Father, thank You for Jesus’ example of humility. I want to take His yoke upon me and learn from Him, for He is meek and lowly of heart and then I can find rest for my soul (Matthew 11:29).
It is more rewarding to serve than to be served.
It is humbling to me to realize You have adopted me as Your child (Ephesians 1:5); and like Jesus, I want always to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than myself (Philippians 2:3). Grant me the humble heart of a servant, Lord God, so I may be more like Jesus.
I know from Your Word that You esteem the humble and contrite in spirit (Isaiah 66:2). With humility comes wisdom (Proverbs 11:2), and humility always precedes honor (Proverbs 15:33). The humble will rejoice in You, Lord; the needy will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel (Isaiah 29:19). For You have shown us what is good, and this is what You require of us: to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with You (Micah 6:8). Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what He commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps we will be sheltered on the day of the Lord’s anger (Zephaniah 2:3). I willing serve the Lord with great humility and with tears (Acts 20:19).
For You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty (Psalm 18:27). You give grace to the humble (Proverbs 3:34), crowning the humble with Your salvation (Psalm 149:4). Through Your grace I know I can handle every situation. You guide the humble in what is right and teach them Your ways (Psalm 25:9).
So I want to be completely humble and gentle; to be patient, bearing with others in love (Ephesians 4:2) to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men (Titus 3:2). I want to get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent around me, and humbly accept the word planted in me, which can save me and others (James 1:21). Please grant that I may display a good life by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom (James 3:13).
I humble myself before You, Lord, trusting You will lift me up (James 4:10). I will strive to live in harmony with others, to be sympathetic, to love everyone as brother and sister, to be compassionate and humble (1 Peter 3:8). Please teach me how to clothe myself with humility, to humbly submit myself under Your might hand, that You may lift me up in due time (1 Peter 5:5-6). I will never live a day that I am not in need of Your grace, so please help me maintain an attitude that welcomes it.
I cast the whole of my care – all my anxieties, all my worries, all my concerns for my future, once and for all – on You. For You care for me affectionately and care about me watchfully (1 Peter 5:7). Father, I humble myself and submit to Your Word that speaks – exposes, sifts, analyzes, and judges the very thoughts and purposes of my heart (Hebrews 4:12). Fill me with Your Spirit so I can test my own actions, so I might have appropriate self-esteem, without comparing myself to anyone else (Galatians 6:4). The security of Your guidance will allow me to carry my own load with energy and confidence (Galatians 6:5) that I may do Your will as You desire.
Humility and fear of You bring wealth and honor and life (Proverbs 22:4). As one of Your chosen people, holy and dearly loved, I long to clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. I truly want to bear with others and forgive whatever grievances I may have against anyone; to forgive as You forgave me. And over all virtues, I pray to put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity (Colossians 3:12-14). I ask You please, to let the peace of Christ rule in my heart, and I am thankful for Your grace and the power of Your Holy Spirit (Colossians 3:15). Whatever I do, in word or in deed, I will do it all in the name of my Lord Jesus, giving thanks to You through Him (Colossians 3:17). Father, may Your Will be done on earth in my life as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).
Ephesus was a rich and politically important city housing the Roman proconsul for Asia Minor. It also housed the temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Wealth, power, magic, and competing religions caused fireworks for the faithful here. This church had been commended for its love. Surrounded by symbols of how agreeable and interesting secular world can be, they were forced to keep a distance. They had tested false teachings and stayed dedicated to truth. But by resenting the secular world so they could stay away from it, the Christians grew cold. Yet whatever you do, if you lack love (1 Cor 13:1-3), you gain nothing. Ephesus was the new Christian center since Jews were tormenting Christians in Jerusalem and Israel. Which is why Jesus addresses them as the One who holds the churches in His hand (Rev 2:1) – He who knows and controls the churches. So, if they were removed from importance (Rev 2:5) it would be more than shocking to the whole of the Christian world. It is easy to grow active without loving; but then you lose your light. Never let the program replace the passion for the Lord.
