Isaiah 35 - He Will Come to Save You

Strengthen the feeble hands,
steady the knees that give way;
say to those with fearful hearts,
“Be strong, do not fear;
your God will come,
he will come with vengeance;
with divine retribution
he will come to save you.” Isaiah 35:3-4

Father,

When these little ones feel weak, strengthen them with your powerful Spirit.
When fear causes their knees to buckle and their hearts are terrified, come to them in your power, come against the forces of evil who are at work in the world causing the events that are leading them to fear. Men and women fall under the power of the Evil one and they say and do things which hurt the innocent. When these little ones suffer under these actions, bring your vengence and devine retribution against those who have allowed satan's influence to bring them to commit these acts - righteous and devine retribution designed to bring the purpetrators to repentence and devine vengence and retribution against the evil one and his agents for their defeat and destruction.

Show yourself in these times in a powerful way to give courage to these children.

Amen

Isaiah 35 - When the land is parched

The desert and the parched land will be glad;
the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. 
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom;
it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. 
The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, 
the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; 
they will see the glory of the Lord,
the splendor of our God. (Isaiah 35:1, 2)

Dear Father,

These children will face times of dryness in their lives, when their souls are parched and weary. I pray in those times that you quench their spiritual thirst with your presence and your goodness. May they then experience your joy as they burst forth from that dryness into regained full bloom as they look to your glory and your splendor.


Amen

Psalm 16

Keep these children safe, O God,
for in you they will take their refuge. You are their Lord;
apart from you they will have no good thing.
Lord, you have assigned them their portion and their cup;
You have made their lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for them in pleasant places;
surely they have a delightful inheritance.
I pray that they will praise you, who counsels them;
I pray that they will set you always before them.

Because you will be at their right hand,
they will not be shaken.
Please make known to them the path of life;
and fill them with joy in your presence,
with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Amen

Shine for Your Light has Come. Isaiah 60:1-2

“Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
See, darkness covers the earth
and thick darkness is over the peoples,
but the Lord rises upon you
and his glory appears over you. (Isaiah 60:1, 2)

Dear Father,

I often pray for these children that they will be a light shining in the darkness. As Isaiah says, darkness covers the earth. A thick darkness covers the people. We only need to look around to see that this is true. Evil is everywhere. People are captive to the darkness of evil. Evil causes people to be oppressed and mistreated. Evil causes people to be covered with the fog of deceit, causing people to live in ways that lead to their own misery and destruction. So many people in the world live in the darkness of hopelessness.

It seems so overwhelming. But Isaiah's words remind me that our light is not our own, but you rise as the sun upon us and give us light and fill us full of light that we can spread across the earth. And we are given the simple command to "rise up". From there, you take over.

I pray that these children will have the courage to rise up. To stand up in the darkness and let your light shine. Do not leave them stranded when they stand in the darkness, but rise upon them and let your glory appear over them so that your glory is shown to all around them.

Amen.

Happy Birthday Geo and ECH

Dear Father,

Thank you for these two precious ones who came into this world three days apart each from one of my daughters. You showered blessings on me that week and you have continued to do so through these beautiful lives. Continue to protect them, continue to prepare them for a life of meaning, impact and significance. Continue to give those raising them great wisdom.

Amen

Sinful Nature - Substance and Sexual Addiction. Galatians 5:21

Dear Father,

I have seen how addiction of all kinds has destroyed lives and families. I pray that these children see and understand the consequences of addiction. I pray that they understand that no one sets out with the intent of being an addict. That they see that substance addiction begins with "trying something". That sexual addiction begins with clicking on an Internet page. Give them the wisdom to recognize the risk and the will to resist. I our society, particularly in the area of sexual addiction, it will take all the strength you will give them to avoid the trap. Through your Spirit, empower them to rise above the mire to walk on your paths.


Amen

Sinful Nature - Jealousy and Envy. Galatians 5:20-21

Dear Father,

I know that the root of jealousy and envy is a feeling that our identity comes from what we own, where we live, what we drive, the position we hold, boyfriend/girlfriend, popularity, husband/wife, children or any other "possessions". It is easy to fall into that trap when we look around instead of looking up. I have been there in my life. I thank you that you have gradually taught me otherwise, though I'm not completely cured.

I pray that you save these children from that path. I pray early on in their lives that they see clearly that the only identity that has any substance or any meaning is the identity that we find in you. It is the only identity that endures, the only one that will not let us down regardless of the circumstances.

Help these children to be able to have clear examples of the emptiness and uncertainty that comes from possession/position identity. Help them to have maturity beyond their years to understand what they see so that they seek you and only you for their identity.

Amen

Sinful Nature - Discord, Dissensions, Factions. Galatians 5:20

Father,

We know from the prayer of Jesus and from many other scripture references how important unity is to you. Lord Jesus, you want your church to be one just as you are one with the Father. You also want married people to be one. I know people who just seem to stir up controversy and division. They do that in the workplace, in the church and in the home. I believe that is the kind of person Paul was talking about in this verse. I pray that you deliver these children from becoming that kind of person. That you will bring positive influences into their lives of people who build up rather than tear down, people who bring peace rather than create controversy and people who show love as the unifying force in all aspects of their life. May these children follow these examples.

Certainly there are times when we must speak out in ways that will create controversy. When people are being mistreated and oppressed, you want us to speak out. When your teachings are being distorted and people are being led astray, you want us to speak out. Though I pray that these children have the courage to speak out in those times, I also pray that they will exercise sound judgment in deciding to speak out. That they ensure that the wrong they intend to right is truly a wrong and not just a matter of opinion. That they be able to determine, even when there is a wrong, whether the severity of the wrong merits the forcefulness of their planned action - that is, that they have the wisdom to know whether the cure will kill the patient. Much judgment and courage is necessary for all of this and I pray that you fill them with both the courage to act when needed to right a wrong, but also the judgment to know what action is appropriate with the view of maintaining unity if at all possible.


Amen

Sinful Nature - Hatred. Galatians 5:20

Father of Forgiveness and Mercy,

Your teachings throughout your word are clear. We have been forgiven, therefore we must forgive. We have been shown mercy, therefore we must be merciful, we have been given grace, therefore we must show grace. But my observation of true hate is that it rises above the level of mere unforgivness. It seems to become an obsession, an addiction. Whether it is hatred toward an ethnic group or hatred toward another culture, or hatred toward another faith or hatred toward people who hold another political view or hatred toward those who hold another view of morality, the person holding such hatred becomes absorbed in it. It dominates their thinking and it becomes the epicenter of a behavior that spreads out to general intolerance of any who are different or think differently. And the hatred is personal toward an individual or groups of individuals.

I pray that these children understand that you do hate behavior, but you do not hate people. There is behavior that we should hate, but our emotion should never carry over to the individuals involved in that behavior. And even in hating behavior, because we are not you and we do not have the ability to so clearly distinguish between behavior and people, we need to be sparing in behavior we choose to hate. Too easily can we cross that boundary and begin hating those who practice the behavior.

While these children hate oppression and defend the oppressed, may they also have pity on the oppressor for what lays in store for them at your judgment if they do not repent. May they understand that those in other cultures (but for the leaders) are rarely in control of their surroundings and are merely following leadership and the teaching they have received - and even the leaders are products of their own upbringing. May they understand that political views are not so black and white as to merit hatred.

I pray that these children err on the side of mercy, compassion and understanding, that they hate behavior, not people, and that they even hate behavior sparingly.


Amen

Sinful Nature - Witchcraft. Galatians 5:20

Dear Father,

Obviously I pray that these children not be drawn into the Occult. It has an allure that can draw young people who are looking for something new and exciting. I pray that they do not fall into that trap. But, just like idolatry is not confined to creating and worshipping godlike figures, neither is witchcraft confined to the actual practice of witchcraft. Whereas idolatry involves crafting a god that we design and can control, witchcraft involves trying to be god. When we try to control our surroundings or control people, we are attempting to control this world to our ends. That is the substance of witchcraft - using and controlling the things of the world (including people) to meet our selfish needs. It involves manipulation, exerting power and placing others under our thumb.

I pray that these children never try to take on your job. That they never try to be in control of those around them. That they allow you to be in control and that they see their role as tending your creation for your glory.

