Anxiety weighs down the heart,
but a kind word cheers it up (Proverbs 12:25)
Dear Father,
I have witnessed the debilitating effect anxiety can have on the lives of people and their loved ones. I first pray that you spare these children the malady of psychological anxiety syndromes of various types. I know that those disorders are not consciously chosen, rather they develop and become involuntary responses to surroundings. Thankfully, by your science, medication has been developed to help deal with the symptoms of these disorders and I pray that you allow the continued development of more and more effective medications. Should any of the little ones develop that kind of disorder, I pray that you give them the wisdom and courage to seek help and the strength to persevere in their treatment.
But short of an anxiety disorder, some people seem to be generally anxious and worrisome about life. I pray that these children avoid that pattern and, if they begin to fall into that mindset, that you give them the wisdom and strength to break free. Give them a healthy perspective of life - a perspective that realizes that they belong to you and that you are looking out for their best eternal benefit. A perspective that recognizes the brevity of life and that health and welfare is not all that important when viewed from an eternal perspective. That you have promised us our daily bread, but that you have not promised us health, wealth or long life. Gloriously, though, you have promised us long life - eternal life - with you and I pray that these children deeply internalize this reality such that it guides their thoughts and quenches their tendency to fret over things in this life.
I further pray that they become the people who sooth the worries of others by their kind and uplifting words. May they be people of encouragement who are given the gift of knowing just what to say in each circumstance to delivery your comfort to the struggling.
Amen
Sunday, March 31, 2013
The Power of Words - Proverbs 12:18
The words of the reckless pierce like swords,
but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18)
Dear Father,
A lesson you have taught me (and sadly you must continue to teach me) is the power of a word spoken. One of the gifts you have given me is the ability to confront those who need confronting. It is not a gift I enjoy. I often wish that you would give that gift to someone else. Others are given the gift of encouragement, though I strive to develop this gift to a greater and greater degree. The lesson that you have taught and continue to teach me is that words of correction and accountability need to be carefully and sparingly delivered. Because when they are delivered recklessly, they pierce like swords. And that I should strive, rather, to use words to heal the broken and struggling.
I pray that these children learn this lesson early in their lives. I pray that they do have the courage to stand up and confront when necessary, but that confrontation should, for the most part, be confined to defending the defenseless against oppression and standing up to the arrogant who seek by force of power to impose their will on others or to destroy your work. But I pray they learn that confrontation to address sin should first be delivered with gentleness and love, not harshness. But I also pray that when gentleness does not work, they have the courage to confront with tough love, the redemptive love that you apply to each of us when we stubbornly hold to our errant path.
But as they develop the wisdom to apply admonition and, when needed, holy anger, I pray that they err on the side of mercy. That, on balance, they are people of grace, mercy and healing. May their nature be to lift up the struggling and walk beside them, to be more cheerleaders than drill sergeants. I pray they become known as Barnabases, with the ability, only when necessary, to be Pauls.
Amen
but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18)
Dear Father,
A lesson you have taught me (and sadly you must continue to teach me) is the power of a word spoken. One of the gifts you have given me is the ability to confront those who need confronting. It is not a gift I enjoy. I often wish that you would give that gift to someone else. Others are given the gift of encouragement, though I strive to develop this gift to a greater and greater degree. The lesson that you have taught and continue to teach me is that words of correction and accountability need to be carefully and sparingly delivered. Because when they are delivered recklessly, they pierce like swords. And that I should strive, rather, to use words to heal the broken and struggling.
I pray that these children learn this lesson early in their lives. I pray that they do have the courage to stand up and confront when necessary, but that confrontation should, for the most part, be confined to defending the defenseless against oppression and standing up to the arrogant who seek by force of power to impose their will on others or to destroy your work. But I pray they learn that confrontation to address sin should first be delivered with gentleness and love, not harshness. But I also pray that when gentleness does not work, they have the courage to confront with tough love, the redemptive love that you apply to each of us when we stubbornly hold to our errant path.
But as they develop the wisdom to apply admonition and, when needed, holy anger, I pray that they err on the side of mercy. That, on balance, they are people of grace, mercy and healing. May their nature be to lift up the struggling and walk beside them, to be more cheerleaders than drill sergeants. I pray they become known as Barnabases, with the ability, only when necessary, to be Pauls.
Amen
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Overlooking Insults - Proverbs 12:16
Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult. (Proverbs 12:16)
Dear Father,
We come now to what may be the most difficult teaching for humankind. Your Son tells us to "turn the other cheek" and we understand what he is saying. But something about the extreme nature of the picture of actually being struck in the face does not resonate fully with day to day circumstances. Perhaps if someone actually hit me in the face, a memory of Jesus' words would come to mind and I might, perhaps, maybe would actually show the person the other cheek as a visible action to show submission to His teachings. But that is not where we live on a day to day basis.
Where we live is a place in which people slight us, or insult us, or disrespect us, or violate our rights. And we respond, poorly. It is just so difficult to ignore insults. Our value as a person is being challenged and we just can't let that stand. In our heads we know that our value is not based on what others think or say, rather it is based on our status as your children. In our heads we know Jesus' teaching on a proper response. But in our hearts we feel the need to defend, to justify ourselves in the eyes of man and in our own eyes.
But this scripture brings it into the realm of wisdom, of practical advice. This proverb, your wisdom, is telling us that things work better for us, that we are more successful, when we overlook insults. What it is telling us is that most slights, most insults really don't matter much if we overlook them. But if we react to them, they are blown out of proportion and we look like fools. Sadly, from experience, I can attest to the truth of that statement.