Smyrna wanted to be first, ahead of Ephesus, but John makes a point to put Jesus first and last (Rev 2:8). The Christians there had almost nothing at all (Rev 2:9). The city was called “the Jewel of Asia” but the congregation of the church was mostly slaves or ex-slaves. It was the center of the Imperial Cult of Rome, and also had a large stronghold of traditional Jews who hated the Christian movement. And since the Christians were mostly converted Jews, much hatred and persecution with intense suffering left the Christians extremely poor. But they remained faithful. “Crown of Smyrna” was a local expression because of Smyrna’s many buildings. Jesus offered them a crown (Rev 2:10), not a diadem worn by a king to symbolize power, but a wreath awarded to the victor in games. Unfortunately they were to face even more persecution, but Jesus, the martyred and eternal Christ (Rev 2:8), guarantees they will receive the crown of new life. And though they may face death, Jesus promises they will escape the Second Death (Rev 2:11). God will not forsake any valiant saint! Therefore do not fear suffering, for the reward is great.
Pergamum boasted one of the finest libraries of antiquity, and had healing spas between two rivers. But had sordid surroundings that challenged their faith. The acropolis, a tall hill of the city, housed many temples. including one for Caesar Augustus (Rev 2:13). It was a political capital, and so a religious center for all Asia Minor, especially for Emperor worship. John pits Christ’s justice against Roman military law (Rev 2:12, 16), since martyrdom was well known in this city. It was one of the very few cities with the right to impose capital punishment. Jesus’ identity as a two-edged sword symbolizes His ability to separate believers from the world — the true Judge of God’s Word against false religion. The reference to Balaam (Rev 2:14) is as a stumbling block that causes weak Christians to fall into eating food sacrificed to idols. A little immorality here and there does hurt! A strong stance against false teaching and immoral practices must be kept. Jesus promises them manna, that He would supply and meet their needs, along with a white stone which signaled an easy life in a Roman court.
Thyatira was noted for its numerous trade guilds, especially bronze making (Rev 2:18). A small city with a small church, they were devoted to service, but with one “prophetess” gaining influence and teaching evil things to believers. Jezebel (Rev 2:20) was part of the church and thought by a few to be wise, but she lead people bit by bit into pagan worship. Christians knew idols were nothing, so food was just food. They had to share food to be sociable in the guild memberships. Paul warned them not to eat if weaker Christians were present, but John here flat out forbids it since Jezebel’s influence was so strong. “Satan’s deep secrets” (Rev 2:24) probably referred to the science of the day, since teachers said their “science” was from God whereas Jesus says it is from the devil instead. Blazing eyes and feet emphasize the indignation and righteous judgment of Jesus. His authority over the nations (Rev 2:26) is a reference to His coming judgment against anyone who misleads His loyal children. And the morning star (Rev 2:28) refers to His coming glory. They may have been weak, but they would rule the nations with Him.
Sardis was strong in the imperial cult, an ancient city that had risen in splendor but was in gradual decline ever since. The city sat between a river and mountains, and was rich in natural resources. They developed a good reputation as living the “good life”, but not “good” Christians. They were living on their past reputation; so what deeds they performed were for that reputation, not for Christ. The city had great wealth (making it irresponsible) and military might (making it overconfident), so it became soft and spoiled. Jesus is the holder of the spirits of God; spirit means “life giving” (Rev 3:1). Jesus wants them to understand they need to strengthen what faith remained among their flock as good shepherds, before it dies. Thief in the night (Rev 3:3) points out that Sardis had been taken captive twice at night before. Having your name in the Book of Life (Rev 3:5) declared you were a citizen of God’s kingdom, as opposed to the city records that guaranteed one’s citizenship only in that town. Only the kingdom citizens would be acknowledged before the Father (Rev 3:5). Our spiritual life must constantly be moving forward or it will move backward.
Philadelphia was a lesser city than the others, yet they had the power to keep the Word and Name holy. The city was situated at a narrow mountain pass, so it was a doorway to the East. But it was also a city of earthquakes, and a major highway, an imperial post road. There were many Jews in the city that opposed the Christian faith (Rev 3:9). The Key of David (Rev 3:7) symbolizes the power of the Messiah, holding the key to Israel’s future. John believed Christianity wasn’t a “new” religion, but the “true” religion of Abraham and Moses, a recovery back to their beliefs. Jesus says they had kept His Word, so He will keep them from the hour of trials. It is easy to be enthusiastic when we are winning, but often faith calls for us to simply to keep enduring. Christ promises the Christians who endure will be the pillars of God’s temple in reward for their stability (Rev 3:12). Jerusalem is the city of David, and has been promised to David in the future kingdom. So the New Jerusalem will honor the believers who endure, as military leaders were honored with pillars in their name. However weak we are, Jesus remains at the door for us.