Amen

Sinful Nature - Idolatry - Galatians 5:20

Dear Father,

I pray that these children quickly come to understand idolatry in all its forms. Whether it is money, or power, or position, or popularity, or a boyfriend/girlfriend, or a sports hero, or a church leader, or success, or accomplishment, or victory over others, or security, help them to see anything that can be worshipped in place of you. Show them the feet of clay all of these idols have - that they can never give true security or happiness. Help them to quickly learn that the only person or thing that can truly be relied upon is you.

Amen

Sinful Nature - Debauchery. Galatians 5:19

Dear Father,

It is every young person's temptation to walk on the partying side in high school and college. I pray that these children are able to avoid that temptation, but more importantly help them to see and observe that behavior that might seem fun or cool in high school and college, becomes ugly and destructive as adults. Help them to notice the families that are blown apart by drugs and alcohol, children who are left motherless and fatherless. Help them to see the ugly side of "partying" and thereby to keep their distance. Help them to learn that alcoholics and drug addicts did not start out intending to be so, but drifted into that condition gradually. Give them the ability to see these truths play out in the world and that they have wisdom and discernment beyond their years about such things.

Amen

A new one on the way!

Dearest Father of Mercies,

You bless my life in so many ways. I thank you for soon adding another little one to those who call me grandad. I do not deserve these kind of blessings, but I thank you so much for them. I pray that you be with KH, that she and the baby will continue to be healthy and that the delivery be without mishap. Subside KH's morning sickness so that she can continue her activities. I pray that you add even greater wisdom to LH and KH so that they can discern the parenting techniques that will be best for this child and his or her differences from Geo and ISH. I pray for Geo and ISH as big brothers, that they will be Godly influences on this new little one. I also pray as LH and KH continue to seek a child to adopt, that you will guide this path in your wisdom.

Amen

Sinful Nature - Impurity - Galatians 5:19

Father,

I pray that these children come quickly to understand that immorality is much more than sexual activity outside of marriage. May they understand that sexual impurity includes what they watch on television, what they look at on the Internet, what movies they watch, what jokes they laugh at and what music they listen to. I pray that they understand that what
Jesus meant when he said "Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness." (Luke 11:34)

May they understand that it is impossible for things they listen to and things they watch not to affect them. They will receive counsel, even from "church friends" to compromise in this area, to watch things that "aren't that bad". Give them the strength of conviction and wisdom beyond their years to turn from that counsel, recognizing the negative impact of the cumulative effect of "impure eyes" and, instead to be an influence for purity with those around them.

Amen

The Sinful nature - immorality Galatians 5:19

Father,

As I prayed from Psalm 1 about avoiding the counsel and the ways of evil people, I am reminded of just how difficult that prayer is to put into practice. Evil counsel is everywhere, in peers, in teachers and professors, in the media in all forms. That counsel tells these children that sexual immorality is not only ok, but actual to be admired. It is considered odd, if not just wrong for a single person in their 20's to be a virgin. How do these children combat and turn from such counsel? Certainly the old song by Isaac Watts gains more meaning to me as I see the world as it is becoming - "How shall the young secure their hearts and guard their lives from sin?" he then answers with the simple, truthful, and yet difficult answer "Thy word the choicest rules impart to keep the conscience clean". Psalm 119 says it this way - "How can a young man keep his way pure?

By living according to your word. (Psalm 119:9)

I pray that these children take seriously your word and your formula for a meaningful life. That they value themselves and their bodies and your word enough that they are willing to be unusual, to go against the crowd and keep themselves sexually pure. That they do save themselves for their future mate so that the two of them can share themselves in the way of joy that you intended.

Amen

Blessed is the one who does not listen to bad counsel - Psalm 1

Dear Father,

I pray that these children are not drawn to bad influence. That they recognize evil influence and understand that the end result is disaster. I pray that as they turn from bad counsel, that you will bless them for that choice so that they learn that there are blessings in choosing your ways. May they instead come to delight in your word such that they think about it all the time as they seek to follow you. And by that, they will become like a tree planted by the water that yields fruit in its season and whose leaves do not wither. And whatever they do prospers.

May they see and fully understand the destruction that comes to those who choose evil ways so that they will fully comprehend the end result of those choices.

I pray that you watch over them as they seek righteousness.

Amen

Happy Birthday KMA!

Dear Father,

Today we celebrate the birth of KMA. Thank you for her and for her life. I pray that she continues to grow up into a strong woman of God. Guide her life such that she sees what it is you want her to be and that you grow in her a desire to follow that vision. Bring strong positive Christian influences into her life, both adults and peers and silence those who would have negative influence on her. Give TH and JH great wisdom as they raise her on a day to day basis. Increase her sphere of influence so that generations may be brought closer to you.

Amen

God Will Meet All Your Needs - Philippians 4:19

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)

The Lord Who Provides,

I confess that it is easy to slide into worry about money. And I see people around me in the church who struggle financially. But as much as some of them struggle, they are never without basic needs. Though I certainly cannot know all situations in the world, your word I believe promises that, for the Christian, you will, in some way provide for our basic needs - in some cases through the generosity of other Christians.

I pray that these children come to trust in you to provide their needs so that they do not fret over such things. Certainly they should do their part in providing by being willing to seek work and to work, but may they not worry about what will actually happen in that regard. That is not easy, and they will need to learn that trust and reliance. I pray that you guide them in this way. Help them to see all the times you have provided for them so that they can build that trust. Help them see you act in other people's lives as an example.

And through that learning, I pray that they develop a calm and peaceful heart.

Amen

I Can Do All Things - Philippians 4:13

I can do everything through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13)

Dear Father,

There will many obstacles that these children will face. Many of them will appear insurmountable. Sometimes they will think they have failed. But here Paul expresses the Secret - the secret of contentment. That secret is the knowledge that no matter the circumstances, if we allow you to be master of our lives, you will work powerfully through us to accomplish great things. Some of those great things we may never know about because we are separated from the ultimate outcome by space and time. But regardless, we can always know that we are never useless when we are in your hands.

I pray that these children never dispair. That they never conclude that their lives do not matter. Rather I pray that they will always know and be confident and content in the truth that their lives are never wasted in your service. That you take feeble efforts and achieve powerful results. That your strength is always magnified through our weakness.

Amen

Welcome to the World OFH!!

Dear Father,

Thank you for bringing another precious one into the world who will call me Grandad. I pray that you will keep her healthy and allow her to grow physically and mentally. I pray for TH and JH as they raise her that you will give them great wisdom and patience. Be with her big sisters that they will be strong godly examples to her. Protect her with your mighty angels, shield her from the evil one. Grow into a powerful woman of God.

Amen

The Secret of Being Content

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. (Philippians 4:12)

Dear Father,

I pray that you help these children and the ones raising them to learn the secret - the secret of being satisfied with what they have. Your servant Paul said that it was a secret that he has to learn. From experience I know that it does not come naturally. Give them experiences early in their lives in which they learn that things do not bring happiness nor do they bring genuine respect from others. By this they may learn that possessions can be enjoyed as gifts from you, but as no more or no less than that.

May they then learn that true contentment comes from being in your presence.

Amen

Whatever You Have Heard. Philippians 4:9

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me–put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. (Philippians 4:9)

Wise Father,

I pray for these children and those who are raising them that they understand and embrace the basic truth that your principles are the only way to happiness and peace. People often become bored with following your ways, deceived by the evil one into thinking that there are better paths to happiness. When following your ways becomes routine or just "too hard", we can be deceived into looking for an easier way or a way that is more "exciting".

I pray that you give them wisdom and decernment to be able to see through the lies, and understand your truth so they are not deceived. Bring good examples of godly living into their paths and may they also see examples of the destruction of lives that comes from rejecting your ways.

As they fully embrace your ways, may they become those godly examples for others to follow.

Amen

If anything is Praiseworthy - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

I strikes me that thinking on things that are worthy of praise means that we should be seeking out things that are so worthy. First, I pray for these children and those who are raising them, that they will constantly look for things you are doing in their lives for which they can be thankful and praise you. May they reach the point that they are doing this as a constant stream of thought.

I pray also that they will be seeking out things in other people that are worthy of praise and that they will voice that praise with sincerity such that they are a source of encouragement for those who are striving to do noble things.

May they also be willing to give themselves credit for praiseworthy things they have done and realize that "humility" does not mean that they can't feel good about and acknowledge the good that they do, through your power working within them.


