Category Archives: Prayer

When You Want to Pray with Thankfulness and Praise

Do you want to pray and live with thankfulness and praise even when busyness and frustrations get in the way and distract you? This will help you. #Prayer #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

It’s so easy to get caught up in the dailiness of life.

I get busy just doing and living and somehow forget to fill moments with thankfulness and praise.

Oh, I can be convincing when I talk about it in this space but the doing it, the consistently offering an attitude of thankfulness and praise . . . yeah, that can get pushed aside by the more pressing and noisy. And I don’t know about you, but based on what I read on social media, I think there are many of us who are struggling to bubble over with gratitude this year.

But this week, I am pausing to remember how 13 years God gave us a miracle and spared Rev’s life. So, I’m pausing to ignore the negativity of 2020 and praise God for the blessing He gave us in 2017. I’m thanking Him for 4,750 plus bonus days and for the many people who left handprints on our hearts through an extremely difficult season.

And I want to continue to remember that even when the year is challenging, God is with me in countless ways using people to touch my life with His grace, mercy, and love.

So, today I am praying with intentional thankfulness and praise. I’ve found 5 verses that I want to hold close and pray often. And I hope and pray they bless you as well.

Verses to Pray with Thankfulness and Praise

Do you want to pray and live with thankfulness and praise even when busyness and frustrations get in the way and distract you? This will help you. #Prayer #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

PSALM 9:1

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonderful deeds. 

Father, I am so sorry. I’m ashamed at how easily I can fail to remember Your goodness and grace as I focus on what I believe is wrong or lacking. I am sorry that I allow busyness to distract and overwhelm me. Please forgive me. I want my life to be filled with thankfulness and praise. I want to humbly focus on all the things You have done for me and on all the ways You have worked in my life. My heart’s desire is to tell of all the wonderful ways You bless us. By Your grace, fill me with Your Spirit and with a heartful of thanks. Amen.

PSALM 106:1

Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. 

Father, I want to thank you for all You do but most of all I want to praise You for who You are. You are good! You are love. You are all I need now and forever.

Thank you for giving us Your Holy Spirit to whisper reminders of Your promises to my heart and mind. By Your grace, help me stay connected to You through Your Word and prayer. And when I am distracted or I begin to wander help me remember that You keep every promise You have ever made and faithfully meet my every need. Thank you, Lord!

PSALM 118:21–24

I will give you thanks, for You answered me;
    You have become my salvation.

The stone the builders rejected
    has become the cornerstone;
the Lord has done this,
    and it is marvelous in our eyes.
The Lord has done it this very day;
    let us rejoice today and be glad. 

Jesus, My greatest need in life is the gift of salvation You give. Thank you for living the perfect life that I fall short of every single day. Thank you for suffering my punishment and dying for my sins. Thank you for giving me hope along with a full and satisfying life. (John 10:10) And thank you for the resurrection that gives me the promise of a beautiful perfect life with You in heaven forever. Whatever is going on in my life – You are forever more than enough! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

1 CORINTHIANS 15:57

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Father, thank you for the victory You have given me in and through Jesus. Victory over today’s problems and Satan’s lies. You give me all I need to overcome any problem or challenge. (Romans 8) And by the power of Your Spirit, I have the gift of joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, and love. (Galatians 5) An arsenal that helps me live with courage and strength. Thank you! Your grace and the victory I have through Jesus is all I need.

Do you want to pray and live with thankfulness and praise even when busyness and frustrations get in the way and distract you? This will help you. #Prayer #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

COLOSSIANS 3:17

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.

Father, living with thankfulness and praise is living for You and for Your glory. May every word I speak and thing I do — come from a grateful heart. Help me remember that as Your child every word I speak and every thing I do become the thoughts and opinions people have about who You are. Forgive me. Help me. You are my everything and I am so full of gratitude. May I live each day to bring honor and glory to Your name.

PHILIPPIANS 1:3

I thank my God every time I remember you. 

Father, thank you for the community of friends who gather here in this place. I am so very thankful for each of them. They bless and encourage me. Father, bless them and hold them close. Please meet every need and bless them as they do their best to live for Your glory. Give them joy as they serve You and fill them with thankfulness and praise. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

And in thankfulness and praise…

I am so thankful for you, my friends!

May you be filled with joy, may you celebrate many bonus days, and may the Lord pour His blessings over every part of your life.

I’d love for you to take a moment to leave a comment today and tell us the verse that encourages you when you need to remember to offer thankfulness and praise when life is distracting or difficult.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Pray When You are Confused About an Uncertain Tomorrow

Helping you live with boldness when you are confused by an uncertain tomorrow although things try to get in the way with God's help, you can LIVE today! #LiveToday #TomorrowisANewDay #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

When our daughter was a toddler she found the difference between today and tomorrow very confusing.

We’ would say, “We are going to to do (something fun) tomorrow.”

And she would always respond with delight and great enthusiasm.

But the next morning when she got up she would ask, “Is it tomorrow?”

Of course, we would reply, “No, it’s today.”

At which point she would get very sad and say, “But I want it to be tomorrow so we can do __________.”

(It sounds like our personal version of who’s on first, doesn’t it?)

And even when we would tell her, “Honey, we are going to do __________.”

She would look at us confused and say, “But it’s not tomorrow.”

Little children aren’t the only ones who have trouble understanding the difference between today and tomorrow.

You and I can so easily waste today worrying about tomorrow. Waiting for tomorrow. Procrastinating until tomorrow. Starting over tomorrow.

But the truth is, whatever we think about tomorrow we can only live today.

Corrie ten Boom wrote:

“Worrying is carrying tomorrow’s load with today’s strength- carrying two days at once. It is moving into tomorrow ahead of time. Worrying doesn’t empty tomorrow of its sorrow, it empties today of its strength.”

So, let’s take a closer look at what the Bible says and surrender our worry and uncertainty about tomorrow to the Lord.

Pray When You are Confused About an Uncertain Tomorrow

Helping you live with boldness when you are confused by an uncertain tomorrow although things try to get in the way with God's help, you can LIVE today! #LiveToday #TomorrowisANewDay #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

When You’re Worried and Uncertain about Tomorrow

“So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.” 

Matthew 6:34

Father, I surrender my thoughts to You. Please grant me Your peace and help me live today without worrying about tomorrow. By Your grace, help me know the difference between planning for tomorrow and worrying about tomorrow. Guide me as I set goals and help me put You first in everything I do . . . that I might live each day for Your glory. Amen.

When You’re Tired of Waiting for “Tomorrow”

Wait patiently for the Lord.
    Be brave and courageous.
    Yes, wait patiently for the Lord.

Psalm 27:14

Father, Please give me the courage and strength I need today. Sometimes today is hard because You’re asking me to wait. Please give me patience. By Your grace, give me everything I need to trust You today. Whatever is going on in my life . . . You promise to give me everything I need when I seek You first. Please lead me today, make Your will clear to me, and give me all I need to follow You in faith today. Amen.

“Darkness comes. In the middle of it, the future looks blank. The temptation to quit is huge. Don’t. You are in good company… You will argue with yourself that there is no way forward. But with God, nothing is impossible. He has more ropes and ladders and tunnels out of pits than you can conceive. Wait. Pray without ceasing. Hope.” ~John Piper

When You’re Tempted to Procrastinate Until Tomorrow

“Tomorrow is often the busiest day of the week” ~a Spanish Proverb

Fight the good fight of faith, grabbing hold of the life that continues forever. You were called to have that life when you confessed the good confession before many witnesses. 

Ephesians 5:15–17

Father, please give me the strength I need today. By Your grace, help me plan my days well without over-planning so I’m not tempted to procrastinate. Give me the energy I need each day and help me remember to pause and rest in Your presence. By Your all-sufficient grace help me stay focused on You that I might do Your will as You reveal it to me. Amen.

“You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today.” ~Abraham Lincoln

When You’re Tempted to Carry Guilt and Shame Into Tomorrow

“The voice of sin is loud, but the voice of forgiveness is louder.” ~Dwight L. Moody

 If we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.

1 John 1:9

Father, I am so sorry for failing to trust and obey Your will the way You want. I try so hard but fall short every day. And the enemy taunts and tells me I’m useless, that I’ll never change, that I need to wear my guilt like a label across my heart. But You are faithful to forgive because You want to forgive. You proved Your unfailing love by allowing Jesus to suffer my punishment on the cross.

Thank you! Help me live today with the joy of forgiveness and help me generously extend that same loving forgiveness to the people You place around me. Thank you for washing me clean today and for every new tomorrow You give me to try again. Amen.

Helping you live with boldness when you are confused by an uncertain tomorrow although things try to get in the way with God's help, you can LIVE today! #LiveToday #TomorrowisANewDay #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

“Isn’t it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?” ~L.M.Montgomery

When You Need to Remember to LIVE Today

“Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces, I would still plant my apple tree.” ~Martin Luther

The Lord is my shepherd;
    I have all that I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
    He leads me beside peaceful streams.
He renews my strength.
He guides me along right paths,
    bringing honor to His name.

Psalm 23:1–3

Father, thank you for Your provision, guidance, and rest. You truly do give me everything I need each day. Please help me walk peacefully with You today. Keep me from worrying about tomorrow’s unknown and give me the faith I need to trust You even when I don’t understand. Life can be hard and confusing but when You are with me teaching and leading . . . I have Your all-sufficient grace to flourish in the good things You have prepared for me. I love You, Lord. You are all I need today, tomorrow, and forever. Amen.

I love this quote from Henri Nouwen. It reminds of simple ways you and I can live for God’s glory today . . . without worrying about tomorrow’s uncertainty.

“Did I offer peace today? Did I bring a smile to someone’s face? Did I say words of healing? Did I let go of my anger and resentment? Did I forgive? Did I love? These are the real questions. I must trust that the little bit of love that I sow now will bear many fruits, here in this world and the life to come.”

So friends,

Celebrate today.
Live with confidence that God has You covered in His grace, mercy, and love.
Have hope for tomorrow, but don’t wait for it to live . . . get up and boldly experience all God has for you.
Follow where the Lord leads you and trust Him to bless you with the goodness of life that only He can give. 

May He bless you today and tomorrow!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Pray When You Need More of Jesus

When I’m tired. When is out of control. When everyone and everything has gotten on my last nerve. When I discouraged . . . I need more of Jesus. #Jesus #Hope #Faith #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Stop with me for a moment and think about the following two quotes:

You’re a soul made by God, made for God, and made to need God—you were not made to be self-sufficient. ~Dallas Willard

“[Jesus] is a portion that exactly and directly suits the condition of the soul. The desires of the soul, and the necessities of the soul, and the wants of the soul, and the longings of the soul, and the prayers of the soul.