Laodicea was one of the richest commercial cities under Roman rule. Jesus as the Ruler of God’s creation (Rev 3:14) is over and above this city that had so much wealth. They were complacent, but they lacked everything. Affluence caused them to close their eyes to their mediocrity(Rev 3:17): we may not be the best, but we are good and that’s good enough. No zeal, no conviction. Jesus wants His people to be fervent in spirit. Lukewarm (Rev 3:15) is a path for the devil, because God can use either hot or cold, but not “middle of the road”. Some Bible versions have “spit you out’ (Rev 3:16) but the Greek literally means “I will vomit you” – you make me nauseous! The Faithful and True Witness (Rev 3:14) was an effort to convince these believers that Jesus was ruler of God’s creation and His throne is the ultimate authority and dominion. John is saying, “Forget the glamour of wealth and re-find Christ” (Rev 3:18). Those who respond to the call will find chastisement true, but only in being made pure, and transformed into companions where Christ will gladly come and dine with them (Rev 3:20). Don’t let go of your commitment in order to grab the “good” life. Turn from spiritual pride and receive glory.
To what city do we belong?
To him who overcomes — To John, the combat between good and evil was relentless, and fills our days and our efforts. Each city was a cosmopolitan center welcoming people from all around and entertaining ideas from everywhere in the world. All housed important temples and surrounded Christians with temptations to average out religious commitments to any one religious faith.
The messages of these churches are the same for the churches of today. Ephesus was a message to remember to love. Smyrna was a message of keeping faithfulness. Pergamum was a message against compromise and fortifying against false doctrines. Thyatira was a message of holiness, of not being seduced away from the faith. Sardis was a message of progress: keep moving for fall to the side. Philadelphia was a message of obedience, and we will be commended for any obedience we display. Laodicea was a message of commitment.
As Jesus tells the church at Sardis, so too we should heed His words. We are to keep what we have and repent of what we haven’t done. If we will obey the truth we already know, we can return to the once-vibrant spirituality we had on first believing. Jesus stands at the door of our lives and knocks. This is not an evangelistic challenge, but a gentle offer. Jesus welcomes any distanced believer to reestablish a relationship with God. He is eager to come in.
Father, thank You for showing me that without Christ Jesus I can do nothing (John 15:5), yet through Christ Jesus I can do all things because He strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). Because of Him, I will watch and pray so that I will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak (Mark 14:38).
Only God can sustain us in this dry and wearying land.
Kindly Lord, continue to gird me with strength when I am weak, and make my way perfect (Psalm 18:32). Thank You for enabling me to stand on higher and higher grounds (Psalm 18:33). Father, You are my stronghold – my place to hide and fight from (Psalm 43:2). You are my refuge and my strength, and You are a very present help to me in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1). Please, loving Lord, do not forsake me when I feel like my strength is gone (Psalm 71:9). Your joy, kind Father, is the source of my strength (Nehemiah 8:10). You are my refuge in the storm and my shadow from the heat (Isaiah 25:4).
When I feel weak, I will say that I am strong because I know You are with me (Joel 3:10). I wait upon You, O Father, and I will be of good courage because all my hope is in You (Psalm 31:24). Thank You for strengthening me according to the promise of Your Word (Psalm 119:28). Your Word tells me: Do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand (Isaiah 41:10). I love you, O Lord, my strength (Psalm 18:1).
Blessed is the one who has regard for others that are weak, for You, O Lord, will deliver him in times of trouble (Psalm 41:1). You will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. You will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death (Psalm 72:12-13). You promised to search for the lost and bring back the strays, to bind up the injured and strengthen the weak (Ezekiel 34:16). You, O gracious Father, give strength to the weary and You increase the power of the weak (Isaiah 40:29).
For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are – yet was without sin (Hebrews 4:15). Christ Jesus was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by Your power. Likewise, we are weak in Him, yet by Your power we will live with Him to serve (2 Corinthians 13:3-4). The body that was sown in weakness is raised in power (1 Corinthians 15:43).
What the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, You corrected by sending Your own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering and so condemned sin (Romans 8:3). In the same way, Your Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express (Romans 8:26).
Therefore, if I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness (2 Corinthians 11:30). God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:27), for the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength (1 Corinthians 1:25).
