Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it. John 14:12-14 NIV
Lord Jesus, I know you and the Scriptures well enough not to treat you like a computer waiting for us to program you. You’re not a vending machine passively responding to our selections, nor a Genie giving us three wishes. You are our sovereign Master, not our private masseur. Hallelujah! Some of your “No’s” are better than the “Yes” we hoped for.
That being said, you DO delight in us asking and our trusting you for things that seem impossible—things beyond our control, things that will bring you glory. Here’s what I’m asking of you on this Saturday in July.
Jesus, astonish my heart anew with your beauty, love, and grace. Cause my knees to buckle with wonder, my feet to dance with delight, and my heart to be filled with great joy, for who you are and what you’ve done for us.
Continue to heal the wounds in my story and the wrong thinking in my head. Free me to love and forgive, as you love me and have forgiven me. Don’t let bitterness and resentment gain a foothold in my heart. Give me thicker skin around irritating, angry, and pushy people; and a bigger heart to love and enjoy people different from me—politically, spiritually, culturally.
Grant me quick, joyful repentances. Sabotage my attempts at blaming others for my sinful attitudes and bad choices. Increase my capacity to stay present and engaged in relationships. Help me hear people clearly, and not put my meaning on their words.
Help me love your church more than I ever have, see your hand and heart at work everywhere I look, and live and love to your glory all the remaining days you give me. So very Amen I pray, in your holy, joyful, sovereign name.
