9/28/26 Prayer

You are devoted to me, Lord, in incalculable ways.

You loved me first. You chose me to be Yours. You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I am Your beloved child.

I truly have no real comprehension of the enormity of what it means to be Your child. I can’t fully understand the extent and extremes that You’ll go to in your love and devotion to me. And it’s not just for me, rather all humanity.

I think I put you in a box, God. I put limits on what you can do. I put limits on how much you love me. I make Your love conditional on my behavior, actions and my love for You. I don’t give You credit for how much You actually care for me. And caring is really different than loving. It requires action, putting into practice one’s love and doing things that are kind, without expecting anything in return.

You’ve given me freewill, which means You’ll only work in my life to the extent I allow you … to the extent I believe You can.

You are Majestic and Supreme. You are All-Powerful and All-Knowing. You are Truth and Wisdom. You are abundant in Grace and Mercy. You are Steadfast and Unchanging. In fact, there are no limits to Your Love and Abilities.

Why can’t I see that? Why do I doubt?

I think it’s because of what I see in this broken world. I think it’s also because I experience brokenness. I have to work for everything—most things are earned. This casts a shadow on your Goodness.

But this world’s darkness cannot extinguish or overcome Your Light.

In the middle of brokenness, in the middle of pain, in the middle of disease, in the middle of hurt, in the middle of struggle, in the middle of life … You show up. You love Your creation and will not allow it to be alone, forsaken. You are with us in it all.

Thank you! My circumstances may not change the way I want—though it’s always possible—but I’m never alone. You will redeem my hurt; good will emerge. And it will all be in keeping with Your will and way, Your purposes.

You have the power to inspire me, Lord. The Holy Spirit continually works to draw out of me, Lord. Inspire and draw out of me a deep and unwavering trust in You. May I be devoted to You, just a smidgen compared to how much You are devoted to me.

In the Beautifully Caring Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

9/21/26 Prayer

Believe Me over everything else. Listen to what I say. Don’t just hear. That is what You are speaking into my heart, Lord.

…

Almighty Creator, Beautiful God, Your display of majesty, beauty and grace surrounds me. Nature … the enormity and awe of gazing at a range of mountains humbles me. Admiring the beauty of a flower—so intricately arranged—can leave me warm and joyful. Realizing how the ocean’s waves crash on the shore, not continuing forward to consume whatever is in front of it, is an expression of grace.

Your creation rouses awe, joy and relief … really, it’s astonishing.

All of this lies right in front of my eyes … on a daily basis. Yet I still can’t seem to believe You all the time and in all circumstances. Doubt creeps in. My desire to control flexes. I question … did I hear that right?

Yes, if I heard it from You; yes, if You’re prompting me; yes, if it’s in keeping with Your Word and nature; yes if it’s Your will … then I must obey. I must surrender to You, Your way. You are God and I am not.

Thank You Jesus that when I fight it, You forgive me! Thank You that You’ve told me I will doubt. In Mark 9:24, a father asked You to banish a demon from his son. You asked him if he believed whether You could. He responded “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Despite the man’s doubt, You rebuked the demon and healed his son. You recognized his doubt and provided nonetheless.

You are extravagant in Your grace and love. You want me to believe You—to my core. You want me to rely on You and not myself. You have my best interests in mind in the context of Your greater plan for all humanity.

Help me Holy Spirit to do this. I’ve tried and can’t do it on my own … I’m bankrupt, powerless. I confess my poor spirit. I confess my unbelief. I confess that I always want things to go my way. I confess that I want to be my own god.

You love me anyway; and are transforming me into the child of God You made me to be. You are slowly but surely showing me that it’s better to have you be God and The Lord of my life, rather than me or anyone else. As I reflect on this, I realize that it’s freeing. All the responsibility doesn’t rest on my shoulders.

Holy Spirit help my heart believe … not just my mind. Holy Spirit, let me experience You in a profound way that blankets me with peace that can only be received through The Divine.

I believe, Jesus, help me overcome my unbelief.

In the Faith Building and Grace Abounding Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

9/14/26 Prayer

Bravery in The Lord, that’s what I feel God Almighty; or maybe that’s what I need. And, oh how grateful I am that You are God Almighty, Creator of the heavens and the earth—and that nothing is impossible for You. I would be sheepish without You in front of me.

So, what is bravery—it’s not being fearless, fear still creeps in. It’s not knowing that there are no risks; quite the opposite, it’s making myself vulnerable fully aware of the risks.

It’s acting despite fear and vulnerability. It’s setting myself aside for the benefit of another, or even myself.