That is why for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:10). As I wait upon You, O Lord, my strength is being renewed and I am mounting up with wings like an eagle. I will run and not grow weary; I will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:31). Therefore I can count it all joy, all strength, when I encounter tests and trials of any sort (James 1:2) because I am strong in You, Lord, in Your might power (Ephesians 6:10).
Heavenly Father, I thank You that You are never too busy for me. In fact, You are my refuge and strength. You are my very present help in times of busy-ness and trouble (Psalm 46:1). Your Son, my Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus, urges me to come unto Him when I labor and feel overburdened, because He will give me rest (Matthew 11:28). So I come, Lord Jesus, to find rest for my soul. For Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light (Matthew 11:29).
Staying busy is not of the Spirit’s leading.
Things seem to keep me very busy lately, too busy to enjoy Your peace and listen to Your leading. And I don’t like it. For the fool is busy with evil (Isaiah 32:6). I do not want to be busy with my house and forget about You, Lord God (Haggai 1:9). I want to let the peace of Christ rule in my heart, since as a member of His body I am called to peace (Colossians 3:15). For You are not a God of disorder but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33).
Lord, help me to keep my mind fixed on You at all times, because You promised to keep me in perfect peace when I keep my mind steadfast on You, because I trust You, Father (Isaiah 26:3). I seek Your guidance, Lord God, to help me arrange my priorities properly. You promised to instruct me and teach me in the way I should go, to counsel me and watch over me (Psalm 32:8). Please help me to think Your thoughts as I let the mind of Christ Jesus (1 Corinthians 2:16) have its rightful authority in my life (Philippians 2:5). Your Word says the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace (Romans 8:6). So I will not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of my mind (Romans 12:2). Because You are my God and Deliverer; I will not let my heart be either troubled or afraid. This is possible only because Jesus has given me His peace (John 14:27).
I praise You, Lord God, Father in Heaven, that You have ordained peace for me (Isaiah 26:12). Therefore during this time of busyness, I will not be anxious about anything. Instead I will let all my requests be made known to You through prayer, with thanksgiving. Even as I pray, Lord, I can sense that You are giving me Your great peace – a peace that surpasses all understanding. Thank You for guarding my heart and mind through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).
I love Your Word Father, and this brings great peace to my soul. Because of Your Word I know nothing can make me stumble away from trusting You (Ps 119:165). Please Lord, teach me to approach all my responsibilities from a spiritual perspective rather than a carnal mind, and guide me to live by the Spirit and not gratify my sinful nature (Galatians 5:16).
May the Lord of peace Himself give me peace at all times and in every way (2 Thessalonians 3:16), and sanctify me through and through so my whole spirit, soul, and body are kept blameless at the coming of my Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23). For Christ Himself is my peace (Ephesians 2:14).
Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your great faithfulness in my life! For calling me to Your kingdom, to share in the eternal life with Your Son. I rejoice in the certain knowledge that You will not permit me to be tempted above my ability to resist. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for giving Yourself for my sins, that You might deliver me from this present evil age, according to the will of God, our Father. To whom be glory forever and ever. Amen (Galatians 1:4-5).
Pride of the body is a downfall.
There has been no temptation taken me but such as is common to man. But You, O God, are faithful and will not suffer me to be tempted above what I am able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that I may be able to bear it (1 Corinthians 10:13).
For Your Word warns me that anyone who looks at another lustfully has committed adultery already in his heart (Matthew 5:28). I make a covenant with my eyes here and now not to look lustfully at anyone. For what is man’s lot from God above, his heritage from the Almighty one on high? Is it not ruin for the wicked, disaster for those who do wrong? (Job 31:1-3)
Having lost sensitivity, I have fallen in with those who have given themselves over to sensuality, so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, with a continual lust for more (Ephesians 4:19). Like men who abandoned natural relations with women and are inflamed with lust for one another. These men who commit indecent acts with other men receive in themselves the due penalty for their perversion (Romans 1:27). I do not want to be condemned with any of them.
Therefore I put to death whatever belongs to my earthly nature: including lust; because of such things the wrath of God is coming (Colossians 3:5-6). With Your help, O Spirit, I will learn to control my own body in a way that is holy and honorable, not in passionate lust like the heathen, who do not know God (1 Thessalonians 4:4-5). For I have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do – living in debauchery and lust (1 Peter 4:3).
