5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Fight Your Spiritual Battles

10 / 17 / 1910 / 17 / 19

Praying God's Word and asking Him to give you everything you need to be equipped and prepared to fight your spiritual battles with courage and faith. #Prayer #Faith #SpiritualWarfare #Blessings

I always believed there would be a point in my life when I would anticipate and be ready for life’s inevitable spiritual battles. But unfortunately, there are still times when they catch me by surprise and I’m unprepared.

Honestly, I’m most susceptible after a period of smooth sailing or an awesome mountaintop high. It seems the enemy loves to sneak in with an attack when I’m feeling fine and all is right with the world.

Which is why, I believe, Paul wrote what he called his “final word” to the Ephesians.

Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.
Ephesians 6:10–12

Paul was familiar with the enemy’s spiritual battles and the strategies used in an effort to discourage and defeat God’s people. He knew he wasn’t strong enough to withstand these assaults on his own and that he needed to depend on God to help and equip him, making him ready to fight every attack with faith.

I’m thankful the Lord saw to it that you and I were not only told that we need to be equipped and ready but that He made sure we were told how to be equipped and ready.

Paul wrote:

Put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.
Ephesians 6:13

We need the:

Belt of Truth – to defeat the devil’s lies.
Body Armor of God’s righteousness – to protect us from the attacks on our hearts … our emotions.
Shoes of Peace – to take the message of God’s peace to a hurting world.
Shield of Faith – to see beyond our current circumstances with hope.
Helmet of Salvation – to protect us from the doubts that attack our minds.
Sword of the Spirit – to help us fight evil attacks offensively with the truth of the Word of God.

And then Paul followed the armor verses with these words…

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.
Ephesians 6:18

Which is why we’re praying today … asking God to give us all we need to be equipped and prepared for all of the spiritual battles we face.

5 Verses to Pray that will Help You Fight Your Spiritual Battles

“Don’t be afraid,” the prophet answered. “Those who are with us are more than those who are with them.”
2 Kings 6:16 (NIV)

Father, I admit that I feel alone when an attack hits. Spiritual battles so often make me feel anxious and afraid.

Please help me remember that I am never alone. You are with and within me giving me the strength and peace I need whatever the day brings. When the enemy confronts me with lies that overwhelm me, Your Word says Your angel warriors fight for me even as the battle rages around me.

Jesus won the victory, Your angels are fighting for me, and Your Spirit is with me … I have nothing to fear. Thank you, Father! Your grace and mercy overwhelm me.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.
1 John 4:4

Oh, Father, how I love these words. You have made me part of Your family through the gift of faith. You have forgiven me and given me the gift of Your Spirit … the One who is greater.

Greater than anything that comes against me in this world. Greater than temptations, lies, and the forces of evil. You, Lord, are greater! You have defeated all that stands against Your children. You have made us Your own. You have made me Yours! I am safe. By that power of Your greatness and love, help me resist all the enemy throws at me as I humbly live each day for Your glory.

No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you.
This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me,” declares the Lord.
Isaiah 54:17 (NIV)

Father, nothing, absolutely nothing intended to rob me of who I am in You will ever succeed. Every time satan reminds me of my faults and failures, each time I face my spiritual battles, You say I am vindicated, justified, absolved … I am washed clean because of who I am in Jesus.

This is my inheritance as Your child … just because You claimed me as Your own. Not because of any good in me but because You are loving, kind, and good. Thank you, Father. May I always remember Your promise to give me everything I need … I have nothing to fear.

The Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3

Father, thank you for the strength and protection You give me when my heart and mind are under attack. I will run to You when temptation overtakes me. I will turn to Your Word when doubts arise. I will cling to Your promises in the middle of my spiritual battles. I will trust Your unfailing love when life is hard and I need hope.

You alone are worthy of all my worship and praise! Thank you, Father! Thank you!

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
John 10:10

Father, Jesus said He is the Good Shepherd who watches over and protects His sheep … even to the point of sacrificing Himself for them. The enemy is always working to steal, kill, and destroy the people You created. He lies and tempts and taunts and confuses us, all in an attempt to get us to deny Your love. Please forgive us, Lord.

Thank you for the blessings You give to those of us who love Your Son … blessings of Your mercy and grace giving us a rich and satisfying life. Maybe not rich in things of this world but rich everything we need.

Because of Jesus, I am rich in love, peace, mercy and grace, courage and strength, hope, and so much more … all the things I need for a rich and satisfying life. Thank you, Father. The spiritual battles are real and sometimes they’re overwhelming—but by Your grace, I can rest in the truth that although there are battles, the war has already been won and the enemy has already been defeated! I give You my thanks and praise forever. Amen.

The enemy has been defeated.

God has given us everything we need for every battle.

Yet, in those moments when life feels overwhelming and satan is trying to steal, kill, and destroy who you are in Christ Jesus…

Run to God with your need, trust Him to give you everything you need, and praise Him for helping you fight your spiritual battles.

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5 Important Things You Need to Bless Your Prayer Life

10 / 14 / 1910 / 14 / 19

I read a quote that inspired me to dig deep into the Bible to study 5 practical and very doable things I believe will encourage and bless your prayer life. #Prayer #Blessings #PrayerJournal #Faith

Have you ever been among the people who spend way more time reading books and doing Bible studies about prayer than you actually spend praying?

Yeah, me too!

If I’m really being honest, I would tell you that I’ve spent most of my life feeling like I should have done so much more when it comes to prayer. The one thing that reassures me a little is that I’ve never met anyone, even those I’ve considered great prayer warriors, who say they believe they’ve got this prayer thing down pat.

And maybe we’re not supposed to. Maybe we’re supposed to always crave more when it comes to spending time with the Lord in prayer. Maybe we, like Brother Lawrence, should be “practicing the presence of God” … longing for a continuous open line of communication rather than brief one-way monologues of pleas and petitions.

The other morning I was reading a devotion in Andrew Murray’s book, Power in Prayer: Classic Devotions to Inspire and Deepen Your Prayer Life, and well, I can’t stop thinking about the following quote:

Through prayer, God has given to everyone the right to take hold of Him and His strength. It is on prayer that promises wait for their fulfillment, the kingdom for its coming, and the glory of God for its full revelation.

Prayer must be to the glory of God, in full surrender to His will, in full assurance of faith, in the name of Jesus, and with a perseverance that refuses to be denied.
Andrew Murray

I wonder how often I’ve failed to go to the Lord and let Him hold me close … filling me with the peace and strength I’ve needed. I wonder how often I’ve missed promises God wanted to fulfill in my life just because I didn’t ask. I wonder how often I failed to give Him glory because I was just too focused on myself.

Even with all my wondering, it was the second sentence that really grabbed my attention.

Because I wanted to know the Biblical truths behind Murray’s “must”s for prayer. So, I went to the Word because I want to know … if these are truly things that could make a difference. And when I want to know, that’s where I go.

And I believe these things can and will inspire and deepen my prayer life and I believe they will bless your prayer life as well. So, here are:

5 Important Things You Need to Bless Your Prayer Life

1. Pray to the Glory of God

Do you remember the first sentence in chapter one of The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren?

It’s not about you.

Only God could take a book that begins that way and turn it into an international bestseller.

And the second chapter…

You were made for God’s pleasure.

Isaiah wrote…

Bring all who claim me as their God,
for I have made them for my glory.
It was I who created them.
Isaiah 43:7

My prayers change when I believe I was created for God’s glory. Whatever He allows, wherever He leads, whatever He asks … I simply pray that He will go with me that I might be used by Him for His glory.

2. Pray Fully Surrendered to God’s Will

Surrender was always hard for me and honestly, I wouldn’t say it’s necessarily easy now. But I do believe that whatever God wills … He will give me the courage and strength I need to trust and obey.

Much of being able to pray the following words of Jesus…

“Abba, Father,” He cried out, “everything is possible for you. Please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want Your will to be done, not mine.”
Mark 14:36

Is trusting that He is able to give us everything we need to endure. We can stand with Paul and say…

I can do all things because Christ gives me the strength.
Philippians 4:13 (NLV)

With God’s help, and the strength only He can give, you and I can pray fully surrendered to His will.

3. Pray Trusting God is Who He Says He Is

You and I have to know who God says He is if we are going to trust that He is who He says He is. And if He isn’t, why do we pray to Him at all?

I gathered 35 “I Am” Verses – God Is Who He Says He Is. Here are a few of my favorites:

“From eternity to eternity I am God.
No one can snatch anyone out of my hand.
No one can undo what I have done.”
Isaiah 43:13

“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.”
John 14:6

“The Lord God says, “I am the Alpha and the Omega. I am the One who is and was and is coming. I am the Almighty.”
Revelation 1:8

When you and I trust God to be who He says He is, His promises become life-giving power for every need and circumstance.

4. Pray in the Name of Jesus

God met our greatest need in and through Jesus who lived the perfect life we are unable to live, suffered and died to take our punishment upon Himself and rose to life again proving God’s ultimate power over sin and death.