I pray that these children develop an understanding of these principles and are able to grasp the larger picture, with a cool head, when they are slighted or insulted. I pray that they then are able to make reasoned judgments on the proper response, rather than flying off the handle in anger. By that I pray not only that they exhibit the teachings of your Son in the process as an example to those around them, but that, by their measured responses, they will ultimately be more successful in their endeavors by making their responses with a cool head.
Amen
Dear Father,
We come now to what may be the most difficult teaching for humankind. Your Son tells us to "turn the other cheek" and we understand what he is saying. But something about the extreme nature of the picture of actually being struck in the face does not resonate fully with day to day circumstances. Perhaps if someone actually hit me in the face, a memory of Jesus' words would come to mind and I might, perhaps, maybe would actually show the person the other cheek as a visible action to show submission to His teachings. But that is not where we live on a day to day basis.
Where we live is a place in which people slight us, or insult us, or disrespect us, or violate our rights. And we respond, poorly. It is just so difficult to ignore insults. Our value as a person is being challenged and we just can't let that stand. In our heads we know that our value is not based on what others think or say, rather it is based on our status as your children. In our heads we know Jesus' teaching on a proper response. But in our hearts we feel the need to defend, to justify ourselves in the eyes of man and in our own eyes.
But this scripture brings it into the realm of wisdom, of practical advice. This proverb, your wisdom, is telling us that things work better for us, that we are more successful, when we overlook insults. What it is telling us is that most slights, most insults really don't matter much if we overlook them. But if we react to them, they are blown out of proportion and we look like fools. Sadly, from experience, I can attest to the truth of that statement.
I pray that these children develop an understanding of these principles and are able to grasp the larger picture, with a cool head, when they are slighted or insulted. I pray that they then are able to make reasoned judgments on the proper response, rather than flying off the handle in anger. By that I pray not only that they exhibit the teachings of your Son in the process as an example to those around them, but that, by their measured responses, they will ultimately be more successful in their endeavors by making their responses with a cool head.
Amen
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Secular Success - Proverbs 12:14
From the fruit of their lips people are filled with good things, and the work of their hands brings them reward. (Proverbs 12:14)
Dear Father,
With so much prayer for spiritual matters, we are sometimes reluctant to pray simply for success in secular endeavors. But success in our work is something that you are interested in: our jobs and our business/professional efforts. I don't accept that you guarantee our success, though your word does teach that you will reward us for generosity so that we can become more generous. But your Son did teach us to pray for our daily bread and that bread is provided by our work.
So I pray for success for these children in their vocations. And as this proverb says, that success will come both from hard work and from interpersonal skills. And those interpersonal skills will include the ability to articulate ideas and to motivate people from positions of leadership. So I pray for their leadership and interpersonal skills, that you will give them great ability in this area. But I also pray that they will never be "nothing but talk", rather that they will also put their shoulders to the plow and work hard.
Amen
Chasing Fantasies - Proverbs 12:11
Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense. (Proverbs 12:11)
Dear Father,
There is a difficult balance between idealism and practical considerations. On the one hand, I want these children to chase after their dreams, to be idealists, to want to change the world. On the other hand, life has responsibilities, bills to pay, children to raise, church to support. Sometimes these goals seem to be at odds. People chasing their dreams sometimes are derelict in their responsibilities. Sometimes responsible people forfeit their dreams and become resentful and cynical.
I first ask that you give these children the wisdom to find this balance and discern when dreams become irresponsible fantasies. However, I also pray that these children avoid the cynicism that can come with age and life experience, rather that they become and remain idealists - believing that by your power they can truly make a difference in the world. But that, in pursing their idealism, they do not neglect their responsibilities given to them by you.
Give them a vision of how, by your power, they can change the world, whether in small ways or in large ways and give them the wisdom, the energy and the resources to follow after that vision.
Amen
Dear Father,
There is a difficult balance between idealism and practical considerations. On the one hand, I want these children to chase after their dreams, to be idealists, to want to change the world. On the other hand, life has responsibilities, bills to pay, children to raise, church to support. Sometimes these goals seem to be at odds. People chasing their dreams sometimes are derelict in their responsibilities. Sometimes responsible people forfeit their dreams and become resentful and cynical.
I first ask that you give these children the wisdom to find this balance and discern when dreams become irresponsible fantasies. However, I also pray that these children avoid the cynicism that can come with age and life experience, rather that they become and remain idealists - believing that by your power they can truly make a difference in the world. But that, in pursing their idealism, they do not neglect their responsibilities given to them by you.
Give them a vision of how, by your power, they can change the world, whether in small ways or in large ways and give them the wisdom, the energy and the resources to follow after that vision.
Amen
A Wife of Noble Character - Proverbs 12:4
A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones. (Proverbs 12:4)
Dear Father,
Should these children decide to marry, I pray for the wives these boys may choose to marry and for the kind of wives these girls will become. I pray that these boys find and these girls become women of noble character - women of deep spiritual commitment, women of strength, women of wisdom, women of compassion and women of integrity. I pray that these boys find and these girls become women who have hearts for the poor and the oppressed, women who desire to make a mark in the world for the cause of Christ and women who teach their children, should they have them, these attributes of godly character.
Give these boys wisdom and discernment as they choose a wife that they will consider these attributes and look seriously for a women who possesses them. I pray that these girls see and seek out mentors who pattern these attributes and help them to develop these noble traits.