The soul can crave nothing, nor wish for nothing, but what is to be found in Christ. He is light to enlighten the soul, wisdom to counsel the soul, power to support the soul, goodness to supply the soul, mercy to pardon the soul, beauty to delight the soul, glory to ravish the soul, and fullness to fill the soul.” ~ Thomas Brooks (17th Century Preacher)

What is your soul?

The soul is the key to our lives . . . it unites your heart, your mind, and your spirit together. Your soul is who you are—who God created you to be.

And your soul and mine craves more of Jesus.

There is nothing or no one we need more!

Nothing you and I can desire or crave can satisfy our souls more than a close relationship with Jesus. 

Yet, even though you know that to be true, if you’re like me, you are still so easily distracted and discouraged by life. 

Right now, I know many of us are fighting feelings of discouragement. We long for life to go back to normal. We’re fatigued, frustrated and frightened.

And when I’m tired. When my life is out of control. When everyone and everything has gotten on my last nerve. When I’m focused on “what ifs” and “what could be’s,” when I’m discouraged . . . I need more of Jesus.

I need the One “who exactly and directly suits the condition of my soul!”

So, I’m praying and if you need more of Jesus too – I’d love for you to join me.

Pray When You Need More of Jesus

When I’m tired. When is out of control. When everyone and everything has gotten on my last nerve. When I discouraged . . . I need more of Jesus. #Jesus #Hope #Faith #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

O Lord, You are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for Your help.

Psalm 86:5

Lord Jesus, there are moments when the reality of my sin overwhelms me and I come to You with a humble heart asking for Your forgiveness. Then You wrap me in Your love and forgiveness and I have everything I need.

Your love is greater than life. Please help me keep my eyes on You. When the enemy tries to distract me, when I am distressed and discouraged remind me of Your love and forgiveness. Because of Your grace and unfailing love, help me Lord as I put my trust in You.

We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love.

Romans 4:3–5

Lord, I admit I don’t want problems or trials. If I could choose, I would pick blue skies and peaceful water. But I know You are able to help me endure with strength. I know You are the source of my hope. You are love and You fill my heart.

Please fill me with Your love. By the power of Your Spirit, please help me want You more than anything this life has to offer me. Help me want what You want for me trusting that You want what is best.

Lord, I surrender myself to You in faith and love.

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 73:25–26

Lord, this is my prayer . . . that nothing in my life would be more important than You.

You gave me this verse at one of the worst times of my life. I have and will always hold it in my heart. It reminds me every day that whatever happens, whatever You allow . . . You will always be with me giving me what I need. Knowing You are mine forever, Lord, keep me focused on Your love. Fill me with Your Spirit. Give me all I need to trust and obey. By Your grace and for Your glory.

“I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! 

John 15:9–11

Lord Jesus, Your love overwhelms me. You sacrificed everything. You walked along-side sinful people yet never sinned. You taught us what pure love looks like. You experienced pain, suffering, and death to give us life. And out of love, You gave Your Spirit to guide and help us.

This life can be hard, but You know that. The enemy is constantly working to prevent us from trusting and obeying You. But Your Word says that You will give us the courage and strength we need. Please keep me faithful to reading and knowing Your Word. Help me Seek You above all else that I might remain in Your love and live with overflowing joy.

Despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us. And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:37–39

Thank you, Lord Jesus. I am forever and ever secure in Your love. Nothing can ever change Your love because nothing can change You. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever.

I want to love, trust, and obey You perfectly. I need Your help. Please grant the desire of my heart that I might decrease so You might increase in me and through me. Please give me everything I need . . . give me more of your Spirit, give me more or You, Jesus.

Help me want You Jesus, more than anything. Amen.

When I’m tired. When is out of control. When everyone and everything has gotten on my last nerve. When I discouraged . . . I need more of Jesus. #Jesus #Hope #Faith #Prayer #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

When you and I have more of Jesus in our lives we also have”

  • less drama.
  • less selfishness.
  • less complaining.
  • less bitterness.
  • less gossip.
  • less pride.
  • less anger.
  • less self-righteousness.
  • less fear and anxiety.
  • less of the things that steal our joy.

And I want that . . . don’t you?

Finally, I’d like to share a quote from Louie Giglio…

Jesus doesn’t just give you what you need; Jesus is what you need. Your heart was created by Him, for Him. You can fight and claw to gain the world, but without Jesus, you will never be completely satisfied.

If there is a growing discontent deep inside your heart—a hunger that hasn’t been completely satisfied by the people, pleasures, parties, material things, or accomplishments—today is the day to open your heart to the idea that it is Jesus that you were made for. But you have to walk away from “less,” and ask Him to become your “more.” Jesus is enough for you, and He is here.

May you be abundantly blessed with overflowing joy and more of Jesus!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Simple Prayers that will Help You Praise and Worship Every Day

What is "praise and worship"? Is it something to do on weekends or part of your daily life? These prayers will help you praise and worship God every day. #PraiseandWorship #WorshipVerses #Prayer #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

What do you think of when you hear the words “praise and worship”?

Is it something you do on the weekend or the music you sing along to at home or in the car.

What if it’s more basic than that? What if praise is simply the expression of worship and worship is…

Well, let’s take a closer look at the definition of worship.

In 1828, Webster’s Dictionary defined worship as:

Worship is 1.to adore; to pay divine honors to; to reverence with supreme respect and veneration 2. to honor with extravagant love and extreme submission.

And the most recent version of Webster’s Dictionary defines it as:

Worship is 1. to honor or show reverence for as a divine being or supernatural power 2. to regard with great or extravagant respect, honor, or devotion.

Although the definitions are similar, I think the worship God wants from us is part two of the 1828 version . . . to honor with extravagant love and extreme submission.

It seems that Brother Lawrence could best relate to that explanation as well. He once wrote:

“To worship God is to admit that we are entirely contrary to Him and that He is willing to make us like Himself.”

You see, God knows you and I are contrary. He knows we’re not going to do life “right” not any part of it—not even worship.

Jesus told us how God wants us to worship Him.

Jesus said,

“The time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.”

John 4:23–24

The Life Application Bible Notes say this about Jesus’ words…

It is not where we worship that counts, but how we worship. Is your worship genuine and true? Do you have the Holy Spirit’s help? How does the Holy Spirit help us worship? [He] prays for us (Romans 8:26), teaches us the words of Christ (John 14:26), and tells us we are loved (Romans 5:5).

Knowing we are loved . . . having Jesus’ example and the Spirit’s help gives us what we need to worship in Spirit and Truth!

So, today, with the Spirit’s help, we are going to lift up prayers of praise and worship.

Because…

“Worship is our response to the overtures of love from the heart of the Father.” ~Richard J. Foster

Will you join me in responding to the Father’s love by praying this prayers of praise and worship.

Simple Prayers that will Help You Praise and Worship Every Day

What is "praise and worship"? Is it something to do on weekends or part of your daily life? These prayers will help you praise and worship God every day. #Prayer #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Come, let us worship and bow down. Let us kneel before the Lord our maker, for He is our God. We are the people He watches over, the flock under His care.

Psalm 95:6–7

Father, I come to You with quiet awe and humble adoration. Your loving and watchful care surrounds me. I have nothing to fear and no need to worry because You are with me. You go before me on the paths You have prepared for me and You follow me and protect me from behind. By Your grace, I have everything I need to live this day without the baggage of yesterday or the burdens of tomorrow.

You created me for this time and place. Please use me for Your glory that everything I do and say might be a testimony of who You are and that I belong to You. By Your grace and with Your help, may my life be an act of praise and worship to 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. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.

Psalm 103:1–4

Father, You are so gracious and good. You gave Your only Son, Jesus, to save me from sin, death, and satan’s power. And through all Jesus has done for me, You allow me to come to You and receive complete forgiveness and the ultimate healing of heaven.

You surround me with love and compassion, righteousness and justice. No matter what I am experiencing, You are always worthy of my praise and worship. I thank you, Lord! Please help me live each day in ways that show You, and everyone I come in contact with, how very much I love You.

O Lord, I will honor and praise Your name, for You are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them.

Isaiah 25:1

Lord God, I praise You. You are Lord of All. You are my Creator, Savior, and Spirit. You are the God who keeps every promise. You are the One who gives me strength and peace. You are my hope, the One who lifts me out of the pit and plants me on a solid foundation. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You are my everything and I praise You.

Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise You! I will praise You as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer. You satisfy me more than the richest feast. I will praise you with songs of joy.

Psalm 63:3–5

Oh Father, Yes . . . this is the truth! Your love is better than life. In the wilderness, David cried out to You and then paused by Your grace to remember who You are. He knew You . . . his Shepherd, his Provider, and his Peace. (Psalm 23) You are faithful! Like David, I cling to You trusting that You are the One who holds me securely. (Psalm 63:7)

You are the God who satisfies my heart, mind, and soul and I praise You with songs of worship and joy! Great are You, Lord.

So, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind He will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. 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 12:1–2

Father, I give You my all. You have done so much for me. You gave me life. You sustain my life. And You promise me life eternal.

Please empower me by Your Spirit that my life might be a sacrifice of praise to You. I ask that You would help me know, trust, and obey Your will for me. Please continue to transform me into the person You want me to be, someone who is more like Jesus. Forgive for those times when I fight Your hand of change because of my foolish stubborn selfishness. I don’t want to follow the ways of the world . . . I want to follow You. Because I love You Lord. And by Your grace and with Your Spirit’s help and power . . . I pray to love You every day forever with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Because You are my Lord and Savior. You are worthy of all my praise and worship. You are the Great I AM. Amen.

What is "praise and worship"? Is it something to do on weekends or part of your daily life? These prayers will help you praise and worship God every day. #PraiseandWorship #WorshipVerses #Prayer #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Friends, I am asking God to give you everything you need to live your life as a living sacrifice . . . a life that is filled with praise and worship, and one that overflows with joy.

I want to close today with words from Chris Tomlin’s Song,
Who You Are to Me…

You’re forever Holy
You’re the Lamb who is worthy
My forgiveness (My forgiveness), my healer (My healer)
The Messiah, my Redeemer

You’re amazing, faithful, love’s open door
When I’m empty You fill me with hunger for more
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord, You’re the air that I breathe
(Lord, You’re the air I breathe)
That’s who You are

You are greater, higher over it all
In Your presence, Jesus, I stand in awe
Of Your mercy, Your goodness
Lord, You’re the air that I breathe
That’s who You are to me

source: https://lyricsondemand.com/c/christomlinlyrics/whoyouaretomelyrics.html

God bless you!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Encouraged

Prayers based on Bible verses for anyone who is worn out and frustrated. Anyone who feels they need to be encouraged and given hope. #Blessings #Prayer #Hope #Faith #NeedEncouragement #InspiringQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

I don’t know about you, but I’m over this!

