Daily Prayer

A Daily Prayer Guide

2008-05-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have compiled these 31 prayers, one for each day of the month, as a way of giving structure to my daily prayer time. They combine written prayers from Scripture with prayers written by disciples of Jesus through the centuries. The written prayers stir our hearts and lift our heads to gaze upon the beauty of God. They give us words when we are speechless and strength during the days of darkness and doubt that we all encounter.

Built into the daily prayer are opportunities for spontaneous prayers from our heart these are set apart by ( ). At the center of each prayer are the words of Jesus. We are invited to move slowly and thoughtfully through His life-giving words, seeking what He would say to us personally. We are then invited to bring the needs of ours' and others' before God, and then finish with a closing prayer.

Feel free to begin by listening to a song(s) to prepare your heart. At the bottom of the site you can select specific songs. If you would like silence at any time then just hit the pause button. God-centered music and silence prepares our heart to receive His words lovingly and instructively spoken to us. We are then ready to joyfully respond to our Father.

May God bless us with the gift of Himself! May our daily prayer transform our hearts into the likeness of Jesus, and give us focus and strength to face our day with the eternal perspective of God’s kingdom unfolding among and through us here on earth as it is in heaven.

Daily Prayer # 31

2008-05-07T22:16:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Oh God, help us to find you in silence, help us learn from the stars, moon and sun who run their course in silence. Help us to truly understand that the more we receive you in quiet prayer, the more we have to offer in the activities of our daily lives. Lord, help us to see that it is not what we have to say to You, but what You say to us and through us.

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Shout with joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious! Say to God, "How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing praise to your name."

Come and see what God has done, how awesome his works in man's behalf! He turned the sea into dry land, they passed through the waters on foot—come, let us rejoice in him. He rules forever by his power, his eyes watch the nations—let not the rebellious rise up against him.

Praise our God, O peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard; he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. For you, O God, test us; and you refine us like silver. But God has surely listened and heard my voice in prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!
—Psalm 66

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
"My kingdom," said Jesus, "doesn't consist of what you see around you. If it did, my followers would fight so that I wouldn't be handed over to the Jews. But I'm not that kind of king, not the world's kind of king."

Then Pilate said, "So, are you a king or not?"

Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
John 18:36-37

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayers for Ourselves and Others
When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action.
—Matthew 18:19

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen!
-Romans 11:33-36

Daily Prayer # 30

2008-05-07T22:13:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Oh Lord God, you holy Lover of my soul, when you come into my soul, all that is within me shall rejoice. You are my Glory and the exultation of my heart; you are my Hope and Refuge in the day of my trouble. Set me free from all evil passions, and heal my heart of all displeasing affections; that, being inwardly cured and thoroughly cleansed, I may be made fit to love, courageous to suffer, steady to persevere. Nothing is sweeter than Love, nothing more courageous, nothing fuller nor better in heaven and earth; because Love is born of God, and cannot rest but in God, above all created things. Let me love you more than myself, and only love myself for your sake. Amen.
-Thomas a Kempis (1380-1471)

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Your love, GOD, is my song, and I'll sing it!
I'm forever telling everyone how faithful you are.
I'll never quit telling the story of your love—
how you built the cosmos
and guaranteed everything in it.
Your love has always been our lives' foundation,
your reliability has been the roof over our world
-Psalm 89:1-2

(Praises and Thank offerings to our God)

The Example of Jesus
Jesus went up to Jerusalem. In the temple he found those who were selling oxen and sheep and pigeons, and the money-changers sitting there. And making a whip of cords, he drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and oxen. And he poured out the coins of the money-changers and overturned their tables. And he told those who sold the pigeons, "Take these things away; do not make my Father’s house a house of trade." His disciples remembered that it was written, "Zeal for your house will consume me."
John 2:13-17

Jesus you were Jealous for your Father’s heart. Your love for Him burned so passionately that you did not tolerate anything that offended and wounded His heart. You dealt strongly with sin and disobedience. Help us to do the same in our own lives, identifying and leaving behind the sin that dishonors our Loving Father.

(What would Jesus speak to us through His example)

Closing Prayer
The longer we wait, the larger we become, and the more joyful our expectancy. Meanwhile, the moment we get tired in the waiting, God's Spirit is right alongside helping us along. It does not matter if we don't know how or what to pray, he does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of our wordless sighs, our aching groans. He knows us far better than we know ourselves
Romans 8:25-27

(Pray for ourselves and others)

Daily Prayer # 29

2008-05-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Oh God search me; shine your spotlight into my soul that I may see its condition. May I be confident in your mercy, knowing well that you are restoring me even now. Reveal where I have left your path and speak gentle but firm words of correction. And guide me back to your life-giving ways and to your loving and strong embrace.

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Do good to your servant according to your word, O LORD.
Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I believe in your commands. Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I obey your word. You are good, and what you do is good; teach me your decrees.

Your word from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands.