In all of this I acknowledge that a married couple who is deeply committed to these attributes will together have great and reverberating impact on the world for your kingdom - and that is my great desire and earnest prayer for these little ones.
Amen
Dear Father,
Should these children decide to marry, I pray for the wives these boys may choose to marry and for the kind of wives these girls will become. I pray that these boys find and these girls become women of noble character - women of deep spiritual commitment, women of strength, women of wisdom, women of compassion and women of integrity. I pray that these boys find and these girls become women who have hearts for the poor and the oppressed, women who desire to make a mark in the world for the cause of Christ and women who teach their children, should they have them, these attributes of godly character.
Give these boys wisdom and discernment as they choose a wife that they will consider these attributes and look seriously for a women who possesses them. I pray that these girls see and seek out mentors who pattern these attributes and help them to develop these noble traits.
In all of this I acknowledge that a married couple who is deeply committed to these attributes will together have great and reverberating impact on the world for your kingdom - and that is my great desire and earnest prayer for these little ones.
Amen
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Damage the Family and Inherit the Wind - Proverbs 11::29
Whoever brings ruin on their family will inherit only wind, and the fool will be servant to the wise. (Proverbs 11:29)
Dear Father,
We know that ruin can be brought upon a family in many ways. Certainly financial imprudence by parents or their children can lead to an actual loss of inherited wealth. But greater loss comes when someone causes a dissolution of the harmony of the family leading to dysfunction. The "inheritance" created by that dysfunction is the passing down of dysfunctional and chaotic patterns for generations to come.
I pray earnestly Father that these children will be able to see clearly the long term consequences of poor choices that affect their families. I pray that you give them the wisdom to determine how to navigate away from those behaviors. I know that such a path will often times be hard and I pray that you grant these children the internal strength to choose and the persevere in that way of wisdom.
I also pray that if any of them do make choices that cause harm to their families, that you show them quickly the end results of the path they are traveling, that your bring wise counsel into their paths who can help them to turn around and to repair damage already done. I pray that you then grant them the wisdom and strength to follow that counsel.
Amen
Dear Father,
We know that ruin can be brought upon a family in many ways. Certainly financial imprudence by parents or their children can lead to an actual loss of inherited wealth. But greater loss comes when someone causes a dissolution of the harmony of the family leading to dysfunction. The "inheritance" created by that dysfunction is the passing down of dysfunctional and chaotic patterns for generations to come.
I pray earnestly Father that these children will be able to see clearly the long term consequences of poor choices that affect their families. I pray that you give them the wisdom to determine how to navigate away from those behaviors. I know that such a path will often times be hard and I pray that you grant these children the internal strength to choose and the persevere in that way of wisdom.
I also pray that if any of them do make choices that cause harm to their families, that you show them quickly the end results of the path they are traveling, that your bring wise counsel into their paths who can help them to turn around and to repair damage already done. I pray that you then grant them the wisdom and strength to follow that counsel.
Amen
Monday, March 18, 2013
The Generous Will Prosper - Proverbs 11:24,25
One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. (Proverbs 11:24, 25 )
Dear Father,
What seems logical to us, you cause to be untrue. It would seem that the more we make and the more we keep, the wealthier we will be. Though it is true that there are many greedy people who are wealthy, it is also true that their lives are meaningless.
I pray that these little ones come to understand that wealth is so much more than money. At the same time I pray that they believe that you do reward generosity - generosity in all aspects of life, including money. I pray that with this knowledge and belief, they devote their lives to giving of themselves. And by that I pray that you richly bless them in all things.
Amen
Dear Father,
What seems logical to us, you cause to be untrue. It would seem that the more we make and the more we keep, the wealthier we will be. Though it is true that there are many greedy people who are wealthy, it is also true that their lives are meaningless.
I pray that these little ones come to understand that wealth is so much more than money. At the same time I pray that they believe that you do reward generosity - generosity in all aspects of life, including money. I pray that with this knowledge and belief, they devote their lives to giving of themselves. And by that I pray that you richly bless them in all things.
Amen
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Seek Wise Counsel - Proverbs 11:14
For lack of guidance a nation falls,
but victory is won through many advisers (Proverbs 11:14)
Dear Father,
Though I pray these children will turn to you and your word of guidance in their lives, there are times that the answer to a specific decision is not clear. I pray that they seek and listen to wise and godly counsel in those times and that they are truly open minded to such counsel, even when counsel disagrees with what they really want to do. I pray that you lead mentors into their path who are willing to serve in this way and that you give such counsel your wisdom to impart.
Amen
but victory is won through many advisers (Proverbs 11:14)
Dear Father,
Though I pray these children will turn to you and your word of guidance in their lives, there are times that the answer to a specific decision is not clear. I pray that they seek and listen to wise and godly counsel in those times and that they are truly open minded to such counsel, even when counsel disagrees with what they really want to do. I pray that you lead mentors into their path who are willing to serve in this way and that you give such counsel your wisdom to impart.
Amen
Friday, March 15, 2013
Do Not Hope in Men - Proverbs 11:7
Hopes placed in mortals die with them; all the promise of their power comes to nothing. (Proverbs 11:7)
Dear Father,
It is our recurring weakness to place our hope in human beings. Whether it is in our spouses, our parents, our children, political leaders or church leaders. Because you are not visible to us, we, like the children of Israel, want a king. We want someone in whom we can entrust our future. Someone who can lead us. Someone who can inspire us. But though your scripture tells us to take note of those living rightly as a good pattern, only in you is to be our hope as only you are our King, our Redeemer.
