“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.

–       1 John 3:1

Lord, my heart hurts for those who do not know You as their Lord and Savior.  Connection with many of those around me is difficult because I am often looked upon as strange and peculiar.   I realize that relationships with those who don’t know You, is often  short-lived or selfish in motive.  However, there is a peace I feel with You by my side that the people of the world cannot give.  Truthfully,  I’d rather please You than those who don’t know You.  I realize they don’t know me because they don’t know You.

I pray the love You have bestowed upon me will be evident in my life as one who has a relationship with You.  Teach me obedience, kindness, love, and compassion as I walk among those that don’t know You.  By Your grace lead me to someone who needs You that I may introduce them to You.   Let Your love shine through me this day.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.”

                         – John 12: 46

You stand outside the door of their heart offering light and direction to their life. How much better their lives will be if only they would welcome You into their heart.  I pray they will hear You knocking on their hearts and that they gather up courage and answer Your call.  Glorify the life of Your Son Jesus through me on this day that I may lead those in darkness to You.

In Jesus name, Amen.

“For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.”

–       Psalm 86: 5

Lord, each time I sin against You, my first thought is to run away.  Like Adam before me, I want to hide from Your presence.  But where can I go that You cannot find me?  When I do return, I find You are the same loving and merciful God.  Each time You stood as a loving Father, ready to forgive and restore.

Your faithfulness to me in this relationship has called me out of sin so many times.  Thank You for the forgiveness of sin that comes through Your Son Jesus.  Thank You for not dealing with me as I deserve to be treated.  Yes, You are truly a good God!  I pray not only for me, but for those who are burdened with sin and are need of coming to You.  Help them to see the reality of sin so they may desire Your mercy.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

“If anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.”

–     1 Peter 4:16

Lord, when it comes to suffering, everything in me fights against it.  I don’t like it!  I look for the doors marked exit that I may leave this pain.  However, this adversity I am in today is not because of sickness or some sin I receiving punishment for.  This suffering is because I choose to live and respond to life as one who follows you.

I know that I have nothing to be ashamed of and my head does not have to hang low.   Your Word reminds me that adversity is often the instrument You use to promote me spiritually.  I know that it will result in something good.  Help me to surrender to Your will in this matter that You may be glorified above all.

In Jesus’ name.  Amen.