Amen

If anything is Excellent - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

I pray that these children come to appreciate excellence and strive to achieve it. I pray they understand the difference between perfection (which seeking perfection can become unhealthy) and excellence, which we should always be trying to achieve. I pray that these children will not be satisfied with mediocrity in any aspect of their lives, but will always strive to improve and will seek out examples of excellence to emulate. I pray that they also inspire those around them to achieve excellence, and by that develop and show true leadership.

Amen

Happy Birthday AGH!!

Dear Father,

Thank you for bringing AGH into our family. For the unifying force that she is as two families have come together. Help KMA and ECH to be good big sisters to her, guiding her and protecting her. Be with JH and TH as they raise her. Give them great wisdom and patience. I pray that you protect her from the evil one. Protect her from illness as she has struggled so with her respiratory condition. May she continue to be a joy to her parents and sisters and to all around her.

Amen

Whatever is Admirable - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

I pray that these children are able to put their egos aside so that they can acknowledge and appreciate qualities in others that should be admired, that they not only appreciate those qualities, but seek to emulate them. I pray that you give them wisdom to discern what is truly admirable in your eyes, and not that which is only admirable by the standards of this world.

I pray that they also seek out admirable qualities in people that at first might not seem admirable - that they look for good in all people.

I also pray that through self examination, they discern that which is admirable in themselves so that they seek to grow those attributes and improve upon them.

I pray though, that they ultimately look to the example of Jesus for that which is truly admirable and compare anything or anyone else that they seek to admire against His standard.

Amen

Whatever is Lovely - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

I'm certain that it is no coincidence that a key point yesterday in my cousin's eulogy of my aunt was Philippians 4:8 and particularly "whatever is lovely", the next in this series of prayer blogs, my cousin knowing nothing about this blog. When he said those words, I smiled at how you often do things like that, small things, just to remind me that you are there.

My prayer for these children and for those raising them is that they seek out what is lovely in your creation. Though as conscientious followers of your Son, we cannot and should not ignore what is wrong with this fallen world and the suffering and heart ache that comes from the current imperfection of our world, your servant Paul is telling us that we need to lift our eyes from the muck and messiness of this world to see that which is still lovely. Doing so allows us a glimpse of creation as you intended it and as it will again be some day when you redeem it. And in that is hope.

I pray that they do not become so busy in their lives or so calloused of heart that they do not stop often to admire beauty and thank you for it.

But I also pray that they seek beauty in things that may not at first glance appear to have beauty, both in nature, but more importantly in people, your children. So quickly we categorize people as beautiful, plain or ugly. We have an easier time seeing the inward beauty of people who are not beautiful in physical appearance, though not without effort to overcome first impressions. But we have great difficulty seeing beauty in people who have great inward ugliness (or at least their inward ugliness is more apparent than the rest of us). I pray that you instill in these children, a strong sense that in each person, there is inward beauty if they will look for it and cultivate it, though sometimes it will be well hidden. I pray that they will seek this beauty and encourage it. To understand that weeds often have beautiful flowers and that one person's weed is another person's treasure and that with you there is beauty in all.

I pray that they also see the beauty in themselves. Self examination is important as we strive to improve. But being overly critical of ourselves is harmful. I pray that they are able to healthily evaluate themselves, but that they give themselves permission to also seek out, acknowledge and admire the beautiful things about themselves, particularly their inward beauty. Help them to know and appreciate that these are flowers that you have planted within them, a part of your created beauty and that they can be thankful for what you are doing in their lives and to recognize that it is not egotistical to accept that they are your children, created in your image, and though they are, as is all creation, corrupted by sin, there is still your created beauty about them and within them. And this is what will remain when you redeem them at the renewing of all things.

Amen

Whatever is Pure. Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

We are bambarded on every front with that which is impure. Certainly hard core pornography is just a click away, but more polluting to the mind is the "soft" pornography which we simply cannot escape. It is everywhere. Mainstream television, advertisements and movies are full of sexual innuendo and implicit and explicit sexual situations. It will be a major life long battle for these children if they are to keep themselves from being polluted by the world. But as you well know, it impossible to empty our minds of things we wish to not think about. Thus your scripture tells us, instead, to think about things that are pure.

I pray that these children seek wholesome music, movies and television shows. I pray that they read books and listen to music that builds their spiritual strength. Give them a desire for these things and an awareness of the addictive danger of even soft pornography and the emotional and spiritual corruption that comes from ungodly movies, television and music.

Amen

Whatever is Right - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

I pray that these children develop a strong sense of ethics and integrity. I pray that they will challenge themselves as they make decisions to ask themselves the piercing question - What is right?". Not what can be justified, not what can be rationalized, but what is the right thing to do. And then I pray that you instill in them the courage to do the right thing.

Amen

Whatever is Noble - Philippians 4:8

Dear Father,

It is so easy in our society to dwell on what is wrong with the world. What is wrong with the world irritates us, scares us and even amuses us. Focusing on what is wrong leads to cynicism, and, unfortunately it is popular to play the cynic. But cynicism denies your power. It assumes that there is nothing that can be done about what is wrong with the world. The worst and ugliest form of cynicism, and I confess I have walked this line, is Christian cynicism which is founded on a view that this world is so broken that there is no hope for it and therefore we just wait for the end when we'll all go to heaven.

But I do not believe that is what you intend for us. Yes the world is fallen and needs redeeming. But it is still your creation and the beauty of your creation is still there, even though corrupted. Though corrupted, there is still your beauty in nature. And there is still your beauty in humankind.

What I believe you are telling us through your servant Paul, is that we should not dwell on what is broken, rather we should look for and dwell on the beauty of your creation that still shines through the corruption. We see the light of your beauty shine through nature and we see it shine through our fellow man, and that we should focus on those rays of light that shine through the storm clouds of the fallen world, rather than focusing on the looming clouds. It is not a matter of abandoning all reality, rather it is a matter of focus and thankfullness for the beauty that is.

Father, I pray for these children and the ones raising them that you keep them from cynicism and from drifting into developing a cynical heart. Give them wisdom to recognize the warning signs of cynicism and the dangers of becoming absorbed in that thought pattern. Instead, open their eyes to the things, places, people and times that radiate the beauty of your perfect creation and give them a desire to look for that beauty, to dwell on it, to admire it and to praise you and thank you because of it. May they particularly search for that beauty in individuals around them, to see the rays of light shining out of fallen, imperfect human beings and to recognize that in each of those individuals, the spark of your original intent for mankind exists and will show itself.

Amen

Whatever is True - Philippians 4:8

Righteous Father,

I pray that these children resist the post-modern view that there is no such thing as truth. Your word tells us that there is in fact truth and that such truth is found only in you and in your word. If these children hold to that, some will accuse them of being narrow minded and even ignorant. When that happens to them, they will second guess what they believe. I do not view that as a bad thing. I believe that truth, your truth, is not fragile. It will stand up to scrutiny and challenge. However, I pray that they never buy into the lie that there is no truth or that truth is relative. I pray also that, by a combination or your obvious presence in their lives, your wisdom in their minds and heart and an intellect that you sharpen, they will always look to you for truth.

I pray that they also "think on these things", that they care deeply about truth and think on it often. I believe strongly that the world needs thinking Christians, Christians who excercise their intellect both to decifer truth and to apply that truth to the problems and issues of this world. Instill in them a desire to be "ready to give an answer" to those who question their faith. (I Peter 3:15).

And lastly, Father, I acknowledge that it is one thing to appreciate, pursue and know truth, but it is another to apply and follow truth. Too many truth knowers in this world are hypocrites. "Having a form of godliness, but denying its power" (II Timothy 3:5). As their knowledge of truth grows, help them to keep their faith strong and pure, help them to avoid the trap of arrogance (because "knowledge puffs up" - I Corinthians 8:1) and help them to deeply understand that if they can "fathom all knowledge" but do not practice your love, they are nothing. (I Corinthians 13:2).

Amen

Guard their Minds - Philippians 4:7

Dear Jesus,

I also learn from Philippians 4:7, that prayer leads to peace which leads to you guarding our minds in you. These children are hit on every side by a society that is increasingly alienated from you and hostile toward you and what you represent. Ungodly images, attitudes, viewpoints, and language are constantly assaulting their minds. Their minds cannot be guarded by shear effort on their part or on the part of those raising them. Only your power can guard their minds. And your power is unleashed by their and our prayers, and thereby your miraculous peace enters their hearts and with that peace as a foundation - a peace that comes by them resting in you and resting in their knowledge of their true identity in you - on that foundation you build a hedge around their minds to protect them from the contamination of this world.