Paul wrote:

But thank God! He [Jesus] gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57

And because of the victory Jesus knew we would have in Him, He said…

I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and He will grant your request because you use my name. You haven’t done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy.
John 16:23–24

You and I pray in Jesus name … not as some magic formula to get God to fulfill our self whims and wishes but in faith, praying to give God glory, to follow His will, trusting His promises—confident in the name of Jesus, the Father will give us everything we need.

He’s already met our greatest need. He gave us Jesus to bridge the gap that sin created.

5. Pray Without Ceasing

So, back to practicing the presence of God … that is praying without ceasing.

I can be persistent in prayer when I trust and believe that God is with me.

When my circumstances are hard.
When I’m grieving.
When I’m afraid.
When I’m filled with joy.
When I’m at peace and when I’m stressed out.
When I’m washing the dishes and doing the laundry.
When I’m sitting in church and when I’m not.
When I’m running errands, sitting in traffic, or on the job.
Wherever I am…

David wrote…

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

Jesus said…

“I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”
Matthew 28:20 (NLV)

And…

“If you love me, show it by doing what I’ve told you. I will talk to the Father, and He’ll provide you another Friend so that you will always have someone with you. This Friend is the Spirit of Truth.”
John 14:15–17a (MSG)

When I am aware of God’s presence, trusting that He is as close as my beating heart … I will simply talk with Him throughout the day.

That’s praying without ceasing.

Bringing every overwhelming or seemingly insignificant, my own or someone else’s to the “I Am” … the One who is, was, and always will be Lord of all.

The One who says…

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

That’s prayer – the kind of prayer that is inspired and deep … the kind that changes lives.

Prayers that…

are for God’s glory.
are surrendered to God’s will.
trust God is who He says He is.
are in the name of Jesus.
are persistent.

Prayers that come before the Father with child-like faith … humbly trusting His perfect unfailing love.

I believe by God’s grace these things will inspire and deepen my prayer life and I believe they will bless your prayer life too.

Thank you so much for joining me today.
And a thank you to BibleGateway.com for sources.

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Simple Prayers that will Help You Praise God in the Storm

10 / 10 / 1910 / 10 / 19

It's hard to praise God in the storm when I just want Him to stop the chaos. So, I've written prayers so I'm ready to praise Him even when life is hard. #Prayer #Faith #PraiseGod #Blessings #Hope

I can sing my heart out along with Casting Crowns anytime I hear – Praise You in this Storm.

And I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will lift my hands
That You are who You are
No matter where I am
And every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

Or with Mercy Me when I hear – Bring the Rain.

So I pray…

Bring me joy, bring me peace
Bring the chance to be free
Bring me anything that brings You glory
And I know there’ll be days
When this life brings me pain
But if that’s what it takes to praise You
Jesus, bring the rain

I’ll admit, I’ve often had tears streaming down my face as I sing along because the truth is … sometimes it’s hard to praise and worship in the middle of the mess.

And it’s even harder to surrender the mess when I just want God to take it away. My heart wants to accept whatever it takes to bring Him glory but my stubborn humanness just wants it to go away.

When life is hard, my prayers include way more pleas than praise.

It hit me this week, that in those moments it would be so helpful if I had prayers of praise and worship ready to lift up when my heart hurts and soul aches … when I want to praise God in the storm.

And I thought you might find those prayers helpful too.

So, I’d love for you to join me as I pray…

Simple Prayers that Praise God in the Storm

“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power. For You created all things, and they exist because You created what You pleased.”
Revelation 4:11

Father, when I look at the beauty of Your creation, I’m overwhelmed. You spoke and earth, sea, and sky came to be. Sun, moon, and stars filled the sky in perfect formation. Plants and animals filled the earth showing us Your creativity. Colors and forms beyond anything we could imagine came into being at Your command.

Then You created me and You even created people for me to love. Then when we made a mess of what You made … You gave us Your healing mercy and grace.

Thank you, Lord. I will lift Your name all the days of my life. You alone are worthy of my worship and praise for Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever.

Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise His holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me.
Psalm 103:1–2

Father, life is hard and I’ve prayed and prayed. When I concentrate my attention and energy on my problems, I’m frustrated and discouraged. But when I remember all You have done for me in the past and cling to Your promises to provide for me now and in the future … I can face today with hope and peace.

Thank you, Lord. Life is hard but You are able! When I face the impossible I can trust You to give me everything I need. So, I will praise You. I will tell others of Your goodness and grace and I will live today for Your glory.

O Lord, You are my God. I will praise You. I will give thanks to Your name. For You have been faithful to do great things, plans that You made long ago.
Isaiah 25:1

Father, when I think of Your faithfulness, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and praise. Just a few verses later, Isaiah wrote — “You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat.”

You invite me to run to You in the middle of the storm and You promise to be my place of safety. Lord, I know You may not choose to change my circumstances but I believe You are forever faithful to give me everything I need to endure through. My days do not come as a surprise to You and with Your Spirit’s help, I can live each one for Your glory.

I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to Him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces.
Psalm 34:4–5

Father, this verse is so personal to me. You allowed me to live through one of my greatest fears and taught me that You are truly greater than my worst concern. You have and continue to forgive me … replacing my pain with the joy of Your presence.

David wrote, “Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in Him!” And all I can say is, “Amen!”

In the beginning the Word already existed.
The Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
He existed in the beginning with God.
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 1:1–2,14

Father, I just want to thank and praise You for Jesus! The Word – who was with You at creation and promised by the prophets. The Word – who became fully human and lived a perfect life … full of inexhaustible love and truth.

And Your Word says, that because of Jesus, I can truly know You. Jesus Himself said, “No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal Him.” So today, I simply want to thank and praise You for allowing me to know and love You through Jesus by the power of the Holy Spirit.

I surrender my all to You. In the storm or when skies are clear, I will trust Your love, worship and praise Your holy name, and live each moment for Your glory. Help me by Your grace and the power of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

One of the things I love about the Bible is reading the accounts of people of faith who were able to praise God in the storm.

I’m also thankful for the accounts of people like me, who at times cried out in fear before they felt God’s peace and strength … before their pleas became praise.

So, I will keep these prayers close at hand, always ready to praise God who is with me even in the worst of storms.

When life is hard and I want to praise God in the storm!

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I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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What Happens When You Pray the Promises of God

10 / 3 / 1910 / 4 / 19

God promised to give us everything we need for whatever we're living through. So, when I don't have the words ... I pray the promises of God. #Prayer #Faith #PromisesofGod #Hope

I always struggled to put my prayers into words. And in all honesty, most of the time, I tried to figure things out on my own before I’d pray about them.

When the kids were acting out, I’d read a couple of parenting books.
When one of us had health issues, I’d do a symptom check investigation.
When a relationship was strained, I’d go looking for advice from so-called relationship experts.

Oh sure, I prayed. But they typically went like this…

“Please heal __________.”
“Please help __________. “
“Please fix __________.”
“Please give __________.”

Now, I’m not saying those aren’t valid prayers or that we shouldn’t pray them. In fact, sometimes when I’m in the middle of a crisis and my emotions are frayed and thoughts scattered, those are the only words I can find.

But I’ve experienced something that has blessed and transformed my prayer life.

When I can’t find the words … God has filled Scripture with verses and prayers of His people. God’s Word gives me everything I need to go to Him with my burdens, gratitude, and praise.

The truth is, nothing you and I face is new to God. Solomon wrote…

History merely repeats itself. It has all been done before. Nothing under the sun is truly new.
Ecclesiasted 1:9

Nothing in our lives surprises or shocks our Father.

And He promises to give us everything we need for whatever we’re living through. So, when I don’t have the words … I pray the promises of God.

His Word helps me thank and praise Him, repent and implore. And praying Scripture imprints it on my heart and mind.

I’d love for you to join me as I …

Pray the Promises of God

This hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out His love to fill our hearts. He gave us His love through the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to us.
Romans 5:5

Father, Thank you for the amazing and overwhelming gift of Your love. Your creation shows Your love and care but the One who came … who lived and died to show us Your love is our promised hope. Through Jesus’ resurrection, You give us the promise of victory over sin, death, and satan’s power. And from His ascension on through time, You give us the Spirit’s presence to fill us with love and the hope that will not disappoint.

I believe Your Word and trust Your promises. Please fill me with all I need today through Your Spirit. Fill my heart with faith, hope, and love – three blessings I can count on now and eternally.

Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6b–7

Father, I need You!

It’s funny, I can make a long list of things I thought I needed in my life … things I brought to You through pleading whines that bordered on childish tantrums. And the truth I’ve learned is whether You answered me with a “yes,” a “no,” or you asked me to “wait,” You always gave me what I needed. You always gave me Your best. How can I begin to thank you?