Proverbs 3:5-6 comes to mind “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

When I live life on my own, in my own strength and for my own aims and desires, I lack courage and bravery. When I live with You, confident that You are leading the way and walking before me, those curvy and dangerous paths don’t scare me as much; and I know that You can make them straight. The unknown that lies before me isn’t quite as ominous because I know that You’ll be with me in it. Despite that I have no real control or choice in my circumstances, I have a quiet confidence that it’ll all be okay even if the worst happens. Even when my current desires and goals must be set aside, I know that You’ll take care of me and that’ll You’ll never leave me or forsake me.

That kind of confidence is divine and not of human making. It can only come from You!

I’m reminded of a prayer that I’ve prayed based on Isaiah 30:15. “O God of peace, You have taught me that in returning and resting in You I am saved; in quietness and confidence in You, that’s my strength. By the might of Your Spirit, Lord Jesus, lift me to Your Presence, where I may be still and know that You are God.”

Need I say more, Lord? You are my strength, my confidence, my courage and bravery. I need to be with You to gather it all up.

In the Awe Provoking Strength of The Lord Jesus Christ I pray.

Amen.

9/7/26 Prayer

Gracious Father, Your blessings overflow in the midst of thorns pressing into my side. I don’t deserve it. It makes me even more grateful for Your Presence in my life. Thank You Jesus for covering my sin, making me righteous and pure in the sight of God—Almighty Lord. Your love surpasses all!

As I enter this week, may my eyes be fixed on You and not the concerns and worries that creep in and crowd my mind. When a fear, concern or challenging thought/feeling presses in, may I bring it to You—laying it out without shame or fear. Holy Spirit, help that happen. I can’t seem to remember to bring it to You in the moment; my human reaction overtakes me. In place of that, I want to have Spirit filled reactions, with The Spirit guiding me in how to respond.

Also, if I’m behaving in a way that is not aligned with Your ways and will; if I am not honoring You—correct me, convict me, encourage me to confess to You. And if You need to use another person to do so, please do. May I repent and then take an honest inventory of what it’ll take to change my behavior. Maybe it’s stopping myself from being exposed to sin, or putting myself in vulnerable situations. Maybe it’s reflecting on what’s the source of the behavior—an unresolved hurt, just being too rushed or not seeing people as Your children, made in Your likeness. Maybe I should talk to a trusted friend or my pastor. I’m not sure, but reveal it to me.

Thank You Lord that You are ready to forgive and forget, and to heal the wounds and hurts of my heart. Thank You that I can share anything with You. You are beautiful, rich in love and unfailing grace.

In the Open Arms of Jesus Name I pray.

Amen.

8/31/26 Prayer

Heavenly father, God of all that is, was or will ever be, may the Majesty and Holiness of Who you are be revealed to me. But just a tiny bit … because if it were all, I would explode with joy. It would be too much for my heart, mind, and body to contain. My soul would be overwhelmed, becoming just a whiff.

Then why is it that I resist allowing You to be the Lord of my life? Your love for me is unceasing; Your faithfulness unmatched; Your pursuit of me never ending. I don't deserve this, yet here You are … always waiting for me. Your arms are always open. You’re ready to walk with me through whatever life brings. You’re ready to celebrate the joys I experience. You hold me through disappointments, and grieve with me during life’s crushing moments. You’ll even push me when I need it. If I’m lonely, here You are; I can be with You.

Give me eyes to see things from Your point of view. Give me courage to take up my cross and follow You—trusting in Your design for my life and those whom I love. Help me trust that when I give up my own way for You, indeed I gain more. I will experience freedom. Fear will begin with a lowercase “f” and not a capitalized one. I will experience peace in storms. The enticing things of this world will be less appealing; they'll have less power over me. The emptiness in my life and soul will be filled with peace and purpose. This world will lose its grip on me. Rather, You’ll give me the delights of my heart—those in keeping with Your will and way. And I’ll not only be content but overjoyed, living into the fullness of what You have for me.

I'll experience what truly matters in life—living with You in perfect freedom (at least as much as can be experienced on this side of heaven). I will walk confidently in hope, being able to say “I trust You more than I am afraid.”

In the Beautiful and Game Changing Name of Jesus.

Amen.

8/24/26 Prayer

Amazing and Beautiful God, You gave me the gift of The Holy Spirit. To this today, I don’t completely understand His Power and effect on my life. I do know that The Holy Spirit’s prompting is why I stand and pray before You. My faith walk, however steady or wobbly it is, is a gift from You.

It’s comforting to know that the disciples lived with You and saw Your miracles first hand and in person; yet they doubted Your embodiment of the Living God.

