Day 40 – God, Thank You for the Hope of a New Year

12 / 31 / 1812 / 31 / 18

Tonight, you and I will turn the page on another year.

How many times have you and I approached midnight thinking, “maybe next year.”

The dreams and wishes of a New Year’s possibilities.

But you and I have something far more valuable than dreams and wishes.

You and I have hope!

We have God’s unfailing love surrounding us, we have forgiveness for our faults and failures, and we have … Jesus!

So, I’m praying…

God, Thank You for the Hope of a New Year

Father, thank you!

The past year hasn’t developed exactly the way I planned.

Some days have been absolutely beautiful and others have been extremely hard but through them all, good and bad, You have been with me.

You have been faithful.

You have been loving, and kind, and good!

And that gives me hope.

Whatever the coming months hold…

With You, I have the hope of a clean slate, a fresh start … the hope of a new year!

So, Father, I ask You…

Lead me by Your truth and teach me, for You are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Psalm 25:5

Make me strong and courageous, Lord, my hope is in You! Psalm 31:24

Help me to be still and listen, to cease striving, to know You. Psalm 46:10

Help me trust Your plans and purposes for my future are intended for my good. Jeremiah 29:11

Help me faithfully remember, that whatever happens in my life … Jesus is my hope and my future. 1 Peter I:3–6

Thank you for Your blessings too numerous to count.

Thank You for inviting me to come to You with bold prayers.

Thank You for answering my prayers through Your love, mercy, grace, and perfect wisdom.

Father, please comfort and strengthen those of us who have been waiting and praying about something for years. By the power of Your Spirit, defeat discouragement and bless us. May we trust Your will as we come to You with bold mountain-moving prayers. And may we never give up.

Your Word says…

You hear me whenever I ask for anything that pleases You. 1 John 5:14

May my prayers please You.

Thank You for hearing each heartfelt cry.

By Your grace, help me seek You and Your kingdom above everything else…

When I seek Your kingdom above everything else, You will give me everything I need. Matthew 6:33

And help me trust You to give me everything I need one day at a time.

Father, thank you! Because of Your love, I can look at the new year ahead with confident hope. I can boldly come to You with my prayers. I can and I will trust You are who You say You are and You always keep Your promises.

Thank you for the gift of another year. Thank you for the blessing of hope.

Thank you for Jesus, the One who is always and forever the source of my hope. Amen.

It’s hard to believe this is number 40 in our 40 Days of Mountain-Moving Prayers.

Thank you so much for joining me for this series…

You have blessed me, more than you know, with your kind encouragement. I truly appreciate your willingness to honestly share your struggles with me and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to pray for you.

May we never stop boldly asking and seeking and knocking.

May we faithfully watch God do what only He can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

I’ll be back with a new post and the Faith ‘n Friends Link Party on Friday, as I go back to my regular twice a week posting schedule.

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Day 39 – God, Please Help Me Live for Your Glory Every Day

12 / 30 / 18

What motivates you?

Why do you get up and do what you do each day?

Paul wrote:

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

I don’t know about you, but I fall short of that goal every single day.

So today, I’m praying and asking…

God, Please Help Me Live for Your Glory Every Day

Father, It’s so easy to get distracted by things that sparkle. I can so easily find myself motivated by profits and possessions, status and recognition, and countless other things that have little lasting value.

I am so very sorry. Please forgive me.

And by the power of Your Spirit … help me live for Your glory not my own.

Because You created me for Your glory. (based on Isaiah 43:7)

Because everything in heaven and on earth belong to You. (based on Romans 11:36)

Because of Your overwhelming love and faithfulness. (based on Psalm 115:1, 1 John 4:19)

Because You have fulfilled all of Your promises through Jesus. (based on 2 Corinthians 1:20)

Because You alone are worthy. (based on Revelation 4:11)

Jesus said…

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (ESV)

And…

If you love Me, obey my commandments. (John 14:15)

And Father, Jesus said that all Your commands can be summed up in one word – LOVE!

