As I pray daily, I ask the Lord of Life to work in the lives of my family and my friends … and those I routinely bump into and meet up with. As I seek to spread the light and love of Jesus, I am aware that I need God’s work in their heart if I am to be successful for Him. Therefore, I pray these 4 simple prayers each day for those in my spheres of influence. I pray that they will …
1) Surrender to Jesus completely.
Nothing is more damaging to one’s life and to the cause of Christ than a half-hearted commitment. It breeds so many distasteful feelings and realities. Total and complete surrender, a 100% commitment to Jesus, is all that will bring overwhelming love, deep joy, sustaining peace, empowering patience, disarming kindness, genuine goodness, undeserving faithfulness, healing gentleness, and protective self control.
2) Serve Jesus’ Kingdom wholeheartedly.
Focusing on the priority of one’s mission to make disciples of Jesus is the key that provides amazing significance in our lives. Apart from extending the Kingdom of God, there is little that can measure up to the eternal value of knowing someone not only has faith, but they have it more abundantly!
3) Celebrate His generosity effervescently.
There is nothing more disheartening than a discouraged, defeated Christ follower. Just as the apostle Peter about his post crucifixion experience after denying Jesus. However, once we realize that “the LORD waits to be gracious to you, and therefore he exalts himself to show mercy to you,” (Isaiah 30:18, ESV) life changes forever. On a DNA level, once we come to accept that God is for us and not against us, we will “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” (Jeremiah 33:3, NKJV)
4) Seek His lost courageously.
In a world when emptiness and pain are prevalent, we have countless opportunities to show our joy and purpose in meaningful ways throughout each day. Yet, it takes a verbal witness to create a disciple of Jesus. Such courage comes from the Giver of life as we hear Him say to us, “Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t get discouraged. GOD, your God, is with you every step you take.” (Joshua 1:9, The Message)
As you pray these four simple prayers for your family and friends, let me also encourage you to pray them for yourself. And may God answer quickly as you pray fervently!
Please share with us your experiences praying these prayers as the days unfold!