I’m tired of social distancing and wearing masks. I miss seeing faces and sharing smiles with random strangers. I’m saddened by civil unrest and riots. The truth is, I can be patient for a long time . . . but I’m ready to be done!

I’m weary of storms and fires and viruses and people arguing over the definitions of “good” and “evil.”

I’m discouraged.

So, I went to the Word . . . to the words of prophets who understood feeling discouraged and disappointed as they lived through God’s “wake-up call” to His people in Jerusalem.

Jeremiah wept over the fall of Jerusalem and Isaiah mourned the nation’s captivity in Babylon. They understood feelings of discouragement—even more than me.

Courage is the root of the words discouraged and encouraged.

Discouraged means to lose courage and encouraged means to build courage.

And that’s what I want. I need to be encouraged. The Lord tells His children to be “strong and courageous” and I want that. I want to remember…

Be strong and courageous!

For the Lord, your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua 1:9

Be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the Lord!

Psalm 31:24

We are not alone. God is with us! He gives us courage when we place our faith and hope in Him. He is sovereign and nothing is outside of His care or control.

So, I’m praying verses I need to repeat today because I need my courage built up. I need to remember that God has this and every situation under control and He has you and me in the palm of His hand.

If you need to be encouraged, I’d love for you to pray with me. I believe God will build our courage as we place our faith and hope in Him.

Prayers based on Bible verses for anyone who is worn out and frustrated. Anyone who feels they need to be encouraged and given hope. #Blessings #Prayer #Hope #Faith #NeedEncouragement #InspiringQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Verses to Pray When You Need to Be Encouraged

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 41:!0

Father, I’ll admit I’m discouraged. It makes me sad to see so many people at odds with each other. Good is being called evil and evil called good. People accuse one another of lying and “the facts” change so often, it’s hard to know what to believe.

Please surround with a sense of Your presence. Help me remember that You are with me. Through Jesus, You have made it possible for me to have a relationship with You. And You promise to give me the strength I need.

You have already won the victory. This season is temporary. I can trust Your unfailing promises. I can be encouraged!

Have you never heard?
    Have you never understood?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
    the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
    No one can measure the depths of His understanding.
He gives power to the weak
    and strength to the powerless.
Even youths will become weak and tired,
    and young men will fall in exhaustion.
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 40:28–31

Father, I’m weak, tired, and exhausted. I’m guilty of gazing at my problems and failing to focus my heart and mind on You. I need You, the One who never grows weak or weary. I need You to help me understand. I need Your power and strength.

Please forgive me for losing focus. Help me attach my heart and my mind to the truth that You are the great I AM. You spoke and creation appeared. You are always present and always willing to help. Please give me all I need to keep moving forward in faith . . . to keep walking, to run when I can, and sometimes even soar above it all. By Your grace, help me encourage others with the encouragement You give me . . . that the world may know the blessing of Your love.

When you go through deep waters,
    I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
    you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
    you will not be burned up;
    the flames will not consume you.
For I am the Lord, your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Isaiah 43:2–3a

Father, I can be guilty of trying to live my life relying on my own strength and that always leads to fear and being overwhelmed by my circumstances. But when I cling to You, when I remember that You are the Lord, my God and my Savior . . . I have everything I need.

When You are with me I am able to go “through” life’s troubles. Deep waters will not overcome and oppression will not consume me. Please forgive me. “Lord, I do believe. Help me overcome my unbelief.” (Mark 9:24) In Jesus name, I pray.

Prayers based on Bible verses for anyone who is worn out and frustrated. Anyone who feels they need to be encouraged and given hope. #Blessings #Prayer #Hope #Faith #NeedEncouragement #InspiringQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

The faithful love of the Lord never ends!
    His mercies never cease.
Great is His faithfulness;
    His mercies begin afresh each morning.
I say to myself, “The Lord is my inheritance;
    therefore, I will hope in Him!”

Lamentations 3:22–24

Father, please help me pause and simply rest in Your unending unfailing mercy and love. Your Word says, “God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son.” (John 3:16 NCV) Jesus, the living testimony of Your grace, mercy, and love.

Your mercy is greater than my sin. You allow us to live the consequences of our sin but You promise to forgive and give restoration and healing. We need You! We need Your healing touch that leads to renewal.

You said, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, if they will pray and seek me and stop their evil ways, I will hear them from heaven. I will forgive their sin, and I will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NCV) Please forgive us, help, and heal us as we place our hope in You.

For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.

2 Corinthians 4:17–18

Yes, Father, our present troubles are temporary. That Apostle Paul knew troubles. He experienced being whipped, stoned, time imprisoned, and so much more, and yet he could focus on the good that You produced in him and You walked through each trouble with him.

By Your grace, help me fix my hopes and dreams on You . . . on who You are and all You have done and continue to do. This will pass. But Your love and the beautiful future “You have prepared for those who love You.” (1 Corinthians 2:9)

I love You, Lord. I surrender my life to You. By Your grace, please encourage me and help me live each day with strength and power for Your glory. I thank and praise You. Amen.

If you need to be encouraged, check out the following quote…

 “Snuggle in God’s arms. When you are hurting, when you feel lonely, left out. let Him cradle you, comfort you, reassure you of His all-sufficient power and love.”

~ Kay Arthur

If you feel like this season is draining your of your strength and joy. If you feel like you need to be encouraged . . . snuggle into God’s arms today. Trust that He is with you and that He will faithfully keep His promises to “be with you” (Matthew 28:20) and “give you everything you need.” (Luke 12:31)

May God bless you and give you the courage you need to live for Him today.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Powerful Verses to Pray When You are in a Battle with Addiction

Too many lives are being destroyed by the overwhelming power of addiction. Too many families are suffering in their battle with addiction. Join us in prayer. #addiction #Recovery #codependency #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Too many lives are being destroyed by the overwhelming power of addiction.

Too many families are suffering because of the pain caused by addiction.

Addiction is defined as a persistent, compulsive dependence on a behavior or substance.

Researchers speak of two different types of addictions: 

  • substance addictions (for example, alcoholism, drug abuse, and smoking);
  • process addictions (for example, gambling, spending, shopping eating, and sexual activity).

And an Addiction Diagnosis is based on 5 criteria:

          1. loss of willpower
          2. harmful consequences
          3. unmanageable lifestyle
          4. tolerance or escalation of use
          5. withdrawal symptoms upon quitting (Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine)

Based on that definition, I believe every family is or has been touched by addiction in some way. Everyone knows someone whose life is being controlled by its addiction’s power.

Here are a few quick facts about Addiction in America from June of this year:

  • Almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction, yet only 10% of them receive treatment.
  • Drug overdose deaths have more than tripled since 1990.
  • From 1999 to 2017, more than 700,000 Americans died from overdosing on a drug.
  • Alcohol and drug addiction cost the U.S. economy over $600 billion every year.
  • In 2017, 34.2 million Americans committed DUI, 21.4 million under the influence of alcohol and 12.8 million under the influence of drugs.
  • About 20% of Americans who have depression or an anxiety disorder also have a substance use disorder.
  • More than 90% of people who have an addiction started to drink alcohol or use drugs before they were 18 years old.
  • Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 are most likely to use addictive drugs.
    Addiction Center (for more statistics, information, and help)

But although the power of addiction is great, there is a greater power … Jesus is the Power who has overcome this world’s evil. And He has invited us to come to Him in prayer with every need. Even those needs that crush our spirits and seem to be overwhelming and impossible.

So… let’s take Him at His word and go to Him on behalf of ourselves and our loved ones—those who are a battle with addiction.

Pray When You are in a Battle with Addiction

Too many lives are being destroyed by the overwhelming power of addiction. Too many families are suffering in their battle with addiction. Join us in prayer. #addiction #Recovery #codependency #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Be strong and courageous.
Do not be afraid or terrified because of them,
for the LORD your God goes with you;
He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:6
A Prayer for the Person in a Battle with Addiction

Lord, I am weak and afraid. Temptation taunts and tempts me. Some days the battle feels too great. But Jesus … I believe You are with me. You do not leave me to fight hard battles alone. You promise to to be with me and give me courage and strength when I have none of my own. You are close enough to hear my cries and hold me close. I believe that with Your help, I can be strong and courageous. I need You. Please help me Amen.

A Prayer for a Loved One in a Battle with Addiction

Lord, My loved one is hurting and fighting a terrible battle. I see them feeling helpless and alone. But Jesus … I know You are with __________. Please help them know and feel Your loving presence. Give them courage and strength. Please hold them close when they cry out to You and give them everything they need to fight this dependence. Give them victory and restore them to health. Amen.

But if we confess our sins to Him,
He is faithful and just to forgive our
sins and cleanse us from all wickedness.

1 John 1:9
A Prayer for the Person in a Battle with Addiction

Lord, I struggle with so much guilt and shame. The enemy continuously taunts me with my past failures. But Your Word says You are faithful. Faithful! That means always. Every time. You promise to forgive me every time I come to You in repentance. So once again, I ask You to wash me clean. Heal me by Your grace and mercy. I am so sorry. Forgive me. In Jesus name. Amen.

A Prayer for a Loved One in a Battle with Addiction

Lord God, I see __________ struggling to be free of the past. They continue to carry the guilt of past pain and failures and it hurts me to see them in so much pain. Your Word promises that when we ask You to forgive us . . . You do! Please help __________ come to You for forgiveness. Help him/her trust Your healing mercy and grace. Help them know the joy of being washed clean through Jesus.  Amen.

Therefore if anyone is in Christ,
He is a new creature;
the old things passed away;
behold, new things have come.

2 Corinthians 5:17
A Prayer for the Person in a Battle with Addiction

Jesus, You can make all things new … even me. You can restore me. I’ve made a mess of things but You suffered and died to redeem me from my mess and give me a future filled with hope. With Your help, I can have a fresh start. I can rise above the pain and misery of my past, and live with joy. Thank you, Lord. Amen.

A Prayer for a Loved One in a Battle with Addiction

Lord, I know You love _____________ even more than I do. I believe You are able to transform him/her. Please turn them around and place them on a new path. Help me trust that You are at work in my loved one’s life. Keep me from interfering and each time I start to worry, help me to return to You in prayer. Amen.

But seek first the kingdom of God
and His righteousness, and
all these things will be added to you.

Matthew 6:33
A Prayer for the Person in a Battle with Addiction

Lord God, my addiction is powerful but I believe You are more powerful. So, I ask You to help me seek You first. Please help me turn to You when I need strength. Please help me surrender my all to You, trusting that You are able to make me righteous … to take my sinfulness and make me blameless. You are able to give me everything I need. Thank you for this beautiful promise of hope. I am humbled and so very thankful. Amen.