And when my circumstances were painful and hard, You gave me what I needed to live through them one moment at a time. Your grace is sufficient! In every high and every low, You are able to give me exactly what I need.

Resting on that truth gives me the peace I need. Today, I ask You to help me remember all You have done for me in the past that I might experience Your peace today and hope for tomorrow.

The Lord is faithful; He will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3

Lord, Thank you! You are faithful! You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Your children are safe under Your care.

When I look around, it feels like the enemy at work everywhere. Your Word says He will use every kind of deception to fool the world. And Jesus taught that we should pray and ask You to deliver us from evil.

Please protect me through the enemy’s attacks on my heart and mind. Give me the strength I need and keep me focused on You, Lord … remembering how You have faithfully given me the strength and protection I have needed in the past.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2

Father, these words are unsettling. I see churches adjusting to the world’s customs and behavior. James wrote, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you.” I need wisdom. I want to know Your truth that gives freedom from the world’s lies. I want to know, trust, and follow Your will.

Please transform my heart and mind through Your Word and the power of Your Spirit. Make me humble and teachable. Help me listen and fill me with love. Give me the courage and strength I need to obey You even when everyone around me is not. I need You, Lord, and surrender myself to You.

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.
Romans 8:28

Father, I rest my heart, mind, and soul on this beautiful promise. You are always working in my life doing what is best for my eternal future. I’ll admit, sometimes it’s hard to find the “good.” Sometimes people are cruel and life is painful. And in those moments, it’s hard for me to remain focused on You.

Help me cling to the promises that…

You are good. (Psalm 119:28)
You are love. (1 John 4:16)
You are my refuge and strength. (Psalm 46:1)
You are merciful. (2 Corinthians 1:3)
You are my Savior. (Psalm 68:20)

Whatever is going on around me … You are at work for my good and Your glory. I can trust this promise because I know that my ultimate good is to spend my life now and forever surrounded by Your glory and love.

Thank you, Father. In Jesus name. Amen.

So…

What Happens When You Pray the Promises of God

God promises to hear you. (1 John 5:14)

We are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him.

God gives you hope that does not disappoint. (Romans 5:5)
God gives you hard to understand peace. (Philippians 4:6–7)
God reveals His will for you. (Romans 12:2)
God gives you strength and protection for your circumstances. (2 Thessalonians 3:2–3)
God works in your life for your good and His glory. (Romans 8:28)

What is your favorite of the promises of God?
Think about how you might add it to your prayers.

Blessings!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Are You Sick and Tired of Being Busy

by and @ Maree Dee

If You Feel Yourself Breaking Under the Load

by Lois Flowers
@ Waxing Gibbous

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray that will Help When You are All Used Up

9 / 26 / 199 / 26 / 19

When you are all used up, depleted, and exhausted by life...you need help. Jesus says, "Come to me and rest." These verses and prayers go to Jesus for help. #Prayer #Exhausted #Hope #Blessings

Do you ever feel used up and depleted emotionally?

Times when you get to the end of the day and you are all used up and the thought of getting up and doing it all again tomorrow feels like more than you can take?

I have friends who are dealing with…

physical and/or mental illness
emotional trauma
major life changes
rebellious children
grief
loneliness
stress
problems that seem to never go away

And so many who are simply exhausted because their to-do list is waaay longer than the amount of time they have available.

If any of that describes you … you’ve come to the right place today.

I’m taking my “all used up” feelings to the Lord. I’m taking my circumstances and emotions and laying them at the throne of grace. Then I’m going get away with Jesus to a quiet place and rest with Him.

And I’d love for you to join me…

5 Verses to Pray that will Help When You are All Used Up

Let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
Hebrews 4:16

Father, thank you for inviting me to come to You with everything. What an amazing gift to know that I can enter Your throne room because Jesus has made it possible. The words before this verse bring peace to my weary soul … [He] “understands our weaknesses, for He faced all of the same testings we do, yet He did not sin.”

Jesus lived the perfect life I am unable to live and endured the punishment I deserve so I can come to You and receive. All because of Jesus, I receive Your mercy, grace, and help.

Thank you! I need You today. I need Your mercy to cover the things I’ve done and the things others have done to bring to this place of feeling all used up. I need Your grace to fill me with hope and remind me that this is a season to walk through not a permanent situation. And I need Your help Lord as I work to put one foot in front of the other and live today. Please give me all I need to live this day for Your glory.

The apostles returned to Jesus from their ministry tour and told Him all they had done and taught. Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.”
Mark 6:30–31

Father, I love this moment in Your Word. The apostles had to be so full of emotion. They had experienced the highs and lows of ministry … the overwhelming blessings and exhausting challenges.

And Jesus in all wisdom says, “Come off by yourselves. Let’s take a break and get a little rest.”

I need time to get away with You and rest. Please help me see where I can make choices that will give me that time I need. Please give me wisdom to know when it’s okay to say “no” to life’s demands. And please fill my heart and mind with peace, strength, and encouragement as I sit quietly and Your feet and rest in Your presence. Thank you, Lord Jesus!

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

Jesus, I am weary and at moments this burden feels like it is more than I can endure. And You say, “Come to me.” Your promise to “give me rest.” And you do that by helping me carry this burden. You promise that when I walk with You my burdens are easier to bear.

You don’t promise to remove them … You promise to help me carry them. And when I remember the times you have helped me in the past, I am strengthened and encouraged. You have never left me alone in the past. You have always been with me, even in my darkest moments.

So, I’m coming to you again today. I need You to help me carry this weight and give me the rest I need to move ahead in faith.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God,
for my hope is in Him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will not be shaken.
Psalm 62:5–6

Father, please forgive me. I can get so busy and overwhelmed by my circumstances and feelings that I forget to wait quietly before You. I stubbornly try to do things my own way, charging through life as my thoughts dart from one problem to another and my hope begins to fade.

But Lord, my hope is not in things of the world. My hope is in You. My hope comes from You. It is a gift You give to me through Your Spirit. The One who reminds me that You alone are my Rock and my Salvation! You alone are my firm foundation … the Savior on whom my hope is built. And by Your grace, I will not be shaken by the circumstances of my life. As I live through this season You are allowing, I will remember that I am not alone. The One who holds the stars … holds me.

Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7

Father, I give it all to You! My worries and cares. My burdens. My overwhelmed emotions and my “all used up” exhaustion. My pain and heartache. My fear and anxiety. Everything! I bring it to You. I will live today under Your care.

I will live with hope! I will stand on faith! I will trust Your love. In Jesus precious holy name. Amen.

Friend, I’ve realized that when I feel all used up … it’s usually because I’m trying to do it “all” on my own.

It’s when I’m worried about people and things and situations over which I have no control.

The blessing is we know the One who is in control. When I surrender the things over which I have no control to Him in prayer, and trust Him to do what only He can do … He fills me with everything I need.

And I believe by His grace, He will give you everything you need as well!

And if you need some specific tips of things you can do to turn things around when you’re exhausted, check out – This is for You – the One Exhausted by Life.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

5 Ways to Find Quiet in a Noisy World

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

How to Trust God When You Feel Betrayed by Him

by and @ April Knapp

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Prayers that Thank God for the Gift of Life

9 / 19 / 199 / 19 / 19

We've been counting Bonus Days for 12 years when a life-changing event made us realize that every day is a gift of life and a reason to rejoice. #BonusDays #GiftofLife #Miracles #CountingMyBlessings #Livewithhope

September 20th, 2019 is Bonus Day 4,383.

How do I know? Because Rev writes the number on his calendar every single morning.

It is sometimes hard to believe it’s been 12 years since the miracle – since Bonus Day #1.

I have so many memories imprinted on my heart and mind … moments from days, weeks, and yes, months all leading up to September 20, 2007.

To name a few. There were:

Symptoms that looked like heart failure which continued to get worse all without a diagnosis or explanation.
Trips to doctors for tests and procedures we hoped would lead to cures and answers.
The times they had to drain liters of fluid off his lungs.
And family and friends who covered us in prayer as we waited for God’s peace and healing.

Finally, after almost a year … we learned that something called a Pericardial Stripping was the only way, short of a miracle, to save Rev’s life. However, it’s a surgery that most cardiac surgeons don’t want to do and one they were doubtful Rev’s body was strong enough to survive at the time. If you would like to read more of the story, you can find it here and here.

Most families celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.

In the Bible, God told His children to celebrate festivals. Days they were to rejoice and remember His deliverance and protection. His miraculous grace and mercy.

Days of praise and prayers.

So, today … I’m going to God with a festival of praise and I’d love for you to join me.

You may not have a specific life and death situation where you saw God’s miraculous intervention … but through Jesus, we have God’s divine protection in the greatest life and death situation of all. We have been offered an endless supply of Bonus Days and more reasons to thank and praise God than we can count. We have been forgiven and set free to celebrate forever … one day at a time.

So, let’s pray and thank God for the gift of life … today!