I pray that these little ones develop a healthy perspective of human leaders and examples. I pray that they neither becomes skeptics of others, nor blindly trust them. I pray that they look for the best in people, that they try to pattern the best examples in other people, but that they always understand that any man or woman can fall and all are sinful. By that wisdom I pray that their walk is never derailed when someone they trust, falls. That they not become disillusioned when "good" people disappoint them by their actions and attitudes. I pray instead that they develop a strong trust in you as their father and in your Son as their example of how to live on this earth and in your Spirit who can empower them to follow that example.
Amen
Dear Father,
It is our recurring weakness to place our hope in human beings. Whether it is in our spouses, our parents, our children, political leaders or church leaders. Because you are not visible to us, we, like the children of Israel, want a king. We want someone in whom we can entrust our future. Someone who can lead us. Someone who can inspire us. But though your scripture tells us to take note of those living rightly as a good pattern, only in you is to be our hope as only you are our King, our Redeemer.
I pray that these little ones develop a healthy perspective of human leaders and examples. I pray that they neither becomes skeptics of others, nor blindly trust them. I pray that they look for the best in people, that they try to pattern the best examples in other people, but that they always understand that any man or woman can fall and all are sinful. By that wisdom I pray that their walk is never derailed when someone they trust, falls. That they not become disillusioned when "good" people disappoint them by their actions and attitudes. I pray instead that they develop a strong trust in you as their father and in your Son as their example of how to live on this earth and in your Spirit who can empower them to follow that example.
Amen
Thursday, March 14, 2013
The Prudent Hold Their Tongues - Proverbs 10:19
Sin is not ended by multiplying words,
but the prudent hold their tongues (Proverbs 10:19)
Dear Father,
This verse highlights that it is not possible nor wise to attempt to stamp out the darkness. Sin will always exist until you bring the renewal of all things. Speeches condemning it, rallies to protest it nor political action to stop it will have any real effect to end or even reduce sin. Solomon is telling us that the prudent righteous understand this point. It is not by many words against sin that sin is conquered. But it is by the light of your Son and the power of your Spirit that the sinner is transformed.
Thus, I pray that these little ones grow up to change the world. Not by great oration against evil, but by lighting up the world by your might and your power and your love and your compassion. May the aura of your goodness surround them and draw many to you as they follow these children and their example of walking in your light.
Amen
but the prudent hold their tongues (Proverbs 10:19)
Dear Father,
This verse highlights that it is not possible nor wise to attempt to stamp out the darkness. Sin will always exist until you bring the renewal of all things. Speeches condemning it, rallies to protest it nor political action to stop it will have any real effect to end or even reduce sin. Solomon is telling us that the prudent righteous understand this point. It is not by many words against sin that sin is conquered. But it is by the light of your Son and the power of your Spirit that the sinner is transformed.
Thus, I pray that these little ones grow up to change the world. Not by great oration against evil, but by lighting up the world by your might and your power and your love and your compassion. May the aura of your goodness surround them and draw many to you as they follow these children and their example of walking in your light.
Amen
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Wise in Heart - Proverbs 10:8,17
The wise in heart accept commands,
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray (Proverbs 10:8,17)
Dear Father,
I pray that you soften the hearts of these little ones so that they seek out and listen to wise counsel. I also pray that they do not rebuff discipline, but choose to learn from it in ways of wisdom and maturity far beyond their years. By these attitudes and actions I pray that they also show others the way to life.
Amen
but a chattering fool comes to ruin.
Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life,
but whoever ignores correction leads others astray (Proverbs 10:8,17)
Dear Father,
I pray that you soften the hearts of these little ones so that they seek out and listen to wise counsel. I also pray that they do not rebuff discipline, but choose to learn from it in ways of wisdom and maturity far beyond their years. By these attitudes and actions I pray that they also show others the way to life.
Amen
Things Detestable to the Lord - Proverbs 6:16-19
There are six things the Lord hates,
seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community (Proverbs 6:16-19)
Dear Father,
When you say that something is testable to you, we obviously need to listen. We think of all kinds of things that you probably are against and condemn, but in this list you tell us what really makes you angry. And so for these little ones, I pray that they avoid a path that leads them to these kinds of behavior:
I pray that you keep them from arrogance, that you help them to develop a healthy and realistic understanding of their own knowledge, wisdom and abilities - one that neither over values those attributes in themselves, nor undervalues the abilities that you have given them. Give them a compassion for those who may know less than they or may be more limited in intellect such that they are kind and patient with them, rather than arrogant toward them.
I pray that they develop a habit of truth telling, not just by avoiding lying, but also in avoiding half-truths and misrepresentations. Give them a passion for the truth, your truth which gives no room for lies.
I pray that their nature is to protect innocent blood rather than shedding it.
I pray that they dedicate themselves to acting with integrity in all that they do as they seek to act fairly toward all.
I pray that they not only avoid rushing to evil, but that you give them clear discernment such that they clearly identify evil and things that are likely to lead to evil so that they not only avoid these things, but by the power of example and persuasion they save others therefrom.
I pray not only that they avoid telling untruths about others, but that they courageously seek and protect the truth as they speak out to put down false rumors and slander being spread about others.
I pray that these little ones do not develop contentious and divisive personalities, rather that they are known as peacemakers and people who are able to mediate conflict.