I’m reminded of the passage in The Bible before Peter declares Jesus as the Messiah, Your disciples failed to see the point of Your teaching, and You said to them in Matthew 16:8-11:

“‘You have so little faith! Why are you arguing with each other about having no bread? Don't you understand even yet? Don't you remember the 5,000 I fed with five loaves, and the baskets of leftovers you picked up? Or the 4,000 I fed with seven loaves, and the large baskets of leftovers you picked up? Why can’t you understand that I’m not talking about bread? So again I say, ‘Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees’.’”

I like my brothers and sisters in Christ can be so dense. We apply our earthly eyes instead of our spiritual.

It is by the Power of The Holy Spirit that I can do all things. I can’t “think” or “will” myself into faith. Having said that, You make it abundantly clear that I must seek You, I must intentionally do … to get closer to You.

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus left the disciples to go off and pray, to be alone with You. I think that’s the model for me and all humankind in our journeys with You. Daily life is very distracting, consuming and can be overwhelming. Yet, one of the gifts of The Holy Spirit is self-control. I’m thinking that means something. It requires me to ask for it and then practice it. I need to set aside my own desires to make room to spend time with You.

Help me Holy Spirit know that You are not only my Savior but The Lord of my life. Help me order my life around You. I don’t expect it to happen overnight, but step by step, day by day, year after year—if I intentionally seek You; to see and hear You; seek time with You; put in some effort; I’ll look back and be amazed by the transformation of my faith.

In the Faithful, Generous and Faith Giving Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

8/17/26 Prayer

My Beautiful and Gracious God, You truly are my Father. I can come sit on Your lap and just be held. I can cry with You, and You grieve with me. I can laugh with You, and You delight in seeing my delight. You are more close than I realize. You are literally in me—through The Holy Spirit.

What then stops me from calling on You when I’m in need? What stops me from celebrating with You when I’m joyful? What stops me from thinking about You during a normal day? Why don’t I spend more time with you?

Life’s distractions maybe. The endless thoughts running around in my head. Pride and determination that I am self sufficient and capable of doing things on my own. Probably so many more.

I forget that You are closer than my breath. I forget that I am not doing life alone. I forget that You know best.

Maybe it’s a sunrise, or a bird chirping that reminds me that You are Creator. Maybe it’s a stranger’s greeting or smile that reminds me that You love all people and want them to be in relationship with You. Maybe it’s writing myself a sticky note saying “Jesus loves me and wants to hear my voice,” that’ll turn my thoughts towards You. Maybe I can think of other creative ways to bring You to mind. Help me Holy Spirit do that.

Once prompted, may I remember that You are in me; that I have direct access to You; and that You are never far away.

I want to talk to You more. I want to pray to You more confidently and expectantly, trusting Your response—whether it’s yes, no or wait. I want to feel a new level of intimacy in my relationship with You. I want my trust in You to be more automatic, requiring less effort. I’ll still have doubts, of course, but my faith will prevail—a mustard seed is all You require. The smallest of seeds.

My faith walk with You is a journey; this won’t happen overnight. But with intentionality on my part and the work of The Holy Spirit, I’ll grow in my faith to confidently say “nothing is impossible for You and I trust Your will for my life and for those whom I love.”

In the Personal and Beautiful Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

Matthew 15:21-28 NLT

[21] Then Jesus left Galilee and went north to the region of Tyre and Sidon. [22] A Gentile woman who lived there came to him, pleading, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David! For my daughter is possessed by a demon that torments her severely." [23] But Jesus gave her no reply, not even a word. Then his disciples urged him to send her away. "Tell her to go away," they said. "She is bothering us with all her begging." [24] Then Jesus said to the woman, "I was sent only to help God's lost sheep-the people of Israel." [25] But she came and worshiped him, pleading again, "Lord, help me!" [26] Jesus responded, "It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs." [27] She replied, "That's true, Lord, but even dogs are allowed to eat the scraps that fall beneath their masters' table." [28] "Dear woman," Jesus said to her, "your faith is great. Your request is granted." And her daughter was instantly healed.

8/12/26 Prayer

My Beautiful God, how thankful I am to be Your child! You are so faithful and gracious with me … and I am so undeserving. Nonetheless, You continue to show me Your goodness as well as Your strength and power.

It’s hard to always believe. My faith waivers when things look bleak. But then The Holy Spirit reminds me to set my eyes on You—the Maker and Sustainer. A simple prayer connects my mind to You. “Jesus I love You. Help me to believe.”

You don’t castigate me or get angry with me for doubts and times of unbelief. Rather, You invite me in, to lay them before You. Then The Holy Spirit may work in me to increase my faith.

I’m always amazed in these times. Something happens that encourages me. It may be a word from a friend or a stranger. It may be encouraging news when all I’ve seen is barrenness. You sustain me in those times. How blessed am I!