Let your compassion come to me that I may live, for your law is my delight. My soul faints with longing for your salvation, I have put my hope in your word.
–Psalm 119

(Free expression from our heart to God)

The Words of Jesus
What do you want?
What are you after?
What are you seeking?
–John 1:38 NIV, The Message, & ESV versions

(How would you answer this question that Jesus asks you Today)

Prayer for ourselves and others
In all my prayers for others, I always pray with Joy.
-Philippians 1:4

(Prayers for ourselves and others)

Closing Prayer
O Lord, the house of my soul is narrow; enlarge it that you may enter in. It is ruinous, O repair it!

It displeases your sight; I confess it, I know. But who shall cleanse it, or to whom shall I cry but unto you? Cleanse me from my secret faults, O Lord, and spare your servant from intentional sins.
— St. Augustine (died in the year 430 and lived in Algeria)

Daily Prayer # 28

2008-05-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Jesus, your light is shining within us, let not my doubts and my darkness speak to me;Jesus, your light is shining within us, let my heart always welcome your love.
-Brother Roger (1915-2005)

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
O God, you are my God; with all that I am I seek you;
my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you,
as in a dry and weary land where there is no water.
So I have looked upon you in the sanctuary,
beholding your power and glory.

Because Your constant overflowing love is better than life,
my lips will praise you. I will bless you as long as I live;
in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied in you
and my mouth will sing words of adoration with joyful lips,
-Psalm 63

(Free prayers of blessing and thanking the Lord)

The Words of Jesus
Knowing the correct password—saying 'Master, Master,' for instance— isn't going to get you anywhere with me. What is required is serious obedience—doing what my Father wills. I can see it now—at the Final Judgment thousands strutting up to me and saying, 'Master, we preached the Message, we bashed the demons, our God-sponsored projects had everyone talking.' And do you know what I am going to say? 'You missed the boat. All you did was use me to make yourselves important. You don't impress me one bit. You're out of here.

"These words I speak to you are not homeowner improvements to your standard of living. They are foundational words, words to build a life on. If you work these words into your life, you are like a smart carpenter who built his house on solid rock. Rain poured down, the river flooded, a tornado hit—but nothing moved that house. It was fixed to the rock.

"But if you just use my words in Bible studies and don't work them into your life, you are like a foolish carpenter who built his house on the sandy beach. When a storm rolled in and the waves came up, it collapsed like a house of cards."
–Matthew 7:21-27 The Message

(Think deeply on Jesus’ words)

Closing Prayer

Lord take all my freedom; receive my memory, my understanding,and my whole will. Whatever I have and possess,You have given me; to You I restore it wholly,Give me the love of You only, and with Your grace, I am rich enough; and to Your will I utterly surrender ; nor do I ask anything besides.
-St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491)

(Pray for ourselves and others)

Daily Prayer # 27

2008-05-07T21:52:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
I am, O God, a jumbled mass of motives.
One moment I am adoring you,
and the next I am shaking my fist at you.
I vacillate between mounting hope, and deepening despair.
I am full of faith, and full of doubt.
I want the best for others, and am jealous when they get it.
Even so, God, I will not run from your presence.
Nor will I Pretend to be what I am not.
Thank you for accepting me with all my contradictions. Amen.
-Richard Foster

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Hear, O LORD, my righteous plea; listen to my cry. Give ear to my prayer—it does not rise from deceitful lips. May my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right. Though you probe my heart and examine me at night, though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin.

My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped. I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer. Show the wonder of your great love, you who save by your right hand those who take refuge in you from their foes. Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
God's kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field for years and then accidentally found by a trespasser. The finder is ecstatic—what a find!—and proceeds to sell everything he owns to raise money and buy that field. Or, God's kingdom is like a jewel merchant on the hunt for excellent pearls. Finding one that is flawless, he immediately sells everything and buys it.
Matthew 13:44-45

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Closing Prayer
So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.
Philippians 1:9-11 The Message

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Daily Prayer # 26

2008-05-07T08:53:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Jesus, risen Lord, light of the world, to you be all praise and glory! As I take notice of the brilliance of your creation, they speak of your resurrection. O Lord, I know now that it is in silence, in a quiet moment, in a forgotten corner that you will meet me, call me by name and speak to me a word of peace. It is in my stillness that you become the risen Lord to me. Dear Lord, I am so grateful for all you have given me. Bless all who suffer in this world and bring peace to your people, whom you loved so much that you gave your life for them. Amen
-Henri Nouwen

Prayer of the Bible
Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name;
make known among the nations what he has done.
Sing to him, sing praise to him;
tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts of those who seek the LORD rejoice.
Look to the LORD and his strength;
seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced.
-Psalm 105:1-5

(Praise and thanksgiving to our God)

The Example of Jesus
After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone
-Matthew 14:23

(Meditate on the life of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
God can do anything—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. –Ephesians 3:21

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer

The Lord is my shepherd
In him I lack nothing
He leads me to abundant life
To a place of peace and rest
He restores my soul
And guides me in paths of righteousness
Amen
—adapted from Psalm 23

Daily Prayer 25

2008-05-06T21:23:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Speak peace to my heart, Lord Jesus
This world has taken its toll
Its noise and confusion
Its doubts and fears
Have troubled and wearied my soul
Lord Jesus speak peace to my soul

Prayer of the Bible
For God alone my soul waits in silence;
from him comes my salvation.
He only is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress; I shall not be greatly shaken.
Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your heart before him;
God is a refuge for us.

