Prayer Forward

Father,

HUMILITY

I confess a pattern of trying to rule my own life. I analyze what you say and then I selectively obey you. This is pride. But I choose to acknowledge your greatness, your goodness, and your nearness to me. I choose to live a life of humility before your face. LORD, help me to see your glory and to surrender my life to your loving care.

RESPONSIBILITY

I confess that I wander from life with your Son. Too often I act like I can handle alone whatever life throws my way. I fail to pray, to sit quietly in your presence, and to meditate on your word. And I miss the grace you offer me. But I choose to remain in Jesus—who is my life. To abide in him. I choose to receive your gifts of grace and to steward them well. LORD, help me take hold of everything you want to give me and to use these gifts in the ways you intend.

ACCLIMATION

I confess that I allow the world to define me. Or I craft an identity for myself. I do the same for other people. And I am so easily drawn into the patterns of this world, even when trying to represent you. But I choose to accept what you say about me—and others. And I choose to live life led by your Spirit. LORD, help me see myself and others as you see us and to live Kingdom life under your rule.

IMITATION

I confess that I am driven by comfort and convenience. I so easily judge others so I can distance myself from their pain, drama, and messiness. But I choose to deny myself and enter others’ suffering in order to be a conduit of your blessing and restoring work. LORD, help me to love your people, my neighbors, and even my enemies. And help me do it in ways that don’t feed my self-centeredness or any sense of superiority.

MISSION

I confess a willingness to tolerate the status quo; to play it safe and to accept that this is just how things are. But I choose to participate in your plan to reconcile all things. I choose to show up—to represent your kingdom wherever you place me. LORD, help me to be bold, creative, patient, and pervasive in my efforts to bring light into darkness; wholeness into disintegration.

Amen

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