A Prayer for a Loved One in a Battle with Addiction

Jesus, please help my loved one to seek You. You alone are able to meet their needs. I pray that ___________ will begin to know how much You love him/her. Please surround them with people who will point them to You. Unsettle them, Lord, until they turn to You in humble surrender. Please help them fight and with this battle with addiciont. By Your grace and for Your glory. Amen.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make straight your paths.

Proverbs 3:5–6
A Prayer for the Person in a Battle with Addiction

Lord, I surrender my heart, my addiction, my all to You. I trust that You are able to guide me today and every day in the future. You are my Healer and my Redeemer. You are my future hope and happiness. Thank you, for Your grace, mercy, and love. I trust You with all my heart. Help me stay strong as I live each day humbly dependent on You. Amen.

A Prayer for a Loved One in a Battle with Addiction

Lord Jesus, please make __________’s path straight. Help him/her find in You the recovery they so desperately need. I believe You are greater than their circumstances. I believe You are able to do the impossible. You are the God of miracles and we need a miracle. Please help __________. Please help us all. Through Your power to heal, please deliver and transform . . . that we might lift Your name in praise and live for the glory of Your name. Amen.

Too many lives are being destroyed by the overwhelming power of addiction. Too many families are suffering in their battle with addiction. Join us in prayer. #addiction #Recovery #codependency #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG

Friends the battle with addiction is real and painful for everyone it touches. I am praying for every one of you touched by the feelings of helplessness and fear brought on by its influence.

Remember all of Jesus’ miracles. Remember the times He delivered people who came to Him. Remember His promise that with God “all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)

You are not alone in this battle with addiction. The Lord is with you and loves you.

Today, I am asking the Lord bless and comfort you. I am asking Him to hold you close and lift you and your loved ones up with His healing love as you go through this difficult time.

God bless you!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Pray When You Need to Get Out of the Pit

When you find yourself overwhelmed and you need to get out of the pit of despair, it's time to pray, wait, look up, and trust God to give you what you need. #Psalms #Prayer #Depression #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

Have you ever found yourself deep in a pit of despair?

Yeah, me too.

Maybe you’re there now.

And the truth is, it stinks.

One of the worst parts is that when you and I find ourselves in that dank dark place with our feet stuck in the muck, it’s really hard to see our way out.

That’s the reason Psalm 40 is one of my favorites.

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. v. 1–3

Okay, maybe, like me, you don’t necessarily wait patiently. Patient is not typically how I feel when I’m in a pit but stop with me for a minute and look at David’s next words…

He turned to me and heard my cry.

And in Psalm 56, David wrote…

You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in Your bottle. You have recorded each one in Your book. v. 8

The Lord does not just gaze down at our pit dwelling. He is not simply an observer of our pain. Like a loving parent, He cares and He lifts.

Our Heavenly Father reaches down into our pits, takes us by the hand, and lifts us up and out. That’s mercy, grace, and love.

David said he did the waiting and God did the lifting.

Out of the mud and mire to solid ground. showing him the way to go and giving him a song to sing. And He does it all for our good and His glory.

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

And…

For everything comes from him and exists by His power and is intended for His glory. All glory to him forever! Amen.

Romans 11:36

So, I’m praying verses from Psalm 40 today. I’m asking God to lift us out of the mud and mire, plant our feet our the solid foundation of faith, and show us the way to go. I’d love for you to join me.

Pray Psalm 40 When You Need to Get Out of the Pit

When you find yourself overwhelmed and you need to get out of the pit of despair, it's time to pray, wait, look up, and trust God to give you what you need. #Psalms #Prayer #Depression #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

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.

v. 1-2a

Father, waiting patiently is hard . . . it’s especially hard to wait when I’m overwhelmed with despair. Yet, as I pause, I realize that I am never alone. You are always with me. You heard the cries of my heart and reached down in love.

That’s when your love became the thing that overwhelmed me. You, my “Abba, Father” reached down into the pit and lifted me out. That is Your love for your children. Whether it is a pit of our own making, one made by someone else, or one caused by the pain and problems of this world, Your love is greater than our circumstances. Your love is greater than anything the enemy uses to try to defeat us. Your grace and mercy lift us up.

Jesus lifts us up and sets us free. Jesus lifts me up and sets me free.

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.

v. 2b–3

Thank you, Jesus. You are our firm foundation. Thank you for being the same yesterday, today, and forever. Your unchanging truth is solid ground.

Your Word guides and directs our steps and Your Spirit gives us the wisdom and understanding we need to move forward in faith. Please give me everything I need to follow where You lead. Keep me on the path You have prepared for me and help me focus my heart and mind on You that I might know and do Your will as You reveal it to me each day.

Lord, I worship You! I praise You! I lift up the name of Jesus, praying that the world might know and trust Your love.

O Lord my God, You have performed
many wonders for us.
    Your plans for us are too numerous to list.
    You have no equal.
If I tried to recite all Your wonderful deeds,
    I would never come to the end of them.

v. 5

Father, Your miraculous wonders surround us. Your plans for Your children are immeasurable. Please don’t let me miss what You want for me because I am stuck in the muck of my pit . . . focused on my own wants, needs, and circumstances.

Please help me repeat again and again the accounts of all Your wonderful acts of love. May I read and reread Your Word to be reminded of Your faithful goodness to Your children. May I keep a list of all the ways You have cared for me and helped me in the past. May I faithfully thank you for Your grace, mercy, and love shown to me through Your Son, Jesus. May I have everything I need to love and trust You through the gift of Your Holy Spirit. And may I thank and praise You every day for Your promises and the hope and confidence that You will give me everything I need to live this day and every day throughout eternity.

Lord, don’t hold back your tender
mercies from me.
    Let Your unfailing love and
faithfulness always protect me.
For troubles surround me—
    too many to count!
My sins pile up so high
    I can’t see my way out.
They outnumber the hairs on my head.
    I have lost all courage.
Please, Lord, rescue me!
    Come quickly, Lord, and help me.

v. 11–13

Father, I know we will still have troubles. Sometimes my troubles may seem overwhelming and sometimes they may even knock me back into my pit. But whatever my situation, please surround me with Your unfailing love. Forgive me when the muck is of my own making. Help me forgive others when they try to put me in a pit. Help me when my courage and hope waver.

Help me look up! Help me see Your hand reaching down to lift me up. Come quickly, Lord, when I need You. This world can be hard sometimes but You have already won the victory. Through Your grace, I have everything I need.

But may all who search for You
    be filled with joy and gladness in you.
May those who love your salvation
    repeatedly shout, “The Lord is great!”

v. 16

Father, fill us with joy and gladness. So much so, that everyone we meet will want to know the reason for our peace and contentment. I pray to be so full of joy that people will want what You have given to me.

And then, I will enthusiastically repeat, “The Lord is great!”

You are so good and gracious. Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Because of Your love and Your grace, I am able to live outside of the pit with my feet on the firm foundation of faith trusting that You will guide me and help me as I place my trust in You. Thank you, Father. Amen.

When you find yourself overwhelmed and you need to get out of the pit of despair, it's time to pray, wait, look up, and trust God to give you what you need. #Psalms #Prayer #Depression #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

When You Need to Get Out of the Pit

Friend, the reality is . . . life can be hard and you and I might slip and fall into another pit. If I’m really being open here, I have to admit that I occasionally slip back into a familiar well-known pit of pain and sadness.

But by God’s grace, that’s when I go back David’s words in Psalm 40 . . . to that place of looking up and waiting with anticipation.

A place of trusting that the Lord will lift me out of my pit one more time, planting my feet on the firm foundation of faith in Christ Jesus, guiding my steps along His path for me, and restoring my joy with hope and promise.

And that’s why we tell our stories again and again.

 So…

Many will see what He has done and be amazed.
    They will put their trust in the Lord.

Psalm 40:3

I’m so glad you joined me today. If you’re stuck and ready to get out of a pit, look up . . . the Lord will lift you up and show you the way to go so you can tell the wonderful things He does and encourage other pit dwellers to wait, look up, and put their trust in the One who is worthy of all worship and praise!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Helpful Verses to Pray When It’s Hard to Be Strong

Some days it's just hard to be strong. Those are the days we need to pray and ask the One who promises that through Christ, we can have the strength we need. #Prayer #BibleVerses #BeStronger #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

Occasionally, I have a day when I wake up and I feel strong enough to handle whatever the day throws at me. But then there are the other days when I open my eyes and I’m not sure I have what it takes just to get out of bed.

I’m guessing I’m not alone…

Sometimes pain and/or illness cause physical limitations that sap my strength. Often . . . it’s some life problem that is emotionally draining that leaves me feeling fragile and inadequate.

And sometimes it’s the thought of dealing with a difficult relationship that leaves me wanting to pull the covers over my head and hide.

What depletes your strength most often?

In more recent years, I’ve realized that the mornings when I can’t muster the strength to face what lies ahead, are the ones when I’ve forgotten important truths from God’s Word…

Have you never heard?
Have you never understood?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
the Creator of all the earth.
He never grows weak or weary.
No one can measure the depths of
His understanding.
He gives power to the weak
and strength to the powerless.

Isaiah 40:28–29

And…

I can do everything through Christ, 
who gives me strength. 

Philippians 4:13

So, I’m taking all my “I don’t want to face the day” feelings to the Lord in prayer asking Him to help me be strong and I’d love for you to join me.

Helpful Verses to Pray When It’s Hard to Be Strong

Some days it's just hard to be strong. Those are the days we need to pray and ask the One who promises that through Christ, we can have the strength we need. #Prayer #BibleVerses #BeStronger #CountingMyBlessings

God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.

Psalm 46:1

Father, You are my hiding place, and today, if it were up to me . . . I’d stay hidden here in my room. The pain, the problems, the heaviness—it all feels like too much.

But then I hear You whisper that You are with me. You gently remind me that You love me and care about every detail in my life. Nothing I face is a surprise to You. Thank you for Your Spirit’s gentle nudge that reminds me I can always come to You when I need strength and help. Thank you!

Please forgive me for the times I jump out of bed foolishly believing I can manage the day ahead on my own. I’m sorry. Thank you for always being ready to help. Thank you for giving me another day. I surrender myself to You. Please go with me and help me, Father. Please give me the strength I need to love well and live for Your glory.

Isaiah 12:2

Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation.

Isaiah 12:2 (NIV)

Father, Savior, I want Isaiah’s words to be true in my life. I want to be able to proclaim every single day, “I will trust and not be afraid.” But, I falter. I want to be confident and unafraid every day but I still have days when I’m weak and tired and yes, even a little afraid. Please help me.

