Father, we are deeply grateful for the inner work of the Holy Spirit in our lives that is changing us from a sinful self-serving people to a holy, compassionate, and generous people. It is Your almighty power released in us that can accomplish such miraculous change for the betterment of here and now and for the Kingdom of heaven as well. As we relate to others may the working power of the Holy Spirit be evident in our attitudes, actions, and ambitions of life. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Father, may our spirit be like that of David’s who acknowledged his sin to You and did not cover up his iniquity. You forgave the guilt of his sin and cleansed him from unrighteousness. You forgive every sinner who confesses his or her need to be saved from their sin, and You forgive every believer who acknowledges that they have sinned and come short of Your glory. Thank You for Your amazing grace that brings about our spiritual cleansing. Through the precious blood of Jesus we pray. Amen.

Father, You proved that death could not keep its hold on our Lord Jesus Christ, when You raised Him from the dead. The resurrected power that You gave Jesus also dwells in us, the redeemed. It gives us the power to overcome the most impossible situations where Satan has had influence over us. At times You miraculously intervene and other times You provide us with the strength to hold up when we experience trouble upon trouble. When we lose our way You lovingly, gently, and persistently nudge us back to the Great Shepherd of our souls. Thank You for specializing in things thought impossible and for doing what no other power can do! Amen.

Father, knowing that Jesus is the Prince of Peace I pray for His peace to fall upon our land. We pray that many will turn to You today and accept that wonderful reconciliation You freely offer. That is the first step to all other types of peace. We pray for relational peace among our countries, families, and churches. We pray for inward, emotional peace, especially for our brothers and sisters affected by these wars. We pray for those suffering loss from yesterday’s brutal attack at two military recruitment centers. We look forward to that time spoken of when the whole world will be at rest and in peace. But until that hour we serve You faithfully today as we seek to be peacemakers for Your glorious kingdom. Amen.

Father, when we consider the zeal and creative way the paralyzed man’s friends brought him to Jesus we’re challenged to do likewise. This man was helpless and unable to reach the Healer on his own, but Jesus healed and saved him through the effort and faith of his friends. They cared compassionately and the barriers did not stop them from bringing him to his only Hope. Help us to be persistent in reaching out to those whose only hope for salvation is by bringing them to Christ. Amen.