Wednesday, December 16, 2009

On Our Hearts: Financial Crisis

Heavenly Father,

We want to lift up those families who are hurting financially. This is such a wonderful time of year, but it can also be a financial strain for many. Home foreclosures, bankruptcy, and financial failure are unfortunately heard all too often. Job loss and debt have caused families to give up their homes, and make sacrifices they were not prepared to make. Adding the pressure of the holidays can be just too much sometimes.

Lord, we ask that You bless those who are struggling. We ask that You send the Holy Spirit to walk with them as they make financial decisions. Give them wisdom and show them how to be good stewards. Father we pray for financial miracles for those who are on the brink. And as they walk in faith, Lord, may You give them peace and patience for Your perfect timing. And Lord, for those who are financially secure, we ask that You show them how they can help others. Whether it be a monetary gift or just a shoulder to lean on, Lord, we ask that You open their hearts to be givers. May they be a blessing to Your people and to the world. In Jesus' name,

Amen

"The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it." Proverbs 10:22

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Phillipians 4:6-7

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

On Our Hearts: Family

Heavenly Father,

The season is upon us. It's that time of year where family often makes an extra effort to be together. A time to surround ourselves with the ones we love and to be reminded of what truly matters. So why is that while we attempt to connect with our loved ones we find ourselves full of dread? There's the family member that is just a little too nosey, the one who knows how to push our buttons, and the one with the annoying habit that likes to ruin everyone's fun. Suddenly that loving moment turns into one big aggravation.

Father, please forgive us when we feel resentment during this time. Restore that desire to spend time with our family. Let us love them exactly where they are and not where we wish they would be. Give us patience and grace when handling awkward and uncomfortable situations. Let us stand firm in our faith when we are tested by those we love. Give us a supernatural understanding when it comes to dealing with our family members. And let us be the one true example of Your love. Thank You Lord, for the family that You have given us. May we be blessed and be a blessing this season.

Amen

"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." James 1:19

"Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you." Exodus 20:12