Just a few sentences later, Isaiah wrote –   “Thank the Lord! Praise His name!
Tell the nations what He has done. Let them know how mighty He is! Sing to the Lord, for he has done wonderful things. Make known his praise around the world. (v. 4–5)

I will pause to remember all You have done for me. You are my Savior. You are all I need. You have blessed me and lovingly given me the courage I needed in the past. The times You’ve helped me be strong. So, I surrender this day to You, trusting You to go before me and stand beside me to make me strong one moment at a time.

My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth!

The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.

Psalm 121:2, 8

 Father, You are our Creator. You keep watch over all You have made and You watch over me. You are my helper. You lift my head giving me courage and strength when I’m weak and overwhelmed.

I believe there is no problem that is too great for You to intervene and none so small that You do not care. You are loving, compassionate, and kind. I need You, Lord. Please help me. Remind me throughout the day to come to You whenever I feel overwhelmed and apprehensive.

You are the LORD – the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) You call me Your own child. (Romans 8:15) You give me a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

I believe You will give me the strength I need to live one moment at a time and that is all the strength I need.

In His kindness, God called you to share in His eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support, and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation. All power to Him forever! Amen.

1 Peter 5:10–11

Father, Jesus said that in this world we will have trouble. (John 16:33) Trouble shouldn’t surprise us. Yet, it still doesn’t make it easy.

Suffering is hard. I’d love to avoid it altogether.

But Father, I believe You are able to and will give me the strength I need to live today whatever You allow. I believe You are with me. I also believe that the troubles I endure here are temporary . . . You are preparing a place for me in Your presence. A place where Your glory shines forever and ever. Thank you for restoring, supporting, and strengthening me to live with courage and without fear. Your strength and power are my firm foundation.

[The Lord, my Shepherd] renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to His name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me.

Psalm 23:3–4

Father, You are the One who renews my strength. You are the One who guides me according to Your will . . . may I be willing to trust, follow, and obey You in all things. Even when life is overwhelming, when I’m afraid and it’s hard to find the strength I need, You are with me. And when I focus on You . . . when I center my heart and mind on Your presence, I am not afraid.

Lord, My heart’s desire is to live for Your glory. I want people to see Your love in me but on my own, I’m not strong enough . . . I fail miserably. I need You. Please strengthen me. Lead me. And help me follow Your will that I might glorify and honor You with courage and strength. Amen.

Some days it's just hard to be strong. Those are the days we need to pray and ask the One who promises that through Christ, we can have the strength we need. #Prayer #BibleVerses #BeStronger #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

With God’s Help You Can Be Strong

Friends, It’s time to throw those covers back and get out of bed. I believe that with God’s help you and I can be strong enough to handle whatever this day throws our way.

And tomorrow, well, God will give us enough to do that day as well. We can count on Him for the one after that and next one and the next and so on and so on.

His grace is sufficient! So, stop with me today and memorize Philippians 4:13…

I can do all things through Christ
who gives me strength!

I’m asking God to bless you with all the strength you need today!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

5 More Verses to Pray When You Need God to Do the Impossible

Bible Verses to pray when problems are overwhelming. I’m not only asking God to do the impossible … I’m believing that He CAN DO the IMPOSSIBLE! #Prayer #Faith #WarRoom #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #BlessingBloggers #WWGGG

The #1 post here at Counting My Blessings by far is – 5 Verses to Pray When You Need God to Do the Impossible.

The truth is people are facing seemingly impossible circumstances every day. Here are just some of the comments I’ve received on that post from the past year…

♥ My dear cousin passed away just 5 days ago due to Covid19. Now, both my nephew and I have the symptoms.

♥ My husband needs healing for his kidney (waiting for a donor), needs healing for his pancreas, and heart( had open heart surgery) our marriage is not in the best shape, we lost our home.

♥ I have been harassed and persecuted on my job.

♥ My family is in the dark pit of poverty.

♥ I need God to heal me emotionally. 

♥ I’m in a horribly abusive situation. 

♥ I had a brain aneurysm and I can’t stop worrying about my health.

♥ I have stage 4 cancer that has no cure. 

♥ My daughter longs for a child. 

♥ My friend has experienced a difficult life with mental health, alcoholism and drug issues.

♥ My child has a Major Depressive Disorder and Generalised Anxiety Disorder. 

You may be someone who is hurting and looking straight at some situation that feels more than impossible. You don’t know what to do or where to turn.

You’ve cried until your tears have dried up and prayed until you’ve run out of words. You need help.

I wrote something in that first “impossible” post a year and a half ago that I still believe as I pray for the “impossible” today…

I’m not only asking God to do the impossible … I’m believing that He CAN DO the IMPOSSIBLE! Even though I’ve asked Him [to do the impossible] a thousand times before, I’m confident He will hear my prayer and respond in love!

So, I’m going to God’s Word and turning to Him in prayer and I’d love for you to join me. Because there is no better place in the world to take our impossible circumstances than the throne room of the God who is victorious, sovereign, and love . . . the One for whom all things are possible.

Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.”

Mark 10:27

5 More Verses to Pray When You Need God to Do the Impossible

Bible Verses to pray when problems are overwhelming. I’m not only asking God to do the impossible … I’m believing that He CAN DO the IMPOSSIBLE! #Prayer #Faith #WarRoom #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #BlessingBloggers #WWGGG

Every word of God proves true. He is a shield to all who come to Him for protection.

Proverbs 30:5

Father, when I read these words, I feel like the father who honestly said to Jesus, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24) I believe Your promises. I believe You are able to do the impossible. I believe You are overflowing with grace, mercy, and love. I believe You are full of compassion and that You are my the One who is my shield and protection.

I need You. What I am facing today is harder than it feels like I can endure. My heart and my head hurt. My emotions are overloaded and I’m tired. I come to You with all the faith I have, to ask You please help me.

Lord, I place my hope in You.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; He will neither fail you nor abandon you.”

Deuteronomy 31:8

Father, thank you for Your promise to be with me. Please make me ever aware of Your presence. You said to Joshua, “I will be with you . . . I will not fail you or abandon you.” (Joshua 1:5) And I believe that it is a promise You make to Your children who love and trust You.

Honestly, I am afraid and discouraged. This “impossible” situation feels like too much to endure. I need to remember that You are going before me. I need to know You are always with me in every high and every low. I need to believe that You will not fail me.

You have given me everything I need. Through Jesus, You have already won the victory over sin, death, and the power of the devil. Through Your Spirit, You give me faith, hope, and love. By Your grace, I will proclaim with David, “I will be glad and rejoice in your unfailing love, for you have seen my troubles, and you care about the anguish of my soul.” (Psalm 31:7)

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:1

Father, You spoke and the universe was formed. You spoke and life began. By Your design, You made substance and beauty with order and perfection. You are God Almighty! You are Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. You made all things and maintain all things.

Nothing is too big for you to accomplish and nothing is too small for you to care. Please be with me through this seemingly impossible situation. I’m frightened about the future . . . be my peace. I’m in pain . . . be my strength. I’m frustrated and angry . . . be my comfort. You know what I need. I will place my hope in You because when You speak, Your will is accomplished.

“Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you.
    I have called you by name; you are mine.
When you go through deep waters,
    I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty,
    you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression,
    you will not be burned up;
    the flames will not consume you.
For I am the Lord, your God,
    the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

Isaiah 43:1b–3a

Father, I know you spoke these words for the Children of Israel; yet, I have experienced their truth in my life as well. You have made me Your own through Jesus’ sacrifice and the power of the Holy Spirit who gives me all I need to love and trust You.

You are always with me, no matter what I am going through. You hold me as I go through deep waters giving me the strength I need to keep going. You protect me, heart and soul, when I am overwhelmed with life’s burdens. You are my Lord and Savior.

Father, I need You! This struggle I’m facing feels impossible. Sometimes it feels like I’m drowning in this painful situation. Please help me! I believe you are able to do the impossible. I believe You always do what is best. I trust Your will and humbly pray . . . “as you wish.”

No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:39

Father, Please help me turn my focus from my current problems to Your perfect unfailing lasting love. Nothing can remove me from Your love . . . not even this thing that feels impossible. I am forever and always secure in Your care. Whatever You allow . . . You promise to give me everything I need (Luke 12:31), to never leave me or forsake me (John 14:16), and to give me the strength I need in all circumstances (Philippians 4:13).

Thank you, Lord! I love You. I trust Your will. Please help me by Your grace, that my life might give You glory. Amen.

Bible Verses to pray when problems are overwhelming. I’m not only asking God to do the impossible … I’m believing that He CAN DO the IMPOSSIBLE! #Prayer #Faith #WarRoom #BibleQuotes #CountingMyBlessings #BlessingBloggers #WWGGG

Friend, I am sorry you are facing the “impossible.”

Please know, I’ve been there. In fact, even now I have prayers that can seem “impossible” because I have prayed them for so very long. But there is something I know for sure . . . part of God doing the “impossible” is the work He has done in my heart and mind, the way He has changed me even though He hasn’t chosen to change my circumstances so I continue to pray the following two verses.

Remember the things I have done in the past. For I alone am God! I am God, and there is none like me.

Isaiah 46:9

And…

“I know that You can do anything,
    and no one can stop you.

I had only heard about You before,
    but now I have seen You with my own eyes.

Job 42:2,5

I’m praying for you today and asking God to give you everything you need that you might know His loving presence and see Him with your own eyes. God bless you!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Helpful Verses to Pray When You are Frustrated and Angry

Being frustrated and angry seems to be the theme of the day. How you and I act on our frustrations and anger needs God's help, wisdom, and prayer. #Anger #Frustration #Prayer #BibleStudy #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

Do you ever feel like the world is drowning in frustration and anger?

Just turn on the news or spend a little time on social media and you’d start to believe that frustrated and angry appears to be the mood of the day.

Add to that moms and dads being confined at home with their restless children of all ages and … well, need I say more. The truth is feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and frustration are flooding over many of us.

Psychologists will tell you that fear and anxiety often express themselves as anger. So, I guess we really shouldn’t be surprised that we’re seeing a more open expression as people vent their frustration and discontent.

And of course…

We all want to justify our anger. Everyone wants to believe their anger is “righteous.” It makes us feel better to use the verses that talk about times Jesus expressed anger to justify our own emotional rants.

But I wonder how often I label my anger as “righteous” when it’s really “self-righteous?” I wonder how often I’m outraged because things aren’t going the way I believe they should or because I believe a worldly lie that has nothing at all to do with “righteousness.”

God created us with emotions and anger is one of them. This side of heaven there will always be times when you and I get frustrated and angry. It’s a given! As we said, even Jesus got angry at moments.