Those of low estate are but a breath;
those of high estate are a delusion;
in the balances they go up;
they are together lighter than a breath.
if riches increase, set not your heart on them.
Once God has spoken;
twice have I heard this:
that power belongs to God,
and that to you, O Lord, belongs steadfast love.
For you will render to a man
according to his work.
-Psalm 62

(spontaneous prayers of blessing the Lord)

Words of Jesus
"Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
— Luke 12:32-34

(Think deeply on the words of Jesus)

Closing Prayer
Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing you have received, fading symbols of honor, trappings of power, but only what you have given; a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage
-Francis of Assisi (1181-1226)

(Prayer for ourselves
and others)

Daily Prayer #24

2008-05-06T20:24:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Loving Father, please accept my distractions, my fatigue, my irritations, and my faithless wanderings. You know me more deeply and fully than I know myself. You love me with a greater love than I love myself. You even offer me more than I can desire. Look at me, see me in all my inner confusion, and let me sense your presence in the midst of my pain. Take my tired body, my confused mind, and restless soul into your arms and give me rest, simple quite rest. Come, Lord Jesus, come. Amen”
-Henri Nouwen

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Answer me when I call to you, O my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; be merciful to me and hear my prayer. Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself; the LORD will hear when I call to him. In your anger do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent…Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?" Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD. You have filled my heart with greater joy than when their grain and new wine abound. I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
-Psalm 4

(Praise and thanksgiving to our God)

The Words of Jesus
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."

Having said this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man's eyes. "Go," he told him, "wash in the Pool of Siloam". So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.
-John 9:1-7

(Meditate on the Words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Oh, GOD, listen to my prayer; please open your ears.
—Psalm 39:12

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Almighty and ever-living God, oh Lord Jesus Christ.
I come sick to the Doctor of Life and unclean to the Fountain of Mercy, blind to radiance of Eternal Light, and poor and needy to the Lord of heaven and earth. Lord, in Your great generosity heal my sickness, wash away my defilement,enlighten my blindness, enrich my poverty, and clothe my nakedness. Amen.
-St. Thomas Aquinas

Daily Prayer #23

2008-05-06T19:36:00.000-07:00

The Prayers of the Bible
Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. I said to the LORD,"You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing." LORD, you have assigned me my portion and my cup; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; surely I have a delightful inheritance. I will praise the LORD, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.
-Psalm 16

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.' "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'

"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
-Matthew 25:34-43

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.
–I Thessalonians 5:17-18

(Prayer for ourselves and others)

Closing Prayer
O God the Father, Creator of heaven and earth,
Have mercy upon us.
O God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
Have mercy upon us.
O God the Holy Spirit, Sanctifier of the faithful,
Have mercy upon us.
O holy, blessed, and glorious Trinity, one God,
Have mercy upon us.

Daily Prayer #22

2008-05-06T12:39:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Lord help us not to offer the parts of our body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer ourselves to You, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of our body to You as instruments of righteousness.

Prayer of the Bible
Lord, the earth is Yours and all its fullness
The world and all who dwell in it. For you have founded it on the seas, and establish it on the waters. Therefore I will not lift up my soul to an idol but I will seek Your face.
-adapted from Psalm 24:1,2,4,6

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.

Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' So he got up and went to his father.

"But while he was still a long way off his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

-John 15:11-32

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Pray for ourselves and others
Pray to God the Father, through the power of our Master Jesus, through the love of the Spirit
-Romans 15:30

(Bring the needs of ourselves and other before God)

Closing Prayer
Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in Jesus!
Glory to God down all the generations!
Glory to God forever and ever! Amen!
-Ephesians 3:21

Daily Prayer #21

2008-05-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
Lord, while I live I will praise You.
I will sing praises to You whiled I have my being
I will not trust in men of power
My hope is in you, O Lord, my God
For you raise those who are bowed down
You will reign forever
-adapted from Psalm 146:2,3,8,10

(Prayers of Praise and Thanksgiving)

Common Prayer
From prayer that asks that I should be sheltered from winds that beat on Thee. From fearing when I should aspire, from faltering when I should climb higher, from silk and self, O captain, free Your soldier who would follow You.

From subtle love of softening things, from easy choices, weakenings…Not thus are spirits fortified, not this way went the Crucified…From all that dims Your Calvary O lamb of God, deliver me.

Give me a love that leads the way, the faith that nothing can dismay, the hope no disappointments tire, the passion that will burn like fire. Let me not sink to be a clod. Make me Your fuel, O Flame of God.
-Amy Carmichael (1867-1951)

The Words of Jesus
Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find;

knock and
the door
will be
opened
to you.

For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; he who knocks, the door will be opened.
- Matthew 7: 7-8

(Think deeply on the Words of Jesus)

Prayers for Ourselves and Others
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
-Hebrews 5:7

(Prayers for ourselves and others)

Closing Prayer
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Amen.

Daily Prayer #20

2008-05-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Glory, glory to God in the highest, And peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father
We worship you, we give you thanks, We praise you for your glory.