Lord, I choose to flee from lust and evil desires because I know You will empower me to follow righteousness, faith, charity, and peace, with all who call on You out of a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22). I ask You please to enable me to restrain from all fleshly lusts which war against my soul (1 Peter 2:11). I will treasure Your truth, and I will hide Your Word in my heart so I might not sin against You (Psalm 119:11). Help me, Lord, to be led of Your Spirit, so I will not gratify the desires of my sinful nature (Galatians 5:16). Through the power of Your might (Ephesians 6:10) I will stand fast in the liberty Christ has given to me, and I will no longer be entangled with the yoke of bondage (Galatians 5:1).
Father, help me always to learn from the truth and teaching of Your Word, which shows me what happens when lust is fulfilled. For these commands are a lamp, this teaching is a light, and the corrections of discipline are the way of life, keeping me from the immoral person, from the smooth tongue of the wayward spouse. I will not lust after beauty or let beauty captivate me, for the prostitute reduces me to a loaf of bread, and the adulterer preys upon my very life (Proverbs 6:23-26).
I rejoice, Father God, that Your truth has set me free (John 8:32). Because of Your mercies to me, I present my body as a living sacrifice and ask You please to make it holy and acceptable to You. With Your grace, I will no longer be conformed to this world. Through the power of Your Word, I am being transformed by the renewing of my mind (Romans 12:1-2). Forgive me, Lord for the idolatry of lust in my life that has come as a result of my failure to put You and Your righteousness first. I will not love the world or anything in the world, for everything in the world – the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does – comes not from the Father but from the world (1 John 2:15-16).
Father, according to the power that is at work in me (Ephesians 3:20), I will watch and pray that I may not fall into temptation, for I know that though my spirit is willing my flesh is weak.(Matthew 26:41).
Faith and obedience are the two legs with which a Christian walks. Promises which strength our faith and prompt our obedience also enforce our pleas and prayers. Faith confidently expects the fulfillment of the divine word. Obedience is not only a virtue of high importance, it is also the supreme test of faith.
Understand, therefore, that the Lord your God is the faithful God who for a thousand generations keeps His promises and constantly loves those who love Him and who obey His commands. (Deuteronomy 7:9)
You need endurance, so that after you have done God’s will, you may receive what was promised (Hebrews 10:36). Let us then hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).
Faith can make miracles happen. Never underestimate the power of His promise.
Many of us are addicted to something. My sister is addicted to worrying. If she doesn’t have something to worry about today, she feels like there is no reason for her to be breathing today. I know a woman who constantly fears: she is afraid her house will burn down while she’s sleeping, or her children will get into a serious accident, or her dog will mess up the carpet while she’s gone. I personally am addicted to judging others: the way they drive, the way they handle their children, the way they speak at meetings – as if I do any better and any of these things. Worry, fear, anger, judgment, mockery, to say nothing of drugs or alcohol or gambling – there are so many things in this world that we can be addicted to. The point is – you and I are not made for this world! So we don’t have to be addicted to anything. The Lord Jesus came to save us from such things, and to give us a better life to live than what the world says we are supposed to want and have and strive to attain. The verses included here are meant to help us reach above our addictions and trust in Jesus to save us from our personal sins. To give us encouragement to strive for the life Our Father wants for us.
Lead me beside peaceful waters, Lord. Please keep my soul quiet and listening to You.
Heavenly Father, I battle the addiction to _____ in my life. I believe You are more powerful than any addiction, and I believe You are able to deliver me. You have revealed Your truth to me through Your Word (John 17:17), and I believe Your promise which tells me that I shall know the truth, and the truth will set me free (John 8:32). I also believe that since Christ Jesus sets me free I am free indeed (John 8:36). Therefore I seek Your deliverance and I express faith in You that You will bring it to pass in my life. So I pray.
Father, I realize my addiction is a sin, and I confess it to You now. Thank You for Your promise that assures me that when I confess my sins, You are faithful and just to forgive me my sins, and to cleanse me of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9) by simply asking You. I gratefully receive Your forgiveness and cleansing now as I repent of my sinful addiction. Gracious God, I will stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ Jesus has set me free, and I ask for Your Spirit to help me stand firm and to never again be entangled with the yoke of bondage that addiction brings (Galatians 5:1).