5 Prayers that Thank God for the Gift of Life

You saw me before I was born.
    Every day of my life was recorded in Your book.
Every moment was laid out
    before a single day had passed.
How precious are Your thoughts about me, O God.
    They cannot be numbered!
Psalm 139:16–17

Father, how do I begin to thank you the way I should for the gift of life. Your Word says You knew me before I was born. You knew the plans You had for me and prepared a path for me long ago.

When I think of Your grace and mercy, the people You have brought into my life, the opportunities You’ve placed before me, the ways You pursued me with Your love … it fills me with humble gratitude and overwhelming awe. Thank you!

I am so thankful for the gift of every Bonus Day! There are no promised days in this life … so every one is a gift, a day to celebrate and serve. Please help me. Fill me Your Spirit and help me trust, follow, and obey Your will for me today.

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
    His faithful love endures forever.
This is the Lord’s doing,
    and it is wonderful to see.
This is the day the Lord has made.
    We will rejoice and be glad in it.
Psalm 118:1,23–24

Lord, You are so good! Your love is evident in the beauty of the world You created. It is realized in the gift of Jesus. And it is known in our hearts through the power of Your Spirit.

This day, today, is a gift from You! A Bonus Day to thank, praise, and serve You. A festival, a day to celebrate and rejoice in the simple gift of life. Whatever the day brings, may I live for Your glory. Thank you!

Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart,
I will praise His holy name.
Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things
He does for me.
Psalm 103:1–2

Father, I want to praise You with all I am. I love this reminder to never forget all the good things You have done for me … to remember to count my blessings.

It can be so easy to allow everything from little annoyances to big problems distract me from the countless good You pour into my life. Please forgive me.

Thank you for Your grace and mercy, for Your peace and protection, for the gift of family and friends, for hope and happiness, for love and forgiveness. Thank you for Jesus! Thank you for Bonus Days!

But then I recall all You have done, O Lord;
I remember Your wonderful deeds of long ago.
They are constantly in my thoughts.
I cannot stop thinking about
Your mighty works.
Psalm 77:11–12

Father, thank you for the gift of Your Word. I love reading about all You have done from creation to the promise of Jesus and a future forever in Your presence.

Thank you for the gift of faith and the ways You work in my heart and mind to draw me closer to You and to the knowledge of the Truth.

Thank you for giving us days to celebrate! Days like birthdays and anniversaries … days of deliverance and protection.

Please give me eyes to see Your hand at work around me each day and a heart of thanks and praise for Your loving presence in my life.

Praise the Lord!
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
His faithful love endures forever.
Who can list the glorious miracles of the Lord?
Who can ever praise Him enough?
Psalm 106:1–2

Lord, I thank you! You have been so good to me! You have shown me Your faithful forever love over and over again! Your miracles surround me. Please give me … eyes to see, a heart full of gratitude, and an attitude of praise!

This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad! Amen.

Friend, I pray you have many reasons to celebrate God’s gift of life today!

It’s so easy for us to get caught up in the routines and busyness of life that we forget today is not just another day … it’s a blessing to celebrate. It’s a reason to rejoice.

It’s a gift. It’s a miracle.

It’s a Bonus Day!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

5 Ways to Find Quiet in a Noisy World

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

How to Trust God When You Feel Betrayed by Him

by and @ April Knapp

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Prayers that will Help When You Want to Focus on Jesus

9 / 12 / 199 / 12 / 19

It's hard to focus on Jesus when circumstances are hard and life is crazy but the Bible says it's the way to have peace, strength, and the change you want. #Faith #Prayer #Jesus #Blessings

I don’t know about you, but one of the hardest parts of walking in faith for me is keeping my focus on Jesus.

It’s easy for me to get tossed around by my circumstances and my thoughts about those circumstances. Like the disciples, I can get so frightened by the storms that I fail to remember I have the One who calms the storm with me.

I can hear Jesus say…

“Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
Mark 4:40

And I realize it’s because even though the Lord has revealed His power countless times (His power to calm storms and/or to strengthen and calm me), I can still let life’s concerns distract and unsettle me.

I take my focus off Jesus and deny myself the blessings He wants me to have … blessings He wants to give me.

Today, I’m going to the Bible and praying God’s Word, asking for help to focus on Jesus and receive the strength and peace I need when the storms blow in and rock my boat.

I’d love for you to pray with me…

5 Prayers that will Help When You Want to Focus on Jesus

“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
Psalm 46:10

Father, when the enemy uses the noise of this world, the lure of negativity and controversy on social media, and circumstances in my life to distract, discourage, and distress me … please help me. Please forgive me for the times I’ve joined in on the noise and negativity. Forgive me for the times I’ve agonized over the way things might be without trusting You to give me everything I need to live today with the way things are.

Please help me to “be still and know” You. Help me remember the many times You have met my need in the past. The times You have calmed the storm and delivered me. And the times You have allowed the storm to continue but given me strength and peace. You are Lord of all – worthy of all my worship and praise. Thank you!

Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us.We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.
Hebrews 12:1b–2a

Father, Forgive my stumbles and weaknesses. Forgive me for the times I’ve gotten off track because of fear, worry, and doubt. You have plans and purposes prepared for me as I run my race. Please help me. Give me the endurance I need to keep moving along the path. Help me keep my focus on Jesus, the One in whom my faith is found.

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Philippians 4:8

Father, Please help me focus my heart and mind on You and on Your truth as You have revealed it through Your Word. You tell us what is true, honorable, pure, lovely, and admirable. Please forgive me for the times I have listened to and entertained distortions of Your Word. By the power of Your Spirit, please help me.

Father, I love You! By Your grace, help me SEEK You first. love You with all I am, and focus my heart and mind on that You have made excellent and praiseworthy!

My child, pay attention to what I say.
    Listen carefully to my words.
Don’t lose sight of them.
    Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
for they bring life to those who find them,
    and healing to their whole body.
Guard your heart above all else,
    for it determines the course of your life.
Proverbs 4:20–21

Father, may I make time with You a priority in my life. May I sit at Your feet through the study of Your Word and may I prayerfully talk with You throughout each day. Lord, may Your truth be so imprinted on my heart and mind that I rely on them when the enemy tempts me and the world unsettles me.

Father, there are so many things I could do better that would guard my heart. I could carefully limit my time on social media and show more discernment in the things I choose for entertainment. Please help me make wise choices on the teachings I absorb, the books I read, and the things I hear and observe. By the power of Your Spirit, help me make decisions that are pleasing to You.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2

Father, I give my life to You. I surrender my heart and mind and ask You to transform me into the person You want me to be. Mold me. Change me. Focus my heart on mind on You that I might know and follow Your will for me. Your Word says that when I seek You first … You will give me everything I need. What an awesome and amazing blessing! Thank you! Help me, in the name of Jesus, trust and obey Your good, pleasing, and perfect will for my good and Your glory. Amen.

Sometimes I wish God’s transformation was more like flippin’ a switch than remodeling a house. The process of knocking down walls, tossing the junk, replacing and rebuilding with new … is slow and tedious.

It takes patience.

Once again, I’m thanking God for His patience and persistence with me as He works to change me. I’m praising Him for the gift of His Spirit who helps me focus on Jesus and receive peace and strength when I’m impatient and discouraged.

God’s grace is sufficient. It is well with my soul.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

How to Rise Above Sinking
Circumstances as a Christian

by Diana Abe
@ Diana’s Diaries

Good News and God News About Love

by Karen Friday
@ Karen “Girl” Friday

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

Prayers that will Strengthen When You Have Weak Faith

9 / 5 / 19

We want to be strong. We want a mountain-moving faith. But fear and doubts get in the way. These prayers will give you strength when you have weak faith. #Faith #Prayer #PromisesofGod #Bible

This verse has been rattling around my head and stirring my heart this week…

Why do you have so little faith?
Matthew 6:30

I keep thinking about the times Jesus’ followers allowed their fears and worries to overshadow their trust in the Lord.

And if I’m being honest, I have to admit I have times when I’m guilty.

Like Peter, I can jump out of the boat enthusiastic about walking on water only to get distracted by the strength of the wind and the water that’s splashing around my ankles.

And before I know it, I’ve taken my eyes off Jesus and the water is up around my knees as I allow fear to take over.

Maybe you can relate.

But the more I’ve thought about it … I’m noticing the blessing of the moments that followed.

You see, there is grace for our sinking moments of weak faith. Look at what happened next between Jesus and Peter.

“Save me, Lord!” [Peter] shouted.

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him.
Matthew 14:30–31

Peter cried out and Jesus reached out. And…

When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped Him. “You really are the Son of God!” they exclaimed.
Matthew 14:32–33

The Good News is that when we have weak faith, we can cry out to Jesus trusting that He will reach out and grab hold of us.

And when we’ve climbed back into the boat with our eyes fixed on Him … we will worship and praise Him for lifting us up yet again.

So, if you feel like you’re sinking today. If the wind and the waves of life are pulling you under … join me as I cry out to Jesus asking Him to grab hold of me and strengthen my faith.

