Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Heb. 4:15-16 (NIV)
Lord Jesus, with joy and confidence, we run to the occupied throne of grace today on behalf of many friends. No one understands and empathizes with our weaknesses like you; and no one has the ability to dispense copious amounts of mercy and grace like you. You are, indeed, a most wonderful, merciful Savior. Hear our cry for our friends.
We pray for missionaries serving you in many different contexts around the world. May the gospel be sweet, grace sufficient, encouragement palpable, hope fresh, and resources plenteous. Quicken our spirits by your Spirit to pray for these faithful, often weary, servants of the gospel.
We pray for parents nearing the end of their strength, resources, and hope. Few stories have the power to multiply our heartaches than when our kids choose to live without boundaries or a conscience. Jesus, grant fresh mercy and sufficient grace to our friends; and Lord of resurrection power, reveal yourself, to our kids who seem allergic to your grace and love.
Jesus, we pray for friends who still affirm the gospel, but who feel disconnected from your presence and like strangers to your love. Whatever the genesis of their spiritual crisis, come close Jesus. Renew, restore, and refresh our friends, we pray; and show us how to offer kind presence without pressure to change.
Jesus, we pray for friends with health struggles, job complexities, and marriage messes. Give us listening hearts, words from above, and non-spin hope for them.
Lastly, Jesus, we pray for ourselves. You know where we struggle the most and trust you the least; you know our most difficult relationships, persistent fears, and nagging weaknesses. Grant us the mercy and grace we need today, for healing and freedom. So very Amen we pray, in your loving and strong name.