I pray that is what you do. I pray that you build a hedge around them and give them a strong sense of your presence. At the same time, though by your guarding they do not become "of the world", I pray that you empower them to be in the world. That is a hard road, to be in the world and having an impact for you in the world, and yet not be contaminated by it. But I pray you empower them to walk that road so that they have the greatest possible impact for your cause as they wade into the mess this world has become, without being pulled down by it.

Amen

Guard their Hearts - Philippians 4:7

Dear Jesus,

As I read Philippians 4:7, I understand that in some way prayer leads to peace which then allows heart and mind to be guarded in you. As I reflect on what it means to guard their hearts, we think of emotion and love. And certainly I pray that their emotional relationships are guarded in and by you. That their emotional motivation will center on you, and out of their relationship with you, healthy emotional attachments and healthy emotional responses will emerge, and that health will exist because they are at peace with you, at peace with their circumstances and at peace with themselves. All brought about through a healthy prayer walk.

But heart here means more than emotion. It means a person's entire being, everything about a person. That which sustains us, that which motivates us and the whole of who we are. A person's destructive path begins when that person loses their identity. When they forget who they are - when they forget that they are a loved child of God.

My prayer for these children and for those who are raising them is that, though a solid prayer walk, you give them unnatural peace and that in that peace, you guard their hearts by returning them constantly to the truth that they are children of the King, loved children of the Creator, created in His likeness - royal children. And help them to evaluate every circumstance in that light.

Amen

Happy Birthday SCP!

(posting yesterday's this morning)

Dear Father,

SCP is such a bright and talented young man, and yes, I realize he is becoming a young man. I pray in the coming year, as he approaches the teen age, that you bring particularly strong positive spiritual influences into his life. I pray that some of those influences are adults, but that some are peers - that you bring spiritually strong and spiritually dedicated Christian peers into his sphere of influence. I pray that he too, begin developing his own spiritual leadership skills so that he will be that positive spiritual influence in the lives of other children.

In all things, I pray that your powerful angels surround him and protect him from the attack of the evil one.

Amen

The Peace beyond Understanding

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:7)

Dear Jesus,

You bring peace to our hearts and minds. Peace when it doesn't make sense that we should have peace. These children will have many times in their lives when anxiety is the natural expected response to their situation. And many times the expected level of anxiety will be extreme. But you give a promise that such doesn't have to be. That through you living in our hearts, our response can and should be peace in the midst of the storm. I know that it is impossible for us to simply decide to be peace filled. It requires the miracle of your indwelling Spirit for this to happen. Our only role is to pray and you do the rest.

May these children and the ones raising them develop a pattern of prayer followed by receiving your peace so that that becomes habit and their inner beings know that the only thing that separates them from peace is prayer. May that become as natural to them as breathing. And may the lack of prayer have the same effect on them as attempting to hold their breath. That before too long they are gasping for your presence.

Amen

He is Risen!

Redeeming Father,

It is obvious when we look around that there is something wrong with the world. When you decided to limit your own power and allow humankind free will, we pretty much made a mess of things. You knew we would do that and you planned your redeeming act from the beginning. And in your Son's death we have forgiveness. But moreover, in your Son's resurrection we have hope. He is the "first fruit" of resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20), and because of that our hope is in our own resurrection and the redemption of all creation. Your servant Paul tells us that without the truth of the resurrection, we are without hope and our lives are to be pitied. But with the truth of the resurrection and our faith in it, we can overcome this life and its trials.

I pray for all of these, these children and for those who are raising them, that the resurrection of Jesus becomes a very real truth in their hearts and minds. A truth that they rely on, that they lean on and that they rest in so that the Peace that surpasses understanding takes deep root in their lives. Without the truth of the resurrection, there can be no peace. Without that truth rooted deeply within their hearts and minds, they will feel no peace. Jesus, I pray you show yourself in tangible ways to them via your hand in their daily lives and your place in their hearts such that there is no doubt in their minds that you did indeed walk out of the tomb and that you live for them today.

Amen

But in Everything - Prayer. Phil 4:6

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. (Philippians 4:6)

Dear Father, the God of all comfort,

We so often are practical atheists. We say we believe in you. We say that we trust you. We say we believe in prayer. And yet we don't pray, unless things get really bad and we decide we can't fix whatever it is that we are facing. Then you become our god of last resort, after all our other gods haven't worked. I confess my own guilt in that regard.

I pray first for those who are raising these children and for those of us who are attempting to live out Godly examples for them that, first, we will strongly embrace a life of prayer. Not so much a fixed time of day, though that is good, but more importantly a walk of prayer, a continuing conversation with you during our day. I pray this because I do believe you wait on us to call on you. And that you do respond to our prayer in your wisdom. Secondly, though, I pray that we are overt in our prayer life so that these children see a pattern of prayer in our lives.

I then pray for these children, that they will see our prayerful life pattern and will emulate it. That they will develop a habit of prayer and that through that, they will develop a walking conversational relationship with you. I pray that they will not rely on themselves but will look to you in prayer, that prayer will be their first resort in times of trial and concern. I pray that you reveal to them via daily experience that you answer prayer and that you are walking with them in the joys and trials of life.

Amen

The Lord is Near. Do not be Anxious. Phil 4:5-6

O YHWH Jireh, God who Provides,

How often we fail to think of you when we face difficulties and concerns. We think, we worry, we fret, we mull over and over in our minds how we are going to deal with a trial we are facing or concerns about things that might happen. And yet we are told that you, the creator of all that is, are near to us. And that you are near to us as a parent is to a child. And that because of that, we simply should not be anxious.

I pray first of all for those who are raising these children and for those of us who a trying to live out our lives as examples to these children. Give us a greater since of your presence. Show us more and more your glory so that our courage is increased such that we live as examples of people who are not anxious, but trust. And that by our calm and trusting lives, we pattern behavior that these children can follow.

I pray then for these children. That you will constantly show yourself to them such that they have a deep sense of your nearness. That they become people who truly walk with you moment by moment and that by that they do not have anxious hearts and that their peaceful confidence is evident to all around them. And that thereby they will pass on that spirit to their children and will draw others to you by reflecting a life that can only come through you and through your presence.

Amen

Let your Gentleness be Evident to All. Phil. 4:5

Dear Father,

Our society does not honor gentleness. It is seen as weakness. Yet your Son was gentle, but had more courage than anyone who has walked the earth. He showed us that gentleness can stand up to those who oppress others and use their power to hold people down. But at the same time his gentleness allowed him to show compassion toward the unlovable and the struggling. I pray that these children develop in you the stength of gentleness. A spirit that is strong and unwavering, yet spreading healing and compassion to those around them. Let their gentleness, though, show itself when people are oppressed and mistreated as a gentleness toward the downtrodden, but strong and courageous in their defense.

In everything, may their first response be calm and gentle, throwing over the money changers' tables only when necessary. And may their reputation as a calm, gentle and steady hand precede them.

Amen

Rejoice in the Lord. Philippians 4:4

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again. Rejoice!"

Dear Father,

I pray that these children come to know and feel the joy that you intend for them. Life can and will be hard. But in you, even in the midst of difficulty, there can be joy. And we can rejoice and celebrate. Help them first to develop a keen awareness of the blessings they receive from you everyday and develop a heart of thankfulness for things great and small that you shower on them. Let them live in an attitude of thankfullness so that joy and rejoicing erupt naturally out of their thankful hearts.

May their joy, then not depend on their particular circumstances because they become able to see your blessings in the midst of adversity. Let the light of their joy brighten the world around them and may your salvation reach those in their spheres of influence because their lives reveal the true joy that comes from being in you and in your Son, filled by your Spirit.

Amen

Isaiah 61 - The Year of the Lord's Favor

Sovereign Lord,

I pray as these children follow in your footsteps that your Spirit will be on them, that you anoint and call them to tell the Good News to the poor. That they will see their calling to tend to the brokenhearted and to strive to free those physically and spiritually captive and to free the spiritual prisoners bound in darkness. That they will proclaim your favor, your grace and your mercy to the poor and the captives but also that they will declare your vengeance on those who refuse you and on those who take captive and oppress the weak and defenseless.

I pray that their nature will be to comfort those who mourn and grieve, not only to comfort them but to give them a crown of beauty, instead of mourning ashes, the oil of gladness, instead of mourning, a garment of praise, instead of a spirit of dispair.