But…

Jesus was able to be angry without sinning. He had perfect discernment to know people’s hearts and minds, motives and attitudes. We don’t! So, we need to take a careful look at what God’s Word says to know how He wants us to react when our negative emotions begin to boil over.

Because . . . it’s okay to be angry but it’s not okay to impulsively act on our anger.

I’m going to God’s Word and prayer today . . . asking for His help to know, trust, and obey His will when it comes to handling my frustration and anger.

Verses to Pray When You Are Frustrated and Angry

Being frustrated and angry seems to be the theme of the day. How you and I act on our frustrations and anger needs God's help, wisdom, and prayer. #Anger #Frustration #Prayer #BibleStudy #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

You are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them.

Nehemiah 9:17

Father, Your Word says “everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard.” (Romans 3:23) It says that sin angers You. (Romans 6:23) Yet, it also tells us You are full of love, grace, and mercy. (2 John 1:3) And that because of Your love, grace, and mercy, Jesus suffered our punishment for us.

You faithfully show us Your patience and unfailing love. You are a God of forgiveness. You did not abandon Your people long ago and You will not abandon Your children today. Thank you for showing us the way to be angry without sinning. Thank you for Your overwhelming life-changing love.

Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent.

Psalm 4:4

Father, You understand anger. I believe You gave us our emotions and I believe You want me to be angry about evil, injustice, and sin but You don’t want me to sin when I’m angry.

May I follow Your example and let love be the force that guides me. Please forgive me for the times I’ve hurt someone through angry words or actions. And by the power of Your Spirit, grant me the gift of patience that I might come to You in prayer when I’m angry asking for Your guidance that I might know how to address the issue in love without adding to the problem in frustration. Help me, Lord. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. 

Proverbs 15:1

Father, give me a gentle answer that comes from a tender heart when frustration overwhelms me and my mind fills with the unkind words I’d like to speak. Please help me remember to put relationships ahead of self-righteousness. Help me respond gently and forgive quickly. Help me love like Jesus. Amen.

And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil.

Ephesians 4:26

Father, I’ll admit, it’s hard to remember that I don’t always have to allow my emotions to control me. Feelings are a gift from You and many of them help me enjoy life’s experiences. Things like love, happiness, enthusiasm, and hope. But negative emotions like fear, hate, grief, and anger are also part of this life . . . feelings introduced when sin entered the world.

Satan still tempts us with doubt. Overwhelms us with frustration. And incites us with anger. Please forgive my failures and weakness, and help me stand against the enemy by overcoming anger with love.

On my own, I can’t do this, but with You, I can do everything . . . even let go of anger. (Philippians 4:13)

Being frustrated and angry seems to be the theme of the day. How you and I act on our frustrations and anger needs God's help, wisdom, and prayer. #Anger #Frustration #Prayer #BibleStudy #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.

James 1:19–21

Father, I’m sorry. Make me quick to listen and slow to speak. Too often I do exactly the opposite. Please slow me down when anger starts to rise in me. Lord, I surrender my emotions to You, please help me. Fill my heart and mind with Your truth. Defeat the enemy’s efforts to distort Your Word and divide Your children. Teach us, Lord, by the power of Your Spirit. Help me stand on the power of Your Word when he tempts me with lies, pride, and self-righteousness.

Please keep me focused on You, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You alone are my hope and my salvation. I surrender this day to You. With your help, I believe I can control my anger in ways that shine the light of Your love and give You glory. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Oh, friends, it’s hard, isn’t it?!

I don’t want to stop and think when I’m frustrated. I don’t want to pause for prayer when I’m angry.

I want to vent my “truth” and let everyone know exactly how they’ve upset and offended me.

But then I read…

Patience is better than pride. Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.

Ecclesiastes 7:8b–9

Ouch!

I don’t want to wear the “fool” label. And I’m guessing you don’t want to wear it either.

And we don’t have to . . . with God’s help, we can be frustrated and angry without sinning.

Because we have the Spirit living with and within us. We have God’s love to guide us. And we have His example to follow…

For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ, not to pour out His anger on us. So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:9,11

Are you ready to build someone up with God’s love for God’s glory even when you’re frustrated and angry? I know it won’t be easy but I believe with God’s help, I believe we can do all things . . . even this.

And just for fun, in the comments answer the following question:

What do you do to avoid foolish temper flares?

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

5 Promises to Pray That Will Help When You are Grieving

It's hard to find the words to pray when you are grieving. We tend to cry "why" through exhausted tears and pain. But God gave His promises to pray. #Grief #VersestoPray #PromisesofGod #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

It seems like everywhere I look, friends and family . . . even complete strangers are overwhelmed by grief.

Covid and chaos have caused us to lose loved ones, jobs, and financial security. Isolation and emotional stress has broken relationships, worsened depression, and increased substance abuse.

The list of reasons people are grieving is growing by the day.

If you are grieving, you may be able to share your loss publicly making it possible for you to receive prayer and encouragement from the people around you.

But there are others who…

Are carrying around a personal private pain they’re unable to talk about . . . grief they don’t feel they can share.

Maybe you are one of those people. Maybe your heart is breaking and a small part of you is wondering “why” God would allow this horrible pain to touch your life.

Or maybe you know someone in that situation and you’re desperately trying to find a way to help them.

David wrote:

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; He rescues those whose spirits are crushed.

Psalm 34:18

I have to admit, although I’ve known this verse since I was a child, I didn’t always rely on it as TRUTH. Because doubt and uncertainty caused me to believe there were things that could break my heart and crush me beyond the point of rescue.

But God allowed me to experience a grief that put David’s words to the test in my life. I was crushed and alone . . . I imagine most people who experience grief feel they have to go through it alone. Grief is personal and comes with its own individualized timetable.

But our Heavenly Father is personal and individual too. He meets us in our unique circumstances and He met me in my grief.

How?

Through His Word and prayer.

As I spent time in His Word and turned to Him in surrendered prayer . . . I slowly began to heal and my trust in the Lord’s faithfulness to keep His promises grew as well.

Today, I’m sharing some of the verses and prayers God used to help me heal when I was grieving. Promises that held me through tears and reminded me of His sufficient grace, mercy, and love . . . promises that gave me hope for the future.

I’d love for you to join me. You can pray these prayers for yourself or place the name of someone you love and care for in the blanks as you pray with me.

Promises to Pray That Will Help When You are Grieving

It's hard to find the words to pray when you are grieving. We tend to cry "why" through exhausted tears and pain. But God gave His promises to pray. #Grief #VersestoPray #PromisesofGod #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

He heals the brokenhearted and
bandages their wounds.

How great is our Lord! His power is absolute!
His understanding is beyond comprehension!

Psalm 147:3,5

Father, when my heart is broken, I trust You to be my Healer. I believe You will give me (my loved one) everything I need one day at a time.

I really hate this situation and I believe You hate it too. Pain was not Your will for Your children . . . we are sinful people in a sinful world. Thank you for Your love for us and for being great in power and understanding. Thank you for sending Jesus to give us a relationship that supplies us with everything we need to heal. I surrender my grief (__________’s grief) to You. Please help me to focus on You as You provide for us throughout this day.

He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on Him and looked the other way.
    He was despised, and we did not care.
Yet it was our weaknesses He carried;
    it was our sorrows that weighed Him down.

Isaiah 53:3–4a

Jesus, You experienced grief. You wept over the death of Your friend and in anticipation of Your own suffering and death . . . even though You knew (You know) that death is not the end for those who place their trust in You.

Thank you for carrying our weaknesses, failures, and sins to the cross. Thank you for experiencing pain and sorrow. You “understand our weaknesses. [You] were tempted in every way that we are, but [You] did not sin.” (Hebrews 4:15)

Jesus, please walk with me (__________) through this grief and increase my faith as I place my hope in You.

Morning, noon, and night I cry out in my distress, and the Lord hears my voice.

Give your burdens to the Lord, and He will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.

Psalm 55:17,22
It's hard to find the words to pray when you are grieving. We tend to cry "why" through exhausted tears and pain. But God gave His promises to pray. #Grief #VersestoPray #PromisesofGod #CountingMyBlessings #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers

Father, thank you for listening to my prayers. You know my voice and even when I can’t put my prayers into words, You hear the cries of my heart. So, I bring You this burden. I lay this grief at Your feet trusting that You will hold me (__________). I believe You will keep me from slipping and falling into doubt and fear. Please fill me (__________) with Your Spirit and grant me (__________) Your peace.

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.”

Revelations 21:4

Father, I love this promise of hope for the future. No more death or sorrow or crying or pain. That is the future You promise Your children. No more tears of grief or brokenness.

You are making everything new. (Revelation 21:5) And You promise these words are true and trustworthy. With Your help, I hold Your Word close to my heart. You, Lord, are the One who fills my future with hope and promise. Thanks and praise.

 I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love.

Romans 8:38

Oh, Father, how I love this promise. Nothing can separate Your children from Your perfect unfailing love. Not death or pain, problems or failures, fear, worry, or heartbreaking grief. Not even the enemy himself can remove us from Your loving care and compassion.

Thank you! I surrender this grief to You. The life, death, and resurrection of Your Son, Jesus, is the proof of Your unconquerable love. You surround us with a love so great it calms our fear, dries our tears, and assures our future.

Thank you, Father! You promise me a future filled with hope. (Jeremiah 29:11) You are the source of my hope for the future . . . for healing from grief and pain because Your Word promises “Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)

I come to You, in Jesus’ name and I ask that You might answer my prayer that I might live each day for Your glory. Amen.

Thank you so much for praying with me. I am asking the Lord to be with you when you are grieving and give you everything you need. I have experienced His healing grace and pray that He will allow you to heal and be blessed with His perfect peace and joy.

God bless you!

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

How to Love Your Enemy When You Don’t Want To

Jesus said, "Love your enemy." It feels impossible and honestly, it is. But there are things you can do to help you do even the impossible. #Forgiveness #BibleStudy #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

On the list of things most of us wish Jesus hadn’t said … this would be at the top!

But it’s right there in Matthew…

“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’ and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you!”

Matthew 5:43–44

Love your enemies!

Really?!

Love?!

Forgive … maybe. Tolerate … possibly. But love.

Love seems unimaginable. Love feels impossible.

You pictured someone, didn’t you? A face or name popped into your mind. That person or persons who betrayed you, who intentionally made a decision that changed your life, who went out of their way to make your life miserable. Or maybe it’s someone who still deliberately gets under your skin every . . . single . . . day.

And Jesus said to love them! Did He really mean love?

Yes!

It’s important to remember that we tend to think of love as a warm fuzzy feeling. We picture romantic love or friendship love. But Jesus wasn’t talking feelings here, He was telling people to DO love.