By these prayers I pray not only that they avoid things that are detestable to you, but that they walk in ways that please and glorify you as they change the world through your power.
Amen
seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community (Proverbs 6:16-19)
Dear Father,
When you say that something is testable to you, we obviously need to listen. We think of all kinds of things that you probably are against and condemn, but in this list you tell us what really makes you angry. And so for these little ones, I pray that they avoid a path that leads them to these kinds of behavior:
I pray that you keep them from arrogance, that you help them to develop a healthy and realistic understanding of their own knowledge, wisdom and abilities - one that neither over values those attributes in themselves, nor undervalues the abilities that you have given them. Give them a compassion for those who may know less than they or may be more limited in intellect such that they are kind and patient with them, rather than arrogant toward them.
I pray that they develop a habit of truth telling, not just by avoiding lying, but also in avoiding half-truths and misrepresentations. Give them a passion for the truth, your truth which gives no room for lies.
I pray that their nature is to protect innocent blood rather than shedding it.
I pray that they dedicate themselves to acting with integrity in all that they do as they seek to act fairly toward all.
I pray that they not only avoid rushing to evil, but that you give them clear discernment such that they clearly identify evil and things that are likely to lead to evil so that they not only avoid these things, but by the power of example and persuasion they save others therefrom.
I pray not only that they avoid telling untruths about others, but that they courageously seek and protect the truth as they speak out to put down false rumors and slander being spread about others.
I pray that these little ones do not develop contentious and divisive personalities, rather that they are known as peacemakers and people who are able to mediate conflict.
By these prayers I pray not only that they avoid things that are detestable to you, but that they walk in ways that please and glorify you as they change the world through your power.
Amen
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Eyes Forward - Proverbs 4:25-27
Let your eyes look straight ahead;
fix your gaze directly before you.
Give careful thought to the[c] paths for your feet
and be steadfast in all your ways.
Do not turn to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25-27)
Dear Father,
Scripture tells us to fix our eyes on Jesus and to aim for perfection. You obviously know that we will be unsuccessful with this and that our salvation is not dependent on it. But you do know that having spiritual goals is important to keep us from straying off the path into deep sin. I pray that these little ones develop an overarching spiritual goal for their lives to make a difference in the world for the cause of the Kingdom. I pray that they understand that this is best done one person at a time and that they set as their goal in life to touch as many people as possible with your love. I pray also that they develop specific goals for how best to accomplish their overarching goal - to have a vision of exactly how and where they will choose to have that impact. I pray that it is you that gives each of them that vision, that calling and that you open their hearts to receive your calling. I then pray that they pursue that calling will all of their might, setting their eyes and fixing their gaze on that path, giving careful thought to that path, being steadfast and strong as they walk that path with the strength that you provide them, turning neither to the left nor the right, as you protect them from falling into temptation so that they do not destroy the work you have accomplished through them.
Amen
fix your gaze directly before you.
Give careful thought to the[c] paths for your feet
and be steadfast in all your ways.
Do not turn to the right or the left;
keep your foot from evil. (Proverbs 4:25-27)
Dear Father,
Scripture tells us to fix our eyes on Jesus and to aim for perfection. You obviously know that we will be unsuccessful with this and that our salvation is not dependent on it. But you do know that having spiritual goals is important to keep us from straying off the path into deep sin. I pray that these little ones develop an overarching spiritual goal for their lives to make a difference in the world for the cause of the Kingdom. I pray that they understand that this is best done one person at a time and that they set as their goal in life to touch as many people as possible with your love. I pray also that they develop specific goals for how best to accomplish their overarching goal - to have a vision of exactly how and where they will choose to have that impact. I pray that it is you that gives each of them that vision, that calling and that you open their hearts to receive your calling. I then pray that they pursue that calling will all of their might, setting their eyes and fixing their gaze on that path, giving careful thought to that path, being steadfast and strong as they walk that path with the strength that you provide them, turning neither to the left nor the right, as you protect them from falling into temptation so that they do not destroy the work you have accomplished through them.
Amen
Clean Language - Proverbs 4:24
Keep your mouth free of perversity;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.(Proverbs 4:24)
Dear Father,
There is such a temptation to fit in with everyone else and part of that temptation is to use speech that is unholy. Once those words have crossed our lips, it is easier to do it a second time and then to fall into a pattern. Though we are amazingly able to compartmentalize our lives such that we avoid unholy speech in holy settings, using that speech completely destroys our witness in the world. I have always been amazed at how people who cuss and swear are offended when they hear "church people" use that kind of language. We are immediately (and rightfully) branded as hypocrites. I pray that these young ones come to understand that truth early in their lives. That they come to desire to have a strong and positive influence on those around them and come to understand that unholy speech will negate that influence. I pray that they also come to understand that unholy language includes not only swearing, but also includes gossip and derogatory speech toward or about other people. Give them an acute awareness of the effect their language has on the impact of their lives.
Amen
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.(Proverbs 4:24)
Dear Father,
There is such a temptation to fit in with everyone else and part of that temptation is to use speech that is unholy. Once those words have crossed our lips, it is easier to do it a second time and then to fall into a pattern. Though we are amazingly able to compartmentalize our lives such that we avoid unholy speech in holy settings, using that speech completely destroys our witness in the world. I have always been amazed at how people who cuss and swear are offended when they hear "church people" use that kind of language. We are immediately (and rightfully) branded as hypocrites. I pray that these young ones come to understand that truth early in their lives. That they come to desire to have a strong and positive influence on those around them and come to understand that unholy speech will negate that influence. I pray that they also come to understand that unholy language includes not only swearing, but also includes gossip and derogatory speech toward or about other people. Give them an acute awareness of the effect their language has on the impact of their lives.