Love for You. Love for others. Love for the “least of these.”

Please help me love.

Please help me live for Your glory.

So, in the ways…

I love my family.
I do my job.
I greet strangers.
I help those in need.
I budget my money.
I use my gifts and abilities.
I eat.
I exercise.
I manage my time.
I worship.
I talk.
I listen.
I rest.

May I do it all for Your glory. I want people to see You in me. I pray that people will want to know You because they see You in me.

Your creation lives for Your glory by doing what You created it to do.

The sun by lighting the sky.
The moon by reflecting the sun.
Trees, flowers, and animals … all glorify You by doing what You created them to do.

By Your grace, I will too…

May the constant prayer of my heart always be, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name goes all the glory for your unfailing love and faithfulness.” (Psalm 115:1)

Because … Your unfailing love is better than life itself. (Psalm 63:3)

I will praise You.

I will live for your glory!

And with Your Spirit’s help, I will trust Your will for me.

I will be motivated by love … by Your love.

In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

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Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 38 – God, Please Help Me Trust Your Will in the New Year

12 / 29 / 1812 / 29 / 18

I love the anticipation of a new year.

A clean calendar. A new beginning. A fresh start.

But…

When January 1st, 2nd, and 3rd arrive, I realize I’ve once again carried the junk of the past year with me into the new.

The truth is the new year has the same great need … to let go of fear and anxiety, to live with faith, to entrust my heart and completely surrender to the One who holds every one of my moments in His hands.

So, I’m praying…

God, Please Help Me Trust Your Will in the New Year

Father, Thank you for giving me a beautiful new start … not only in the opening of a clean calendar but every day through Your gift of forgiveness.

Please forgive me for carrying around the junk of the past … things from which You’ve already set me free. I’m so sorry, Lord.

I need You.

Help me trust You completely and follow wherever You lead me in 2019 and beyond.

Help me remember that knowing and trusting Your Word helps me know and trust Your will.

Jesus said, I don’t need to ever allow my heart to be troubled because I can trust You! (based on John 14:1)

Jesus showed people Your amazing love through His life, death, and resurrection.

That’s how much You love. I can put my trust in Your love. (based on 1 John 4:16)

Help me trust Your unfailing love because of all the ways You have helped me and rescued me in the past. (based on Psalm 13:5)

Help me trust You to keep my heart and mind in perfect peace when my thoughts are fixed on you! (based on Isaiah 26:3)

Help me trust that Your instructions and commands are perfect and full of wisdom. (based on Psalm 19:7)

Father, with Your Spirit’s help I will hold tightly without wavering to the hope You give. I will faithfully believe You can be trusted to keep Your promises. (based on Hebrews 10:23)

And as I seek to know You and Your will for me … please remind me of Your unfailing love. Show me where to walk, Father … I surrender myself and my life to You. (based on Psalm 143:8)

Help me trust You and…

I will cling to Your promises.

I will remember Your love and faithfulness.

I will trust in You with all my heart. With Your help, I will not depend on my own understanding or the world’s wisdom but I will seek Your will in all I do, confident that You will show me which path to take every day. (based on Proverbs 3:5–6)

I will trust You.

I will seek to know Your will for me.

I will follow where You lead me.

Please help me, Father, by the power of Your Spirit. Help me trust Your will for me in the new year. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

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Day 37 – God, Please Help Me – I Don’t Want to be Afraid

12 / 28 / 18

I spent way too many years of my life terrified of “what ifs.”

Life can be hard and bad things happen.

And that thought that frequently sent my anxiety levels through the roof.

Maybe you struggle with fear and anxiety.

And maybe, just maybe, you tired of living with the knot in your stomach that’s keeping you from living the life you know God wants for you.

If so, please pray with me…

God, Please Help Me – I Don’t Want to be Afraid

Father, I need Your help.

I don’t want to live overwhelmed by fear anymore. I’m tired of worry and anxiety and “what ifs” that hold me back.

I’m sorry, Father. I know the real source of my fear is a lack of faith. I have somehow believed the lie that there are some things that are beyond Your ability to help and/or strengthen me to endure.