Prayers that will Strengthen When You Have Weak Faith

The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
Mark 9:24

Jesus, Please help me. I believe You are my Lord and Savior. I believe You are able to answer this prayer. But right now I feel overwhelmed. I’m worried about people I love. The enemy’s attacks leave me unsettled and anxious. Please help me overcome my doubts. Help me trust You in my circumstances whatever they are. And please help me keep my focus on You as I pray, “not my will but Yours be done.”

And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words.
Romans 8:26

Father, thank you for giving us the gift of Your Spirit. When problems distract me and I feel like I’m sinking into the sea of doubt and confusion, when I can’t find the words to express my feelings or put my needs into prayers, please help me. Your Word says Your Spirit prays for me. He brings my “wordless sighs and aching groans” (MSG) to You in ways that align with Your will. And Father, You not only hear those prayers for me but You take action in ways that bless me and give You glory.

Please help me trust this promise today and every day.

Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:7

Lord, this is my prayer … may my life might be built on a foundation of Your grace, mercy, and love. That I would know, trust, and follow Your truth as it is revealed in Your Word. Fill me with Your Spirit and give me all I need to stand strong in the faith You have given me. Give the faith I need to walk on water.

When the enemy tempts me with doubts and lies … please help me remain focused on You, the One who began my faith and makes it perfect. Thank you for giving me all I need to walk with You one day at a time.

When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own but will tell you what He has heard. He will tell you about the future.
John 16:13

Thank you for giving Your Spirit of truth to us.

The father of lies is intent on causing chaos and confusion and there are times when all the unsettling noise troubles me. But I have Your Spirit, the Voice of Truth, with and within me. He reminds me of Your promises. He fills me with hope. He helps me climb back into the boat where I will give You thanks and shout Your praise.

Whatever the future brings … You are with me to give me the courage, strength, and guidance I need.

I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.
Ephesians 3:16–17

Father, You are the Creator of all things. You maintain and sustain everything by Your infinite power. The same power, that strengthens me when my faith is weak.

Your intimate compassionate love reaches every corner of my life. You are with me no matter what is happening to me or around me. Help me see my circumstances from Your perspective. Increase my faith and give me all I need to trust Your love and live for Your glory.

Friend, I’m worshipping and praising Jesus in the boat and with His help, I believe I can walk on water even when the winds grow strong and the water is rough.

Not because of who I am or even because of my faith but because the One in whom I have placed my faith will always hear my cries, reach out and grab me.

I believe that’s true for you, too. That’s just how much He loves us.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

How to Choose Home Decor
that Sparks a Love for Jesus

by Alexis
@ Most Important Work

Encouragement for When You’re Feeling Lost

by Quantrilla Ard
@ Sun Sparkle Shine

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

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Verses that will Help You to Pray Every Day

8 / 29 / 198 / 30 / 19

The Bible tells us to never stop praying and pray about everything. These prompts, verses, and prayers that will help you want to pray every day. #Prayer #Bible #Faith #Blessings

I love praying Scripture.

Each morning, I sit with my Bible and journal … writing the verses the Lord uses to speak to my heart. Then I write the prayers those verses inspire.

At the bottom of each journal page, I have a section where I list the prayer needs of friends and family as I stop to lift them up before the Lord.

The greatest struggle I have when I stop to pray every day is knowing what to pray for myself. Oh sure, I shoot quick bullet prayers to the Lord throughout the day but actually stopping to pray over my life is hard for me.

I faithfully and easily ask God to help me seek Him first and love Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

But to pray every day for everything … for the “stuff,” the needs and anxious thoughts that distract me and the things I dream, those are often hard for me to put into words.

And I wonder if you might understand the struggle.

So, I’ve looked for verses to encourage us to pray without ceasing about everything. (1 Thessalonians 5:17 and Philippians 4:6) And I’m writing prayers I believe will help when it’s hard to find the words.

I’m so glad you’re here to join me…

Verses that will Help You to Pray Every Day

♥ Give Thanks

When my needs overwhelm me, I want to remember to begin my prayers by being thankful!

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.
Colossians 4:2

Father, You are loving, faithful, and good. Your mercy and grace touch every part of my life. Thank you for Jesus, for being with me, for forgiving me, and caring for me. Thank you for blessing my life today with __________.

♥ Grow in Faith

My greatest prayer this year is to be a SEEKER through His Word and prayer. What a blessing to know that He wants to give us all we need to trust and follow His will each day.

Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:7

Father, help me know and love You with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Teach me Your promises and work in my heart and mind to surrender my all to You, faithfully trusting Your perfect will. Today, I’m struggling in this area of my faith, ___________. Please pour out Your Spirit and help me.

♥ Increase in Wisdom

The world wants to give us a distorted version of wisdom. I want and need godly wisdom to guide me and I love that the Lord invites us to ask and promises to give us the wisdom we need.

Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding.
Proverbs 3:13

Father, please give me the wisdom I need to make godly decisions each day. When I rely on my own wisdom or the world’s confusing messages … life is harder and I struggle to find joy. But You promise to give wisdom to those who ask … please help me, guide me, and give me all I need to trust and obey.

♥ Things that Worry You

Sometimes it feels like the world is changing at lightning speed and the number of things to worry about is increasing exponentially. I love that I can be honest and take every worry to God in prayer.

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.
Philippians 4:6

Father, life is busy and changes seem to be happening around me constantly. Today, I’m worried about __________. Your word tells me not to worry but some days my circumstances seem overwhelming. Thank you for all the ways You have helped us in the past and please give me everything I need to trust You today.

♥ For Courage and Strength

I am neither courageous nor am I strong. I love that I can come to God and ask Him to help me face each day with courage and strength.

Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 40:10

Father, I’m really struggling with __________ today. What-ifs frighten me. It’s hard for me to do what I have to do. You tell me not to be afraid because You are with me … that You will hold me up and give me the courage and strength. I need You. Please help me.

♥ For Your Daily Needs

I love that we can come to God with everything and anything. Big or small, basic or out of the ordinary … God wants to come to Him with child-like faith in prayer about everything.

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things … Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need.”
Luke 12:29,31

Father, Please help me trust you with all my needs. Help me discern the difference between my needs and my wants. Help me seek You over everything else in my life and trust that You know what is best for me. Today I need Your help with __________. Please give me the wisdom and help I need to do to accomplish all You want for me today.

♥ For Your Hopes and Dreams

I love that God plants seeds of hope and gives us dreams to serve Him and use the gifts and talents He’s given us. And I love that He wants us to talk about our those hopes and dreams with Him.

Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.
Ephesians 3:20

Father, I’m excited and nervous about __________. You have shown me possibilities and I’m not sure the best ways to pursue them. Please guide me by Your mercy and grace. Show me the best path for the future. Open doors that are good for me and shut tight those that are not.

Father, thank you for inviting me to come to You in prayer. Thank you for Jesus … whose sacrifice makes it possible for me to enter the throne room with my gratitude, worries, needs, hopes, and dreams. Please forgive me for the ways I have fallen short of Your will for me. Guide me. Help me. Make me more like Jesus. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

May your days be blessed with the Lord’s presence as you turn to Him and pray every day.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

To Be Seen Known and Loved

by Stephanie
@ InstaEncouragements

Spiritual Renewal is Possible

by Jana Carlson
@ Wield the Word

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

I'm finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith 'n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun!

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

Powerful Verses to Pray that will Bless Your Children

8 / 15 / 198 / 17 / 19

There is nothing more important, nothing that will bless your children more than covering them in prayer ... asking God for faith, wisdom, and protection. #Prayer #PrayforChildren #SchoolYear #Wisdom #Parenting

You and I want so many things for our children and grandchildren as a new school year begins.

We want them to have a love for learning and creativity. We hope they’ll be happy, strong, and kind. And we’d love for them to be successful and well-liked by their teachers and classmates. We hope they will make the team and accomplish their goals.

I can remember reading books, talking with friends, organizing, and planning in an effort to help them flourish educationally.

But something I’ve come to believe is…

Although, being organized and helping them have the tools they need is important … nothing is more important, nothing will bless your children more than covering them in prayer.

For some, praying for their children and grandchildren is second nature but I know I have times when my prayers flow easily and other times when I’m at a loss for words.

So today, I’m praying for our children … asking God to grant us wisdom and bless the school-year ahead.

Powerful Verses to Pray that will Bless Your Children

♥ That They Might Grow in Faith

Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.
Colossians 2:7

Father, My greatest desire is that my children will grow in faith. That they will love You, Lord, with all their hearts, minds, souls, and strength. I pray that they will know You keep Your promises – that You are who You say You are and that You can and will do what You say.

Fill them with Your Spirit and give them a strong desire to SEEK You First and that they will trust and follow Your will as You reveal it to them. Guide them. Bless them. Hold them close.