Agape love … God’s unconditional kind of love. It is acting with love no matter how we feel. Love that cares about the welfare of others intentionally wanting what is best for them and purposefully doing it!

How does this kind of love look?

It’s remembering that…

  • When you want to get even. You don’t.
  • When you want to complain to your friends. You don’t.
  • When you want to get ugly angry and tell them off. You don’t.
  • When you want to write them off. You don’t.

I don’t now about you, but those things can rise up fast in me when I’m hurt. I know I need help. And the only things that help me love … NO, the only things that make it possible for me to love my enemies are:

3 Things that will Help You Love Your Enemy When You Don’t Want To…

1. The power of the Holy Spirit to help. 

Paul said in his letter to the Ephesians: 

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:31–32

I can’t do that on my own and I’m guessing you can’t either. Bitterness and anger come much more naturally than kindness and forgiveness.

Paul also said in a letter he wrote to the Galatians: 

But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

Galatians 5:22–23

What you and I can’t do on our own, we can do with the help of the Holy Spirit. We can be loving and patient and kind. We can be faithful and gentle. We can have self-control. AND we can also have peace at the same time.

So, when dealing with an “enemy” … you and I begin with prayer. We can pray and ask the Holy Spirit to give us the power we need to love and we can as Jesus said…

2. Pray for those who persecute you.

First Century Jews understood persecution. They lived under Roman rule. Persecution and prejudice were part of everyday life. They could identify the enemy…

And then Jesus said to love and pray for them.

Pray for those who make your life miserable. Pray for those who are bigoted. The ones who hurt you. Who are unfair. Who are mean. Who gossip about you. Who ________.

And as if love and prayer aren’t hard enough, Luke added these words to Jesus instructions:

“Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. If someone slaps you on one cheek, offer the other cheek also. If someone demands your coat, offer your shirt also. Give to anyone who asks; and when things are taken away from you, don’t try to get them back. Do to others as you would like them to do to you.” 

Luke 6:28–31

Bless them. Give to them. Do to them as you would like them to do to you.

But I can’t!

It’s just that simple. Seriously, I can’t do it.

So, I go back to #1 again and again, and I ask for the Holy Spirit’s help. I pray. And I pray again.

And I think that’s what we’re supposed to do. We pray and ask for the Holy Spirit’s help, turn to God’s Word in faith, and hold on to verses like:

Don’t say, “I will get even for this wrong.” Wait for the Lord to handle the matter.

Proverbs 20:22

And…

Give your burdens to the Lord, and He will take care of you.

Psalm 55:22

And…

Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you.

1 Peter 5:7
Jesus said, "Love your enemy." It feels impossible and honestly, it is. But there are things you can do to help you do even the impossible. #Forgiveness #BibleStudy #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

3. Give it all to God in prayer.

There will be times when it feels frustratingly hard because as you look around the people who hurt you may seem to be doing great and you’re not. And then, once again we start over at #1.

Because if you and I really want to feel better, if we really want peace and contentment, if we really want joy. We have to give it to God.

We have to take our eyes off our enemy and turn our focus to the One who will never betray, forsake, or hurt us. We give it all to God and surrender to His perfect love.

We ask the the Holy Spirit to help our hearts heal and ask the Holy Spirit to soften and work in the heart and mind of the person who has acted as our enemy.

If you’re like me, when you’re hurt and angry you have no idea what you should pray for but you’re pretty sure asking God to get even with them is probably not what Jesus meant when He said we should pray for those who persecute us.

John Piper wrote an excellent article titled, Pray for Those Who Abuse You.

He said…

Pray for others the way you want others to pray for you. They show by their own prayers that the things they really need, they don’t pray for.

The Lord’s Prayer — Even for Your Enemies

The place to start in praying for our enemies is the prayer that the Lord taught us to pray. Whatever else you pray for your enemies, pray for them like this: (You can read his prayer suggestions here.)

John Piper

One final thought . . . something that helps me.

Everyone, even your enemy, is someone dearly loved by God.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, God will give you everything you need to love … even when you need to love your enemy.

Jesus said, "Love your enemy." It feels impossible and honestly, it is. But there are things you can do to help you do even the impossible. #Forgiveness #BibleStudy #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Will you pray with me to love your enemy?

Father, I need your help. This time it feels like too much. The pain is so deep. The hurt feels raw and my “enemy” doesn’t even acknowledge the suffering they’ve caused. Jesus told me to love them … but Father, the last thing I want to do right now is love.

So, I’m coming to and asking You to help me and strengthen me to do Your will. Please surround me by the power of Your Holy Spirit as I surrender myself to You. I want to trust Your will. I want to obey Your commands. Please give me what I need today to act with love.

And Father, please soften my “enemy’s” heart. Please surround them with Your love. Help them know and accept the truths of Your Word. And by Your grace, give us both everything we need to forgive and love like Jesus. Amen.

May you be blessed with the peace, joy, and love of the Lord today as you surrender your pain and rest in His ever-present love.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

5 of the Best Verses to Pray for Your Friends

Praise God for the people who walk beside us, pull us along, and even nudge us from behind. Oh, the blessing of finding Scripture to pray for your friends... #Friendship #Prayer #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers #HisGraceGirls

I want to stop and celebrate the blessing of friends today.

Not our list of Facebook friends with whom we share the edited versions of our stories but the close group of people who know our real stories … those stories we keep hidden away from most of the world. I want to celebrate the people who truly know us and love us anyway.

I’ve learned there is a life truth we all need to remember. Everyone has a difficult or painful story. Everyone!

We all have a page or two in our stories that we keep tucked away because they are hard to share…

It’s been several years and yet, I can still picture every face gathered around that table like it happened last week. Seriously, I still remember where each person was sitting.

But more than our location at the table, I remember the question that invited us to share those tucked away pages of our stories…

” I WANT TO KNOW MORE, TELL ME YOUR TESTIMONY.” 

In other words, I want to know YOU – not just the pretty social media version but I want to know the parts of your story that make you … YOU!

And that’s hard, isn’t it?

It’s especially with people we don’t know well. We don’t like allowing ourselves to become vulnerable. We can’t help wondering … can I trust this person, this new friend, with my pain?

I still get emotional whenever I remember … when I think about that night and yes, even now, years later … because those girls are Romans 12 to me.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. 

Romans 12:9–10, 15

I BELIEVE WE ALL WANT ROMANS 12 FRIENDSHIPS BUT IT’S HARD, ISN’T IT?

But we’re afraid.

Somehow that night, God gave us the courage to trust each other … to open up and share those pages that we typically kept locked away.

And it quickly became evident that the Lord was there with us…

“If two or three people come together in my name, I am there with them.”

Matthew 18:20

Because He was with us, we saw Jesus’ love in each other’s eyes, and one friend after another we told our stories. We cried. We laughed. We encouraged. We loved.

That’s friendship! That’s what we all want. Friends who love like Jesus!

So, today I want to pray for our friends and our friendships and I’d love for you to join me…

5 of the Best Verses to Pray for Your Friends

Praise God for the people who walk beside us, pull us along, and even nudge us from behind. Oh, the blessing of finding Scripture to pray for your friends... #Friendship #Prayer #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32

Father, thank you for creating us to live in community. Thank you for knowing that the love of friends is an important part of our lives. You have instilled in us a need for companionship and You have established in us the ability to be kind to each other. You have made it possible for us to set aside our selfishness so that we might show compassion. You have given us an example of forgiveness and then You give us the ability to forgive one another.

Your grace shines in my friendships. Thank you for blessing me with beautiful souls who love You and love like You. They make every day better! Thank you Lord the gift of my beautiful friends!

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Father, I want to be a better encourager. I try … but I know I could do more. It’s so easy to be selfish or get distracted. Please forgive me.

By Your grace and with Your help, may I love like Jesus. May I be the one who builds up my friends. May I remind them of the ways I see You in them. May I faithfully pray for them. May I take the time to know them and love them as You love them.

Thank you for covering my failures with Your grace and mercy. Help me generously cover my hurts and disappointments with the love You pour into my life. May I always give the same forgiving love to my friends that I want them to give to me … that You give to us.

Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. 

Romans 12:10–11

Father, what a blessing to have friends who are filled with the love of Christ Jesus. Friends who don’t just pretend to love … but who love with genuine kindness and humility.

Please be with my friend as they walk with You. Please hold them close as they journey through the highs and lows of life. Give them courage and strength for the battles they face. Give them peace to replace anxiety, hope to replace worry, and faith when doubts creep in. And more than anything, faithfully remind them that whatever they face today or in the future … nothing can separate them from Your love. (Romans 8:38) You are with them now as You will be forever. (Matthew 28:20)

Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.

Colossians 3:12–15

Father, I need Your help. I want to consistently wear a wardrobe of mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience but I fall so far short every day. I have to admit that I want my friends to be patient and forgiving of my faults when I can be short on patience and forgiveness myself.

You are so patient and merciful to me. You have blessed me with wonderful friends. I realize when I fail to love the way You want me to love … it has more to do with me than it has to do with them.

Please fill me with the love of Christ Jesus. Please make His love be what guides, guards, and rules in my heart. Thank you for each one of the beautiful people who have brought into my life. Love them, Father, through me.

Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other. No one has ever seen God. But if we love each other, God lives in us, and His love is brought to full expression in us.

1 John 4:11–12

Oh, Father, thank you! I see Your love in my friends! You show Yourself in their lives … the way they humbly serve others, the way they listen and encourage, the way they care with compassion, the way they offer help and hope, and the way they forgive, and the way they love.

Each friend is a precious gift! Thank you! Please bless my friends today, Lord. Meet every need. Give them strength and courage for every battle they face. And cover them the power of Your promises and love. By Your grace and for Your glory shine Your light in them and through them. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Praise God for the people who walk beside us, pull us along, and even nudge us from behind. Oh, the blessing of finding Scripture to pray for your friends... #Friendship #Prayer #WWGGG #BlessingBloggers #HisGraceGirls

Finally, pray for your friends by name.

Stop for a moment today and….

Thank God for the people with whom you have been able to share the hard pages of your story. The friends who wanted to know the real YOU and have continued to love you just the way you are.

The friends who walk beside you when life is great, who hold out their hand when you need hope for the future and maybe even give you a little nudge when you need to leave the past in the past.

Thank God for the blessing of friends. Life just wouldn’t be the same without them!

I’m praying you are blessed today with much joy, as you think about and celebrate your friends.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Promises That Will Give You Hope When You Need It Most

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Terrorism, politics, illness, heartbreak, loss, and pandemics…

Sometimes this broken world feels like it’s too much … too painful. Too hard.

Then I stop and remember Solomon’s words:

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

Ecclesiastes 1:9

Nothing’s new. It’s all happened before.