Father, I praise You that the law of the Spirit of life has made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2). I surrender my life to You entirely, completely, wholly, because You have freed me from my sin. From now on, I wish to be Your servant, O Almighty God, and I want so to enjoy Your fruit in my life unto holiness, and I know I have already received everlasting life (Romans 6:22). Thank You, Father, for giving me continuing power to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy. I now know that nothing shall by any means hurt me (Luke 10:19). I also know no weapon formed against me shall prosper, because this is my heritage as Your servant (Isaiah 54:17). Thank You, for complete and total deliverance and freedom from the addiction that used to come between me and You.
Father, I believe You Word. You have not forgotten one word of Your promise; You are a covenant keeping God (1 Kings 8:56). It is You who will bring me out from under the yoke of bondage and free me from being a slave to _____ (Deuteronomy 26:8). Father, I ask You to keep me dedicated to this vow to stay free in You. I thank You that You are able to keep that which I commit unto You (2 Timothy 1:12).
I will be strong and of good courage and do the work; I will not fear nor be discouraged, for You, my God, are with me. You won’t leave me or forsake me until all the work is finished (1 Chronicles 28:20). Apart from You I can do nothing (John 15:5). But with You – we can do all things!
I am confident of this: God began a good work in me and will carry it on to completion (Philippians 1:6). I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living (Psalm 27:13). God raised me from the dead along with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6). I need neither to fear nor worry; I simply need to concentrate on being completely devoted to Jesus in my heart (1 Peter 3:14-15).
I bless You, O Lord. All that is within me blesses You and Your holy name. I will not forget all Your benefits to me. You have forgiven me all my iniquities, and healed all my sicknesses. You have redeemed my life from destruction, and You have crowned me with love and compassion, and tender mercies. You are my satisfaction, O gracious and generous Father (Psalm 103:1-5)!
God’s love is meteoric, His loyalty astronomic, His purpose titanic, His verdict oceanic. Yet in His largeness nothing gets lost, not a man, not a mouse, slips through the cracks. How exquisite Your love, O God; how eager we are to run under Your wings, to eat our fill at the banquet You spread as You fill our tankards with Eden spring water. You’re a fountain of cascading light, and You open our eyes to light. (Psalm 36:5-9 The Message)
To You, O my Lord, I lift up my soul; in You, O my God, I trust. Do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemy triumph over me (Psalm 25:1-2). Guard my life and rescue me, O Lord my God. Let me not be put to shame, for I take refuge in You. May integrity and uprightness protect me, because all my hope is in You alone (Psalm 25:20-21).
Under stormy conditions, that is when we shine God’s love the best.
Lord God, You assure me that though a mother could maybe forget her child, You will absolutely never forget me. You have engraved my name on the palms of Your hands (Isaiah 49:15-16). How precious concerning me are Your thoughts, O God my Father! How vast the sum of them! (Psalm 139:17) The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely and in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him. He also will hear their cry and save them (Psalm 145:18-19).
So I will be still and know You are God. You, O Lord Almighty, are with me; You, O God of Jacob, are my Fortress (Psalm 46:10-11). I will hide in the shelter of Your wings until this disaster has passed (Psalm 57:1). Do not be far from me, O Lord my God, for trouble is near and there is no one else to help (Psalm 22:11). I will strive to keep my ways pleasing to You, my Lord, for then You make even my enemies to be at peace with me (Proverbs 16:7).
Lord Jesus, You have given to me Your peace, Your own peace You have bequeathed to me. It is not the peace that the world gives. I will not let my heart be troubled neither will I let it be afraid (John 14:27). Your peace will keep my thoughts and my heart quiet and at rest as I trust in You. So I refuse to be agitated, and I will not permit myself to be fearful and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled. Instead of worrying, I will pray. I will let petitions and praises shape my worries into prayers letting You, Lord God, know my concerns, and then not forgetting to thank You for the answers. (Philippians 4:6-7).
I will not be afraid or discouraged… for the Lord is with me (2 Chronicles 20:17). I will notbe afraid but I will remember the great and awe-inspiring Lord! (Nehemiah 4:14). Because God is with me, I will be strong and very courageous. I will not be terrified, nor will I be discouraged, for the Lord my God will be with me wherever I go (Joshua 1:7, 9). He has promised.