I want to walk on water like Peter, Lord. I want to trust You with all my heart. I want to run to You instead of away from You when doubt creeps in. Holy Spirit help me do this! I cannot do this by striving or muscling my way. Instead, reveal to me the path to increase my faith, grow closer in my relationship with You, and strengthen my trust in You.

I have a feeling that it involves prayer and more time with You. I have a feeling that it is inviting into my daily life—not segregating faith from other parts of my life, like work or business. No, it’s You being the center of me—interwoven into all that I do and who I am. I surrender to You. It’s been my experience that it’s not an all at once surrender, but a slow gradual surrender. My complete surrender cannot (because I’m human and still have sin) occur until I meet You face to Face.

And oh boy, has the journey of surrender been sweet. Why? Because the more I give to You, the more You show up in my life and “give” to me. It reminds me of Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

In the Faith Building Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen

8/10/26 Prayer

My Beautiful God, how thankful I am to be Your child! You are so faithful and gracious with me … and I am so undeserving. Nonetheless, You continue to show me Your goodness as well as Your strength and power.

It’s hard to always believe. My faith waivers when things look bleak. But then The Holy Spirit reminds me to set my eyes on You—the Maker and Sustainer. A simple prayer connects my mind to You. “Jesus I love You. Help me to believe.”

You don’t castigate me or get angry with me for doubts and times of unbelief. Rather, You invite me in, to lay them before You. Then The Holy Spirit may work in me to increase my faith.

I’m always amazed in these times. Something happens that encourages me. It may be a word from a friend or a stranger. It may be encouraging news when all I’ve seen is barrenness. You sustain me in those times. How blessed am I!

I want to walk on water like Peter, Lord. I want to trust You with all my heart. I want to run to You instead of away from You when doubt creeps in. Holy Spirit help me do this! I cannot do this by striving or muscling my way. Instead, reveal to me the path to increase my faith, grow closer in my relationship with You, and strengthen my trust in You.

I have a feeling that it involves prayer and more time with You. I have a feeling that it is inviting into my daily life—not segregating faith from other parts of my life, like work or business. No, it’s You being the center of me—interwoven into all that I do and who I am. I surrender to You. It’s been my experience that it’s not an all at once surrender, but a slow gradual surrender. My complete surrender cannot (because I’m human and still have sin) occur until I meet You face to Face.

And oh boy, has the journey of surrender been sweet. Why? Because the more I give to You, the more You show up in my life and “give” to me. It reminds me of Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

In the Faith Building Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen

8/3/2026 Prayer

Gracious and Generous Lord, You give me all that I need and even more … my cup overflows. I praise You for Your faithfulness, grace and mercy. You have such compassion on me. You see me with eyes of tender mercy, as a mother or father watches their sleeping child.

The road ahead and all that I have to do seems overwhelming. There’s work, family obligations, commitments to church, commitments to other organizations, paying the bills, preparing for the next life event, spending time having fun, self-care, and on and on. How will I do it all?

Sometimes I feel a tug from You to do something else, to put myself out there—to volunteer, to disciple another, to join a life group or Bible study, to spend more time with You, to read my Bible, to ….

It doesn’t seem feasible in the time that I perceive that I have. But am I seeing with spiritual eyes? Am I seeing myself in the midst of the power that You put in me through The Holy Spirit?

I think not. I’m reminded of what You did, as described in the Gospel of Matthew 14:13-21:

“Jesus saw the huge crowd as he stepped from the boat, and he had compassion on them and healed their sick. That evening the disciples came to Him and said, ‘This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves.’ But Jesus said, ‘That isn't necessary—you feed them.’ ‘But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish!’ they answered. ‘Bring them here,’ He said. Then He told the people to sit down on the grass. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, He gave the bread to the disciples, who distributed it to the people. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers. About 5,000 men were fed that day, in addition to all the women and children!”

I see it. I get it! I need to go to You. I need to ask The Holy Spirit for instruction, for the power, the energy, the ingenuity, Your strength. You Word goes on to say in James 4:5, “God is passionate that the Spirit He has placed within us should be faithful to Him.” I think that means that The Holy Spirit will strengthen and provide me with all things I need to follow You, and do what You want me to do. Yes, it’s possible!

But not in my strength—Yours.

In the Empowering and Generous Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

7/27/2026 Prayer

Almighty Father … You are the Master of the universe and all that exists. Not only are You the most powerful; You are the sustainer and giver of all that is good.

A scripture that sustains me is 1 John 4:4, which says “You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”

It gives me such security and peace to hear affirmed that I come from You. AND, that I have power from You—through The Holy Spirit who lives in me. So, there is nothing I should fear, because I can overcome it all through You and with You.

This world and all that I face can feel daunting. But You God are greater than all that is in the world!