Lord God,
Lamb
of God,
You
take away
the sin
of the
world:

Have mercy on us; You are seated at the right hand of the Father: Receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, You alone are the Lord, You alone are the most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in the glory of God, the Father. -Amen.
-The Gloria (2nd century)

(Allow God to search our hearts & time of confession)

Prayer of the Bible
I think of You upon my bed,
And meditate on You in the watches of the night;
For You have been my help,
And in the shadow of Your wings, I sing for joy.
My soul clings to You; for your right hand upholds me.
-Psalm 63:6-8

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thorn -bushes, or grapes from briers. Good people bring good things out of the good stored up in their heart, and evil people bring evil things out of the evil stored up in their hearts. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.
--Luke 6:43-49

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
God delights in genuine prayers.
-Proverbs 15:8b The Message

(Free prayer of request and petition)

Closing Prayer
Dear Jesus, help me to spread Your fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with Your spirit and love. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of You. Shine through me and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Your presence in my soul. Let them look up and see no longer me but only Jesus. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as you shine, so to shine as to be a light to others.
-Mother Theresa (1910-1997)

Daily Prayer #19

2008-05-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
From inside the fish Jonah prayed to the LORD his God. He said:
"In my distress I called to the LORD,
and he answered me.
From the depths of the grave I called for help,
and you listened to my cry.

You hurled me into the deep, into the very heart of the seas, and the currents swirled about me; all your waves and breakers swept over me.

To the roots of the mountains I sank down;
the earth beneath barred me in forever.
But you brought my life up from the pit,
O LORD my God.

When my life was ebbing away,
I remembered you, LORD,
and my prayer rose to you,
to your holy temple.

Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
-Jonah 2:1-8

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” (John 6:35,48)
Jesus, coming to you, we will never hunger
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world.” (John 8:12)
Jesus, following you, we will never walk in darkness
Jesus said, “I am the gate.” (John 10:7,9)
Jesus through you, we are saved unto abundant life.
Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11,14)
Jesus, you know your sheep and your sheep know you.
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
Jesus, everyone who lives and believes in you will never die
Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6)
Jesus, no one comes to the Father except through you.
Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches.” (John 15, 1,5)
Jesus, those who abide in you will bear much fruit

(Think deeply on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Hallelujah! Thank GOD! Pray to him by name!
Psalm 105:1 The Message

(Bring before God our own needs and the needs of others)

Closing Prayer
Our Father in heaven, holy be Your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us
Keep us from temptation, and deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever!
-Amen.

Daily Prayer #18

2008-05-06T10:13:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever.

Almighty God, unto whom all hearts are open, all desires known, and from whom no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love You, and worthily magnify Your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen

(Be still before the Lord)

Prayer of the Bible
Sing to the Lord all the earth, sing and bless God’s holy name.
Sing a new song to the Lord, for God has done marvelous deeds.
The Lord has made known his salvation for all peoples to behold.
The Lord has remembered his faithfulness, his steadfast love for all peoples.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord! Break forth into song of praise!
Sing praises to the Lord with sound of music, with trumpet and horn rejoice in the Lord. Let the sea roar, let the floods clap their hands,
the hills sing together for joy in the Lord. Let the heavens proclaim the Lord’s righteousness and all peoples behold God’s glory.
- From Psalm 95 and 97

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
—John 13:34,35

(Think deeply
on these words
of Jesus)

Prayers for Ourselves and Others
Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
—Ephesians 6:18

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer:
I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, the Father may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen
--Ephesians 3:16-20

Daily Prayer #17

2008-05-06T08:24:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
Dear Lord, you are the first of the just. You lived the righteous life. It is because of you that your heavenly Father keeps this world in existence and shows us such mercy to us sinners. who am I, Lord, to expect your love, protection, and mercy? Who am I to deserve a place in your heart, in your house, in your reign? Who am I, Lord, to hope in your forgiveness, your friendship, your embrace? And still this is what I am waiting for, expecting, even counting on! Not because of my own merits, but solely because of your immense mercy. You lived for us the life that is pleasing to God. Help me to follow you, to unite my life with yours and to become a mirror of your love"
-Henri Nouwen

(Be still before God)

Prayer of the Bible
Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry for help come to you. Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly. My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass. But you, O LORD, sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. The nations will fear the name of the LORD, all the kings of the earth will revere your glory.

For the LORD will rebuild Zion and appear in his glory. He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea. Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the LORD : "The LORD looked down from his sanctuary on high, from heaven he viewed the earth, to hear the groans of the prisoners and release those condemned to death."
-Psalm 102

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
“You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
—John 13:7

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayers for Ourselves and Others
When two of you get together on anything at all on earth and make a prayer of it, my Father in heaven goes into action.
—Matthew 18:19

(Prayer for ourselves
and others)

Closing Prayer
Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counselor? Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen
-Romans 11:33-36

Daily Prayer #16

2008-05-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
No one is like you, O LORD; You are great, and your name is mighty in power. Who should not revere you, O King of the nations? This is your due. Among all the wise men of the nations and in all their kingdoms, there is no one like you. The LORD is the true God; he is the living God,the eternal King. In his anger, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath.

