Father, we pray for those graduating from high school or college this year. What a tremendous and long-range accomplishment this is in their lives. We ask that You would empower our graduates with great foresight, godly wisdom, daily discipline, and a sense of purpose as they enter a new season of their lives. May their hearts be fully consecrated to You as they use their natural giftings and learned skills in the marketplace. Though much about their future is not yet revealed, You have given absolute direction about their personal spiritual walk. No matter what field of study or where they locate geographically may they listen intently to Your command: “This is the way; walk in it.” No matter what season of life, help us to never forsake the unchanging, fundamental truths we learn from steadfastly walking in Your way. We joyfully acknowledge that it is the best way and we thank You for it in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Father, help me to keep the godly perspective presented in Your Word regarding sinfulness and righteousness. There is no true sophistication in sinful behavior, for it is abhorrent and unacceptable in Your sight and destructive to the human heart. Though the world might dress it up, classify it with a new trendy name, sin is still sin and it brings about disastrous consequences. May my heart’s desires be drawn to righteousness. I want those things which are true, honest, lovely, and praiseworthy to occupy my thoughts and be visible in my interaction with others. I seek the wisdom imparted through the inspirational writing of Your holy Word. May it always be the filter I use to screen the wisdom of this age with the wisdom that comes from the God of the ages.

Father, You have called us to a journey of faith where we learn to trust You for all that we have need of, for the present and the future – in our relationships, our health, our earthly provisions and our spiritual needs. Like the songwriter, Louisa Stead, wrote; “I’m so glad I learned to trust You, precious Jesus, Savior, Friend; For I know that You are with me; Will be with me to the end. Jesus, Jesus How I trust You, How I’ve proved You o’er and o’er; Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus, O for grace to trust You more.” Help us to find the sweetness of wholeheartedly trusting in You, we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jesus, You are a friend that sticks closer than a brother. We thank You also for our brothers and sisters in the faith who are often closer than our blood relations because we are joined together as a family of believers sharing common experiences and spiritual goals. So many times we find strength and encouragement from those who bear our burdens, lend a hand, and hold us accountable for our attitudes and actions. Thank You for loving, supportive, and reliable friends who draw us to our true source of hope and strength, especially in times of trouble. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Father, we give thanks to You who gives us victory in life’s ongoing battles through our Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to listen to the prompting of Your Holy Spirit that reveals to us the various ways that we can be used to further Your kingdom and expand the gospel message at home and abroad. As You reign in our hearts may our lives bear fruit that brings glory to Your name, as we seek to glorify You in all that we do. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.