No, I’m not trying to totally depress you, especially when I promised you hope.

But the truth is … our hope is not in this broken world. Our hope is in Jesus – the Way, the Truth, and the Life.

Jesus stepped into a painfully dark and broken time in history. Roman dominance. Temple dissension. Hurting broken people.

Remember … there’s nothing new under the sun.

But Jesus came to give us something new. A NEW that He alone could give.

New life. Changed life. Purposeful life. Redeemed life. Abundant life. Eternal life.

History may repeat itself. But the truths and promises of the newness you and I have in Jesus are only repeated as they become new lives in people who turned to Him in faith.

And that is what gives us hope. Real, renewing, and lasting hope. Promises of hope!

It’s a hope that reminds us we can trust every promise about Jesus that was ever made. So, let’s surround ourselves with Jesus’ hope today.

Let’s lay down our fears, anger, frustration, and hopelessness as we embrace the truth of promises that are forever true. Promises that give us eternal hope no matter what is happening in the world around us.

Having these promises we can count on in this nothing new under the sun world changes everything. Because under the Son, our everything is full of hope through His grace, mercy, and love.

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

20 Promises of Jesus that will Give You Hope

“God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for Him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.” Matthew 5:3

Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28–30

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

“I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” John 8:12

Then Jesus told her, “I am the Messiah!” John 4:26

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

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” Matthew 6:33

“Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5

Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31–32

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent His Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through Him.” John 3:16–17

Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20

“I am the good shepherd. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, for my Father has given them to me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. The Father and I are one.” John 10:11, 27–30

“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again.” John 14:27–28

“I will send you the Advocate—the Spirit of truth. He will come to you from the Father and will testify all about me.” John 15:26

“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message.” John 17:20

“There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” John 14:2–3

“I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,” says the Lord God. “I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One.” Revelation 1:8

“Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last.I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave. Revelation 1:17–18

“Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds.I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.” Revelations 22:12–13

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

Having the promises of Jesus gives us hope when life is uncertain. His Words offer encouragement for today, tomorrow, and into the unknown future. #PromisesofGod #HopeinJesus #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

Praying the Promises of Hope

Father, Thank you so much for loving us so much that the moment we sinned You had a plan to save us. You Word says You love us so much that You gave Your only Son to save us … the highest price You could possibly pay. All because of love!

Thank you for Your Word! You want us to KNOW You. You want us to live each day knowing we are safe and secure in Jesus. He is the WAY of Life, He is the TRUTH we need for Life, and He is LIFE itself. He gives us the promise of eternal life and the blessing of a full and abundant life now.

Today, I come to You for rest. I bring You the junk of my life. Please forgive me for the ways I have failed to follow Your will and change me into the person You want me to be. I believe Your way is best. I want to trust and obey You in everything I do and say. I want my thoughts to be focused on Jesus, the One who is the source of my faith and the One who strengthens me and gives me all I need each day.

So, I’m pausing to thank and praise You! By Your grace, it is well with my soul. Help me live this day for Your glory. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Friend, I’m asking God to bless you today! I’m asking Him to hold you close and surround you with the love of Jesus as He reminds you that in Him … you have everything you need. His promises are true and His mercies are new every morning. He is faithful to keep His promises of hope.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!

Simple Prayers That will Help You be a Better Parent

Parenting is an adventure that needs to be covered by prayer. If you want to be a better parent you need to pray a lot. These prayers will get you started. #Parenting #PrayerforFamily #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

I wish I’d read this quote years ago…

“Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands.”

Anne Frank

She certainly shared a lot of wisdom for her young age … and for someone who never lived long enough to have children of her own.

When I was a young parent and my children were young I believed that good parents had good successful children … that great input always resulted in great outcomes.

I’ve grown up and so have my children.

I’m both older and wiser now than I was then.

And today, as I look around at our peers and their grown children … I can honestly say, “that ain’t necessarily so.”

I’ve known many great parents whose children decided to ignore their parent’s helpful advice and example as they chose to live a more challenging path. Ones that were difficult and sometimes painful for them and for their parents. I now fully believe the truth of Anne’s words.

And I’m sorry. I know that if you are the young parent with young children that’s not very encouraging. But…

I’m not saying you should throw your hands in the air and give up. I still believe parents should give the important job of parenting everything they’ve got.

But I also believe…

That you shouldn’t be too hard on yourself. There is no such thing as a perfect parent and there are no perfect children. But you probably knew that already!

We celebrated Mother’s Day a couple of weeks ago and for many it’s a day full of emotions and one of them that rises up often is guilt.

Mom guilt is something that goes with the job. But they’re not completely alone, I believe dads suffer from feelings of guilt, too.

Today I want to encourage you and give you a little of what I believe is helpful advice for being a better parent.

The two most important things to remember as you live out the parenting adventure are:

  1. Always remember you are covered by God’s grace.
  2. Pray more than you believe is necessary and then pray again.

And because I believe prayer is the most important part of parenting … I’m sharing a few prayers to help you get started.

Simple Prayers That will Help You be a Better Parent

Parenting is an adventure that needs to be covered by prayer. If you want to be a better parent you need to pray a lot. These prayers will get you started. #Parenting #PrayerforFamily #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

1. Lord, Thank You for My Children.

Children are a gift from the Lord. How joyful is the man whose quiver is full of them!

Psalm 127:3,5

Father, Thank you so much for my children. Help me to celebrate this awesome blessing every day, even the hard days. Help me celebrate each of my children’s unique personality and abilities.

I believe You made them exactly the way You wanted and that You will use them for Your plans and purposes. Thank you. I am humbled that you would entrust these precious children to me. Give me a grateful heart and help me show them and You how thankful I am for them … even when I’m exhausted and having to repeat myself for the millionth time. Thank you for the grace and mercy You show me. Please help me love as You love me.

2. Lord, I want to be a better parent. Please forgive me. 

Remember there are no perfect parents or children. Everyone needs forgiveness parents and children. Praise God…

He does not punish us for all our sins; He does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. For His unfailing love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.

Psalm 103:10–11

Father, please forgive me. I want to guide my children according to Your perfect will but I know I fall short every day.

I lose patience, I get angry, and I miss opportunities to show them Your love. Please help me, Father, I want to honor this awesome responsibility You’ve given me. Help me to be the parent You want me to be … the parent my children need. Help me raise them by Your grace and for Your glory.

Help me ask my children for forgiveness when I hurt them and help me quickly forgive them when they misbehave. We all sin. We all need forgiveness. You say you have removed our sins as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12) Thank you for Your merciful forgiveness. Help me forgive as I have been forgiven.

 3. Lord, Give me the courage I need today. 

Almost every day comes with at least one difficult parenting decision. Ask God for wisdom and courage to obey His will and to encourage your children to do the same.

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord, your God is with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9

Father, yesterday was hard and today’s not starting out well. It would so much easier if I could just pull the covers over my head and ignore this problem. But my children need me to stand strong on Your truth. They need to be strong and courageous. They don’t always see the potential consequences of their choices. It’s hard to let them try new things. It’s hard to think about the possibility of my children having to live out the consequences of their foolish choices. Please give me the courage I need to remain strong when I’m worn out and hard days continue.

4. Lord, Please help me guide my children with wisdom according to your will.

If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. But when you ask Him, be sure that your faith is in God

James 1:5º6

Father, Please give me the wisdom I need to guide my children according to Your will. I so wish I had an individualized set of parenting instructions. It seems like some things work with one child and they don’t with another. I need Your help. I need to know the wise thing to say and do with each of my children. I want to parent these wonderfully made gifts You’ve given me well, not for me but for their good and Your glory. Amen.

5. Lord, Please help me parent my child with patience. 

Parents and children need patience and goodness, it’s easy to run short of it in the moments when we need it most.

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

Romans 15:5

Father, I need patience and I need it right now!

I’ll admit that I sometimes pause before asking for patience because I really don’t want any more challenging learning opportunities to put it into practice. I just want You to magically give me all that I need today and again tomorrow … the next day would be good too.

Please help me remember that You are always with me and that You are willing to give me all I need. You say You are willing to help me carry my burdens … even impatience. You even say that the Spirit is able to give me the patience I need to love my child well. Please help me. Make me slow to anger and remind me pause and laugh as often as possible.

Parenting is an adventure that needs to be covered by prayer. If you want to be a better parent you need to pray a lot. These prayers will get you started. #Parenting #PrayerforFamily #WWGGG #CountingMyBlessings

6. Lord, Fill our home with respect and kindness. 

We all want peace-filled homes and need God’s help to make speaking with kindness and respect a priority.

Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Colossians 3:!2

Father, forgive me for the times I’ve allowed snarkiness in my home. Especially my own. Please help me measure my words and speak with respect to my spouse and my children. Please help us remember how we honor and glorify You when we show kindness, humility, mercy, and patience.

By Your grace, please help me model this for my children and lovingly remind them when they forget. May we faithfully love each other as You have loved us with Your help and for Your glory.

7. Lord, Fill our home with peace, joy, and love. 

A happy loving family. Everyone wants one … we need God’s help to fill our homes with His peace, joy, and love.

 Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.

2 Corinthians 13:11

Father, Fill our home with joy. Help us remember and celebrate Your many blessings … big and small. You have been so good to us.

We surrender ourselves to You and ask You to give us all we need. Please bless us with the gift of contentment. Please help us to keep our focus on You … to SEEK You and Your Kingdom above everything and anything else. May we faithfully study Your Word, join together in prayer, and worship and praise You for who You are and all You’ve done. Your grace is sufficient for our every need. May Your love be the foundation of our home. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

If you want to be a better parent – PRAY!

Friend – parenting is an adventure. Anyone who has been a parent for more than 30 seconds, knows it can feel like you’re traveling an unknown journey with a surprise around every corner.

And from someone who has traveled the unexpected and emotional highs and lows of parenting, I’d like to tell you the one thing I wish I’d done more along the way…

While I prayed a lot … I wish I had prayed more!

You just can’t possibly pray too much for those precious gifts God has entrusted to your care.

I’m praying for you today and asking God to bless your family … to fill Your home with His love, to cover you with His grace and help you live each day for His glory.

For additional prayers – Check out:

Prayers for Your Spouse, Prayers for Your Son, Prayers for Your Daughter, Pray for Your Family.

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

It would bless me so much if you’d take a moment to subscribe to Counting My Blessings so you never miss an update!

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

You can also…

Leave your prayer requests…

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

Check out our new Facebook Page/Group – #WWGGG – What Would Give God Glory. We’d love for you to join the movement!

And always remember – I LOVE hearing from you! So, please take a minute to say ‘hi’ by leaving a comment. 

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

I’m asking God to bless you today!