Amen
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Guard Your Heart - Proverbs 4:23
Above all else, guard your heart,
for everything you do flows from it. (Proverbs 4:23)
Dear Father,
It is my great desire that these little ones do good and righteous things in and with their lives, but more than that I pray that they desire deeply to do those things. I pray that it is not simply a matter of duty or fear of getting caught (though those motives may be a safety net at times), rather I pray that they have a deep desire to do what is right in your eyes in order to please you. I pray that their hearts are turned to you and that, though they will fail and make mistakes, their homing device will be the draw of their hearts to yours. Create in them a pure heart O God, one that guides them all the days of their lives.
Amen
for everything you do flows from it. (Proverbs 4:23)
Dear Father,
It is my great desire that these little ones do good and righteous things in and with their lives, but more than that I pray that they desire deeply to do those things. I pray that it is not simply a matter of duty or fear of getting caught (though those motives may be a safety net at times), rather I pray that they have a deep desire to do what is right in your eyes in order to please you. I pray that their hearts are turned to you and that, though they will fail and make mistakes, their homing device will be the draw of their hearts to yours. Create in them a pure heart O God, one that guides them all the days of their lives.
Amen
Do not withhold Good. Proverbs 3:27
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. (Proverbs 3:27)
Dear Father,
I pray that these children develop a mindset to look for opportunities to bless and affirm. That their humility and confidence in their position with you will allow them to praise others for their good work and good attributes so that those around them are encouraged. May they be called Barnabas, sons and daughters of encouragement. By that may the ripple effect of their words and actions of encouragement be great in time and space. By their words of encouragement may they change the world one person at a time.
Amen
Dear Father,
I pray that these children develop a mindset to look for opportunities to bless and affirm. That their humility and confidence in their position with you will allow them to praise others for their good work and good attributes so that those around them are encouraged. May they be called Barnabas, sons and daughters of encouragement. By that may the ripple effect of their words and actions of encouragement be great in time and space. By their words of encouragement may they change the world one person at a time.
Amen
Saturday, March 9, 2013
The Lord's Discipline - Proverbs 3:11-12
My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline,
and do not resent his rebuke,
because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in. (Proverbs 3:11-12)
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Dear Father,
As I read these words I understand that your punishment is not because you are angry or against us, but because you love us and want the best for us, just as any parent does. I believe that when we are told that we were made in your image, it means that we were made with your emotions. Our feelings toward our children we inherited from you.
I pray, Father, that if these children are heading in a direction away from you, that you will do whatever it takes to get their attention, knowing that the answer to my prayer will mean hardship for them. But I know that my prayer is consistent with your desires. Bring roadblocks into their paths, bring hardship upon them, defeat them in their efforts - anything, absolutely anything to change their path away from destruction. And when they come to their senses and return to you, show them the lovingkindness that you showed proverbially in your Son's story about the lost son, that you and I may celebrate them living in your house eternally.
Amen
and do not resent his rebuke,
because the Lord disciplines those he loves,
as a father the son he delights in. (Proverbs 3:11-12)
Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. (Hebrews 12:7-11)
Dear Father,
As I read these words I understand that your punishment is not because you are angry or against us, but because you love us and want the best for us, just as any parent does. I believe that when we are told that we were made in your image, it means that we were made with your emotions. Our feelings toward our children we inherited from you.
I pray, Father, that if these children are heading in a direction away from you, that you will do whatever it takes to get their attention, knowing that the answer to my prayer will mean hardship for them. But I know that my prayer is consistent with your desires. Bring roadblocks into their paths, bring hardship upon them, defeat them in their efforts - anything, absolutely anything to change their path away from destruction. And when they come to their senses and return to you, show them the lovingkindness that you showed proverbially in your Son's story about the lost son, that you and I may celebrate them living in your house eternally.
Amen
Honor the Lord with your Wealth - Proverbs 3:9-10
Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine. (Proverbs 3:9, 10)
Lord,
I pray that these young ones learn early to honor you with their money. We know that you do not need anything from us, but that it is for our benefit that we give to you in trust. And though we do not believe in the prosperity gospel, else most of Jesus' followers would not have been poor, we do believe that if we trust you with our wealth, you will see to our earthly needs and will also give us more so that we can give more. I learned that only because you taught this to me. I pray that you give these little ones the same lessons that you so graciously have given me.
Amen
Lord,
I pray that these young ones learn early to honor you with their money. We know that you do not need anything from us, but that it is for our benefit that we give to you in trust. And though we do not believe in the prosperity gospel, else most of Jesus' followers would not have been poor, we do believe that if we trust you with our wealth, you will see to our earthly needs and will also give us more so that we can give more. I learned that only because you taught this to me. I pray that you give these little ones the same lessons that you so graciously have given me.
Amen
Friday, March 8, 2013
Do Not be Wise in your Own Eyes - Proverbs 3:7
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil. (Proverbs 3:7)
Dear Father,
I pray these children quickly grow to understand the dangers of arrogance. Give them the ability to honestly assess the quality of their own conclusions and convictions and the desire to honestly question and test those conclusions and convictions against facts. Give them an open heart to listen to your word and to the wisdom of those around them. Give them the discernment to differentiate between wise counsel and foolish counsel. Help them to honor opinions that differ from theirs, both out of love and out of the desire to continually test the validity of their own conclusions. But I also pray, Lord, that this willingness to continuously test their convictions does not lead them have no convictions at all. I pray that you give them the wisdom to walk the balance between holding to convictions passionately while at the same time testing the validity of those same passionately held convictions.