As they reach out in comfort and support to those who mourn and suffer, may they be seen as oaks of righteousness, planted by you to display your glory and splendor.

Amen

Psalm 37 - Do not fret because of Evil Men

Dear Father,

I pray the courage of David for these children. That they do not fret because of evil men and they do not become envious of the success of godless men who lack integrity and ethics. For like the grass they will soon wither. Like green plants they will soon die away.

I pray that, instead, they will trust in you and do good, that they will dwell in your land and enjoy safe pasture. That they will delight themselves in you and that you will, therefore, give them the desires of their hearts. I pray that they will commit themselves to your way and trust in you and that you will, therefore, make their righteousness and their example shine like the dawn and that their commitment to your justice will shine like the noonday sun.

I pray that they will be still before you and wait patiently for you and do not fret when men succeed in their ways when they carry out their wicked schemes. I pray that in those times they will refrain from their anger and not turn to violence, and that they will not fret, as it will only lead to evil. Evil men you will cut off, but those who hope in you will inherit your land.

Help them to learn that it is better to be righteous and have little than to be wicked and have wealth for you will break the power of the wicked, but you will uphold the righteous.

The salvation of the righteous comes from you, you are their stronghold in times of trouble. You help them and deliver them, you deliver them from the wicked and you save them because they take refuge in you.

Amen

Psalm 42 A Thirst for You

Dear loving Father, the provider of all good things, the one who fills our souls,

My prayer for these children is that as the deer pants for streams of water,
so their souls will long for you, O God,
for the living God their souls will thirst.
There will be times of great sorrow for them when
their tears will be their food day and night, while men say to them
"Where is your God?"
Their souls will be downcast,
and disturbed within them.
May they then put their hope in you,
and praise you in the midst of sorrow,
our Savior and our God.
When their souls are downcast within them;
I pray they will remember you deep calls to deep
in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers will sweep over them.
By day you direct your love,
at night your song will be with them—
a prayer to you of their lives.
May they, in their sorrow, feel confident to say to you, their Rock,
"Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?”
They may find themselves in times of agony while men say to them
"Where is your God?"
Their souls will be downcast,
and disturbed within them.
May they then put their hope in you,
And praise you in the midst of sorrow,
our Savior and our God.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - Face Shining Bright as the Sun. Rev 1:16

"His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance."(Revelation 1:16)

Dear Jesus,

As I think about being clothed in you, I am convicted by the last attribute listed in this scripture - a face brightly shining. That face is the image of hope being spread to all around you. If we are to be clothed in you, we too should be an image of hope to all around us. Do I think that all who encounter me come away hopeful? I know that is not always the case, but if I am to be clothed in you and filled by you, that is how I should transformed to be.

I pray that these children grasp that concept early in their lives so that they shine as a beacon of hope and encouragement in a dark and difficult world. May they come to be known as sons and daughters of encouragement. I pray that they become the kind of people who bring out the best in those around them so that their legacy of spiritual influence will range far and long. Give them the gift of encouragement, that special ability to choose words well - words that are spoken at just right time and in the just the right tone to give hope and encouragement to those who are struggling and questioning themselves. Help them to recognize the value of that gift and give them a desire to use it often.


Amen

Clothed in Christ - the Double Edged Sword. Rev. 1:16

"and out of his mouth came a double-edged sword." Revelation 1:16

Dear Jesus,

You patterned for us the ready knowledge and use of scripture. Scripture itself tells us that it is alive and active and sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). And the image in Revelation of a double edged sword coming from your mouth reflects the power of the Word when it is spoken.

I pray that as these children are clothed in you, that they too develop the ability for quick and ready use of the Word and that they fully comprehend the power that comes with that use. I pray that they use the Sword to destroy the forces of evil that they encounter as you did in Revelation 19 - forces that oppress and hold captive the innocent and defenseless and who persecute the righteous, but also that they will use the Sword as defense against those forces when they are attacked by them (Ephesians 6:17). Beyond being a weapon, I pray that they understand the Sword's use as a surgical tool, to carefully and gently convict hearts and instruct (Hebrews 4:12).

Give them a insatiatable desire for the Word and may it be their close companion thoughout their lives.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - the Seven Stars. Rev 1:16

"In his right hand he held seven stars" Revelation 1:16

Dear Jesus, the Great Shepherd of your flock,

You explained to John that the seven stars in your hand were the seven angels of the seven churches. One of the fundamental truths that is evident from your revelation to John is that you love your church and that you watch over her. If we are clothed in you and have your attributes, we too must love your bride.

I pray that these children develop a deep love for your church. That they tend her and protect her and work with you as you lead her. Help them to understand how important your church is to you and how much importance you want us to place on her. Help them to control their egos so that they do not do things that cause damage to her or division within her. Help them to love the individual members of your church, your bride, your body - even the ones who are hard to love.

Give them patience with her imperfections, as they extend grace and mercy to her members. Out of her imperfections she will sometimes hurt them - just as happens in any relationship. Give the the spirit of forgiveness in those circumstances as they practice agape love. Above all, I pray that you allow your church to be more blessing than trial in their lives.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - a Voice like Rushing Waters Rev 1:15

"his voice was like the sound of rushing waters" Revelation 1:15

Dear Jesus,

As we consider what it means to be clothed in you and therefore to reflect your attributes to those around us, I think on the attribute of a voice like rushing waters. Of course this image is not referring to voice volume but rather the power of your words. As you spoke, you spoke as one having authority, because you did and do. Your words not only affected the people who directly heard you speak the words, but your words also effected a course of history that has impacted the entire earth in one way or another.

I pray these children will understand the power of their words, power to encourage, exhort, heal the soul and bless, but also power to hurt and emotionally maim. I pray that they view their voice as the weapon it is - one that must be respected and cautiously used for concern that unintended harm might be caused. But I pray they also understand that their voice is precious gold - a gift they have to offer those around them in encouragement and blessing, a gift that they should endeavor to spread around.

But I also pray that they come to understand the power of their words when they speak your words and teaching. They too can speak with authority when they are speaking your teachings and by that they can defend the defenseless, comfort the sick and dying and warn of spiritual danger. May they never become arrogant about this power, but rather speak your words and teachings with humility, gentleness and grace, yet with courage.

I pray that their words, too, like yours, will have a positive impact that will spread far beyond their local area of influence.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - Feet of Glowing Bronze. Rev 1:15

His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace. (Revelation 1:15)

Jesus,

You patterned learning from experience - from doing the hard things, creating a strong foundation forged in the fire of life experience, solid with experience learned from making the right choices in life, hardened in the fire of the natural consequences of choosing the right path, a path that is in conflict with the path usually chosen by the world.

I pray these children choose the hard things, the path of righteousness, and make the tough choices that path requires. I pray from those decisions, they build a strong foundation of character, which is foubdational to continuing to make the right and difficult decisions. As their lives are tested in the crucible, I pray that they are refined into the purity of pure gold and strengthened as forged bronze. I pray that they do not shrink back from the test, but face their tests and trials with courage, as they are clothed in you and follow your example.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - Eyes like Blazing Fire Rev. 1:14

 "and his eyes were like blazing fire" Revelation 1:14

Jesus,

As we are clothed in you and your power indwells us, there is both power and insight that is ours through you. Eyes of fire display a power that comes from within, but is evident to those around you as a person's eyes are the first thing that is usually noticed in a person. A person's eyes also determine what is taken in by person - what is perceived by them, and fire in that regard would indicate power in perception and refinement of what is seen - power in discernment. That power comes from your Spirit who indwells us working together with knowledge of your word.

I pray that these children come to understand that being clothed in you, being a Christian is not a position of weakness, rather is a position of power - power by being indwelled by and clothed in the living God - the Creator of the universe. That they will never live in fear, but in confidence knowing that there is a power within them greater than any power in the universe. And as they pray for wisdom, you will fill them with your wisdom and discernment that is beyond what they could possess on their own. I pray that they will use the power of your presence to reach out in love and compassion to those around them. Compassion from a position of strength.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - Hair white as snow Rev 1:14

¹⁴ His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, Rev 1:14

Jesus,

As we are clothed in you, we bear your image, the image of purity and wisdom. Hair of white symbolizes purity but also the wisdom of age. I pray that as these children become clothed in you, that they will project to the world around them your image of purity, mixed with wisdom. Though pure, you none-the-less mixed with the outcasts and "sinners" so much so that you were accused of being a glutton and a drunk - but, as you said, wisdom will be proved right by her actions. You set the standard that in wisdom, purity can intermingle with those who are not pure so as to reach out to them. I pray that these children will be pure, but that in their purity they do not shy away from the misery, suffering and struggle of humanity. That they do not shy away from those who are suffering the consequences of their sin. Rather, in purity that they reach out the arms of redemption - full of wisdom, and thereby that they be a part of your reclamation of your creation.

