May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance. 2 Thess. 3:5 (NIV)
Dear heavenly Father, I’m staring a very busy day in the face—one with many people, demands, and challenges. But before I go anywhere or do anything, please fulfill this incredible verse on my behalf. Direct my heart into your love. Send me and settle me into your great affection and lavish love for us in Jesus.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, make the gospel undeniably real and incomparably sweet to me today. Make your great delight in your children palpable, and turn up the volume on your singing so loudly it will rise above the noise of the day and the accusations of our enemy.
Father, when I’m most alive to your love, I am less likely to look to people to validate me, and accomplishments to satisfy me. When I’m walking in a robust awareness of your love, I’m less critical, sensitive, and defensive with others. I listen better, linger longer, and repent quicker.
Also, Father, send me and keep me, into “Christ’s perseverance.” The older I get the smaller my “tank” feels and the sooner my energy is depleted—especially emotional energy. In my own strength, my “perseverance-battery-pack” just doesn’t last as long as it used to. I get weary in well doing and exhausted with the demands of love.
So as this day begins, (and continues), I will look to Jesus—the author and perfecter of my faith, to give me all the grace I’ll need to live and love to your glory. Thank you, Father, for your awesomeness, kindness, nearness. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ triumphant and tender name.