Amen
fear the Lord and shun evil. (Proverbs 3:7)
Dear Father,
I pray these children quickly grow to understand the dangers of arrogance. Give them the ability to honestly assess the quality of their own conclusions and convictions and the desire to honestly question and test those conclusions and convictions against facts. Give them an open heart to listen to your word and to the wisdom of those around them. Give them the discernment to differentiate between wise counsel and foolish counsel. Help them to honor opinions that differ from theirs, both out of love and out of the desire to continually test the validity of their own conclusions. But I also pray, Lord, that this willingness to continuously test their convictions does not lead them have no convictions at all. I pray that you give them the wisdom to walk the balance between holding to convictions passionately while at the same time testing the validity of those same passionately held convictions.
Amen
Lean Not on your Own Understanding - Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Dear Father,
I pray that these little ones do not lose the innocent trust of children. That even when things are not making sense, they still look to you and to the wisdom of scripture for their guidance. That they trust that if they follow your principles and your teachings you will make all things right in the end. With the perspective of the cross, we understand that "in the end" may not be in this life, but I pray for these children that you will show them favor in this life for faithfulness to you with an understanding by them that your favor in this life is but a small token of what is to come.
Amen
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Dear Father,
I pray that these little ones do not lose the innocent trust of children. That even when things are not making sense, they still look to you and to the wisdom of scripture for their guidance. That they trust that if they follow your principles and your teachings you will make all things right in the end. With the perspective of the cross, we understand that "in the end" may not be in this life, but I pray for these children that you will show them favor in this life for faithfulness to you with an understanding by them that your favor in this life is but a small token of what is to come.
Amen
Love and Faithfulness - Proverbs 3:3-4
Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs 3:3-4)
Dear Father,
I pray that these children understand that the true worth of a life lived is the degree to which we have loved those you have given us to love and the degree to which we have been faithful to you and to those who have counted on us to be there for them. I pray that they love and are fully faithful to their spouses while they are tempted to think of themselves and their own interests and gratification. But I also pray that they come to understand that love and faithfulness is not limited to the marriage bond, but is also essential in being a parent and role model. A failure to love and be faithful to a spouse is also failing to love and be faithful to their children as the children bear much of the consequence of a parent's failure in this regard. Love and faithfulness is also essential in being a leader and a role model outside the family - in the church and in the community. And even in their vocations, help them to see that love and faithfulness is what makes one an effective leader in the workplace. By that, truly they will win favor and a good name both in your eyes and in the sight of man.
Amen
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.
Then you will win favor and a good name
in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs 3:3-4)
Dear Father,
I pray that these children understand that the true worth of a life lived is the degree to which we have loved those you have given us to love and the degree to which we have been faithful to you and to those who have counted on us to be there for them. I pray that they love and are fully faithful to their spouses while they are tempted to think of themselves and their own interests and gratification. But I also pray that they come to understand that love and faithfulness is not limited to the marriage bond, but is also essential in being a parent and role model. A failure to love and be faithful to a spouse is also failing to love and be faithful to their children as the children bear much of the consequence of a parent's failure in this regard. Love and faithfulness is also essential in being a leader and a role model outside the family - in the church and in the community. And even in their vocations, help them to see that love and faithfulness is what makes one an effective leader in the workplace. By that, truly they will win favor and a good name both in your eyes and in the sight of man.
Amen
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Peer Pressure - Proverbs 1:10
My son, if sinful men entice you,
do not give in to them. (Prov 1:10)
Dear Father,
I pray that you give these young people eyes to see the end effect of evil and such vision gives them the wisdom not to give in to unhealthy peer pressure. Make their hearts indignant toward those who recruit to bully because they see the hurt and wounds that will be caused by that behavior. Make their minds repulsed by those who seek to get them to try drugs and alchohol because they see the lives that are destroyed by both and see how easy it is to fall into addiction. Make their souls resistant to those who would entice them to steal, shoplift or rip off music and software because they see how honest businesses and artists are harmed by the loss of revenues.
Give them an attentive ear to their parents who warn them of these things, and grow within them a desire to please you more than to please peers.
Amen
do not give in to them. (Prov 1:10)
Dear Father,
I pray that you give these young people eyes to see the end effect of evil and such vision gives them the wisdom not to give in to unhealthy peer pressure. Make their hearts indignant toward those who recruit to bully because they see the hurt and wounds that will be caused by that behavior. Make their minds repulsed by those who seek to get them to try drugs and alchohol because they see the lives that are destroyed by both and see how easy it is to fall into addiction. Make their souls resistant to those who would entice them to steal, shoplift or rip off music and software because they see how honest businesses and artists are harmed by the loss of revenues.
Give them an attentive ear to their parents who warn them of these things, and grow within them a desire to please you more than to please peers.
Amen
Listen to your Parents - Proverbs 1:8-9
Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck (Proverbs 1:8-9)
Dear Father,
I know that teenagers often resist, rebuff and ignore their parent's teachings and instruction. I pray for these little ones that you will give them wisdom beyond their years such that they can see through all of the normal childhood attitudes and recognize the value to listening to their parents. Give also their parents abundant wisdom as to how best to give instruction in a manner that resonates with their children and it becomes something that the children internalize as guiding principles.