Amen

Clothed in Christ - a Robe with a Golden Sash Revelation 1:13

 ¹² I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, ¹³ and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,”^[b] dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. Revelation 1: 12-13

Dear Jesus,

As I contemplate the full meaning of being clothed in you, I think about how this means that I am draped with your qualities. I pray that these children will come to understand that being clothed in you means that they have the attributes of royalty. They are sons and daughters of the Living God and are priests, princes and princesses in your court. They are dressed in royal garb and have position and authority as members of the royal family. They will not always feel this way as the world mistreats them (as the also mistreated you). As their high priest, remind them often of their true position in the universe, higher than any earthly king. Higher than any earthly president. And help them to remember that this puts a heavy responsibility on them to represent the Kingdom of God as its ambassadors in the world.

Strengthen them and remind them often,

Amen

Clothed in Christ- Galatians 3:26-27

26 You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, ²⁷ for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. (Galatians 3:26-27).

Father,

It is an amazing thought that when we are baptized into your Son, that we become clothed in Him. That means that when you look at our imperfection, you instead you see Him and his perfection. So, I stand before you and am perfect in your eyes. I pray that these children will choose that path, that they become your children of promise through faith in Him as your Son and that they choose to be baptized into your Son and thereby to be clothed in Him. I pray that they will fully comprehend the significance of being clothed in Him.

Jesus, thank you for surrounding us with your person, for being our shield and our protector, for giving us the right to approach the Throne of Heaven by the perfection and righteousness that you cover over us. Help us and help these children to understand what you are doing for us and the price you paid to do that.

Amen

God's Fasting. Isaiah 58(6)

"and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry
and satisfy the needs of the oppressed,
then your light will rise in the darkness,
and your night will become like the noonday.

The Lord will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail." (Isaiah 58:10, 11)

Faithful Father,

This world is a dark place. Since the fall of man, we continue to live in sin and the sin of mankind becomes worse, not better. These children will grow up in a world that is ever darkening until the day you redeem your creation. Amidst that truth, the greatest hope I have for these children is that they be lights shining in the darkness. By the promise of Isaiah, if they devote themselves to serving the physically and spiritually oppressed and poor, you will cause their lights to shine brightly, spreading the light of hope to all around them and brightening their own path with light.

But that path can be wearisome. Sometimes we just grow tired tending to the wounded in this world. Sometimes it becomes discouraging when those we are trying to help sabotage their own recovery from the pit. But your promise through Isaiah is that if these children will devote themselves to this kind of ministry, you will supply there needs, even when they feel like they are in the desert. That you will actually give them greater strength and endurance to go on and that you will refresh their souls with soothing and nurturing spiritual streams. I pray and ask that you fulfill these promises in them. And that you do so with each step they take so that you train them up in a pattern of behavior, a pattern and habit of compassion in their approach to the world around them.

Amen

God's Fasting. Isaiah 58 (5)

"Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness will go before you,
and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
Then you will call, and the Lord will answer;
you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I."(Isaiah 58:8, 9)

Powerful Father,

In these verses there is a promise. If these children will follow after your heart for the oppressed, for those in bondage, for the poor, the hungry, the naked and the alien, you promise that their light, their influence, the impact of their lives will break forth like the dawn. You will also give healing to their spirit when they are discouraged and wounded. That their righteous reputation will go before them as they become known for their good works of kindness and deliverance. And as they will inevitably be attacked and criticized for their efforts, you yourself will "have their backs". And when they call you, you will answer.

Lord, I pray that you fulfill these promises to these children in very tangible and obvious ways so that they know you are well pleased with what they are doing. Strengthen their spirits with your power and with your mighty angels, protect them from the evil one's attack. Lift their heads when they are discouraged and hear their cries as they wade in to minister to the spiritually wounded.

Amen

God's Fasting. Isaiah 58 (4)

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
and break every yoke?

Is it not to share your food with the hungry
and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe him,
and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? (Isaiah 58:6, 7)

Father,

I strongly believe that in Christ, all the great teachings of your word have both a physical and a spiritual application. No doubt there are many in this world who are in bondage, who are oppressed, who are hungry and in need of clothing, and many who are oppressed as aliens in the land. But ultimately of even more significance is that the world is in spiritual bondage, in slavery to sin and its consequences and to the oppressing power of the evil one. Millions have spiritual hunger to fill deep emptiness within them. Millions wander trough the wilderness of life as aliens without spiritual home. Many are naked before you without being clothed in the grace of your Son.

I pray that these children have an insatiable ache in their heart for those who are captive to the prince of this world, those who are without hope and without a relationship with you. Give them boldness to speak about you, compassion for those who are "harassed, like sheep without a shepherd". May they always be willing to reach out in grace and humility, sharing the mercy and compassion that you intend for all who turn their face to you.

Amen

God's Fasting Isaiah 58 (3)

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
Is it not to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—"
(Isaiah 58:6, 7 NIV84)

Dear Father, Father of all compassion,

You have always had a place in your heart for the wanderer, for the alien. Your chosen one, Abraham, wandered in a strange land that was not his own as did his descendants until you gave them the land you promised to him. Your people, Israel, wandered through the desert, and even though their wandering was because of their own failing, you did not abandon them. Your Son had no home of his own as he wandered during his ministry.

Your instruction to Israel through Isaiah was to remind them to treat the alien and wanderer well, because they were once so. We too, in this country, were all once wanderers and aliens. I pray that these children remember that. That they do not fall captive to rhetoric that mistreats and abuses the alien in our land. Rather, may they defend their cause.

May they be the kind of people who welcome strangers and care for the lonely who are displaced from their family and friends. Give them your heart when it comes to those without the comforts relationships that they experience.

Amen

God's Fasting Isaiah 58 (2)

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
⁷ Is it not to share your food with the hungry —

Father,

I pray that you help these children to see the world through your eyes and not to turn their faces from human suffering. The issue of hunger in the world seems an insurmountable problem and we are tempted to just give up and ignore it. But I pray that you save these children from becoming calloused. Let them see what is there - the faces of human suffering and let their hearts be continually broken by the reality of how most of the world lives. At the same time, give them clarity of what they may be able to realistically contribute to the solution - determining with wisdom what is "their part" to do, considering their responsibilities to their own families. But in that wisdom, in that realism, do not allow the flame of idealism to die. May they continue to believe that one person can indeed make a difference that is larger than themselves, when they look to you for strength. And do not let them become captive to heartless political rhetoric that disdains helping those in need.
Amen

God's Fasting Isaiah 58

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
   and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
   and break every yoke"  Isaiah 58:6

Dear Father,

It is obvious that our tendency is to lose sight of what is really important to you. We can be very busy being religious, and fail completely to pay attention to what you consider to be important. Isaiah was pointing out that Israel was going through the motions of their religious practices, but were missing the point of their religion.

I pray that these children do not lose their way in this manner. I pray that they develop a deep understanding of the things that are imporant to you. Choosing to be about loosing the chains of injustice and setting the oppressed free will not make them popular with people in power. It is only people holding power in one form or another who can bind people with injustice and oppress them. And when someone attempts to loose the chains and set the oppressed free, they are running up against the oppressors in power.

Thus, my prayer for these children is that you open their eyes to the injustice and oppression around them and give them the courage to confront it. At the same time, give them wisdom as to how to most effectively address these things in a way that is most likely to be successful. Shouting in protest may be appropriate at times, but at other times quietly working behind the scenes may be the best approach. Sometimes it may be best for them to simply support someone else who is fighting the battle.

But, in the end, show them that it is not your will or your desire for them to turn a blind eye to the injustice and oppression around them. Grow in them a heart for defending the defenseless and help them build a platform strength and influence from which to fight the battle.