Another scripture that provides peace is Matthew 13:31-33, which says

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches. … The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.”

This reminds me that I’m not doing life alone or just within my family, or unit of friends. The Body of Christ surrounds me … that is, if I’ll let it into my life and heart.

Jesus’ Kingdom on earth is His body. It is the full world-wide church and my personal church and family of believers. The mustard seed and yeast analogies tell me that God’s Kingdom is constantly growing and spreading. I’ll never be alone as a believer. And the cool thing is that I can be part of spreading it, if I choose to put in the effort.

Thank You God Almighty for being in me by The Holy Spirit, and surrounding me by the Body of Christ! The power in me and the power through the Body is undefeatable—because, as Your scripture says … You are greater than the one who is the world.

In the Most Powerful and Unstoppable Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

7/20/2026 Prayer

You Jesus are the light of the world. The Book of John says it beautifully—how the world was created through You (The Word).

“In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through Him, and nothing was created except through Him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.”

How will I walk through this life? How will I know what to do when confronted with circumstances that confuse me, overwhelm me or simply seem unconquerable?

You. You will light the path for me.

Yet it’s never that simple, mostly because I get in my own way. I try to solve things on my own. I try to muscle my way through it in my own strength. I think I’m living on my own; or maybe it’s my pride. Maybe I want to do it all by myself. Maybe I want to do it my own way.

Well, so far, that’s not going so well for me.

Maybe I need to invite You in. Maybe I need to pray to You, laying out all my concerns, worries and issues. Maybe I should ask You to guide me step by step. Your Word does say “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”

But that means I REALLY have to believe and trust You. That means that I REALLY have to listen intently to what You have to say. How do I do that?

Well, I’ve learned that I get to know Your voice the more time I spend with You, whether in prayer, talking to You, reading Your Word, journaling to You, listening to Jesus music, walking in nature—however it is that I connect with You.

And … the more and more I spend time with You, the more I see Your Hand working in my life. The more I connect the “dots.” The more my faith goes from my head to my heart.

But You don’t leave me on my own to do this. You prompt me—that small still voice, that heart pull, that encouragement from a friend or even a stranger.

“[You are] the light of the world. Anyone who follows [You] will never walk in darkness. They will have that light. They will have life.”

Holy Spirit help me live each day choosing to invite You in, choosing to spend time with You, choosing to trust You … no matter what happens. I have to make that choice every day.

In the Trustworthy and Light Shining Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

7/5/2026 Prayer

Holy Father, You hold up, and together, the magnificence of Your creation. Your creation reflects You. I am made in Your image and the natural world bellows Your beauty and the intricacies of Your character. You are evident everywhere—if I only open my eyes to see and my ears to hear.

A sunset boasts Your artful nature, painting the sky with oranges, yellows and pinks. The mountains reflect Your power, prowess and majesty. The sea projects Your endlessness, and its waves your steadfastness in that they never end, continuously crashing onto the shore.

What a stunner You are!

And I walk with You, of Your choosing. You gave me righteousness and salvation through Jesus. That is the confidence with which I walk. Ephesians 6:17 tells me that my helmet protects me, which seems so perfect in that it protects my head. 

Huh, let me think about that for a moment. What’s in and on my head—my brain, necessary for my body to function; my mind, which dictates my actions; my eyes, with which I take in the world; my ears, which allow sounds and voices to be processed by my brain and influence my mind. 

It then makes sense that I should protect the righteousness of my head with the body armor You so aptly describe in Ephesians 6:10-18. While my head is a small part of my body in proportion, it can lead me into some very dangerous situations. My mama always told me, “don’t walk down a dark alley unless you really have to. You never know what’s waiting there for you.”

Your Word clearly tells me “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” and “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” 

So much of what I get exposed to or expose myself to are not pure, lovely or admirable. Sometimes I have to walk down that dark alley, other times I choose to.

Your Word also instructs me to “guard my heart.” This reminds me of something else my mama always said, “who you hang out with is who you become. Where you put your focus and energy, leads your life.” She always told me to “dress for who I want to be.”

My mama’s sayings seem apt for the Christian journey. I think I’ll guard my heart by protecting my head. 

Holy Spirit, please help me do this. Convict me when temptation comes calling. Reveal to me what I should be praying for. Lead me in seeking pure, admirable and lovely things. The change won’t be overnight, but neither did You create the world in one day. 

I think the right path is to daily choose to walk with You—and allow You to lead me.

In the Holy and Righteous Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

6/29/2026 Prayer

Amazing and Faithful Father, You have given me the gift of faith—faith in You, in Your goodness, Your mercifulness, Your enduring and endless love, Your unchanging nature and the fact that You are for me.