God made the earth by his power; he formed the world by his wisdom And stretched out the heavens by his understanding. When he thunders, the waters in the heavens roar; He makes clouds rise from the ends of the earth. He sends lightning with the rain. And brings out the wind from his storehouses. I know, O LORD, that a man's life is not his own; It is not for man to direct his steps. Correct me, LORD, but only with justice— Not in your anger, lest you reduce me to nothing.
-Adapted from—Jeremiah 10:6,7,12,13,23,24

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
“I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. I know that his command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”—John 12:49

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Common Prayer
Too late have I loved you,
O Beauty so ancient,
O Beauty so new.
Too late have I loved you!
You were within me but I was outside myself,
and there I sought you!
In my weakness I ran after the beauty of the things you have made.
You were with me,
and I was not with you.
The things you have made kept me from you,
the things which would have no being
unless they existed in you!
You have called,
you have cried,
and you have pierced my deafness.
You have radiated forth,
you have shined out brightly,
and you have dispelled my blindness.
You have sent forth your fragrance,
and I have breathed it in,
and I long for you.
I have tasted you,
and I hunger and thirst for you.
You have touched me,
and I ardently desire your peace.
-Prayer of St. Augustine

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth
—Psalm 54:2

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious presence without fault and with great joy.

To the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forever! Amen
—Jude 1:24,25

Daily Prayer #15

2008-05-05T21:44:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
O Most High, Glorious God enlighten the darkness of my heart and give me a right faith, a certain hope and a perfect love, understanding and knowledge,
O Lord, that I may carry out your holy and true command. Amen!
-Francis of Assisi (1182-1226)

Prayer of the Bible
O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy;
in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.
I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works
and consider what your hands have done.

I
spread
out
my
hands
to
you;

my soul thirsts for you like a parched land.
Answer me quickly, O LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love,

for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go,
for to you I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O LORD,
for I hide myself in you. Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God; may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground. For your name's sake, O LORD, preserve my life; in your righteousness, bring me out of trouble
–Psalm 143

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
—John 10:27-30

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Hear, O LORD, and answer me, for I am poor and needy.
–Psalm 86:1

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
The Lord is my shepherd…In him I lack nothing
He leads me to abundant life…To a place of peace and rest
He restores my soul…And guides me in paths of righteousness! Amen
—adapted from Psalm 23

Daily Prayer #14

2008-05-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

Opening Prayer
O Lord Jesus, you who came to us to show the compassionate love of your Father, make your people know this love with their hearts, minds and souls. So often we feel lonely, unloved, and lost in the valley of tears. We desire to feel affection, tenderness, care, and compassion, but suffer from inner darkness, emptiness, and numbness. I pray tonight: Come, Lord Jesus, come. Do not just come to our understanding, but enter our hearts, our passions, emotions, and feelings. Amen!
-Henri Nouwen (1932-1996)

(Be still before God)

The Character of God
(The Names of God)
Yahweh... LORD - He that is who He is, The eternal I AM
Adonai... Lord - Master
El Shaddai... God Almighty - The All-sufficient One
El Elyon ... Most High - Possessor of heaven and earth
El Olam... Everlasting God - God over eternal things
El Gibbor... Mighty God - The Only All Powerful God
Yahweh Jireh... The LORD will provide
Yahweh Rapha... The LORD who healeth
Yahweh Nissi... The LORD is my banner, The LORD is my victory
Yahweh Shalom... The LORD our peace, The LORD gives peace
Yahweh Tsidkenu... The LORD Our Righteousness
Yahweh Shammah... The LORD is present
Yahweh Sabaoth... The LORD of Hosts, King of Glory

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
Jesus replied, "If I glorify myself, my glory means nothing. My Father, whom you claim as your God, is the one who glorifies me. Though you do not know him, I know him. If I said I did not, I would be a liar like you, but I do know him and keep his word. Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad." You are not yet fifty years old," the Jews said to him, "and you have seen Abraham!" I tell you the truth," Jesus answered, "before Abraham was born, I am! (Yahweh)"
–John 8:54-58

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Others
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer
-I Peter 3:12

(Free prayer
of request
and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.

Daily Prayer #13

2006-09-20T10:59:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever
Give thanks to the God of gods
His love endures forever
Give thanks to the Lord of lords.
His love endures forever
To Him alone who does great wonders
His love endures forever
Who by his understanding made the heavens
His love endures forever
Give thanks to the God of heaven
His love endures forever
-Psalm 136

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Words of Jesus
“Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.
-John 12:24-26

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Common Prayer
My God, I believe most firmly that You watch over all who hope in You,and that we can want for nothing when we rely upon You in all things.Therefore I am resolved for the future to cast all my cares upon You...

Let others seek happiness in their wealth and in their talents.
Let them trust in the purity of their lives, the severity of their mortifications,in the number of their good works, the enthusiasm of their prayers,as for me, my Rock and my Refuge, my confidence in you fills me with hope.

