.. I am so in need of your presence.. I long to experience your power and to be filled with your glory.

Your steadfast love is better than life.. my lips praise you today.. I will bless you as long as I live.. in your name I will lift up my hands.

As my flesh enjoys delicious food, so my soul will be satisfied with you Lord.. my mouth will praise you with joyful lips.

I will remember you upon my bed and meditate on you in the night. In the morning I will awake and your goodness will come to mind.

You have been my help.. in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy. My soul clings to you.. your Spirit upholds me.

Those who seek to destroy my soul shall not succeed.. you will protect me.. you will come to my aid in times of trouble.. you are faithful Lord.

I will rejoice in you Lord.. I will exult in the God of my salvation.. you are worthy to be praised and trusted.

Praise you Lord Jesus Christ!

Amen


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Praying Psalm 62

For you alone Lord my soul waits in silence.. from you comes my salvation.. you only are my rock and my salvation.. you are my fortress.. I shall not be greatly shaken.

Though people misunderstand me.. though friends cannot relate to my pain.. even when I am mistreated I will run to you in prayer.. I will hope in the scriptures.

For in you alone my soul will wait in silence.. for my hope comes from you Lord.. you alone are my rock and my salvation.. you are my fortress.. I shall not be shaken.

On you Lord rests my salvation and my hope.. you are my mighty rock and my refuge. Praise you Lord Jesus Christ.. you have sent the holy Spirit to comfort me.

I will trust in you at all times.. I will pour out my heart to you in prayer.. I know you hear.. I know you care.. you are my refuge.. the blessed hope.

Help us Lord to understand that we are all equal before you.. the rich and the poor alike.. all ethnicities.. men and women.. boy and girl.. no one has an advantage.. no one is more favored.

Give us grace Lord to not put our trust in human ideas like money, ethnicity, gender or seniority.. those things change with time but you never change Lord.

You have spoken plainly at Calvary.. let all the earth understand.. let people understand the power of forgiveness.. and the power of your Love.

You will not reject any who come to you.. you will have mercy on those who pray.. you are a great and a gracious God.

Praise you Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

Amen


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