Prayer Tip: Jesus Revolution
Daily Scripture
Psalm 78:4b, 6-7a (NIV), Matthew 9:36-38 (CEB), and 1 Timothy 4:12 (MSG)
Psalm 78:4b, 6-7a (NIV)
We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done…so the next generation would know them, even the children yet to be born, and they in turn would tell their children. Then they would put their trust in God.
Matthew 9:36-38 (CEB)
Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them because they were troubled and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The size of the harvest is bigger than you can imagine, but there are few workers. Therefore, plead with the Lord of the harvest to send out workers for his harvest.”
1 Timothy 4:12 (MSG)
Don’t let anyone put you down because you’re young. Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity.
Daily Reflection & Prayer
I wish I could attribute this quote to someone, but I honestly can’t remember what teacher or preacher said it when I scribbled it in the margin of my Bible, in what is now faded pink ink. I was about 14 or 15 years old and the “Jesus Revolution” was in full swing.
“You don’t pray for someone to be like you. You don’t ask God to make someone think like you, or look like you, or even see God like you. God doesn’t need your instructions to change hearts.”
So what do we pray when we want others to know God’s love, forgiveness, and presence in their lives? God did give us some instructions, and they are in today’s Scripture:
“Teach believers with your life: by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity.” (1 Timothy 4:12. MSG)
So maybe we pray like this:
Lord God, help me share your love and grace through every action and every word. Help me see everyone I meet with your eyes – not as young, or old, or defined by any difference. Please remove all expectations I may have about how someone should look, or speak, or live their life to know your love. Teach me to bring my differences and discomforts to you, so that you can show me how to resolve them and truly love all your people.
Amen
Prayer
GPS Insights
Jennifer Creager
Jennifer Creagar is the Community Assistance Coordination Director in Resurrection's Congregational Care Ministry. She is married and loves spending time with her family, and she enjoys writing and photography.
