This is what the Lord says:
“Don’t let the wise boast in their wisdom, or the powerful boast in their power, or the rich boast in their riches. But those who wish to boast should boast in this alone: that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord who demonstrates unfailing love and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!” Jer. 9:23-24 (NLT)
Heavenly Father, whether or not 2020 is going to be a “happy” New Year is irrelevant. What really matters is knowing there won’t be one day this year you’ll fail to send us new mercies, grant us sufficient grace, and be at work in all things for our good. Hallelujah!
Because you have hidden our lives in Christ, your love will be the most constant, liberating, and reliable reality in our lives. You will delight in us, quiet us with your love, and rejoice over us with singing 24/7 (Zeph. 3:17). May this good news be more precious and real to us than anything else.
Father, in response to these words you spoke through Jeremiah, hear our prayer for 2020. May it be a year filled with knowing you better, resting in your grace, and serving you faithfully.
Though the temptation for things like approval, riches, and control continues to pester us, may the joy of knowing you seize our hearts, shape our schedules, and consume our days. Life is too short to squander on being petty, grabby, and crabby.
May we worship and work, rejoice and suffer, boat fish and lose fish all to your glory. Father, reveal more of Jesus to our hearts. Bring gospel-renewal to our churches. Advance your kingdom in our cities. We want to love mercy, work for justice, and walk humbly with you all the way Home.
May we live each day of 2020 resting in your sovereign rule, loving well, and longing for Jesus’ return. May we be quick repenters, big forgivers, and cheerful givers. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.