For You, my Divine Protector, alone have settled me in hope. This confidence can never be in vain. No one, who has hoped in God, has ever been confounded."
-St. Claude La Colombiere (1641-1682)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Here's what I'm saying: Ask and you'll get; Seek and you'll find; Knock and the door will open. Don't bargain with God. Be direct. Ask for what you need
—Luke 11:9-10

(Free prayer
of request
and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Praise God for he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves.
Praise God for in him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
-Colossians 1:13,14

Daily Prayer #12

2006-09-18T15:09:00.000-07:00

Prayers of the Bible
Because you have satisfied me, GOD, I promise
to do everything you say.
I beg you from the bottom of my heart: smile,
be gracious to me just as you promised.
When I took a long, careful look at your ways,
I got my feet back on the trail you blazed.
I was up at once, didn't drag my feet,
was quick to follow your orders.
The wicked hemmed me in—there was no way out—
but not for a minute did I forget your plan for me.
I get up in the middle of the night to thank you;
your decisions are so right, so true—I can't wait till morning!
I'm a friend and companion of all who fear you,
of those committed to living by your rules.
Your love, GOD, fills the earth!
Train me to live by your counsel.
— Psalm 119:57-64

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

Common Prayer
Spirit of the living God, be the Gardner of my soul. For so long I have been waiting silent and still—experiencing the winter of the soul. But now, in the strong name of Jesus Christ, I dare to ask:
Clear away the dead growth of the past,
Break up the hard clods of custom and routine,
Stir in the rich compost of vision and challenge,
Bury deep in my soul the implanted Word,

Cultivate and water and tend my heart,
Until new life buds and opens and flowers. Amen
-Richard Foster

The Words of Jesus
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
-John 11:25,26

(Meditate on
the words
of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—I Timothy 2:1

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
Creator of heaven and earth
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
And born of the Virgin Mary
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
Was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
And is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
The holy catholic Church,
The communion of saints,
The forgiveness of sins,
The resurrection of the body,
And the life everlasting. Amen!
The Apostles’ Creed

Daily Prayer #11

2006-09-13T16:16:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
When I was desperate, I called out,
and GOD got me out of a tight spot.
GOD's angel sets up a circle
of protection around us while we pray.
Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see—
how good GOD is. Blessed are you who run to him.
–Psalm 34:6-8—6

(Blessing and Praising God for Who He is)

The Words of Jesus
Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!"

Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.
–I Thessalonians 5:17-18

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Common Prayer
Breathe into me, Holy Spirit,
that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit,
that my work, too, may be holy.
Attract my heart, Holy Spirit,
that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me, Holy Spirit,
that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit,
that I may always be holy.
-Prayer of St. Augustine (354-430)

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.
—Hebrews 11:1,2

Closing Prayer
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
-Hebrews 12:1,2

Daily Prayer #10

2006-09-13T15:26:00.000-07:00

The Character of God

Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you,
And therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you
For the LORD is a God of justice;
How blessed are all those who long for Him.

O people in Zion, inhabitant in Jerusalem, you will weep no longer He will surely be gracious to you at the sound of your cry; when He hears it, He will answer you.

Although the Lord has given you bread of adversity and water of oppression, He, your Teacher will no longer hide Himself, but your eyes will behold your Teacher.

Your ears will hear a word behind you, "This is the way, walk in it," whenever you turn to the right or to the left.
—Isaiah 30:18-21

(Praise and Bless God for who He is)

Words of Jesus
The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. And Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, "What do you seek?" They said to Him, “we are looking for the Teacher, can we come and see where you stay”
He said to them, "Come, and you will see." So they came and saw where He was staying; and they stayed with Him that day. –John 1:37-39

Jesus, you still ask us each one of us these important questions: What are you seeking from me; what is it you are after. Why do you want to follow me?

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Blessed be God who hears me when I pray.—Psalm 28:6

(Pray for ourselves and others)

Closing Prayer
O Lord my God, teach my heart this day where and how to see You,
where and how to find You. Teach me to seek You,
for I cannot seek You unless You teach me,
or find You unless You show Yourself to me.
Let me seek You in my desire, let me desire You in my seeking.
Let me find You by loving You, let me love You when I find You.
--St. Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109)

Daily Prayer # 9

2006-09-13T14:40:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
You got me when I was an unformed youth,
God, and taught me everything I know.
Now I'm telling the world your wonders;
I'll keep at it until I'm old and gray.
God, don't walk off and leave me
until I get out the news
of your strong right arm to this world,
news of your power to the world yet to come,
Your famous and righteous
ways, O God.
God, you've done it all!
Who is quite like you?
— Psalm 71:17-19

Common Prayer
Thank You Father for loving me and always thinking of me.
Thank You Father for hearing my prayers for Jesus’ sake.
Thank You Father for forgiving me for Jesus’ sake.
Thank You Father for leading me to a wonderful goal.
Thank You Father for You have prepared a way out of my troubles.
Thank You Father for You are a God of miracles—today as in the past.
Thank You Father for You can transform every situation.
Nothing is impossible for You.
-Adapted from a prayer by M. Basilea Schlink (1904-2001)

(Praise and thanksgiving to our God)

Words of Jesus
I am the Gate for the sheep. All those others are up to no good—sheep stealers, every one of them. But the sheep didn't listen to them. I am the Gate. Anyone who goes through me will be cared for and will freely go in and out, and find pasture. A thief is only there to steal and kill and destroy. I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.—John 10:7-11

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. –Ephesians 3:21

(Free prayer
of request
and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Our Father in heaven,
Reveal who you are.
Set the world right;
Do what's best— as above, so below.