I have built my life on faith in You. And the beautiful thing is, that my faith is not a product of my own doing, but rather Your gift to me. So, even in that, I’m not self-reliant. I am sustained by You.

Of course, I have to do my part. I must put in the effort to increase and strengthen my faith. I have to be intentional and disciplined about it; though not rigid or controlled by my intentionality. My salvation and faith are not earned but given to me through Jesus.

Holy Spirit, please lead me in the way of growing and nurturing my faith. Is it reading and studying my Bible? Is it taking time in the morning to say Good Morning and inviting You into my day and my thoughts? Is it reading a devotional, or journaling to You what’s on my mind and in my heart? Is it listening to Jesus music? Is it reading a Jesus book? Is it just sitting with You?

I think it’s all of these things … toggling from one to another as led by The Holy Spirit. As I engage in these things, Holy Spirit reveal Yourself and the many facets of God’s nature to me. Show me what You want me to do—convict me and encourage me. Teach me truth and wisdom.

Then, when life and the enemy fires off fiery arrows at me, I am prepared. These fiery arrows could be difficult relationships; things not going how I want them, inciting anger, fear or disappointment; anxious thoughts; financial troubles or my mind creating the semblance of financial instability or crisis; health issues, sickness; someone just saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. The list goes on and on …

My shield of faith will block those fiery arrows. Scripture will come to mind to set my mind straight. I’ll pick up the phone to call or text a trusted friend. Rather than allowing my mind to spiral, I’ll journal to You writing out what’s troubling me (even if it’s on a simple sticky note). I’ll turn on some Jesus music or pick up my Jesus book to reset my mind and give me a new frame of reference in which to see my circumstance. I’ll pick up my Bible to read, receive comfort, direction, and just be with You.

You and Your gift of faith can keep me well despite what life throws at me. The enemy uses all kinds of devices to throw me off balance and to distract me from You. The more time I spend with You, building my faith—the more surefooted I become to journey through life and not be unsettled so easily.

My hope is in You. You are the stronghold of my life. You light my path. May I seek You out, opening my spiritual eyes to see where You lead me.

In the Faithful and Faith Giving Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

6/25/2026 Prayer

Awe creating and sharing God—You strike awe in the hearts of humankind. Your Hand is so gracious and sustaining. You can hold my beautiful moments and heart crushing times at the same time, giving me a peace that transcends understanding.

How is that? How can that be?

Well, it’s You showing up in the best of times and the worst. It’s Your faithfulness and enduring love. It’s You not leaving me to my own devices, but surrounding me with The Body of Christ. It’s You. My relationship with You being the most important and precious thing in my life.

My whole existence rests in You.

Jesus, You came down from heaven and humbled Yourself as a mere man—vulnerable to the pains, difficulties, sadness and ire of humankind. You came down to save me and all humanity. Knowing You, accepting You into my heart as my Savior—being in relationship with You—that is the source of true and unbreakable peace.

You fully prepare me for life and all that it brings—the good, the bad, the sad, the joyous, the heartbreaking, the heart mending.

You and keeping my eyes on You; being fully engaged with You; putting myself into Your Presence—that brings me ultimate peace. It doesn’t take away the hard, but it surely does make it bearable. And I can even experience joy in it. I can hold hard and joyous simultaneously in my heart.

Thank You, Jesus, my Savior!

In the Peace Giving Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

6/15/2026 Prayer

Wise Lord, You are generous and give me wisdom and instruction freely when I come to You. I’m reminded of what King Hezekiah did in the Old Testament when he didn’t know what to do.

“Hezekiah received the letter from the messengers and read it. Then he went up to the temple of the Lord and spread it out before the Lord. And Hezekiah prayed to the Lord: ‘Lord, the God of Israel, enthroned between the cherubim, you alone are God over all the kingdoms of the earth. You have made heaven and earth. Give ear, Lord, and hear; open Your eyes, Lord, and see; listen to the words Sennacherib has sent to ridicule the living God. … Now, Lord our God, deliver us from his hand, so that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that You alone, Lord, are God.’”

Hezekiah went straight to You. He laid out his problem, prayed and asked for Your help. That’s not my usual path when I’m confronted with a concern, issue, or trouble. No, I rely on my own instincts, feelings (which, when I think about it, is silly, given how erratic and contradictory they can be) or judgment. I may ask another, who has likely not consulted with You.

These problems, issues, concerns, troubles and challenges … where do they come from? Some may be the result of my or another person’s bad decisions, likely rooted in a sinful desire, arrogance, or ego. Others due to the fact that I live in a broken world where disease, chaos, toil, and pain exist. Then, there’s that unseen world I hear about but don’t fully understand—where the enemy wants me to forget about You and abandon my faith. He wants me to blame You. He wants to distance me from You.