♥ That They Might Be Courageous and Strong

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong.
1 Corinthians 16:13

Father, Some days are hard. There are days when we all would prefer to pull the covers over our heads and stay in bed. I know that’s true for my children as well.

They worry about assignments, tests, peer pressure, and popularity. They need a strong body and a strong mind to accomplish all that is asked of them each day. May they know who they are in You – no matter what others say to them or about them. May they be secure in the knowledge that they are deeply loved by You and by us. And may they remember … You go before [them] and follow [them]. You place your hand of blessing on their heads. (Psalm 139:4)

♥ That They Might Have Wisdom

Tune your ears to wisdom and concentrate on understanding… Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe.
Proverbs 2:2, 9–11

Father, Please give my children a desire to have the wisdom only You can give. I pray they will know and trust Your will as You reveal it in Your Word.

Lord, I need to know and live with wisdom. Please help me be an example for my children. Make me a SEEKER and give me all I need to consistently encourage them to Seek Your truth that they might have wisdom that will guide and protect them throughout life. Please give us all wise mentors, teachers, and pastors to give us good counsel and show us the blessings of trusting and following Your “right way to go.”

Grant us grace and give us the knowledge, wisdom, courage, and strength we need to make wise choices in difficult situations. Bless us and fill us with the peace and joy that’s found in Jesus.

♥ That They Might Be Protected

But let all who take refuge in You rejoice; let them sing joyful praises forever. Spread Your protection over them, that all who love Your name may be filled with joy.
Psalm 5:11

Lord, I’ll admit there are things about going to school that are scary. There have been some frightening things that have happened in our schools in recent years.

Please guard and protect my children and all children from any and all evil and from anyone who might try to harm them … physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Place a hedge of protection around them and please fill our family with joy, worship, and praise for all You are and all You’ve done.

♥ That They Might Have Self Control

The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.
1 Corinthians 10:13

Father, temptations are everywhere. We face them every day and it’s hard. I know I don’t always set the example I want for my children. I lose my temper, I complain, I judge others, I get impatient, and fail to be a good steward of my gifts and abilities. Please forgive me.

And help me…

Help me admit when I am wrong. Help me set an example of confession, repentance, and forgiveness. By the power of Your Spirit, help me teach my children the truths of Your Word. Help me encourage them when they do well as well as encouraging them to try again when they fail.

Father, I ask that You would help my children make friends who encourage them to follow You … friends who are respectful, kind, and who have self-control.

♥ Bless Your Children

“May the Lord bless you
    and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
    and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you His favor
    and give you His peace.”
Numbers 6:24–26

Father, I pray this blessing over my children. Please bless them. Be with them. And give them Your perfect peace.

Friends, I pray you and your children are blessed with the love of the Lord and a wonderful school year!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

Back to School Survival Tips for Moms

by Marva Smith
@ Sun Sparkle Shine

Four Ways to Celebrate a Perfectly ImPerfect You

by and @ Lisa Murray

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Prayers that will Strengthen You When You are Anxious and Afraid

8 / 8 / 19

There is a spiritual battle going on around us that can make us anxious and afraid but God is greater than our fear. He is able to give us His peace. #OvercomingFear #InnerPeace #FeelingAnxious #Prayer

Many of us have spent the week praying for hurting families in El Paso and Dayton while at the same time trying to get their heads around the unsettling feeling that the places we’ve always believed we were safe, may not be.

It’s understandable that some of us are feeling anxious and afraid. In the past week, news channels have recapped every terrifying event from recent history.

Friends, there is a spiritual battle going on. The enemy wants us focused on the evil side of the battle … crippled by anxiety and fear.

But the holy angelic warrior side of the battle is powerful and real. God is on the throne and His angel army fights for us.

I have held the following verse close this week…

“Don’t be afraid!” Elisha told him. “For there are more on our side than on theirs!” Then Elisha prayed, “O Lord, open his eyes and let him see!”
2 Kings 6:16–17

I’m fighting my anxious and afraid thoughts with the truth of God’s Word and prayer and I thought maybe you might be blessed by these prayers as well…

5 Prayers that will Strengthen You When You are Anxious and Afraid

Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil.For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world.
Ephesians 6:10–12

Father, I want to be strong in You … in the power You give. Please clothe me with the belt of truth, the shield of faith, and the shoes of peace. Please help me focus on the truth of Your Word when the enemy works to discourage me with anxiety and fear. Help me remember that You are with me; I am not fighting my battles alone.

You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in You, all whose thoughts are fixed on You!
Isaiah 26:3

Lord, You are my Shepherd … I have everything I need. I trust You to care for me today and eternally. Please keep my heart and mind focused on all You are doing in my life. When I am tempted to fixate on all that is wrong in the world. When I’m anxious and afraid. Please help me by the power of Your Spirit to trust Your sovereign grace and love and rest securely in Your perfect peace.

We can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?”

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
Hebrews 13:6,8

Father, I love these verses! They define faith! With Your Spirit’s help, I can say with confidence that You are always with me helping, guiding, providing, and protecting.

Your love is constant and never-changing. You proved Your love through Jesus life, death, and resurrection. By Your grace, I have nothing to fear.

Yet, sometimes fear still rises up in me. Please help me. When I am anxious and afraid, fill my heart and mind with Your promises and the truth that is unchanging and never fails.

I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for He is right beside me.
Psalm 16:8

Lord, When I am anxious and afraid, please help me remember the times You have helped me in the past. You lifted me out of the pit of fear and despair, placed me on solid ground, and steadied me as I walked along. (Psalm 40:2) I can trust You are with me today and always. Thank you!

Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt His name together.I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me. He freed me from all my fears.
Psalm 34:3–4

Father, I will praise You and lift You up. I will tell of the good things You have done for me. I lived afraid and anxious for so many years. I’ve trusted You for my eternal future for as long as I can remember but I struggled to trust You with my days … with my daily decisions, with my loved ones, with unknown circumstances and worldly terrors.

But because of Your grace and mercy, You carried me as I lived through one of my worst fears. You held me close as You met every need. I prayed and You answered me! And I will tell, all who will listen, of Your marvelous works … of Your greatness, Your grace, mercy, and love. Amen.

Friend, I’ve realized God is giving us an amazing opportunity!

When our anxious and afraid friends voice their concern…

We can tell them about God’s love. We can tell them that He is able to make us strong and give us peace.

Yes, there is a spiritual battle going on around us. Both good and evil are present in our fallen world. But God is greater! Jesus has already won the victory. And as God’s children … we are victorious, too.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Feeling Overwhelmed Doesn’t Make Sense

by Maree Dee
@ Embracing the Unexpected

A Prayer for the Disappointed Soul

by Susan Mcilmoil
@ Carry On My Heart

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Patient

8 / 1 / 198 / 1 / 19

The longer the wait, the harder it is to be patient. Here are 5 verses and prayers to help when you run out of patience and you need strength to go on. #BibleQuotes #Prayer #Hope #Blessings

I can be patient with people most of the time.

It’s a little easier now that our children are grown.

Although, I can still remember how daily demands and interruptions, bad attitudes (theirs and mine) and plain old mom exhaustion made for more than the occasional loss of my desired calm composed kindness.

Yep, being patient with our people, little and grown, is something that challenges us more often than we’d like but that’s not what I’m going to the Lord about today.

The patience I’m praying for is the kind you and I need when we’re waiting on our circumstances to change. When we’ve prayed and prayed and prayed some more. When we’re discouraged and frustrated because…

the job doesn’t happen.
the relationship isn’t restored.
the baby hasn’t arrived.
the behavior doesn’t change.
the healing doesn’t occur.
the bad habit taunts and haunts.
the loved one continues to reject a relationship with Jesus.
the loneliness continues.
the __________________.

We all have circumstances, situations, and attitudes we want to be altered and adjusted. Things we’ve hoped and prayed for … for what seems like forever.

And yes, I see several of my own prayers on that list.

I’ll admit, even though I want to trust God’s timing, I can still grow discouraged and impatient.

I think the problem is…

I want God to fix things according to my desires and expectations.
I want it now and yesterday would be better.
I focus on the problem and not on the Lord.
I let my fears and feelings overshadow my faith.

So, I’m going to the Lord and asking Him to help me. I’m stopping to remember the countless prayers He’s answered in the past and I’m surrendering my timeline and asking Him to help me be patient in my current circumstances. I’d love for you to join me.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Patient

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
    and He turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
    out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
    and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
    a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what He has done and be amazed.
    They will put their trust in the Lord.
Psalm 40:1–3

Father, Forgive me! You have reached down and pulled me out of the pit of despair more times than I can count. And yet, I can so quickly and willingly jump back into that place of despair. Where doubt creeps in and faith trembles.

But when I think of all the ways You have shown me Your love and care. When I remember the countless prayers You’ve answered with blessings. When I recall all the times You’ve given me the strength I needed to be patient on difficult days of waiting … I know I can trust in Your love and faithfulness today.