But starting today, with Your help, I will reject that lie and reject fear.

Oh, Father, I know there will still be things that appear frightening … unknowns that will unsettle me.

But by Your grace, I will quickly surrender every anxious thought to You in prayer.

Like David, I will proclaim who You are in my life…

When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Psalm 23:4

You are my light and my salvation— so why should I be afraid? (based on Psalm 27:1)

I praise You for what You have promised. I trust in You, so why should I be afraid? (based on Psalm 56:4)

This I declare about the Lord. He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; He is my God, and I trust Him. Psalm 91:2

I will remember all the countless ways You’ve helped, protected, and strengthened me in the past.

I will remember the times.

I prayed to You, and You answered me. The times You delivered me and freed me from my fears. (based on Psalm 34:4)

You have been my refuge and strength … always ready to help me in times of trouble. (based on Psalm 46:1)

Father, please help me keep my heart and mind focused on You. Help me remember all the ways You’ve strengthened me in the past. Help me run to You in prayer when the enemy tempts and taunts me with the world’s possible problems. And help me hold Your promises close to my heart.

With Your help, I will focus on what is true today. Do what I can and surrender the rest to You. And trust the blessing of Your beyond understanding peace in any storm You allow.

Thank You, Father. Your grace is sufficient. Your mercy underserved. And Your love unfailing. All because of Jesus. In whose name I pray. Amen.

I am so excited you’re here…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

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Day 36 – God, Please Help Me to be an Excellent Encourager

12 / 27 / 1812 / 27 / 18

It happened again the other day…

I was scrolling through Facebook when I came upon a random conversation between pastors, kids of pastors, and members of churches about the recommended salaries for pastors next year.

Unfortunately, the conversation got ugly. There were a few in the thread who felt it was more important to be right than to be kind. And I always wonder what non-believers think about Christ’s followers at those moments.

Jesus said,

“Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” John 13:34–35

I wish I could say I consistently loved like Jesus. But in all honesty, I too fall short of consistently representing Jesus’ love the way He wants.

So, I’m praying…

God, Please Help Me to be an Excellent Encourager

Father, please forgive me.

I want to be an encourager, to build people up and point them to Jesus … but too often, I’m self-focused, self-centered, and self-righteous.

I’m selfish.

Your Spirit inspired Paul to write to the believers in Philippi…

Make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. Philippians 2:2–4

And to the Romans…

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Romans 15:5

Father, forgive me.

Please help me to be an encourager.

Help me focus on what’s important … on the victory You have won for me, on the forgiveness and love You pour into my life, on the way You faithfully care for and encourage me.

Help me…

Think about the things that are good and worthy of praise. Think about the things that are true and honorable and right and pure and beautiful and respected. Philippians 4:8

Help me…

Strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees.

Make me like Barnabas…

Who was filled with joy, and encouraged the believers to stay true to the Lord. Acts 11:23

By Your grace, help me to be an excellent encourager.

Help me listen with kindness and compassion.
Help me choose words wisely.
Help me share the hope I have in Jesus.
Help me inspire others to use their gifts and abilities for Your glory.
Help me inspire others to grow closer to You.
Help me encourage people with Your promises.
Help me share my faith with gentleness and respect.

Father, help me love like Jesus.

By Your grace and with Your Spirit’s help … help me to be an excellent encourager. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 35 – God, Thank You for the Gift of the Holy Spirit

12 / 26 / 1812 / 26 / 18

Jesus promised that when He returned to heaven, God would send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit to guide His followers…

But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—He will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. John 14:26

I can’t imagine trying to figure out the challenges of life without the blessing of the Holy Spirit … the One the Bible calls, the Comforter and the Spirit of Truth.

So today, I’m simply praying…

God, Thank You for the Gift of the Holy Spirit

Father, Thank you!

There are so many things about this life that can be confusing. Trying to figure out conflicting thoughts, ideas, and opinions is exhausting. And the arguing…

Oh, Father, on our own we’re a mess. I’m a mess.