I do not let my heart be troubled. I trust in God, I trust also in my Lord Jesus (John 14:1). God has put a hedge around me and my family, and my house, and everything I have and all I have inherited through His kindnesses. God blesses the work of my hands because I keep His commandments (Job 1:10). I refuse to worry about anything. God is on my side. God is in me now. Who can be against me and win? (Romans 8:31)
I let the peace of Christ Jesus rule in my heart, since as a member of His body I was called to peace. And I am thankful and praiseful. I refuse to worry about anything. (Colossians 3:15). The peace that surpasses all understanding keeps my heart and mind through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
I am convinced nothing can separate me from God’s love: death can’t, life can’t; angels nor demons can’t; fears for the day nor worries about tomorrow, nor even the powers of hell can’t keep God’s love away from me. Whether I am high above the sky or in the deepest ocean, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate me from the love of God that is revealed through Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:38-39)
I am confident of this: He who began a good work in me will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus’ return (Philippians 1:6). For God the Father raised me from the dead along with Christ Jesus, and I am seated with Jesus in the heavenly realms — all because I believe in and am one with Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6). I need neither to fear men’s treats nor worry about them; I simply need to concentrate on being completely devoted to Christ in my heart (1 Peter 3:14-15 Phillips).
You, dearest God, keep me in perfect peace, for my mind is steadfast, trusting in You (Isaiah 26:3). I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety (Psalm 4:8). Lord God, help me to remember You when I go to bed (Psalm 63:6). Please occupy my thoughts through the watches of the night, because when my mind is on You I don’t worry about other things.
I will be strong and of good courage and do the work; I will not fear nor be discouraged, for You, my God, are with me. You won’t leave me or forsake me until all the work is finished (1 Chronicles 28:20). Apart from You I can do nothing (John 15:5). But with You – we can do all things!
Father, when all other things have passed away, three things will remain: faith, hope and love (1 Corinthians 13:13). Help me prioritize my day by the things that will always remain. And, dear Lord God, please help me not to allow the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, or the desires for other things to come in and choke Your Word, making it unfruitful in my life (Mark 4:19).
Father, I thank You that I have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into the kingdom of Your dearly loved Son (Colossians 1:13). I commit to live free from worry, for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2). I humble myself under Your mighty hand that in due time You may exalt me. I cast the whole of my cares – all my anxieties _____, all my worries _____, all my concerns _____ – on You, since You care for me affectionately and care about me watchfully. (1 Peter 5:6-7).
Don’t let worry block your light.
Heavenly Father, Your Word says to rejoice always (Philippians 4:4), and not to be anxious about anything. But in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, to present any requests to You. Then Your peace, which transcends all my understanding, will guard my heart and mind – as long as I keep them both fixed on Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).
Your Word assures me that You, O Lord, are good, a refuge in times of trouble, and You care for those who trust in You (Nahum 1:7). You also invite me to cast all my worries on You (Psalm 55:22). I know You will not forsake me (Isaiah 42:16). I will trust in You, O Lord; I will thankfully say, “You are my God; my times are in Your hands” (Psalm 31:14-15).
Father, I cast down my bad imaginations and every thought that exalts itself against the knowledge of You. Please teach me to bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 10:5). Thank You for guarding me and promising to keep me in perfect peace. Please teach me how to keep my mind stayed on You; I commit myself to You, my Lord; I lean on You, and I hope confidently in You (Isaiah 26:3).
I willingly lay aside the sin of worry that so easily entangles me (Hebrews 12:1). Instead, things which are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, if they be of good report or have any good virtue, or are praiseworthy, I will think on these things (Philippians 4:8). I strongly force myself to not let my heart be troubled (John 14:1). I abide in Your Word, and Your words abide in me. Therefore I will not forget what manner of person I am. I look unto Your perfect law of liberty and continue to do so, being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the Word and thus I will be blessed in my doing (James 1:22-25). I thank You, Father, that You are able to keep that which I commit unto You (2 Timothy 1:12).
Father God, forgive me for worrying; I know I don’t have to bear my burdens alone. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for inviting me to come unto You, and for Your wonderful promise of rest (Matthew 11:28). Please teach me, Lord Jesus, and help me to take up Your yolk and to learn from You; for You are gentle and humble in heart, and I can find rest for my soul in You (Matthew 11:29). I gratefully receive Your peaceful rest as I lay down my burdens and worries at your throne.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You, O Lord, preserve my life. You stretch out Your hand against the anger of my foes; with Your right hand You save me (Psalm 138:7). You, O Lord, are my shepherd; I have everything I need. You let me rest in green meadows; You lead me beside peaceful streams. You renew my strength. You guide me along right paths, so You can bring honor to Your name. Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil; my cup overflows with blessings. Please allow Your goodness and unfailing love to pursue me all the days of my life, and I will gladly live in the house of the Lord forever (Psalm 23:1-6).