How do I respond? Well, first I go to You. You’ve given me the tools—Your armor. Ephesians 6:10 to 18 lays it out. But I must choose to act. I have to put on the armor of God. I then have to resist the enemy who wants me to act sinfully, to turn my back on You. 

That first piece of armor is the belt of truth; the second, the breastplate or body armor of God, which is Your righteousness. 

Truth can only be found in You. You authored it when You created humanity, this world and everything that exists. Fundamentally, truth is that You are Lord of all, the source of life, love and goodness. You also reveal it in Your Word and even in Your creation. 

When seeking truth, I must always be careful to test it against Your Word, Your character, Your will and Your way.

Your righteousness I gained through Christ. He stands before me and You see me through Jesus—perfect, holy and righteous … how incredibly beautiful and powerful. So, I must run to Jesus and live like He did (to the best of my ability). 

How do I become like another person … I spend time with him or her. The more time I spend with You, the more I become like You. So, that is what I must do to get Your body armor. 

And, the beautiful thing is … that when I’m with You, I’m fully defended; I’m standing in victory.

In the Truth Giving and Righteous Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

6/8/2026 Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are the Creator of all things. You are holy and righteous. You created humans in Your image, to live peacefully in communion with You and Your people. Your love for us (and me) surpasses everything. You want each person on this earth to come to You in faith in Jesus—to live our days on earth with You.

You want good for me. You want me to have no tears, no troubles, no problems. But we broke that when humanity disobeyed You in the Garden of Eden. The enemy took the form of a serpent to provoke our egos—such that we would want to be like God to know good and evil, to be rulers and dictators of our own lives. The enemy made humanity question whether You were really for us

What a false, empty, and loaded provocation that was! But we took the bait. 

Now we live in a broken world where the enemy lies, he schemes, he provokes and strategizes to cause disruption and ruin. He wants us to build walls and feel like we’re climbing mountains that are too high for us to succeed. He covers our eyes to see darkness and fear the unknown. He seeks to move You from the center of our lives and thinking to a “side show,” and for people to even question Your Existence.

He works to distract us with relationship problems, worries about how we’ll eat and live, and lies about ourselves and others. He seeks to divide humanity, pitting us against each other. 

Oh, he’s slick. He does it smoothly by using people who unknowingly participate. That unanswered text … what does that mean? I lost my job … how will I ever get another? That post … it was directed at me with hate, right? That thought that I’m not good enough, that I have to earn love, that I’ll never make it, that I’m all alone, that I need that thing to find happiness, that I’ll never be healed, that my debts will bury me, that everyone is against me, that that drink, that porn will distract me and make it all go away, that it would be better if …. All of it … lies.

But the root of evil is the enemy and not Your creation. Yes, we have sin—starting with our egos and selfish desires to have our own way—and we participate.

Will I allow myself to be used that way? Will I look at the actions and even hurts brought against me using earthly eyes or spiritually keen eyes? Will I give people the benefit of the doubt? Will I be alert and always praying as Your Word instructs?

I am so grateful for You, Jesus. You came to save us from sin, evil, and the enemy who ushered in death.

Holy Spirit give me eyes to see, an awareness and instinct to ask the right questions, and divine energy and power to fight the unseen world of evil that manipulates humanity’s thinking and prompts injustice, hurt, violence and harm. Your Word says:

A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.

Help me Holy Spirit stand firm in Your Goodness and Truth. Help me live into sharing Your mercy, grace, forgiveness and patience. 

You are All-Powerful, and give generously to all who ask. Stop me before I judge, condemn or act. Prompt me to look behind the words and actions of others to see if there is something else at play. Help me train my mind to question my own thoughts—are they pure, are they in keeping with Your Word, Your way and will. Yes, some people have intentionally chosen evil, but not most. They unknowingly participate in the spiritual warfare that this world is experiencing.

But I know the middle and end of the story! You rose from the dead and overcame death and evil. And the day will come when You return to ban evil to its place in the lake of fire. You will usher in the new earth and our new heavenly bodies to live in peace, fully known, fully loved, and with no more tears. 

In the All Powerful Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

6/1/2026 Prayer

Heavenly Father, You are magnificent and worthy of all honor, glory, praise and power. You left Your heavenly throne to come be with us and save us—Jesus walking this earth, enduring the human experience, never sinning, but rather showing humanity how to live.

We are to love each other, experience joy in community, and live in peace with each other. We are to be patient and bear each other’s burdens. We are to be good and kind with one another, no matter whether we know each other, nor whether we agree or disagree. We are to walk faithfully with one another, being gentle in our dealings. All of this takes self-control, setting our own interests aside for the good of another. You want us to put on the mindset of Jesus, not expecting others to serve us but to serve.