Please forgive us! Please forgive me.

You have given me everything I need. Creation to provide for me. Jesus to redeem and restore me.

And the Holy Spirit…

Who gives me new life in Christ.

He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5

Who teaches me the truth.

He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. John 14:17

Who fills me with Your love.

For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love. Romans 5:5

Who helps me when I am weak.

The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. Romans 8:26

Who prays for me.

The Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. Romans 8:26

Who gives me hope.

You will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Who guides and directs.

Let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Galatians 5:16

Who fills my heart and mind with …

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22–23

Who gives me the words to speak the truth about Your love.

God will give you the right words at the right time. Matthew 10:19–20

Who inspires me to worship.

It was the Lord’s Day, and I was worshiping in the Spirit. Revelation 1:10

Who strengthens me.

From his glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Ephesians 3:16

What amazing promises, Father! Through Your Spirit, You give me everything I need to live each day in faith.

And when I’m doubtful or discouraged, You remind me, through the words of Peter, of the way to experience these amazing blessings.

” Repent of your sins, turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.“ Acts 2:38

I am sorry for my sins. Please forgive me and through Your Spirit, strengthen me to change … to trust and follow Your will each day.

Thank you, for Jesus. Thank you for the gift of baptism. Thank you for washing away my sins and for the blessed help of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 34 – God, Thank You for the Gift of The Word Made Flesh

12 / 25 / 18

As families gather and we join together to celebrate…

I’m stopping for a moment to simply pray.

God, Thank You for the Gift of The Word Made Flesh

Father God, King of kings and Lord of lords.

Creator. Redeemer. Comforter. Father, Friend.

Thank you!

May I faithfully hold Your Word close to my heart
and cherish Your gift…

Jesus, the Word made flesh!

In the beginning the Word already existed.
    The Word was with God,
    and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
God created everything through him,
    and nothing was created except through Him.
The Word gave life to everything that was created,
    and his life brought light to everyone.
The light shines in the darkness,
    and the darkness can never extinguish it.
John 1:1–5

So the Word became human and made His home among us.
He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness.
And we have seen His glory,
the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.
John 1:14

In Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.
Colossians 2:9

Jesus, the Word made flesh
thank you for humbly entering our world.

Though He was God,
He did not think of equality with God
    as something to cling to.
Instead, He gave up His divine privileges;
He took the humble position of a slave
    and was born as a human being.
When He appeared in human form,
He humbled himself in obedience to God
    and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

Thank you for suffering my punishment.

Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honor
and gave Him the name above all other names,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:6–11

Jesus, the Word made flesh,
I join the heavenly choirs in praise.

“Glory to God in highest heaven,
and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.”
Luke 2:14

Jesus, the Word made flesh,
may thanks and praise fill my life.
Not just with words but with all I do.

Please help me live out my gratitude
through a surrendered heart and overwhelming love.

I love You, Lord!
Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 33 -God, I Want Jesus to be My Joy

12 / 24 / 1812 / 24 / 18

“Joy is a state of mind and an orientation of the heart. It is a settled state of contentment, confidence and hope. Joy isn’t just a smile or a laugh. Joy is something that is deep within and doesn’t leave quickly. Joy is given by God and something that He wants us to have…” ~ Theopedia

We talk a lot about JOY at this time of the year. Joy to the World. Christmas Joy!

And yet, in a few short hours Christmas will be behind us and we’ll go back to the realities of life that try to stifle our joy.

But true joy is grounded in so much more than the celebration itself.

True JOY is found in the person of Jesus.

So, I’m praying…

God, I Want Jesus to be My Joy

Father, Christmas is about celebrating Jesus, the Word made flesh … thank you!

And yet, too often when the festivities are over … I take my focus off Jesus and the stresses of life challenge my contentment, confidence, and hope.

Please forgive me.

I want Jesus to be my JOY … not just at Christmas but every day, every moment of my life.

Please help me.

You show me the way of life, granting me the joy of Your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever. Psalm 16:11

What an amazing promise, Father.