Lord God, Your Word assures me that nothing shall be able to separate me from Your love, which is in Christ Jesus, my Redeemer (Romans 8:38-39). You have promised to supply all my needs (Philippians 4:19), and I know You know all my needs even before I tell them to You (Matthew 6:8). Father, Your perfect love casts out all my fears and worries (1 John 4:18). In fact, You have commanded me not to worry, because it is Your good pleasure to give me Your kingdom (Luke 12:32). The great and precious promises of Your Word thrill me, O gracious Father (2 Peter 1:4). I praise You for taking all my worries.
Lord God, I have the assurance of Your Word that You, the Great God of All Grace, who called me to Your eternal glory in Christ Jesus, after I have suffered a little while, will Yourself restore me and make me strong, firm and steadfast (1 Peter 5:10). You, O Lord, love me with an everlasting love; You have drawn me with loving-kindness. You will build me up again, and I will be rebuilt. I will take up my tambourine and go out to dance with the joyful ones (Jeremiah 31:3-4).
Lord, I do not understand why You have allowed this trouble to assail me. It was after I began to follow You in obedience that this trouble was manifested in my life. I have exhausted all my possibilities for changing my situation and circumstances, and have found that I am powerless to change anything. I believe in You; help me overcome my unbelief (Mark 9:24). Not all things are possible with man, but I know all things are possible with You (Mark 10:27). I humble myself under Your mighty hand, knowing You will lift me up (1 Peter 5:6).
Trust God; He has promised to direct you out of or around your troubles.
Thank You, Father, for this trial of my faith which I recognize to be more precious than gold (1 Peter 1:7). Through prayer I know I am able to rise out of my discouragement. Therefore in everything – including these troubling circumstances – by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, I will let my requests be made unto You (Philippians 4:6).
Father God, You tell me: Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or discouraged (1 Chronicles 22:13). You say to me: “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). And so, I rejoice! And I pray You will strengthen me with power through Your Spirit in my inner being (Ephesians 3:16).
Father, I seek Your peace and encouragement, because I know Your peace surpasses all understanding, and it will keep my heart and mind through Christ Jesus (Philippians4:7). So, though I walk in the midst of trouble and discouragement, I know You will revive me, Lord. I humbly ask for You to stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemy [the devil, for all troubles can be traced back to him], and I know Your right hand will save me (Psalm 138:7).
Through Your grace I refuse to cast away the confidence You have imparted to me (Hebrews 10:35). I know You will continue Your workmanship in my life until Jesus returns (Philippians 1:6). In place of my discouragement, as I pray, I will be strong and take heart, because I continue to hope in You (Psalm 31:24). You have told me that Your thoughts and plans are for my welfare and peace (Jeremiah 29:11). Therefore, I will keep my mind stayed on You (Isaiah 26:3), then I can stop allowing myself to be agitated and disturbed and intimidated and cowardly and unsettled (John 14:27).
I have a great High Priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus, Your Son, and I hold firmly to the faith I profess in Him. He was tempted in every way, just as I am; yet, was without sin (Hebrews 4:14-15). Because of Jesus, and what Jesus had done for me, I approach Your throne of grace with confidence so I may receive mercy and find grace to help in my time of need (Hebrews 4:16).
Father, what You have promised I will go and possess (Judges 11:24), in the name of Jesus. I will take hold of the eternal life to which I have been called when I made my good confession; to get back into the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12). With the guidance of Your Spirit, I will throw off any sin that easily entangles, and will run with endurance the race You mark out for me (Hebrews 12:1). I am more than a conqueror through Jesus who loves me (Romans 8:37).
Please teach me Your ways, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path [though I know it won’t be an easy one]. I will wait upon You; I will be strong and take heart, and I will wait on You (Psalm 27:11, 14). I will proudly say, O God, You are my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I will trust (Psalm 91:2). I rejoice in the encouragement Your Word brings to me, O Heavenly Father.
God's Word on That 