Lord, I have trouble doing this most of the time. I need to rely heavily on Your Word and what Jesus said before He was taken up to His heavenly throne. “Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” That’s The Holy Spirit living in me. I’m a walking temple of Jesus.

Your power remains in me. Your strength and wisdom reside in me. I need to stand firm and confidently in these truths. You’ve shown me and told me how I can access them. It’s keeping my eyes squarely on You, not my troubles or challenges, but You. I know that You’ve already defeated everything bad and evil in this world, even death.

Ephesians 6:10 to 18 lays it out beautifully. And it begins “A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.” Your Word then goes on to describe every piece of the armor of God that I have at my disposal and can use.

Keeping my eyes squarely on You takes self-control—work. I need to spend time with You. I need to be refreshed by The Holy Spirit, to pray and to commune with other believers, who are Your instruments of strength and vessels of mercy.

I have a role to play; it doesn’t stop there. I’m to be an instrument of strength and vessel of mercy for another. I’m to share the good news You’ve allowed me to experience with others. Nothing fancy, just telling others how You’ve worked in my life. Nobody can refute that.

In the Ever Present and Empowering Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

5/25/2026 Prayer

Amazing and Gracious God, how many are the good gifts that You’ve given me? Too many to count! Your goodness surrounds me and empowers me; it lifts me up and carries me. What a blessed child of God I am.

My mind is flooded with an image of the divine gift of The Holy Spirit. How do I see The Holy Spirit—like the wind, Who can be incredibly powerful yet ever so gentle. 

I imagine myself on a prairie filled with wild flowers dancing with The Trinity—Jesus in person, God—this dazzling bright ball of energy and light—and The Holy Spirit as a breeze swirling around us. I’m smiling ear to ear, experiencing pure joy. 

How beautiful it is to be in relationship with You. So simple, yet so complex. 

Holy Spirit, thank You for being in me; never leaving me. Though I may feel it, I am never alone. Thank You for Your nudges and prompts; to pray and act when You want me to do something. In those times when I obey, I am invariably blessed and so grateful that I did. 

You bring richness and vibrancy to my life. You fill me with peace and joy when my circumstances would call for otherwise.

Your gifts, Holy Spirit, of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are what I seek to experience daily. Saturate me in them because I cannot conjure them up on my own. Remind me to invite You into my day, so that we can walk and talk throughout it. 

Thank You for praying for me when I have no words or lack the energy or desire to do so. You are “for” me and make life on earth more bearable and joyous. You lift me from the pit and mire, and give me hope. Sometimes it’s but a glimmer, but when I spend time with You—praying, listening to Jesus music, reading Your Word, reciting scripture, journaling, reaching out to a brother or sister in Christ, that hope grows stronger and brighter.

How blessed am I. Thank You for Your love, goodness and faithfulness. May I share the gift You’ve given me with another, allowing Your light to shine through me.

In the Precious and Holy Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.

5/18/26 Prayer

Holy Father, sweet Jesus, and righteous Holy Spirit, I don’t completely understand how You are three separate persons, yet one God. What I do know is that I am grateful You are. 

Father, You are perfect and to be revered. Jesus, You relate to me on a personal level, having walked this earth and experienced all the feelings and emotions I do. Holy Spirit, You are in me—a personal guide and daily advocate—encouraging me, convicting me, and prompting me to walk in the Way of Jesus.

Living with You is so much better than taking on life by myself. I want others to know, to experience Your goodness. At first, I muffle the desire to share my story and my personal experiences with You. It’s scary and out of my comfort zone. I’m not equipped; I don’t know enough about You; how will I say it; is there enough time ….

And what does it even encompass … to tell others about You?

Trust … trust is the word that comes to mind. Trust that You will equip me. Trust that You’ll give me the words. Trust that You’ll present the opportunities. Trust that You’ll show up.

What’s my first step? I think it’s making myself available to You. It can be as simple as telling You that I want to share, asking for opportunities, praying that You reveal a person to me who You want to draw closer. Any type of request like this will do—however faint and weak my voice is. You will enable and empower me to do so. 

You’re kind of sneaky sometimes—You’ll present me with an opportunity without me having formally asked, and The Holy Spirit will nudge me. Will I accept that invitation? Will I obey?

It is clear from Your Word that I am commissioned to share my faith with others, especially non-believers. It is also clear that this is one of the reasons that The Holy Spirit is in me.

Jesus said “do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.”

You tell me to trust You, stand firm in You, and remain. “Remain in Me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.”

Holy Spirit please give me eyes to see, ears to hear and a softened heart to understand when You’re prompting me, and may I have the courage and confidence in You to obey.

In the Good and Life Giving Name of Jesus I pray.

Amen.