You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing.
You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy,
that I might sing praises to you and not be silent.
O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever!
Psalm 30:11–12

You have forgiven me and carried me through pain and brokenness. You’ve shown me Your healing grace. You have given me faith in Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

And although I have only see Him through the Words of Scriptures and in the hearts of Your people, I love Him. Through Your Spirit, I believe in Him. And in Him, I have a joy that cannot be explained. (based on 1 Peter 1:8)

Please help me. I want Jesus to be my Joy!

Show me the way of life, grant me the joy of your presence and help me focus on the pleasures of living blessed by and in Your presence forever. (based on Psalm 16:11)

And with Your help as I focus on all the blessings I have in and through Jesus…

I can be joyful because of the hope I have in Him. I can be patient when trouble comes, and I can enjoy coming to You in prayer with every need great or small. (based on Romans 12:12)

Father, by Your grace and with Your help … may I be full of the Joy only You can give.

So, that I can boldly proclaim.

I am full of joy! The Joy of Jesus!

Yes, Jesus is my JOY!

Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 32 – God, Please Help – We Need to be More Kind and Gentle

12 / 23 / 18

Everyone seems to be a little more kind and gentle at this time of the year and we all love it…

But Christmas passes and the new year begins and everything – goes – back – to – normal! Life overwhelms us, patience wanes, and we find ourselves being more negatively reactive than positively proactive.

Maybe we don’t have to.

Maybe you and I can choose to be different.

Maybe we can be the change that’s needed on line and in real life.

Maybe we need to pray…

God, Please Help – We Need to be More Kind and Gentle

Father, it’s funny how I can want or even expect the people around me to be kind and gentle but I can quickly make excuses for myself when I fall short.

I can declare my own lack of kindness as being justified because I’m responding to someone else’s words or actions.

But You don’t offer any exceptions,

In fact, Your Word says…

A gentle answer deflects anger. Proverbs 15:1

Gentle words are a tree of life. Proverbs 15:4

And…

Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2

Always!

I am so sorry, Father. Please forgive me!

And help me to be kind and gentle!

I’m starting to realize that it doesn’t really help for me to pray that “we” do better if I’m not willing to do better.

So, I’m asking You to open my eyes to the opportunities around me. Please help me be slow to speak and quick to listen. Help me to be patient and understanding.

Help me to reject the world’s way of reacting and practice living with the wisdom You give…

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. James 3:17

Help me to be kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving … remembering the gracious and merciful ways You have forgiven me. (based on Ephesians 4:32)

Thank you for Your patient love and kindness. It is so very undeserved. Please help me respond with love and kindness … even when others fail to extend it to me.

I want people to see You in me.

I want people to want to know You because they see You in me.

I want to be prepared to respond when people ask, question, debate, or even want to argue about the difference You’ve made in my life through the power of Your Holy Spirit and all You’ve done for me through Jesus … but with kindness and gentleness.

Because…

I want people to know and love You!

You are the difference we need.

You are the One who will make us more kind and gentle.

Help us, Father! We need You. I need You.

In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

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and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

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Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

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Day 31 – God, Please Help Me – I Need to be More Patient

12 / 22 / 1812 / 22 / 18

If you’re like me, your level of patience is realized on a case by case basis.

I can have “the patience of a saint.” I can also be like a spoiled child waiting for Christmas morning.

It all depends on the circumstances and how often I’ve previously played my patience card on any given day.

And those are just daily annoyances.

I also fall short on patience when God answers one of my prayers with a reply of “wait” or “not now.”

I need God’s help! I need to be more patient.

If you can relate, will you join me in praying…

God, Please Help Me – I Need to be More Patient

Father, I want to be patient … to exhibit kindness to those who make me wait and trust You when my prayers aren’t answered the way I want as quickly as I want.

I am so sorry! Please forgive me.

Please help me!

Your Word says.

If we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently. Romans 8:25

And that’s just hard sometimes!