Daily Prayer #8

2006-08-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
We Bless You God
For you have not rejected our prayers
We Bless You God
For You have not removed your steadfast love from us!
-Psalm 66:20

(Free expression of blessing and thanking God)

The Words of Jesus
Holy Father, guard them as they pursue this life
That you have given as a gift through me,
So that they can be one heart and mind
As we are one heart and mind.
-John 17:11

(meditate on the words of Jesus)

Common Prayer

All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God

The hatred which divides nation from nation, race from race, class from class,
Father forgive.

The covetous desires of people and nations to possess what is not their own,
Father forgive

The greed which exploits the work of human hands and lays waste the earth,
Father forgive

Our envy of the welfare and happiness of others,
Father forgive

Our indifference to the plight of the imprisoned, the homeless, the refugee
Father forgive

The lust which dishonors the bodies of men, women, and children,
Father forgive

The pride which leads to trust in ourselves and not in God,
Father forgive

Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
-The Coventry Litany of Reconciliation

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
That's why I urge you to pray for absolutely everything, ranging from small to large. Include everything as you embrace this God-life, and you'll get God's everything.
- Mark 11:24

(Pray
for ourselves
and others)

Closing Prayer
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
—Hebrews 12:1-2

Daily Prayer # 7

2006-08-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
The word of the LORD came to me, saying,
"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."
"Ah, Sovereign LORD," I said,
"I do not know how to speak; I am only a child."
But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am only a child.' You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD.

(Free Expressions of Blessing and Praise to the Lord)

The Words of Jesus
Jesus knew that the time had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.

Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples' feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
John 8:14, 14:1-5

(Meditate on the Words of Jesus)

Father, we too, like your Son can say with confidence we know where we came from and where we are going. You put us together in our mother’s womb, you know our ins and outs. You set us apart to be Yours, you have sent us into the world to be agents of change. Our journey began in You, is sustained in You, and has no end in You. Since this is true, let us take off all that keeps us from sacrificially serving others-Amen

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:12

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Father, I abandon myself into Your hands.
Do with me what You will.
Whatever You do, I will thank You.
I am ready for all. I accept all.
Let only Your will be done in me,
as in all Your creatures,
And I’ll ask nothing else, my Lord.
Into your hands I commend my spirit;
I give it to You with all the love of my heart,
For I love You, Lord,
And so need to give myself,
to surrender myself into Your hands
Because You are my Father.
-Charles De Foucauld, 1855-1916

Daily Prayer #6

2006-08-03T10:09:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
Generous in love—God, give grace!
Huge in mercy—wipe out my bad record.
Scrub away my guilt,
soak out my sins in your laundry.
I know how bad I've been;
my sins are staring me down.

You're the One I've violated, and you've seen
it all, seen the full extent of my evil.
You have all the facts before you;
whatever you decide about me is fair.
I've been out of step with you for a long time,
in the wrong since before I was born.
What you're after is truth from the inside out.
Enter me, then; conceive a new, true life.

Soak me in your laundry and I'll come out clean,
scrub me and I'll have a snow-white life.
Don't look too close for blemishes,
give me a clean bill of health.
God, make a fresh start in me,
-Psalm 51

(Jesus Son of God
touch me; and say the word
and I will be clean and whole)

Words of Jesus
Jesus stood up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Hasn't anyone found you guilty?"
"No one, sir," she said. "Then I don't find you guilty either," Jesus said. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

(meditate on
the words of Jesus)

Pray for ourselves and others
Pray to God the Father, through the power of our Master Jesus, through the love of the Spirit—Romans 15:30 The MSG

(Bring the needs of ourselves and other before God)

Closing Prayer
Glory to God in the church!
Glory to God in Jesus!
Glory to God down all the generations!
Glory to God forever and ever! Amen!—Ephesians 3:21

Daily Prayer #5

2006-08-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible

Praise be to you, O LORD,
God of our father Israel,
from everlasting to everlasting.
Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power
and the glory and the majesty and the splendor,
for everything in heaven and earth is yours.
Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom;
you are exalted as head over all.
Wealth and honor come from you;
you are the ruler of all things.
In your hands are strength and power
to exalt and give strength to all.
Now, our God, we give you thanks,
and praise your glorious name.
- I Chronicles 29: 10-13--David's Prayer

(Praise and
thanksgiving
to our God)

Words of Jesus
Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.”

(Reflect and meditate on what Jesus is saying)

Prayers of the Saints
I am no longer my own, but Yours.
Do to me as you desire, place me among those you see fit
Put me to service and put me to suffering
Let me be commissioned by You or laid aside for You
Let me be exalted for You, or brought down for You;
Let me be full, let me be empty
Let me have all things, let me have nothing;
I freely and heartily yield all things to Your pleasure and disposal
And now, O glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
Thou are mine, and I am Yours
And the covenant which I have made on earth,
Let it be ratified in heaven.
Amen
-The Methodist Covenant Prayer

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
In all my prayers for others, I always pray with Joy
Philippians 1:4

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.
-Hebrews 12:1-2

Daily Prayer #4

2006-08-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible
Lord what is the kind of fast do You desire from us?

To break the chains of injustice, get rid of exploitation in the workplace, free the oppressed, and cancel debts.

Lord what are You interested in seeing us do?