Amen

Make Your Calling and Election Sure. II Peter 1:10-11

Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:10, 11)

Dear Father,

I want these children to understand that it is possible to fall away from your grace. I also want them to understand that it is not easy to do so. What your servant Peter is telling us is that it can happen if we are aiming at nothing. If we, on the other hand, are making some effort to add to our spiritual growth, your Spirit works in us to transform us and give us power to overcome. If we "aim for perfection" (II Corinthians 13:11), we will, of course, never attain it, but aiming for it, in the humility of knowing we will not attain it, will keep us from being pulled away by temptation into a lifestyle that can lead us away from your grace (Galatians 5:21).

And even if we are not so drawn into sin that we are pulled completely from your grace (it cannot be fully said that we "live like this") I pray that these children understand that any time they fall into sin, damage will be done. And that damage will always include damage to those they love, and may include innocent bystanders. Help them to know that all of us fail and sin, but that we can reduce the amount of that failure and the severity of the consequences by possessing "these qualities in increasing measure". Please help them to understand the truth of the old saying "if you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time" and instill in them a strong desire to conform to your will.

Amen

Possess these Qualities in Increasing Measure II Peter 1:8

"For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." II Peter 1:8

Dear Father,

Help these young ones to understand that spiritual growth is a process. Help them to know this for two reasons: first so that they will not become discouraged when they do not display the spiritual maturity that they would want to show - when they fall short of what they would like to accomplish spiritually, when they make mistakes that a more mature person would not make. Help them to understand that this is normal spiritual growth. They will make mistakes and take wrong turns, but may they understand that growth comes by getting back up, turning their direction back to you (repenting) and getting back on their way. Secondly, help them to understand that this process never ends. Whether they are 10 or 20 or 30 or 60 years old, this scripture tells us that we must continue to add these qualities in increasing measure, otherwise we will become ineffective and unproductive.

That is a bit if a mystery to me, but the scripture tells me that the level of maturity and the level of these qualities that I possessed at age 50 are not adequate at age 60. I do not think this is about achieving spiritual accompishment, rather it is about journey.

If we stop moving along our journey, no matter how far we may have already come, we will stagnate and thereby will become ineffective and unproductive. I pray that none of us ever become satisfied with our level of spiritual growth.


Amen

Add to your Brotherly Kindness, Love. II Peter 1:7

Father,

These three verses seem to be the building blocks of developing agape love. I Corinthians 13 love. This tells me that without faith in you, true sacrificial love is not fully possible on a sustained basis. Without a desire to do good and be good, agape love does not happen. Without a knowledge of you and your word, we are not able to know and understand what you mean by love. Without the ability to control our own impulses and actions, we will fail in our attempts to show love. Without our ability to follow-through on our promises we cannot fully love. Without showing and reflecting the attributes of your nature, we will show love that is incomplete and distorted. All of that leads us to the ability to show true kindness, but then you take our response to the next level - showing sacrificial love.

I pray that these children grow to understand these building blocks and then to understand that love is not a feeling, but a decision. A decision to show the attributes of love to those you give to them to love. Help them to learn that at an early age so that in this respect, at least, they develop a spiritual maturity far beyond their years. By that, I pray that their marriages are able to be spared some of the trials caused by selfishness as they seek to show agape love to their spouse. As these verses loop back to the beginning, strengthen their faith so that they can endure and keep in perspective the pain that they will invariably endure when they commit to showing selfless love as you keep before them the perfect example of your Son and his sacrifice for them.

Amen

Add to your Godliness, Brotherly Kindness. II Peter 1:7

Dear Father,

All of the attributes of II Peter 1 up to now have focused on our own self-improvement of our character. But then, as you always do, you turn the discussion to make it clear that everything ultimately comes down to relationship. As your servant Paul says in I Corithians 13, without love, without exhibiting the behavior that builds and sustains relationship, all of our "godly" actions count for nothing. These verses tell us that the foundation of being able to properly build relationship is that we must have a deep faith in you, we must strive to do good and be good, we must have a good knowledge of you, your nature and your teachings, we must have self-control, we must stick to our promises and commitments, and we must strive to exhibit your attributes. But those are, indeed, foundational to being able to show brotherly kindness and love. They are foundational because showing brotherly kindness is unnatural. It is easy when people are likable, but it is hard and unnatural when people of difficult to get along with. Only with the foundation given in verses 5 and 6 can we begin to show the kind of brotherly kindness you have in mind.

I pray that you build in these children a foundation that allows them to show kindness to people who are unlikeable. That will be hard. It is hard for me. But if they are able to do that, they will truly shine like stars and they will be an agent for your peace. Give them the wisdom to choose words that will calm the troubled hearts that underlie the unlikeable behavior. Give them the gift of peace making and the talent to reach out and touch the social lepers. May it be said of them that they love the unlovable.

Amen

Add to your Perseverance, Godliness II Peter 1:6

Dear Father,

I will admit that I do not comprehend godliness. It seems to say that we are trying to be like you. That goal is incomprehensible to me. You and I are not comparable in the least. Even Jesus, your example in human form, is, to say the least, out of my league. To me it is like saying that I need to learn to fly. I can jump off the ground a few inches and flap my arms, but that pretty much makes a joke of it. Such is how I feel with any attempt to be like you. So how to I pray "godliness" for these children when I don't understand it myself?

But I do see attributes of you that we can attempt to emulate. Mercy, compassion, forgiveness, true justice in defending the powerless, anger against oppressors, holiness - these are aspects of you that you show us over and over again in scripture. The last attribute, holiness, is equally difficult. What does it mean to be holy as you are holy?

My prayer for these children is that they seek you and seek your face and that as they seek you, they learn of you. And as they learn of you, please draw them to you and teach them what it means to be holy. Teach them what it means to be merciful and compassionate. Teach them what it means to administer true justice, defending the powerless and confronting the oppressors. And as you teach them this, fan the flame of desire within them to follow after these attributes of yours. Guide them in that path so that they are a beacon of your nature in the world.

Amen

Add to your Self-Control, Perseverance II Peter 1:6

Father,

I know that all of the faith, desire to do good, knowledge and self-control matter little if we do not follow-through on our commitments. We, of course, in our human frailty will fall short on follow-through, but your expectation of us is to continue striving and re-committing as a life-long process.

I pray that you fill these children with strength to carry on when they are tired and weary of doing the right thing. Show them your pleasure in their efforts. Give them the blessing of seeing the fruit of their labor. And in those dark times when they see no fruit, give them wisdom and perspective that allows them to look at the long term. Give them cheerleaders and encouragers. Give them examples of people who have kept the course and thereby good things were accomplished.  Give them the ability to ignore criticism, but yet the ability to glean from such criticism words of wisdom. Also help them to learn that the only way to avoid criticism is attempt nothing noble.

In all things help them to see that this life is a gift from you to be surrendered to you as they live an extraordinary life. That they will not be on this earth very long and that pouring themselves into noble efforts, regardless of the related hardship is what you intend for them to be about all of their lives.

Amen

Add to your Knowledge, Self-Control. II Peter 1:6

Dear Father,

Faith, a desire to be good, and knowledge are of little value if we are unable to control our impulses. I have seen many good church people who would say and do things that caused great harm to individuals and to the church. They were knowledgeable in scripture and lived a life of "goodness", but within them was an unkind spirit that would speak words that cut and maimed. I have seen "good" church people who had secret indulgences that eventually came out and created disillusionment within those who held them in high esteem.

Father, I earnestly pray that these children rise up as examples of what it means to follow you and that their spheres of influence be expanded greatly. But Lord, keep ever before them the awareness that in such a position, they have the ability to both encourage and wound. Give them an extra measure of self-control over their tongue. Help them to realize the power their words will have when they are in a position of influence and that such power must be closely controlled. Help them also to understand that many will look up to them as examples, and consequently they must be on their guard to distance themselves from temptation. Help them to realize their own human frailty and susceptibility to falling into temptation. Help them to keenly realize the damage that would be done if they fell.

Simply put, Lord, give them the sense and the desire to think before they act and before they speak, such that their lives are blessings to those around them and that they are ambassadors for your Son through whom their lives are given meaning.

Amen

Add to your Goodness, Knowledge II Peter 1:5

Dear Father,

We live in a post-modern society that questions the existence of absolute truth. But we believe that you are a Creator of order, not chaos. We easily observe that when mankind (society) takes it upon itself to determine truth, things do not go well. Society in Germany decided it was good to kill Jews. Society in America decided slavery and then segregation was good. History is replete with examples of societies that have determined any number of injustices and atrocities to be "good".