But Your Word also promises I don’t have to be patient on my own. Your Spirit is with me to help…

The Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22–23a

You are able to produce in me what I am unable to do on my own.

I can trust in Your unfailing love. Psalm 13:5
I can trust You to give me strength. Psalm 28:7
I can trust Your Word. Psalm 33:4
I can trust You to help me. Psalm 37:5
I can trust You when I am afraid. Psalm 56:3
I can trust You and pour my heart out to You. Psalm 62:8
I can trust You … You are my hope. Psalm 71:5
I can trust You to help me. Psalm 115:9

And trust gives me the patience I need when my prayers aren’t answered as quickly as I’d like. Trust helps me remember that in every part of my life, You are at work for my good and Your glory. Romans 8:28

Thank you!

Oh, Father, there is another area in which I need to be more patient.

And it’s with other people.

Paul wrote…

May God, who gives this patience and encouragement, help you live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus. Romans 15:5

Please give me patience and encouragement. Please give me inner peace … life isn’t meant to be lived at this frenetic impatient speed.

Help me slow down and see the needs in people the way You have always patiently seen the needs in me. And then please help me show them the same kindness and compassion You have faithfully extended to me.

By the power of Your Spirit, produce patience in me. I need to be more patient. I need to trust. I need You.

In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

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Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray for one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 30 – God, Help My Loved Ones to Love and Trust Jesus

12 / 21 / 18

The first Bible verse most of us learn is…

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

God’s only Son, Jesus … His amazing and gracious gift of love.

The Bible also says about Jesus:

“There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

I believe we all know people who do not love and trust, Jesus, God’s precious gift. So today, I’m praying…

God, Help My Loved Ones to Love and Trust Jesus

Father, Your amazing love overwhelms me. Knowing and loving Jesus as my Lord and Savior has changed and blessed every part of my life. On top of the blessings I enjoy today, You promise me eternal life with You and Your Son.

How my heart aches for my loved ones who are not experiencing the peace, hope, joy, love, and more that You are offering them.

Please Father, help my loved one love and trust Jesus.

Jesus … “the way, the truth, and the life.” The only One through whom sinners can have a restored relationship with You. (based on John 14:6)

Jesus … the One who gives victory over sin and death. (based on 1 Corinthians 15:57)

Jesus … the One who gives freedom. (based on John 8:36)

Jesus … the One who makes us holy and blameless. (based on Ephesians 1:4)

Jesus … the One who is perfect peace. (based on John 14:27)

Jesus … the One who helps us. (based on Hebrews 13:6)

Jesus … the One through whom we have eternal life. (based on John 17:3)

Father, I want these awesome blessings for my loved ones.

So, I ask that You will help them love and trust Jesus.

May ________________ openly declare that Jesus in Lord and believe in his/her heart that You raised Him from the dead. May they know the blessing of Your salvation. For Your Word says that it is by believing in our hearts that we are made right with You and by openly declaring our faith we are saved. (based on Romans 10:9–10)

Father, before His suffering and death, Jesus prayed…

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as You are in Me, Father, and I am in You. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me. John 17:20–21

By Your grace and through the power of Your Holy Spirit, please help my love ones to love and trust Jesus as Lord and Savior. It is in His name I pray. Amen.

I am so excited you’re here…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

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This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlights from the Week!

Bright Shiny Objects

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

How Do We Experience a Special Kind
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Thank you and God bless!

Day 29 – God, Help Me – I Want to Know and Trust Your Will

12 / 20 / 18

My number one post by far is 5 Ways to Know if Something is From God.

I believe as followers of Jesus, you and I want to know and trust God’s will for us.

But the world shouts and God whispers.

On top of the noise, Jesus said that as His followers, “you will have many trials and sorrows.” John 16:33

It’s easy to see why even when we know God’s will we fail to trust and follow it. God’s will for us isn’t always the easy and comfortable path we want.

So today I’m praying…

God, Help Me – I Want to Know and Trust Your Will

Father, Thank you! I believe You want me to know Your will.