To share our food with the hungry, invite the homeless poor into our homes, and put clothes on the shivering poorly dressed and naked, and to be available to our own families. Do this and the lights will turn on, and your lives will turn around at once. Your righteousness will pave your way. The God of glory will secure your passage. Then when you pray, God will answer. You'll call out for help and He will say, 'Here I am.
- Adapted from Isaiah 58:6-9

(Be still before God)

The Words of Jesus
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. (Mat. 5:15,16)

(Think deeply on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—I Timothy 2:1

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Common Prayer
Make us worthy, Lord, to serve our fellow man throughout the world who live and die in poverty and hunger. Give them, through our hands this day their daily bread, and by our understanding love give peace and joy. Lord make me a channel of thy peace, that where there is hatred I may bring love; that where there is wrong, I may bring the spirit of forgiveness; that where there is discord, I may bring harmony; that where there is error, I may bring truth, where there is doubt-faith, where there is despair-hope; where there are shadows-light; where there is sadness-joy. Lord grant that I may seek rather to comfort than to be comforted; to understand than to be understood, to love than be loved, for it is by forgetting self that one finds it; by dying that one awakens to eternal life—Amen
-Mother Theresa and St Francis of Assisi

The angel answered, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God.—Acts 10:5

Daily Prayer #3

2006-07-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Bible

Show me, O LORD, my life's end
and the number of my days;
let me know how fleeting is my life.
You have made my days a mere handbreadth;
the span of my years is as nothing before you.
Each man's life is but a breath.
Selah

Man is a mere phantom as he goes to and fro:
He bustles about, but only in vain;
he heaps up wealth, not knowing who will get it.
But now, Lord, what do I look for?
My hope is in you.
Save me from all my transgressions;
-Psalm 39:4-8

(free expression
of Praising
and Thanking God)

The Words of Jesus

Blessed are the poor in spirit; For theirs is the kingdom of heaven;
Blessed are those who mourn; For they will be comforted;
Blessed are the meek; For they will inherit the earth;
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness;
For they will be filled;
Blessed are the merciful; For they will be shown mercy;
Blessed are the pure in heart; For they will see God;
Blessed are the peacemakers; For they will be called sons of God
Blessed are the persecuted because of righteousness; For theirs is the kingdom of heaven;
Rejoice and be glad for great is your reward in heaven.
-The Beatitudes (Mat. 5: 3-11)

(Meditate on the words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—I Timothy 2:1

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
I Have Only Today
My life is an instant,
An hour which passes by;
My life is a moment
Which I have no power to stay.
You know, O my God,
That to love You here on earth -
I have only today.
-St. Therese of Lisieux

Daily Prayer #2

2006-07-30T10:14:00.000-07:00

Hear my cry, O God;
Listen to my prayer.
From the ends of the earth I call to You,
I call as my heart grows faint;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For you have been my refuge,
A strong tower against the foe
-Psalm 6:1-3

(Prayers of Praise and Thanksgiving)

Common Prayer
O Heavenly Father, dear God, I am a poor and unworthy sinner. I do not deserve to raise my eyes or hands toward You or to pray. But because You have commanded us all to pray and have promised to hear us and through Your dear Son Jesus Christ have taught us both how and what to pray, I come to thee in obedience to Your word, trusting in your gracious promise.
-Martin Luther

The Words of Jesus
The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this:

Our Father in heaven; reveal who you are.
Set the world right; do what's best— as above, so below.
Keep us alive with three square meals.
Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
You're in charge! You can do anything you want! You're ablaze in beauty!

In prayer there is a connection between what God does and what you do. You can't get forgiveness from God, for instance, without also forgiving others. If you refuse to do your part, you cut yourself off from God's part. –Matthew 5:7-15 MSG

(Meditate on the Words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
-Hebrews 5:7

(Prayers for ourselves and others)

Closing Prayer
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow.
Praise Him all creatures here below.
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts.
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Amen.

Daily Prayer # 1

2006-07-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

Common Prayer
Lord Jesus, come yourself, and dwell with us, be human as we are, and overcome what overwhelms us. Come into the midst of my evil, come close to my unfaithfulness. Share my sin, which I hate and which I cannot leave. Be my brother, Thou Holy God. Be my brother in the kingdom of evil and suffering and death. Come with me in my death, come with me in my suffering, come with me as I struggle with evil. And make me holy and pure, despite my sin and death.

Search me thoroughly, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there is any wicked or hurtful way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:23,24

(Time of silence, allowing God to search us)

Prayer of the Bible
You are clothed with honor and majesty, wrapped in light as with a garment. You stretch out the heavens like a tent, you set the beams of your chambers on the waters, you make the clouds your chariot, you ride on the wings of the wind, you make the winds your messengers, fire and flame your ministers.

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!

(Spontaneous prayers of praise and thanksgiving to the Lord)

The Words of Jesus
Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.

Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

(Think deeply on these life-giving words of Jesus)

Prayer for Ourselves and Others
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests me made known to God.-Philippians. 4:6

In keeping with these words of Paul, let us offer prayers for the needs of ourselves and others.

(Free prayer of request and intercession)

Closing Prayer
To Him who loves us and freed us form our sins by His blood, and made us to be a kingdom, priests serving his God and Father. To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen
-Rev. 1:5-6