But we believe that your revealed word tells us what is "good", a standard on which we can rely. Following the teachings of your Son and his disciples - truly following them and not distorting them for our own benefit - provides order and prevents chaos. Without knowledge, attempts at goodness are like shooting with eyes closed. However, knowledge without goodness is selfish at best and malicious at worst.

I pray that these children have a heart to desire goodness and that they strive to do good and be good. But I also pray the they fully understand that attempts at goodness without the knowledge of your revealed will is fruitless and likely will do more harm than good. Give them a desire to know your word. Give their parents faithfulness in teaching them your word and living out its truth. And may they all know the most important of truths - the truth of your Son and his sacrifice for us which allows us to come to you with confidence.

Amen

Add to your Faith Goodness II Peter 1:5

Dear Father and Your Transforming Spirit Who Lives Within Us:

I pray that you take the seed of faith that is being planted within each of these children and grow that seed into the tree on which birds can nest. (Luke 13:19) Beyond that, though, do not let their hearts be comfortable with mere belief. Through teaching, through example, through your word and by the power of your Spirit, show them that a faith that does not lead to action, is truly a dead faith. (James 2:26) Show them the magnitude of their gift of salvation so that they understand just how much you have given them and let the gratitude that comes from that knowledge and faith motivate them to reach out to others and motivate them to be examples of goodness to others.

Of course they will have their moments and times of failure in this, but may you bring people into their lives who by influence and example, turn them back to the way of goodness and may their hearts ever desire, by the prodding of your Spirit, the path of goodness, always born out of a deep faith and belief in your goodness toward them.

Amen

Psalm 27

O Lord, YHWH,

You are their light and their salvation. There is no reason for these little ones to fear. Be the stronghold of their lives. There is no one they should fear. When evil advances against them, when those controlled by evil seek to attack them, their adversaries will stumble and fall. Though enemies besiege them, whether enemies embodied in the form of human beings or in the form of fear, in the form of obstacles or in the form of disease, do not let their hearts fear. Though such adversaries break out in war against them, give them a heart of confidence.

I pray that the one thing they desire in life, the one thing they ask of you, the one thing they seek, is to dwell in your house, in your presence, all the days of their lives. To desire and gaze upon your beauty in all of its forms - beauty in the form of your word and your goodness, your beauty in the form of your Son, your beauty in the form of your Spirit, your beauty in the form of your children, even in all of their imperfections, and your beauty in your creation - and to seek you in your dwelling place.

For in the day of trouble you will keep them safe in your dwelling place. Hide them in the shelter of your tabernacle and set them high on a rock out of harm's way. Then their heads will be lifted above their adversaries. In your dwelling place they will shout for joy. They will sing and make music to you.

Hear their voices when they cry out to you. Be merciful and answer them. May their hearts tell them to seek your face. And when they seek your face, do not hide it from them and do not turn them away in frustration. You have already been and I pray you will continue to be their helper. Do not reject or forsake them, O God, our Savior.

Though their father or their mother ever forsakes them, O Lord you will receive them. Teach them your ways, O Lord and lead them in a straight path. Do not forsake them to their adversaries. I am confident of this, that they will see your goodness during their lifetime.

I pray that they will wait on you, that they will be strong and take heart and in all things wait for you.

Amen

True Justice

“This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.’ (Zechariah 7:9, 10)

Father,

I pray that you place in these little ones, a heart of compassion for those who have no power. That they defend the powerless against oppression. That their hearts are turned to the widow (and in our day, all of the single moms), to the legions of children in our world whose fathers have abandoned them, for the aliens (legal or not) whom our society is so quick to use up and cast out and to the poor. It is not popular to stand up for these. Criticism and persecution comes when a person argues against the angry voices who so easily condemn the bottom of our society. Give them the courage to defend those whom you defend and to whom your Son ministered. Give them strength of will and endurance in their quest to administer true justice - your justice. And you define your justice to be defending the cause of people such as these. You defend their cause even though these people may have made mistakes or contributed to their current condition. You did not ask why the alien was an alien, nor did you ask why the poor were poor. You simpy recognize their powerless condition and have compassion. May these children grow up to follow your example in this.

Amen

Happy Birthday MAC!

Dear Lord,

Thank you for bringing MAC into our lives. He is such a gentle spirit, even though he is all boy. There is a kindness about him that is evident in how he treats people. Give him a growing desire to know more about you and to follow you. Show him your paths and light his way. Bring good influences into his life and remove those who would draw him off of your path. Give him health and allow him to grow normally. He is and will be a big boy. Allow him to enjoy the things his size will allow, but also help him to understand the responsibility that will come with his size and strength. Give him a close and healthy relationship with his siblings. Give his parents and step parents wisdom in raising him as they point him toward you.

Show him the special purpose for which you have designed him and give him the wisdom to perceive it and the courage to follow after it.

Amen

The Full Armor of God - Prayer

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." (Ephesians 6:18)

Spirit of God,

I pray that through your indwelling power, you mold and transform these children into prayer warriors, people who look to prayer as an act of first resort, having a deep belief in the power of prayer in the spiritual battle that you help them to see vividly is raging around them. Give them frequent evidence that you answer prayers such that their faith is continually strengthened. Help them to understand that prayer is primarily a weapon for spiritual warfare rather that simply a healing tool - as they will see what we all understand to be true, that so long as this fallen world exists, disease and death will continue to be a reality from which none of us will be spared.

Give them a full understanding of the power they hold in prayer against the forces of evil who will come against them and their loved ones and may they learn to wield that weapon with abandon.

Amen

The Full Armor of God - the Sword of the Spirit

"and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:17

Spirit of God,

I see in this verse that our faith is not only to be defensive, but also to be aggressive and offensive. Storming the forces of darkness that hold the world captive. Jesus said that the gates of hell cannot stand up against the onslaught of his church.

I pray that you will fill these children with the power of your word that you have given to us and that their knowledge of your word will empower them and spur them to march into enemy territory to free captives. I don't know what that looks like for them. It may mean that they themselves march into enemy territory or that they support those who do. But even if they support those who do, help them to see that there are captives all around them whenever they go, people held captive by the lies and deceit of the evil one, without hope, without power, without the true joy that can only come from your indwelling. May your word fill them with wisdom, power and strength to break the chains of darkness.

Amen

The Full Armor of God - the Helmet of Salvation

Take the helmet of salvation. (Ephesians 6:17)

Dear Father,

As I think of why salvation would be described as a helmet, I think of the purpose of the helmet being to prevent head injuries. Of course, in spiritual war we are not talking about physical injury to the head, rather injury to our minds and thought processes. Once again, the surest defense against being deceived by our enemy, against having our judgement impaired by temptation, against having our self image injured by harsh words and by apparent defeat, is the full knowledge of and belief in our salvation. It is that knowledge and belief that gives us the perspective we need to overcome these attacks and obstacles that can "mess with our heads".

Father, instill in these children the understanding of the assurance of their salvation when they have put their trust in you - Trust in you to save them even though they make many mistakes and sin often. Let that knowledge of their salvation in you allow them to keep their heads when attacked by temptation so that their judgement remains good and their decisions wise. May that knowledge allow them to put the put-downs and slights of other people in perspective as they know who they really are and to whom they really belong.

Amen

The Full Armor of God - the Shield of Faith

"In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one." (Ephesians 6:16)

Father,

This verse reminds me that, in the spiritual battle that is being waged around us, our enemy is aggressive and intentional. He takes aim at your people with weapons that can inflict great damage. Flaming arrows were not intended to simply kill, but rather to be a weapon of mass destruction, destroying homes and entire villages and cities. And such is the intent of our adversary, to use temptation to bring down entire families and communities with the collateral damage that comes when someone falls.

This verse tells us that our belief in you, in the reality of your existence, in the reality of your involvement in our lives and in the reality that we have an eternal existence with you, we are able to shield ourselves from the specifically targeted temptations that our enemy will fire our way. Our constant focus on you and the reality that is you will protect us from the temptation to chase after things that appear to be desirable, but are not reality.

I pray that these children will develop such a protective faith that allows them to see reality and avoid things that are illusory. Open their ears to hear and open their hearts to receive and their minds to understand. May their parents and step parents and the rest of their extended family pattern lives of faith and faithfulness. Show yourself to them as very real. Give them wisdom and perception to see clearly the deception of the evil one.

Amen