Jesus said…

“This is the only work God wants from you: Believe in the one He has sent.” John 6:29

And Jesus Himself is the One You sent.

Your will for me is to know and trust that Jesus lived, died, and rose again to forgive my sins and save my soul.

To make me holy…

For God’s will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. Hebrews 10:10

And then to use me to make a difference in the world around me.

To pray for others to know Your truth. 1 Timothy 2:3–4
To trust You without fear. Isaiah 41:10
To do good and help others. Hebrews 13:16

To love like Jesus. John 13:34

When I am confused about Your will … help me turn to Your Word to guide me.

Your eternal word, O Lord, stands firm in heaven. Psalm 119:89

Your Word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

You are my refuge and my shield; Your Word is my source of hope. Psalm 119:114

The very essence of Your Word is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever. Psalm 119:160

And come to You faithfully surrendering my will to Yours through the prayer…

May Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Matthew 6:10

Father, I want to know and trust Your will.

Please help me by the power of Your Spirit, so that I might not copy the behavior and customs of this world, but be transformed into a new person changed in the ways I think … knowing and obeying Your will which is always good and pleasing and perfect. (based on Romans 12:2)

May I commit each day to…

Trust in You with all my heart; not depending on my own understanding. but seeking Your will in all I do, confident that You will show me which path to take. Proverbs 3:5–6

And by Your grace, give me courage and strength to trust and follow Your will even when it isn’t easy or comfortable. For I trust that as I seek to know and follow Your will, You will keep Your promise to give me everything I need. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 28 – God, Please Help Me – I Need More Hope

12 / 19 / 18

Many of us personally claim the promise God made through Jeremiah to the exiled Jews living in Babylon:

I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11

And the awesome thing is … you and I can claim it because God has given us a future and a hope through Jesus.

Do you know the verses that follow verse eleven?

In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:12–13

Today, I’m praying and boldly asking…

God, Please Help Me – I Need More Hope

Father, I believe You want me to experience a rich hope-filled life but sometimes when a pain or problem worsens or lingers, I wonder if clinging to hope is futile.

I have to admit it is those times when I take my focus off You and place it squarely on the burden I’m carrying.

Forgive me and help me – I need more hope!

I need to turn my heart and mind to You, trusting You are able to provide for my every need even when Your answer to my prayers for healing or restoration is “no” or “not yet.”

Help me turn to Your Word and remember…

You are the God who saves me. All day long I [will] put my hope in You. Psalm 25:5

You have kept Your promises…

For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for His glory. 2 Corinthians 1:20

I can put my hope in You…

Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise Him again— my Savior and my God! Psalm 42:11

And even when life is hard and I’m carrying a difficult burden, I have Jesus’ promises to give me more hope.

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

“I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

“I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.” John 11:25

And Your promise given through Paul…

To make all things work together for the good of those who love You and are chosen to be a part of Your plan. Romans 8:28

So, even when I don’t understand how this struggle can be part of Your plan, I will trust You…

[I can] hold tightly without wavering to hope, because You can be trusted to keep Your promises. Hebrews 10:23

Thank you Father for Your promises and for helping me whenever I need more hope. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 27 – God, Please Help Me to be Wise with Money

12 / 18 / 18

I shared last week that the number one prayer request on the Blessing Counters Pray Page is one that asks for God to heal broken relationships. The next most asked for prayer is one for God to provide help at a time of financial distress.

So today, we’re going to pray about our finances and ask…

God, Please Help Me to be Wise with Money

Father, I want to be wise with money and handle my finances in ways that please You. Help me.

Jesus said, “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” Matthew 6:19–21

Father, Please help me. Teach me contentment and may a closer relationship with You and with the people You give me be the treasures I want. Help me place the highest value on the things that will last forever.

Solomon wisely wrote…

Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! Ecclesiastes 5:10

Grant me true peace and happiness found in a satisfied life.

Paul wrote…

Don’t love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, “I will never fail you. I will never abandon you.” Hebrews 13:5

If I have a roof over my head, food to eat and clothes to wear … may I enjoy contentment. If I compare myself to others, please keep me from envying those who have more but faithfully see those in need and who are living without life’s basic necessities.