Amen
and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
They are a garland to grace your head
and a chain to adorn your neck (Proverbs 1:8-9)
Dear Father,
I know that teenagers often resist, rebuff and ignore their parent's teachings and instruction. I pray for these little ones that you will give them wisdom beyond their years such that they can see through all of the normal childhood attitudes and recognize the value to listening to their parents. Give also their parents abundant wisdom as to how best to give instruction in a manner that resonates with their children and it becomes something that the children internalize as guiding principles.
Amen
Monday, March 4, 2013
God Will Not Be Silent - Psalm 50:1-3
The Mighty One, God, the Lord,
speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to where it sets.
From Zion, perfect in beauty,
God shines forth.
Our God comes
and will not be silent (Psalm 50:1-3)
Mighty God, Creator of all things,
By your power what was nothing became something. The universe was nothing, merely contained within your power and it came forth as a seemingly infinite span. The earth was nothing, formless from the bursting forth of your creation, but by your power and guidance it formed into a perfect habitat for us. Man was only a concept contained within your mind and by your breath we came into being. Your voice has spoken all that is from nothing, your Word bringing forth creation and order, your Spirit giving life. Your Word also becoming flesh so that by His sacrifice, our lives that are otherwise nothing, become your vessels of redemption in this creation, as you breath life into the spiritually dead.
Do not now be silent as these little ones grow up. Speak your power around them to shield them. Speak you Word into their hearts. Speak your Spirit of power into their being. Shout the command to your protective angels. Shout your rebuke against the evil one. Whisper your care and compassion into their souls. Sing your love over them.
Oh God come and do not be silent.
Amen
speaks and summons the earth
from the rising of the sun to where it sets.
From Zion, perfect in beauty,
God shines forth.
Our God comes
and will not be silent (Psalm 50:1-3)
Mighty God, Creator of all things,
By your power what was nothing became something. The universe was nothing, merely contained within your power and it came forth as a seemingly infinite span. The earth was nothing, formless from the bursting forth of your creation, but by your power and guidance it formed into a perfect habitat for us. Man was only a concept contained within your mind and by your breath we came into being. Your voice has spoken all that is from nothing, your Word bringing forth creation and order, your Spirit giving life. Your Word also becoming flesh so that by His sacrifice, our lives that are otherwise nothing, become your vessels of redemption in this creation, as you breath life into the spiritually dead.
Do not now be silent as these little ones grow up. Speak your power around them to shield them. Speak you Word into their hearts. Speak your Spirit of power into their being. Shout the command to your protective angels. Shout your rebuke against the evil one. Whisper your care and compassion into their souls. Sing your love over them.
Oh God come and do not be silent.
Amen
The Refuge of The Lord - Psalm 34:22
The Lord will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned. (Psalm 34:22)
Lord,
I pray that these little ones, as they give their lives to you, never live in fear of condemnation. May they learn and understand grace and realize that it is not their accomplishments that will save them not even the degree of their avoidance of sin. Rather it will be that they never stop taking refuge in you. That they never stop looking to you for their salvation. That they never abandon life within your protection for life in the sinful nature.
Amen
Lord,
I pray that these little ones, as they give their lives to you, never live in fear of condemnation. May they learn and understand grace and realize that it is not their accomplishments that will save them not even the degree of their avoidance of sin. Rather it will be that they never stop taking refuge in you. That they never stop looking to you for their salvation. That they never abandon life within your protection for life in the sinful nature.
Amen
Sunday, March 3, 2013
The Lord is Close to the Brokenhearted - Psalm 34:17-20
17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them;
he delivers them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
he delivers them from all their troubles.
18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted
and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
19 The righteous person may have many troubles,
but the Lord delivers him from them all;
20 he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.
but the Lord delivers him from them all;
20 he protects all his bones,
not one of them will be broken.
Dear Father,
With the perspective of the cross, I know that these promises must be viewed in light of the eternal. Certainly the martyrs were not delivered in the current age. But indeed they were delivered in three ways: their delivery to your presence on their death, their resurrection unbroken on the day you make all things new and by the fact that their cause prevailed, even in their apparent defeat. The most important part of this promise is that you a near to human suffering. You do not observe from a safe distance, unconcerned by the human misery that exists in your creation. Because of the brokenness of your creation and the rebellious sin that caused and continues to cause that brokenness, the majority of human kind is brokenhearted and suffering at any point in time.
I pray that in their times of brokenheartedness, these children feel your closeness. That they sense that you are hurting with them with a plan for their redemption from their troubles. I pray that you work in those times to do things that will strengthen, not break their faith. In all things Lord work all things for their good and their ultimate benefit as the plans of the evil one are thwarted.
Amen
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Pursue Peace - Psalm 34:14-15
Turn from evil and do good;
seek peace and pursue it.
seek peace and pursue it.
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous
and his ears are attentive to their cry; Psalm 34:14-15
Dear Father,
I do pray that these children turn from evil. But they can't live effectively by simply avoiding a negative. That does not lead to the abundant life of promise. It is not sustainable. I pray that they also seek peace, the betterment of man, not only seeking peace for its own sake, but peace that leads to the dignity of all mankind and the breaking of the bonds of oppression and injustice.
And as they set their shoulder to the wheel of promoting justice, hear their cries when they grow weary, frustrated and discouraged. Give them more of your Spirit's power to sustain them and give them the courage to go on.
Amen
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