I surrender my timeline to Your perfect timing. Place my feet on solid ground and fix my heart and mind on Your truth. By the power of Your Spirit, keep me focused in faith on who You are and all You’ve done … singing Your praise and proclaiming Your goodness.

(If we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.) And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will.
Romans 8:25–27

Thank you, Father! Thank you! When I am impatient and disheartened, You are with me. Your Spirit within me knows my desires and my needs and when I can no longer put them into words … when I no longer know what or how to pray, Your Spirit prays for me according to Your will.

Please give me confidence as I wait that Your ways and timing are always best! Help me to trust Your plans as I live with faith one day at a time.

But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.
Isaiah 40:31

Father, some days it feels like it takes every ounce of my energy to simply put one foot in front of the other but by Your grace, there are days when I have the strength and energy I need to run ahead with hope and courage.

But how I love those days when You help me soar above the challenges and wait with supernatural patience, peace, and strength. Your kindness and goodness overwhelm me. Hold me close and help me trust You to give me what I need right now.

May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ.
2 Thessalonians 3:5

Father, Please fill me with a greater understanding of Your perfect love. The battle happening around me is hard. Help me remember that Your grace is sufficient. Help me to stay focused on Jesus, the One who gives and perfects my faith. He has already defeated this enemy. Help me remember how very much You love me!

Give me the patience I need to endure the difficult days. Hold me close and help me cling to the truth of Your Word and faithfully bring everything to You in prayer.

We also pray that you will be strengthened with all His glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father.
Colossians 1:11–12a

Father, You are able to give me everything I need to live with strength each day. You are able to help me endure when my circumstances seem like they are more than I can bear. You are the One who gives me patience when I have none of my own … when it feels like I just can’t wait any longer.

I surrender my impatience to You. Fill me with hope and joy as I trust Your perfect will and timing. You are my confidence today and forever. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Friend, waiting is hard!

But with God’s help, you and I can be patient as we wait. We can trust His perfect timing and love.

Again today!

We can rest in His love.

Be still and know that I am God!
Psalm 46:10a

We can trust His presence.

The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us!
Psalm 46:11

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

You are Christ’s Letter to the Broken –
Do You Make People Want to Read?

by Esther Dorotik
@ Chosen and Cherished

When Your Adult Child is Called to Do a Dangerous Job

by Tina Hulsey
@ Abundant Family Living

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses You Need to Pray Before You Speak Out

7 / 25 / 197 / 26 / 19

Every day the words we use are either building up or tearing apart our relationships. We need God's help! So, before you speak out...pray! #Prayer #Marriage #Friendship #Relationships

I think a lot about words!

Of course, I do. I’m a writer and as I said earlier this week … a talker. But it’s more than that…

Words of affirmation are my love language. Positive words fill my love tank and yes, negative words have the opposite effect.

Although not everyone feels the impact of words to the same degree I do; words are making and breaking relationships every single day.

Because … how we use words matters!

So much so that the Bible says:

The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.
Proverbs 18:21

Life or death! And if not physical life or death, relationships in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and churches are having life breathed into them or sucked out of them based on the words people use.

Every day you and I are living out the consequences of our own or someone else’s words.

I know it’s true because I live out the consequences of my own words way more often than I’d like.

I mean, I try. Really I do. But something I’m well aware of … I can’t control my words on my own. Without the Lord’s help, my less than ideal attitudes get in the way and keep me from consistently speaking the “life” words God wants.

So, I’m turning to God in prayer … asking Him to forgive my past, guide my future and help me choose my words in light of His grace that I might breathe life into my relationships and give Him glory.

Verses to Pray Before You Speak Out

“If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.”
1 Peter 3:10–11

Father, forgive me. It’s so hard for me to faithfully and consistently control what I say. I can be quick to complain and lash out in anger. The world tells me lying is normal. Everyone does it. Everyone bends the truth to make life easier, don’t they? But Your Word clearly tells me to speak the truth in love and avoid using my words to speak evil . . . even if I’m repeating something spoken by someone else. Help me! I want to search for peace. I want to make every effort to maintain peace. Lord, I want to be someone You can use for peace.

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:1,4

Lord, Give me the self-control I need to choose my words carefully when I’m angry. Help me speak with words that work toward unity and understanding. Words that breathe life into my relationships. May I remember that people make assumptions about You based on the way Your children speak and act. Please forgive me for the times my words have been hurtful and with Your help, I will forgive those whose words have hurt me. Fill me so full of Your love that it overflows to the people around me.

Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate with insults when people insult you. Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God has called you to do, and He will grant you His blessing.
1 Peter 3:9

Father, this is so hard. It feels justifiable to fight back and defend hurtful insulting words. It’s just the world’s way, isn’t it? But Your Word tells me to offer a blessing … to respond to cruelty with kindness. It also tells me this is the way to Your blessings and my happiness. I want that. Help me, Father. Help us all through the love of Jesus.

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.
Colossians 4:5–6

Lord, make me winsome for You. My heart’s desire is to show people the greatness of Your love. Give me the words You want me to speak, words that give You glory . . . words that will help people who don’t know You have a desire to learn more about Your amazing grace and unfailing love. May they want to know Jesus.

Take control of what I say, O Lord,
and guard my lips.
Psalm 141:3

Lord, make me sensitive to Your Spirit’s guidance. Bless me with wisdom to know when to control my tongue and the strength I need to do it. Help me know when to speak out and put Your hand over my mouth when I need to be still. I surrender my will to Your control and direction.

I will exalt you, my God and King,
and praise Your name forever and ever.
I will praise You every day;
yes, I will praise You forever.
Psalm 145:4–5

Father, please help me speak out for Your glory. May praise and worship be on the tip of my tongue. Please help me keep my heart and mind focused on You. Help me take captive every thought that turn my heart and mind to the things that cause me fear or anger. May I remember that You are with me in all circumstances. Thank You, Lord! I will trust You and praise You today and every day forever. By Your all-sufficient grace and for Your glory that lasts forever. Amen.

Before you speak out, remember…

Controlling our words can be the most challenging part of our Jesus following journey. No matter how hard you and I try, we will never come close to controlling our words the way God wants without His help.

But He has promised to help.

He forgives when we fail. He guides us through His Word and by the power of His Spirit. And He even helps us when controlling our words is the last thing we want to do.

Praise God! You and I have a Father who loves us so much, He not only cares about the details of our words but He’s willing to help us for our good and His glory.

He wants to help us speak out in faith and in love!

So, before you speak out … PRAY!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

You Can’t Live a Victorious Christian Life Alone

by Jana Carlson
@ Wield the Word

How to Trust God When Bad Things Happen – My Stroke Story

by Diane Ferreira
@ Worth Beyond Rubies

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

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Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a New Perspective

7 / 18 / 197 / 18 / 19

When my attitude stinks and I need a new perspective, I need help. God's help. So, I'm praying and asking Him to empower me and fill me with His transforming truth. #Prayer #Perspective #Faith #Hope

I can remember sitting with a friend over lunch.

Her daughter had recently returned home from college for summer break. My friend was thrilled to have her daughter home but also a bit concerned.

You see…

Her daughter had arrived upset with everyone! Her profs and teachers were uninformed and unhelpful. Her friends were unkind and unappreciative. And her roommate was the WORST! She wasn’t even sure she could take living with her the following semester.

My wise friend listened patiently to her child go on and on for a few days until she finally said, “You know how much I love you and I’m very sorry you’re going through this but I can’t help but think there is one common denominator in every one of these relationships.”

I will never forget her words because although I laughed with her at the “me” focus our children can have at times, I couldn’t help but wonder how often I’ve been the “common denominator” in one of my own bad days, or weeks, or longer.

How many times have I taken my bad mood, my insecurities, my quick to judge attitudes, my “I know I’m right” opinions (okay, well you get the idea) into a conversation where I should have listened with kindness, compassion, and love.

It’s hard though, isn’t it? Sometimes I want to be self-absorbed and “me” focused. Sometimes I want other people to take care of me … or just do it my way for a change.

I can almost see you nodding your head.

But there’s a problem … that attitude never makes me happy. If you’d like to know why, check out How to Have a Perspective that will Make You Happy.

As I looked back over those words from the other day, I realized that many of the tips began with “Ask God…”

So today, that’s exactly what I’m going to do! I’m asking God to give me a new perspective … one that will glorify Him, bless my relationships, and as an added bonus, maybe even make me happy.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need a New Perspective

Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me.
He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases.
He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
He fills my life with good things.
Psalm 103:2–5

Oh, Father, when I’m tempted to be “me” focused and self absorbed, please help me turn to You. Help me remember all the things You have done for me in the past, and quite honestly all You are doing for me today … I woke up, I can see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. I have a roof over my head and food to eat. And most important, I have You! I have faith and the peace-filled assurance that I can trust Your promises. Help me focus on Your goodness and mercy today and all the days of my life. Give me a new perspective.

Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Romans 12:2

Father, forgive me. There are so many voices all claiming to speak the truth. Telling me Your Word is outdated and misinterpreted. I have to admit, the people shouting the loudest seem so very unhappy and distressed.

Father, I ask You to give me wisdom and strength. And by the power of Your Spirit as I study Your Word and turn to You in prayer … guide me by Your truth. Transform my thinking that I might know Your will for me … Your good, pleasing, and perfect will which I believe is the only true way for me to have a new perspective and enjoy peace, hope, and joy each day.

You must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day.
2 Peter 3:8

It’s so easy to grow impatient, Father. Honestly, I would like my prayers to have been answered yesterday. I want health restored and relationships repaired. I want peace and kindness to prevail. I want people to listen and understanding to win the day. I want to see lives surrendered to Your love.

I pray and I pray and wait and wait and time goes on. Please give me an eternal perspective. Help me remember that it’s all under Your control. You are at work in my life and the lives of the people I love answering prayers in Your perfect way at Your perfect time. Please give me everything to focus on You and trust Your love as I wait.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:13

And Father, on those days when I’m tempted to lose the perspective and attitudes You want for me … give me the strength I need for this moment and help me go confidently into each one knowing You will give me all I need to live for You.

For Jesus Christ, the Son of God, does not waver between “Yes” and “No” … and as God’s ultimate “Yes,” He always does what He says.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 1:19–20

Father, thank you for Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the world says … Jesus is the answer. It doesn’t matter how I feel, whether or not I’m having a good day, or even if others agree … Jesus is the Way, Truth, and Life.

Every promise You have ever made is fulfilled in Jesus. Please help me surrender this day, my mood, my attitudes, and my perspective to You … so that in all I do and say I might follow Your will and live for Your glory. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

What am amazing blessing it is to know that even though you and I are completely incapable of getting this new perspective on our own … God not only wants to give it to us, He has given us His Spirit to live with and within us to transform and empower us.

The presence of the Spirit is able to help us look at life a whole new joy-inducing way!

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Special Needs Truly are Special
and Labels are Over-rated

by Jen Avellaneda
@ Rich Faith Rising

Are You Stuck Between Your Calling and Real Life?

by and @ Rebecca Hastings

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Thank you and God bless!

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to be Strong

6 / 27 / 19

When the challenge your facing feels overwhelming and it's hard to be strong, it's time to pray. These 5 Bible verses and prayers will help when it's hard for you to find the words. #Prayer #Faith #BeStrong #Hope

You tossed and turned most of the night and still, you can’t believe it’s morning already.

The challenge you’re facing feels overwhelming and if you could, you’d just pull the covers over your head and stay in bed … all … day.

Oh, I can relate!

Truth is … you and I have to live through what Jesus called “trouble” more often than we’d like.

“I told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have trouble, but be brave! I have defeated the world.”
John 16:33

I’ll admit, I hate the “trouble!” I’m guessing you do too!

But you and I can be “brave.” We can be strong because Jesus defeated evil.

By living a perfect sinless life.
Through His suffering and death.
Through His resurrection.

He spoke those words just prior to His arrest. He knew what was coming. Jesus was no stranger to “troubles.”

He understands … and that truth gives us strength and hope when our giants loom large.

Whatever you and I are going through … whether it is a failing relationship, a daunting diagnosis, a financial concern, a legal problem, a what do I do now decision, or an ongoing pain that feels like it will never end.

Whatever it is … the Lord is able to give us everything we need to be strong one day at a time.

But I’ll admit…

When I’m going through “trouble” it’s hard for me to turn from my restless anxiety and focus on God’s all-sufficient grace.

Which is why I need to pray. I’d love for you to join me.

5 Verses to Pray When You Need to be Strong

I was so foolish and ignorant—
    I must have seemed like a senseless
animal to You.
Yet I still belong to You;
You hold my right hand.
You guide me with Your counsel,
    leading me to a glorious destiny.
Whom have I in heaven but You?
    I desire You more than anything on earth.
My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak,
    but God remains the strength of my heart;
He is mine forever.
Psalm 73:22–26

Father, You gave me Psalm 73:26 to claim as my own, when my heart was broken.

And I can so relate to the words above…

I’ve had many times when I’ve made foolish choices. Yet … You continued to call me Your own. You held me close and patiently taught me Your truth.

Thank you for Your loving me and covering me with Your grace and mercy. Thank you for Your healing touch … for holding me and for giving me strength when I was at my weakest.

Father, thank you for guiding me. There is nothing in this life I desire more than You. Even if my health fails and my spirit is weak, I believe You will always be my strength. In Jesus name. Amen.

Remember that I commanded you to
be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid,
because the Lord your God will be
with you everywhere you go.”
Joshua 1:9

Father, on my own, I’m not strong … not even a little bit. And this problem feels overwhelming.

But then I remember, You divided the Sea (Exodus 14) and used a marching band to defeat a city (Joshua 6). You gave life to dry bones (Ezekiel 37) and healed a broken world through Your Son.

My circumstances are not too great for You. Please help me turn my focus from the problem to You, the One who already knows the outcome. Please make me aware of Your presence. Help me trust Your will for me. Help me follow wherever You lead with courage and strength.

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
“Be still, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.
Psalm 46:1,10–11

Father, You are my safe place and source of strength.

Your Word says You are always ready to help me. You invite me to “be still” and know You … Lord of all, God of gods, and King of kings.

Father, I need You to help me be strong.

I need You.

So, I will quietly sit here in Your presence trusting that You will give me whatever I need to face the day ahead. Thank you, Lord.

The Lord is king. He is clothed in majesty.
    The Lord is clothed in majesty
    and armed with strength.
The world is set,
    and it cannot be moved.
Lord, Your kingdom was set up long ago;
You are everlasting.
Psalm 93:1–2

Father, this world is Yours … everything in it. You speak the word and creation obeys.

Sometimes when I look around, I see a world in chaos. People turning on each other over ideology. Terrorism. War. Natural disasters. Personally, we are suffering with broken relationships, financial hardships, and health concerns. And we’re afraid.

Yet, nothing is new to You. You have always known the end from the beginning and You are always in control. Father, please help me keep my eyes focused on You, for You are able to make me strong today and give me the hope I need for tomorrow.

I begged the Lord three times to take
this problem away from me.
But He said to me,
“My grace is enough for you.
When you are weak,
my power is made perfect in you.”
So I am very happy to brag about my weaknesses.
Then Christ’s power can live in me.
For this reason, I am happy when
I have weaknesses, insults,
hard times, sufferings,
and all kinds of troubles for Christ.
Because when I am weak,
then I am truly strong.
2 Corinthians 12:8–10

Father, Help me remember that whatever I’m going through … Your grace is enough for today. Please help me remember that when my circumstances don’t change … when the struggle I’m facing doesn’t end.

I’ve prayed and prayed and You quietly remind me of Your more than enough grace. You are able to help me face today and I believe You will help me face tomorrow … because You have strengthened me through many yesterdays. Thank you!

I know Jesus is with me and Your Spirit is within me. I trust You to guide me. and give me all I need … joy in the midst of weakness and strength to live through this trouble with courage.

Thank you, Father. With Your help, I will be strong and live this day surrendered to You. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

God knows exactly what you need to be strong.

He is with you.

And..

He will give you what you need today and what you need again tomorrow.

When I’m tempted to center my attention on my struggle and anxiously remind myself that I’m not enough … that I can’t, I will turn to the One who is able to give me exactly what I need through His grace, mercy, and love.

This Week’s Friday Favorites

Highlight Posts of the Week!

When Your Busted Flip-Flop Speaks To You

by Lauren Sparks
Where Thoughts of a Special Needs Mom
Intersects with the Cross of Christ

10 Powerful Bible Verses to Help When You Fear the Future

by Tammy Kennington
Restoring Hope. Pursuing Peace

AND the…

Faith ‘n Friends Link Party

<div align="center"><a href="https://countingmyblessings.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Counting My Blessings"><img src="https://countingmyblessings.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Link-Party-Button-Pic.jpg" alt="Counting My Blessings" style="border: none; height: auto; width: 200px;" /></a></div>

I’m so glad you’re here!

This is a place to share faith, make friends, and have fun.

I’d love to connect with you on social media!

[Tweet “I’m finding #Friendship and #Inspiration at #Faith ‘n Friends #LinkUp Come join the fun! “]

Deb Wolf
Facebook / Twitter / Pinterest

No More Rules Link Party

Add 1-2 of your favorite faith/life posts.
Then just make friends and have fun.
You know they love it when you stop by and say “hello.”

I would really appreciate it if you would
Grab my Link Party Button above and link back to CMB.

Thank you so much for partying with us!
May your week be blessed with faith, love, and friendship!

Don’t forget to leave your prayer requests…

and pray over the list left by our friends.

I always enjoy hearing from you! Please take a minute to say ‘hi’ and share your thoughts in the comments below.

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

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.