Your Word says…

Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do. Deuteronomy 15:10

And I know that those blessings may or may not be monetary … but I will trust You to meet every need. Philippians 4:19

Your presence. Matthew 28:20 and Psalm 139:7–10
Your peace. John 14:27
Your provision. Matthew 6:28–33

I can trust Your love. I can trust You to care for me.

I can honor You with my money.

Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Proverbs 3:9

Father, please make me wise with money.

May I balance the difference between my wants and my needs. May I work … yet, remember it’s important to take time to rest. May I value my relationships over the accumulation of stuff. And give a heart of gratitude for all the countless ways You have provided for me in the past.

I surrender my worry and fear to You trusting that You will give me courage and strength to live today in Your presence and for Your glory.

In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!

Day 26 -God, Please Help Me and Make Me a Good Friend

12 / 17 / 18

I wonder if part of the appeal of social media is that we’re able to have lots of “friends” without the inconvenience of actually making the friendships work.

We’re learning that more and more people struggle with sadness and loneliness because their “real life” friendships are suffering due to the distraction and rush of likes, comments, and shares from people online.

God made us for community. Real in person up-close community.

So, today I’m praying…

God, Please Help Me and Make Me a Good Friend

Father, You know we’re better when we’re connected to one another.

Solomon wrote, “two people are better than one because they can help each other.” Ecclesiastes 4:9

And it’s true Father. I am so thankful for the friends You’ve given me who have listened, encouraged, inspired, and blessed me in countless ways.

Your Word says…

Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15

I am so thankful for friends who have celebrated both my big and small victories and I’m especially grateful for precious friends who have sat with me and cried as I sobbed in brokenness and pain.

Your Word tells us to…

Encourage and take care of each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:14
Be humble, gentle, and patient. Ephesians 4:2
Forgive one another. Ephesians 4:32
Look out for each other. Philippians 2:4
Make each other better. Proverbs 27:17
Carry each other’s burdens. Galatians 6:2

And Jesus summed it all up in two simple sentences.

Do to others as you would like them to do to you. Luke 6:31
Love each other as I have loved you. John 13:34

Oh, Father, help me. Make me a good friend.

Help us all to be better friends.

We want to love each other the way You want … but honestly, too often our selfishness gets in the way of our best intensions.

Please forgive us. Please forgive me.

Make us friends who don’t just pretend to love each other … make us friends who really love! Romans 12:9

Make us, make me, like Jesus … who was the perfect example and is our perfect friend.

Father, with Your help, may I…

Choose to be present.
Listen, really listen to my friends.
Be caring and compassionate.
Be honest and trustworthy.
Refuse to judge.
Be quick to forgive.
Encourage and inspire.
Pray!

Father, I lift up my friends to You. Please help them with any struggles they are facing. Give them strength as they fight their battles. Hold them close and comfort them. Please allow them to feel Your loving presence.

Please help us to cherish each other and hold each other close. This world can be hard. The challenges are real and the enemy persistent. We are stronger when we stand together united in Your love. Thank you for giving us each other.

Father, thank you for giving me good friends. By Your grace and with Your help … make me a good friend. Help me love like Jesus. Amen.

I am so blessed that you are joining me for this journey…

You’ll want to subscribe to Counting My Blessings (if you haven’t already), to receive a link to 40 Days of Mountain Moving Prayers in your inbox each morning.

It’s true! This is the busiest time of the year but I promise this will only be a 2-minute a day commitment…

One that will ask and seek and knock through bold prayers … and watch what only God can do when we go to Him with anything is possible mountain moving prayers.

Subscribe here!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and tell us about the mountains God is moving in your life.

Leave your prayer requests…

and stop to pray one or two of the requests listed.

And if this article blessed or helped you today — would you share it with someone?
Send it to a friend, family member, coworker, or share it through the links below…

Just imagine what God will do as His people come to Him in faith and prayer!